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FutureFuel Corp. - Annual Report: 2014 (Form 10-K)

ff20141231_10k.htm

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

(Mark One)

 

 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014

 

or

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from _____________ to ______________

 

Commission file number: 0-52577

 

FUTUREFUEL CORP.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

Delaware

 

20-3340900

(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

8235 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 400

Clayton, Missouri 63105

(Address of Principal Executive Offices, including Zip Code)

 

(314) 854-8385

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common stock, par value $0.0001

 

New York Stock Exchange

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: 

None

(Title of class)

 

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

 

 
 

 

  

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

 

Note—Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act from their obligations under those Sections.

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its 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 registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes √ No

 

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

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

       

Non-accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

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

 

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter. $367,191,397

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 43,722,388

 

 

 
 

 

 

Table of Contents

 

Page  

Part I

 

Item 1. Business.

1

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

19

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

28

Item 2. Properties.

28

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

29

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

29

 

Part II

30

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. 30

Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

34

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

35

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

51

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

54

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

101

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

101

Item 9B. Other Information.

104

 

Part III

105

   

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance.

105
Item 11. Executive Compensation. 112
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters. 123
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. 127
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services. 128
   
Part IV 103
   

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

103

 

 
1

 

  

Part I

 

Item 1. Business.

 

General Development of the Business

 

The Company

 

FutureFuel Corp. (sometimes referred to as the “Company” or “we” or “us” or “our” and includes our wholly-owned subsidiaries) is a Delaware corporation.

 

Prior to 2011, our shares of common stock were quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (or OTC Bulletin Board). On March 8, 2011, the New York Stock Exchange (or “NYSE”) approved the listing of our common stock for trading on the exchange. Trading of our common stock on the NYSE commenced on March 23, 2011 under the symbol “FF”.

 

On February 10, 2011, we filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (or “SEC”) a Form S-3 Registration Statement commonly referred to as a “shelf registration” whereby we registered shares of our common stock, preferred stock, warrants, rights, and units which we might issue in the future in an aggregate amount not to exceed $50 million. This registration statement became effective on March 10, 2011. Pursuant to this registration statement, on May 11, 2011, we commenced an “At-the-Market” offering under which we could from time to time sell up to 3 million shares of our common stock. On February 6, 2013, we announced the completion of the sale of shares of our common stock under the At-the-Market offering. We sold an aggregate 3,000,000 shares in open market trading for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $37,247,000, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $36,127,000 after deducting commissions and fees.

 

We distributed normal quarterly cash dividends of $0.12 per share on our common stock for the calendar year 2014. Additionally, we declared normal quarterly cash dividends of $0.06 per share on our common stock for the calendar year 2015.

 

FutureFuel Chemical Company

  

FutureFuel Chemical Company is a Delaware corporation and manufactures diversified chemical products, bio-based products comprised of biofuels, and bio-based specialty chemical products. We report FutureFuel Chemical Company’s operations in two reporting segments: chemicals and biofuels. The chemicals segment manufactures a diversified listing of chemical products that are sold to third party customers. The biofuels segment primarily produces and sells biodiesel to its customers.

 

The majority of the revenues from the chemicals segment are derived from the custom manufacturing of specialty chemicals for specific customers. Beginning in 2011, the products manufactured for these customers faced economic headwinds as generic competition gained market share. We have actively worked to develop our chemicals business with new customers in more diversified growth markets.

 

Growth of our specialty chemicals business is based on a solid reputation as a technology-driven, highly reliable, and globally competitive specialty chemicals producer. We retain a strong emphasis on operational excellence, cost control, and efficiency improvements that, we believe, will enable us to take advantage of growth opportunities in the worldwide chemical industry.

 

With respect to our biofuels segment, our plant has a demonstrated capacity in excess of 58 million gallons per year. The plant ran at a reduced rate during 2014 as a result of the weakened market conditions for renewable fuel. Uncertainty remains as to whether or not we will produce biodiesel in the future, the quantity, if any, we will produce, and the profit margins we may realize. This uncertainty results from: (i) changes in feedstock prices relative to biodiesel prices; (ii) whether government mandates with respect to biodiesel usage remain in effect; and (iii) whether certain tax credits with respect to biodiesel production remain in effect and/or return. See the discussion below, including “Risk Factors” beginning at page 18 below.

 

 
2

 

  

Financial Information about Segments

 

Unless otherwise noted, the financial data presented herein represents our consolidated operations for the twelve--month periods ended December 31, 2014, December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012. The following table sets forth: (i) our consolidated revenues from external customers for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012; (ii) our consolidated net income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012; and (iii) our total assets at December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Period

 

Revenues from

External

Customers

   

Net Income

   

Total Assets

 

Year ended December 31, 2014

  $ 341,838     $ 53,200     $ 461,488  

Year ended December 31, 2013

  $ 444,919     $ 74,034     $ 414,447  

Year ended December 31, 2012

  $ 351,829     $ 34,304     $ 355,237  

 

We have two business reporting “segments” as defined by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”): chemicals and biofuels. We are not able to allocate net income and total assets between these two business segments. However, revenues from external customers and gross margins can be allocated between the two business segments as set forth in the following table.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Period

 

Revenues

from

Chemical

Segment

   

Revenues

from

Biofuels

Segment

   

Total

Revenues

from

External

Customers

   

Gross

Margin

from

Chemical

Segment

   

Gross

Margin

from

Biofuels

Segment

   

Gross

Margin

 

Year ended December 31, 2014

  $ 146,146     $ 195,692     $ 341,838     $ 46,062     $ 19,911     $ 65,973  

Year ended December 31, 2013

  $ 161,501     $ 283,418     $ 444,919     $ 54,708     $ 45,457     $ 100,165  

Year ended December 31, 2012

  $ 160,450     $ 191,379     $ 351,829     $ 48,661     $ 8,592     $ 57,253  

 

See note 20 to our consolidated financial statements contained in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for adjustments to segment gross margins to arrive at net income.

 

Narrative Description of Our Business

 

Principal Executive Offices

 

Our principal executive offices are located at 8235 Forsyth Blvd., 4th Floor, Clayton, Missouri 63105. Our telephone number is (314) 854-8385. FutureFuel Chemical Company’s principal executive offices are located at 2800 Gap Road, Highway 394 South, Batesville, Arkansas 72501-9680. Its telephone number at such office is (870) 698-3000.

 

The Company

 

We own approximately 2,200 acres of land six miles southeast of Batesville in north central Arkansas fronting the White River. Approximately 500 acres of the site are occupied with batch and continuous manufacturing facilities, laboratories, and associated infrastructure, including on-site liquid waste treatment. Land and infrastructure are available to support expansion and business growth. In November 2011, we acquired a nearby warehouse in Batesville, Arkansas.

 

 
3

 

  

For the year ended December 31, 2014, approximately 38% of our revenue was derived from manufacturing specialty chemicals for specific customers (“custom manufacturing”) with 5% of revenues being derived from multi-customer specialty chemicals (“performance chemicals”) and 57% from biofuels.         

 

Custom manufacturing involves producing unique products for strategic customers, generally under long-term contracts. Our custom manufacturing product portfolio includes agrochemicals and intermediates, detergent additives, biocides intermediates, specialty polymers, dyes, stabilizers, and chemicals intermediates. Our performance chemicals product portfolio includes polymer modifiers that enhance stain resistance and dyeability to nylon and polyester fibers, in addition to several small-volume specialty chemicals and solvents for diverse applications.

 

We are committed to growing our chemical and biofuels businesses. We also intend to pursue commercialization of other products, including building block chemicals. While pursuing this strategy, we will continue our efforts to establish a name identity for both segments. For the biofuels business segment, we will continue to leverage our technical capabilities and quality certifications, secure local and regional markets, and expand marketing efforts to fleets and regional/national customers. These items are discussed in greater detail below.

 

Biofuels Business Segment

 

Overview of the Segment

 

Our biofuels segment was established in early 2005 as an initiative of the then site management team to leverage their plant’s technical and operational expertise as well as available manufacturing capacity to pursue business growth opportunities outside of their legacy specialty chemicals business.

 

Biofuel Products

 

Our biofuels business segment primarily produces and sells biodiesel. In addition, we sell petrodiesel in blends with our biodiesel and, from time to time, with no biodiesel added. Our biofuels segment also includes the financial results of a granary in central Arkansas that we acquired in March 2009. Finally, we are a shipper of refined petroleum products on common carrier pipelines, and we buy and sell petroleum products to maintain our active shipper status on these pipelines.

 

Biodiesel is a renewable energy product consisting of mono-alkyl esters of fatty acids. The mono-alkyl esters are typically produced from vegetable oil, fat, or grease feedstocks. Biodiesel is used primarily as a blend with petrodiesel (usually 5% (commonly referenced as “B5”) to 20% (commonly referenced as “B20”) by volume). A major advantage of biodiesel is that it can be used in most existing diesel engines and fuel injection equipment in blends up to B20 with no material impact to engine performance. As an additional benefit, biodiesel is the only alternative fuel to meet all testing requirements of the Clean Air Act. In 1998, Congress approved the use of biodiesel as an Energy Policy Act compliance strategy, which allowed federal, state, and public fleets covered by this Act to meet their alternative fuel vehicle purchase requirements by simply buying biodiesel and burning it in new or existing diesel vehicles in a minimum B20 blend). Finally, biodiesel also benefits from favorable properties compared to petrodiesel (e.g., negligible sulfur content, lower particulate matter, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and a higher cetane number leading to better engine performance and lubrication). See Pew Center on Global Climate Change (“Pew Center”) biodiesel factsheet http://www.c2es.org/technology/factsheet/biodiesel and July 2011 Biodiesel Climate Techbook, http://www.c2es.org/docUploads/Biodiesel_0.pdf.

 

Our technical and operational competency acquired as a supplier of specialty chemicals enabled the development of a flexible manufacturing process which can utilize a broad range of feedstock oils, including, but not limited to, soy oil, cottonseed oil, pork lard, poultry fat, crude corn oil, yellow grease, inedible tallow, choice white grease, and beef tallow. Our Batesville plant produces biodiesel, which is sometimes referenced as “B100”. A blend is currently used in the facility’s diesel fleet and is available for retail sale at the site. In 2009, we began offering B100, biodiesel blended with petrodiesel (B2, B5, B10, and B20 blends), and petrodiesel at our leased storage facility in Little Rock, Arkansas. In addition, we deliver blended product to a small group of customers within our region.

 

 
4

 

  

Biodiesel Production/Capacity

 

Biodiesel can be made from renewable sources such as: (i) crude and refined virgin vegetable oils; (ii) crude and refined animal fats; and (iii) used cooking oils and trap grease. In general, the choice of feedstock to be used in producing biodiesel is determined primarily by the price and availability of each feedstock variety, the yield loss of lower quality feedstock, and the capabilities of the producer’s biodiesel production facility. In addition, the chemical properties of the biodiesel (e.g., cloud point, pour point, and cetane number) depend on the type of feedstock. EIA, Monthly Biodiesel Production Report, http://www.eia.gov/biofuels/biodiesel/production.

 

In the United States, the majority of biodiesel historically has been made from domestically produced crude soybean oil due to its relatively low price. See ibid. Since we started our biodiesel production, the cost of crude soybean oil has increased due in part to its use in biodiesel production and competing food demands. As a result, the biodiesel feedstock market in the United States is in a transition from this increasingly expensive first-generation soy feedstock to alternative second-generation lower-cost, non-food feedstocks such as waste vegetable oil, tallow, and algae. See http://www.emerging-markets.com/biodiesel/index.html. Accordingly, we redesigned our continuous line to produce biodiesel from these second-generation lower-cost feedstocks with high-free fatty acids. By the end of 2014, daily production volumes from the redesigned line demonstrated a production capacity in excess of 58 million gallons of biodiesel per year.

 

Legislative Incentives

 

The acceptance of biodiesel in the United States in the latter part of the 20th century and continuing into this century has been driven to a great degree by legislative initiatives at both the federal and state levels. Those legislative initiatives are discussed in greater detail below.

 

Federal Mandate 

 

The largest incentive at this time is the federal mandate enacted by Congress as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (the “2005 Act”). The 2005 Act included a number of provisions intended to spur the production and use of biodiesel. In particular, the 2005 Act’s provisions included biodiesel as part of the minimum volume (i.e., a mandate) of renewable fuels (the “renewable fuels standard”, or “RFS”) to be included in the nationwide gasoline and diesel pool. More specifically, the RFS requires a specific amount of renewable fuel to be used each year in the nationwide gasoline and diesel pool. The volume increased each year, from 4 billion gallons per year in 2006 to 16.55 billion gallons per year in 2013. The 2005 Act required the Environmental Protection Agency (the “USEPA”) to publish “renewable fuel obligations” applicable to refiners, blenders, and importers in the contiguous 48 states. The renewable fuel obligations are expressed in terms of a volume percentage of gasoline sold or introduced into commerce and consist of a single applicable percentage that applies to all categories of refiners, blenders, and importers. The renewable fuel obligations are based on estimates that the Energy Information Association provides to the USEPA on the volumes of gasoline it expects will be sold or introduced into commerce. The USEPA released the final rules to implement the RFS on April 10, 2007. Under those rules, the RFS compliance period began on September 1, 2007. The applicable volume of renewable fuel under this program was 4.7 billion gallons for 2007, 5.4 billion gallons for 2008, 11.1 billion gallons for 2009, and 12.95 billion gallon for 2010. No differentiation was made among the various types of renewable fuels (e.g., biodiesel or ethanol).

 

On December 19, 2007, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (the “2007 Act”) was enacted which, among other things, expanded the RFS (the “RFS2”). Prior to the enactment of the 2007 Act, the RFS requirement was mostly filled by ethanol. In contrast to its predecessor, the 2007 Act provided a renewable fuel standard carve-out specifically applicable to biodiesel. On July 1, 2010, RFS2’s biodiesel requirement became effective, thus requiring that a certain percentage of the diesel fuel consumed in the United States be made from renewable sources. The biodiesel mandate rose annually and reached 1.28 billion gallons per year in 2013. Currently, the mandate is determined by the USEPA in coordination with the U.S. Secretaries of Energy and Agriculture. No specific mandate has been set for 2014 or 2015. However, a minimum of 1.0 billion gallons is mandated per the standard per year.

 

 
5

 

  

The following table shows the original RFS/RFS2 requirements for the period 2006 through 2022, inclusive, for biomass-based diesel (biodiesel), cellulosic biofuel, total advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel (including ethanol). It does not reflect any subsequent increases in annual mandated quantities.

 

(Gallons in billions)

 

 

Advanced Biofuel

 

Year

Biomass-

Based Diesel

(biodiesel)

Cellulosic

Biofuel

Total

Advanced

Biofuel

Total

Renewable

Fuel

2006

n/a

n/a

n/a

4.00

2007

n/a

n/a

n/a

4.70

2008

n/a

n/a

n/a

9.00

2009

0.50

n/a

0.60

11.10

2010

0.65

0.10

0.95

12.95

2011

0.80

0.25

1.35

13.95

2012

1.00

0.50

2.00

15.20

2013

1.00

1.00

2.75

16.55

2014

1.00

1.75

3.75

18.15

2015

1.00

3.00

5.50

20.50

2016

1.00

4.25

7.25

22.25

2017

1.00

5.50

9.00

24.00

2018

1.00

7.00

11.00

26.00

2019

1.00

8.50

13.00

28.00

2020

1.00

10.50

15.00

30.00

2021

1.00

13.50

18.00

33.00

2022

1.00

16.00

21.00

36.00

 

Source: www.epa.gov/OMS/renewablefuels/rfs2-4standards.pdf

 

 
6

 

 

The actual biomass based diesel production in the United States for the years 2005 through 2014, compared to the federal mandate for each year, is shown in the following chart.

 

 

  

Biomass Based Diesel Production Source: 2005 thru 2010 is reported by the National Biodiesel Board; 2011 thru 2014 is reported by the USEPA at http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/rfsdata/2014emts.htm.

 

Biodiesel production in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 exceeded the federal mandate for those years, whereas 2010 production was less than 50% of the 2010 mandate. The EPA has not set a specific mandate beyond 2013.

 

Other Federal Incentives

 

Agencies of the United States government, including the Department of Energy, the USEPA, the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Transportation, offer biodiesel incentives in addition to the mandate discussed above. Some of these federal incentives do not directly reduce the net cost of producing or blending biodiesel but do increase the demand for biodiesel. For example, tax credits are available under the Internal Revenue Code for investment in qualifying refueling property, the USEPA will pay 50-100% of the cost for schools to upgrade and/or replace their buses, and programs administered by the Department of Energy indirectly require government fleet operators to purchase substantial amounts of biodiesel.

 

The Energy Policy Act of 1992 requires government fleet operators to use a certain percentage of alternatively fueled vehicles. The Act established a goal of replacing 10% of motor fuels with non-petroleum alternatives by 2000, increasing to 30% by the year 2010. Currently, 75% of all new light-duty federal vehicles purchased are required to have alternative fuel capability to set an example for the private automotive and fuel industries.

 

Under the Energy Conservation Reauthorization Act of 1998, vehicle fleets that are required to purchase alternatively fueled vehicles can generate credit toward this requirement by purchasing and using biodiesel in a conventional vehicle. Since there are few cost-effective options for purchasing heavy-duty alternatively fueled vehicles, federal and state fleet providers can meet up to 50% of their heavy-duty alternatively fueled vehicle purchase requirements with biodiesel. The biodiesel fuel credit allows fleets to purchase and use 450 gallons of biodiesel in vehicles in excess of 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight instead of alternatively fueled vehicles. Fleets must purchase and use the equivalent of 450 gallons of pure biodiesel in a minimum of a 20% blend to earn one credit. Covered fleets earn one vehicle credit for every light-duty alternatively fueled vehicle they acquire annually beyond their base vehicle acquisition requirements. Credits can be banked or sold.

 

 
7

 

  

Congress passed a biodiesel tax incentive, structured as a federal excise tax credit, as part of the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. The credit amounted to one cent for each percentage point of vegetable oil or animal fat biodiesel that was blended with petrodiesel (and one-half cent for each percentage point of recycled oil and other non-agricultural biodiesel). For example, blenders that blended B20 made from soy, canola, and other vegetable oils and animal fats received a $0.20 per gallon excise tax credit, while biodiesel made from recycled restaurant oils (yellow grease) received half of this credit. The tax incentive generally was taken by petroleum distributors and was substantially passed on to the customer. It was designed to lower the cost of biodiesel to the consumers in both taxable and tax-exempt markets. The tax credit was scheduled to expire at the end of 2006, but was extended in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to the end of 2008 and then to December 31, 2009 through the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. Additionally, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 qualified all biodiesel for a $1.00 per gallon blenders’ tax credit (“BTC”), including biodiesel made from non-virgin feedstocks such as yellow grease.    

 

The 2005 Act also created a new tax credit for small agri-biodiesel producers with production capacity not in excess of 60 million gallons of $0.10 per gallon for the first 15 million gallons of agri-biodiesel sold. See http://www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/epact_2005. The BTC expired on December 31, 2009. However, in December 2010, the credit was reinstated retroactive to January 1, 2010 and extended through December 31, 2011 by the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. The BTC, along with the small agri-biodiesel producers’ tax credit, were further retroactively reinstated for 2012 and extended through December 31, 2013 by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, signed into law on January 3, 2013. On December 31, 2013, the BTC expired. However, on December 22, 2014, the BTC was reinstated retroactively to January 1, 2014, expired on December 31, 2014, and has not been reinstated. The small agri-biodiesel credit expired at this same time.

 

With the expiration of the BTC, demand for our biodiesel and the price we are able to charge for it may be significantly reduced, harming our revenues, and potentially having a material adverse effect on our biodiesel business. See “Risk Factors” beginning at page 18 below.

 

The federal government also offers other programs that benefit our biofuels segment, such as the alternative fuel infrastructure credit, the clean school bus program, and the national clean diesel program.

 

On February 17, 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was enacted which, among other things, appropriated monies to support various investments and offered incentives (such as tax credits, grant programs, and other funding) for projects related to alternative fuels, energy independence, and renewable energy technologies. For example, the Department of Energy was provided with $800 million for projects related to biomass, and $2 billion was made available for grants for manufacturing advanced battery systems and electric vehicle components to support domestic manufacturing of advanced lithium ion batteries and hybrid electric systems. We were the recipient of a portion of these grants. See the discussion under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. - Department of Energy Grant” beginning at page 44 below.

 

State Incentives

 

Many states follow the federal government’s lead and are offering similar programs and incentives to spur biodiesel production and use. For example, Arkansas offers a tax refund of $0.50 for each gallon of biodiesel used by a supplier to produce a biodiesel/petrodiesel mixture of not more than 2% biodiesel. In April 2007, Arkansas passed legislation that provided for a $0.20 per gallon biodiesel producer credit and up to $50,000 in grants per site for biodiesel producers and distributors to install distribution infrastructure. The $0.20 per gallon Arkansas producer credit was capped at 10 million gallons of production, or $2 million, per defined time intervals. We applied for, and received, the credit for time intervals through June 30, 2009. No funding was available for this program in 2010 through 2014. However, we intend to apply for the credit in future years when and as such credit is available.

 

 
8

 

  

Our review of state statutes reveals that virtually all states provide user or producer incentives for biodiesel, several states provide both types of incentives, and more than 35 states provide incentives to biodiesel producers to build facilities in their states, typically offering tax credits, grants, and other financial incentives. As we expand our business, we will evaluate these additional state incentives to determine if we qualify.

 

Summary

 

We will continue to identify and pursue other legislative incentives to support our business. However, no assurances can be given that we will qualify for any such incentives or, if we do qualify, what the amount of such incentives will be or whether such incentives will continue to be available.

 

Quality

 

For quality specification purposes, and to qualify for the mandate, biodiesel must meet the requirements of American Society for Testing and Materials (“ASTM”) D6751. This specification ensures that blends up to B20 are compatible with diesel engines and associated fuel system hardware. See Status and Issues for Biodiesel in the United States, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, R.L. McCormick et. al., Oct. 2009. All biodiesel manufactured at our Batesville plant is tested in on-site quality control laboratories and confirmed to meet, and typically exceed, the ASTM D6751 standard. Because our biodiesel exceeds industry standard specifications, we appeal to a broader customer base than our competitors.

 

Commercially available biodiesels can contain small amounts of unreacted or partially reacted oils and fats as well as other minor impurities. The unreacted or partially reacted oils and fats are called glycerides. In rare instances the glycerides and other minor components and impurities can clog engine filters. To address this issue, ASTM D6751 was amended in February 2012 to create two new grades of biodiesel. Grade No. 2 is essentially the specifications in effect before the amendment. Grade No. 1 provides for a maximum total monoglyceride content and a maximum cold soak filterability time and in theory would be used where the No. 2 biodiesel does not operate down to its cloud point. Both grades of biodiesel qualify as “biodiesel” for purposes of the RFS2 mandate. FutureFuel continues to operate under the most recently published version of ASTM D6751, Standard Specifications for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100) for Middle Distillate Fuels. All biodiesel made in our continuous process meets the specifications for No. 1 biodiesel.

 

The U.S. biodiesel industry created the BQ-9000 program to address quality issues that arose during the early years of the industry. This program is run by the National Biodiesel Accreditation Committee, which is a cooperative and voluntary program for the accreditation of biodiesel producers and marketers. The program is a quality system oriented program that includes standards for storage, sampling, testing, blending, shipping, distribution, and fuel management practices. Since the creation and adoption of the BQ-9000 program, the quality of biodiesel in the U.S. market has markedly improved. Our plant has operated as a BQ-9000 accredited production facility since 2006.

 

The ISO 9000 family of standards represents an international consensus on good quality management practices. It consists of standards and guidelines relating to quality management systems and related supporting standards. ISO 9001 provides a set of standardized requirements for a quality management system, regardless of what the user organization does, its size, or whether it is in the private or public sector. It is the only international standard against which organizations can be certified, although certification is not a compulsory requirement of the standard. Our plant is an ISO 9001 accredited production facility for both chemicals and biofuels.

 

Renewable Identification Numbers 

 

As noted above, the RFS2 mandates levels of various types of renewable fuels that are to be blended with U.S. gasoline and diesel fuel by U.S. refiners, blenders, and importers. Renewable Identification Numbers (“RINs”) are the mechanism for ensuring that the prescribed levels of blending are reached. As ethanol and biodiesel is produced or imported, the producer or importer has the responsibility to report the activity in the USEPA’s Moderated Transaction System (“EMTS”) where a series of numbers (i.e., a RIN) is assigned to their product. Assignment is made according to guidelines established by the USEPA. Currently, 1½ RINs are assigned for each gallon of biodiesel produced. When biofuels change ownership to the refiners, importers, and blenders of the fuel, the RINs are also transferred. The RINs ultimately are separated from the renewable fuel generally at the time the renewable fuel is blended. The refiners, importers, and blenders generally use the RINs to establish that they have blended their applicable percentage of renewable fuels during the applicable reporting period. However, once the RINs are separated from the underlying biofuels (e.g., by blending the underlying biodiesel with petrodiesel), they can also be sold separate and apart from the underlying biofuel.

 

 
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We generate RINs with our biodiesel. If we sell biodiesel unblended, the RIN attaches to the fuel and is sold with the biodiesel. If we blend the biodiesel with petrodiesel in blends of B80 or less (e.g., B5 or B20), we can either sell the RINs with our blended biodiesel or we can sell them as a separate, free-standing instrument removed from the biodiesel. The decision of whether or not to separate the RINs from the blended biodiesel depends on the desires of the customer and market conditions for separated RINs, particularly, market prices. While biodiesel RINs continue to be traded through market makers, no assurances can be given that a separate market for RINs will be sustained or what value will be realized upon the sale of biodiesel RINS.

 

The EPA issued a proposed rule on February 21, 2013 to establish a voluntary Quality Assurance Program (“QAP”) to verify the validity of renewable identification numbers under the RFS Program. We voluntarily registered in the program as a QAP B participant in 2013. On July 18, 2014, the EPA issued the final rule. All of our 2013 and 2014 RINs were verified under the final rule and we are generating 2015 Q-RINs in accordance with the final rule. See: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/qap.htm. 

 

Byproducts

 

Glycerin

 

A byproduct of the biodiesel process is crude glycerin, which is produced at the rate of approximately 10% by mass of the quantity of biodiesel produced. Increased production of biodiesel in Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, and Malaysia resulted in excess glycerin being produced by the biodiesel industry in 2014. The crude glycerin as generated from biodiesel production is commonly sold into the feed market for limited value, the price of which is determined by supply and corn commodity prices.

 

Biodiesel producers may sell their crude glycerin to large refineries for upgrading. However, because of the influx of crude glycerin into the market from biodiesel producers, such producers are receiving only a minimal value for this byproduct. Crude glycerin can be refined into a pure form and then used in the specialty chemical, agricultural chemistry, food, pharmaceutical, and/or cosmetic industries. However, because the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries require United States Pharmacopeia (“USP”) grade glycerin, some biodiesel producers must seek alternative markets for its sale. Production of an industrial grade of glycerin suitable for specialty chemical or agricultural applications is less expensive than production of the USP grade required for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. Production of an industrial grade of glycerin is a potential alternative to the costly disposal of crude glycerin or the relatively expensive certification required to produce an USP grade glycerin.

 

Until the middle of 2011, we primarily utilized the crude glycerin generated in our biodiesel production as a waste fuel to provide a portion of the thermal energy required to operate our plant. In mid-2011, we added the capability to partially clean the glycerin (i.e., remove methanol) to make the glycerin suitable for use in certain industrial markets and began selling methanol free crude glycerin in mid-2011.

 

In 2012, the rate of methanol recovery from our glycerin increased, thereby reducing the quantities of crude glycerin burned as waste fuel or treated in our wastewater treatment facilities. In 2014, we added the capability to refine our crude glycerin to an industrial grade with higher value specialty chemical applications. We currently market crude and industrial grade glycerin pending market conditions.

 

 
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Biodiesel Residue

 

An additional byproduct of the biodiesel production process is biodiesel residue. We utilize distillation columns in our biodiesel production process. Biodiesel residue accumulates in these columns as biodiesel is produced. We aggregate and sell biodiesel residue to multiple customers.

 

Biodiesel Production Capacity

 

According to Biodiesel Magazine, as of February 4, 2015, there were 145 biodiesel plants in existence in the United States. These plants had a combined annual nameplate production capacity of 2,601.15 million gallons. See http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/plants/listplants/USA/. An additional 16 plants were under construction with a combined nameplate production capacity of 333 million gallons, for a total built-out capacity of 2,934.15 million gallons. See http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/plants/listplants/USA/construction/.

 

The majority of this nameplate production capacity was built to use higher cost crude vegetable oil, usually soybean oil, as its only feedstock. We believe many of these biodiesel plants were constructed in haste and were either poorly built, built with deficient technology, built in an area with poor logistics, or a combination of the foregoing. These factors, plus the contraction of the biodiesel industry in 2009 and 2010, caused many of these biodiesel plants to fail. We believe many of the biodiesel plants that shut down may experience difficulty in restarting production due to insufficient working capital, poor logistics that make them less competitive, and a limited ability to run lower cost feedstocks without significant capital improvements. As such, we do not believe that stated nameplate capacity of all of the biodiesel plants as set forth above is the practical production capacity in the United States, but rather we believe the practical production capacity may be substantially less than the stated nameplate capacity. 

 

Customers and Markets

 

Biodiesel and biodiesel blends are currently used in nearly all of the end markets where petrodiesel is used. Most biodiesel in the United States is consumed in the on-road diesel fuel market, although some is used for off-road purposes such as farming, residential/commercial heating oil, and power generation.

 

We currently market our biodiesel products by truck, rail, and barge directly to customers in the United States. Through the utilization of liquid bulk storage facilities and barge loading capabilities, we are positioned to market biodiesel throughout the United States for transportation and home heating fuel usage. Although the regional market is still being developed, we estimate that the regional direct market available to us at maturity will be at least 30 million gallons per year.

 

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, one of our customers represented approximately 32% and 48% of our biofuels revenues (18% and 30% of total revenues), respectively, with the remaining biofuels revenues spread across multiple other customers. We do not have a contract with our primary customer, but rather sell on the basis of monthly or short-term, multi-month purchase orders placed with us by this customer at prices based upon then-prevailing market rates. We do not believe that the loss of this customer would have a material adverse effect on our biofuels segment or on us as a whole in that: (i) biodiesel is a commodity with a large potential customer base; (ii) we believe that we could readily sell our biodiesel to other customers; and (iii) the prices we receive from this customer are based upon then-market rates.

 

Competition 

 

We compete with other producers of biodiesel, both locally, regionally, and nationally. The principal methods of competition in the biodiesel industry are price, supply reliability, biodiesel quality, and RIN integrity, i.e., the degree of confidence the market maintains in the validity of a biodiesel producer’s RINs. The largest producers in terms of production capacity of biodiesel in the United States in 2014 were RBF Port Neches LLC, Imperium Grays Harbor, Green Earth Fuels of Houston LLC, Louis Dreyfus Agricultural Industries LLC, Archer Daniels Midland Co. - Velva, Delta BioFuels Inc., Elevance Natchez Inc., FutureFuel Chemical Company, Ag Processing Inc., and Cincinnati Renewable Fuels LLC. See http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/plants/listplants/USA/. Additionally, we compete with numerous other smaller producers, including one biodiesel plant in the state of Arkansas and several operating facilities in surrounding states.

 

 
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In addition to biodiesel producers, we compete with new technologies that are being developed as alternatives to biodiesel. For example, the University of Exeter announced that it is producing renewable diesel fuel using genetically engineered E. Coli. See http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130422154911.htm and http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/gut-microbe-makes-diesel-biofuel/. Solazyme is utilizing microalgae to produce both biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel.  See http://solazyme.com/solutions/fuel/?lang=en   Honeywell UOP, a major supplier to the petrochemical refining industry, has also reported the development of technology for the conversion of natural oils and wastes to green diesel, and for producing renewable jet fuel from natural feedstocks.  See http://www.uop.com/processing-solutions/biofuels/green-diesel/ and http://ekaellc.com/renewabledieselproject.

 

Furthermore, the emergence of significant new supplies of natural gas in the U.S., primarily as a result of shale gas development, has increased the awareness of natural gas as a key component of the domestic U.S. energy supply and has lowered natural gas prices. Natural gas use in the transportation sector is likely to increase. See http://mitei.mit.edu/publications/reports-studies/future-natural-gas. Increased usage of natural gas may lead to declines in the demand for petrodiesel and biodiesel.

 

We cannot give any assurances that renewable diesel fuel, green diesel, natural gas or some other product produced by these or similar competing technologies will not supplant biodiesel as an alternative to conventional petrodiesel.

 

The biodiesel industry also is in competition with the petroleum-based diesel fuel industry. The biodiesel industry is small relative to the size of the petroleum-based diesel fuel industry and large petroleum companies have greater resources than we do. Without government incentives and requirements, biodiesel would likely be more expensive than petroleum-based diesel, making it difficult for biodiesel to compete with petroleum based diesel on price. 

 

Supply and Distribution

 

As a result of our feedstock-flexible process, we are able to source feedstock from a broad supplier base which includes crude corn oil producers and pork, chicken, and beef rendering facilities from both national and regional suppliers. Crude corn oil has been sourced from several national and regional producers. All feedstocks are currently supplied by either rail or truck. We believe that an adequate supply of feedstocks can be sourced to support our anticipated production.

 

We sell biodiesel from our plant site as well as ship it to liquid bulk storage facilities for further distribution. Sales from our plant site are made by railcar and tank truck. Biodiesel is being delivered by Company-owned tank trucks and common carriers to a liquid bulk storage facility leased by us for distribution there and for further transportation by barge or tank truck.

 

Cyclicality and Seasonality

 

Biodiesel producers have historically experienced seasonal fluctuations in demand for biodiesel. Biodiesel demand has tended to be lower during the winter in northern and midwestern states due to concerns about biodiesel’s ability to operate optimally in cold weather as compared to petrodiesel. This seasonal fluctuation has been strongest for biodiesel made from animal fats and used cooking oils. Biodiesel made from such feedstocks has a higher cloud point (which is the point at which a fuel begins to gel) than biodiesel produced from vegetable oils such as soybean, canola, or crude corn oil. This higher cloud point may cause cold weather performance issues. This historical seasonality appears to be decreasing as biodiesel blends are used in cold midwestern states, like Illinois, throughout the year.

 

The mandate for biodiesel usage as established by RFS2 may interject an additional seasonal fluctuation in our biodiesel business. Once the mandate for a calendar year is met, or is anticipated to be met, demand for biodiesel may decrease. We experienced this type of seasonal fluctuation in the fourth quarter of 2012 and 2013 resulting in reduced profitability on biodiesel. This seasonal fluctuation was less prevalent in 2014 given the weakened market conditions,

 

 
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Outlook for the Biodiesel Industry/Our Future Strategy

 

Prior to 2009, the biodiesel industry had enjoyed significant growth. However, producers who manufacture biodiesel solely from soybean oil have seen their feedstock costs rise dramatically since 2006 as discussed above. As the relative cost of biodiesel increased due to rising prices of feedstocks (and other production related costs), and the BTC terminated at the end of 2009 (with uncertainty at the time about its reinstatement), the production of biodiesel in the United States decreased in 2009 and 2010, also as discussed above. Biodiesel production increased again in 2011 with the reinstatement of the BTC. The BTC expired again at the end of 2011, but was reinstated retroactively for 2012 and extended through December 31, 2013 in January of 2013. The BTC was reinstated on December 22, 2014 and made retroactive to January 1, 2014, expired December 31, 2014 and has not been reinstated. Given the uncertainty surrounding the BTC and the high cost of soybean oil, researchers generally agree that producers who manufacture biodiesel solely from soybean oil have been adversely affected and that the U.S. biodiesel market will transition to larger plants, alternative feedstocks and second generation technologies, resulting in a consolidation among smaller, first-generation producers accompanied by a series of mergers and acquisitions in the field. We believe that producers who are proactive in responding to these changes can benefit in this emerging market. These responses include: new and improved technologies; alternative feedstocks with higher yields; production scalability and flexibility options; supply chain, distribution and co-location strategies; the sale of RINs separate from the underlying biodiesel; and innovative risk management strategies. See http://www.emerging-markets.com/biodiesel/index.html.

 

Our future strategy for our biofuels segment is geared towards these responses. For example, in 2009, we commercialized two bio-based solvents: FUTURESOL MME and FUTURESOL Glysol, which we are marketing. In addition, we redesigned our continuous line to produce biodiesel from lower cost feedstock with high free fatty acids. Debottlenecking has increased the annual capacity to in excess of 58 million gallons per year. Projects are currently in progress to further debottleneck the plant to run at higher rates.

 

Notwithstanding our future strategy, our continued production of biodiesel may be severely limited or eliminated entirely in the event Congress eliminates the federal mandate of the RFS2. See “Risk Factors” beginning at page 19 below.

 

Chemicals Business Segment

 

Overview of the Segment

 

Our chemicals segment manufactures diversified chemical products that are sold to third party customers. This segment comprises two components: “custom manufacturing” (manufacturing specialty chemicals for specific customers); and “performance chemicals” (multi-customer specialty chemicals).

 

Chemical Products

 

Custom manufacturing involves producing unique products for strategic customers, generally under long-term contracts. Many of these products are produced under confidentiality agreements in order to protect each company’s intellectual property. This is a service-based business where customers value dependability, regulatory compliance, technical capabilities, responsiveness, product quality, and process scale up and improvement. Our custom products are manufactured by continuous production, dedicated batch or general purpose batch mode depending on the volumes required. FutureFuel is recognized as a strategic production partner to our key customers in this segment and our engineering and technology teams collaboratively work together with our customers to further develop the processes and drive continued improvement.

 

Our plant’s custom manufacturing product portfolio includes products that are used in the agricultural chemical, coatings, chemical intermediates, industrial and consumer cleaning, oil and gas, and specialty polymers industries.  Historically, we have generally produced two significant products, or product families, within this particular portfolio. One of these products is our bleach activator product, which is produced for a major detergent and consumer products manufacturer.  The other of these was a proprietary herbicide and associated intermediates we produced for a former long-term customer.  We ceased production for this legacy customer in 2014 and began the process of transitioning the equipment used for the production of the proprietary herbicide and intermediates into use for a different customer desiring a different proprietary herbicide.  Our custom manufacturing business has grown with new customers in new markets, resulting in the customer for the bleach activator product and the legacy proprietary herbicide customer playing a less significant role in our custom manufacturing portfolio.           

 

 
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Performance chemicals comprise multi-customer products which are sold based upon specification and/or performance in the end-use application. This portfolio includes a family of polymer (nylon and polyester) modifiers and several small-volume specialty chemicals and solvents for diverse applications. In addition, we have recently been successful in growing our performance chemical business through new product development. New products include a family of acetal based solvents, including diethoxymethane, dimethoxymethane, dibutoxymethane, glycerol formal, and phenol sulfonic acid. In 2014, we added the capability to refine our crude glycerin to an industrial grade of glycerin that will have higher value specialty chemical applications.

 

Future Strategy

 

To build on and maintain our reputation as a technology-driven competitive chemical producer, we believe that we must continuously focus on customer relationship development, cost control, operational efficiency, and capacity utilization to maximize earnings. The ability to utilize large scale batch and continuous production processes and a continuous focus on process improvements allows us to compete effectively in the global custom manufacturing market and to remain cost competitive with, and for some products cost-advantaged over, our competitors. We intend to improve margins in this area of our business by careful management of product mix with regard to size of opportunity, timing to market, capital efficiency and matching of opportunities to assets and capabilities.

 

Customers and Markets

 

Our chemical products are used in a variety of markets and end uses, including detergent, agrochemical, automotive, oil and gas, coatings, nutrition, and polymer additives. These products are generally non-cyclical; however, in the case of our custom manufacturing business, the customers are often the “brand owners” and therefore control factors related to demand, such as market development strategy. In many cases, we may be unable to increase or maintain our level of sales revenue for these products.

 

Presently, all sales of the bleach activator are made to The Procter & Gamble Company (“P&G”) pursuant to a multi-year supply agreement which expires at the end of 2016 unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions of the agreement. Sales of the bleach activator totaled $43,927,000, $56,596,000, and $60,710,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. This supply agreement allows us to sell certain formulations of the bleach activator to third parties as a performance chemical. Demand for the bleach activator has decreased in recent years. We continue to work collaboratively with our customer to assess their future demand which may continue to decline.

 

Sales of a proprietary herbicide and certain other intermediates used in the production of this herbicide were made to Arysta LifeScience North America Corporation. Sales of this herbicide and its intermediates totaled less than 10% of our revenues in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Production was discontinued in 2014 and we have modified these assets to produce a different herbicide intermediate for another major life sciences company. 2014 was a transition year for this product and we reconfigured multiple production assets to ramp up full production rates of this new chemistry.

 

None of our other chemical customers represented 10% or more of our 2014 consolidated sales revenues.

 

Competition

 

Historically, there have been significant barriers to entry for competitors with respect to specialty chemicals primarily due to the fact that the relevant technology and manufacturing capability has been held by a small number of companies. As technology and investment have increasingly moved outside of North America, competition from multi-national chemical manufacturers has intensified, primarily from manufacturers in India and China. We compete with these and other producers primarily based on price, customer service, technology, quality, and reliability. Our major competitors in this segment include large multi-national companies with specialty chemical business units and smaller independent producers. The multi-national competitors are often disadvantaged by poor responsiveness and customer service, while the small producers often have limited technology and financial resources. We believe that we are well positioned for growth due to the combination of our scale of operations, technical capabilities, reputation, and financial strength.

 

 
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Supply and Distribution

 

Specialty chemicals are generally high unit value products sold in packaged, or low-volume bulk form, and for which distribution is a relatively minor component of cost. Most products are sold FOB the Batesville site for distribution globally. Similarly, raw materials for these products are comparatively higher-value components that are sourced globally. An exception will be the biofuels co-products, which will be recovered from local processing.

 

Cyclicality and Seasonality

 

Our chemical products typically are not cyclical but they are sensitive to global economic conditions. Supply and demand dynamics determine profitability at different stages of cycles and global economic conditions affect the length of each cycle. Despite some sensitivity to global economic conditions, many of the products in the chemical segment provide a stable foundation of earnings.

 

Backlog

 

The majority of our revenues are derived under custom manufacturing agreements with specific customers. These customers generally provide us with forecasts of demand on a monthly or quarterly basis. These forecasts are intended to enable us to optimize the efficiency of our production processes and generally are not firm sales orders. As such, we do not monitor or report backlog.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We consider our intellectual property portfolio to be a valuable corporate asset which we intend to expand and protect globally through a combination of trade secrets, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, patents, trademarks and copyrights. As a producer of a broad and diverse portfolio of chemicals, our intellectual property relates to a wide variety of products and processes acquired through the development and manufacture of over 300 specialty chemicals during the history of the site. Our primary strategy regarding our intellectual property portfolio will be to appropriately protect all innovations and know-how in order to provide our business segments with a technology-based competitive advantage wherever possible. In the chemicals business segment, custom manufacturing projects are primarily conducted within the framework of confidentiality agreements with each customer to ensure that intellectual property rights are defined and protected. In the biofuels business segment, innovations and process know-how will be vigorously protected as appropriate. In 2014 we continued to actively seek patents for our performance chemicals business in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and Japan. We were awarded several patents, including our first European Union patent.

 

As may be necessary, we will seek to license technologies from third parties that complement our strategic business objectives. Neither our business as a whole, nor any particular segment, is materially dependent upon any one particular patent, copyright, or trade secret. As the laws of many foreign countries do not protect intellectual property to the same extent as the laws of the United States, we can make no assurance that we will be able to adequately protect all of our intellectual property assets.

 

Research and Development

 

We devote considerable resources to our research and development programs which are primarily targeted towards three objectives:

 

  innovating, developing and improving biofuels processes, in particular biodiesel and other biofuels, including value-up technology and applications for co-products;
  developing and improving processes for custom manufacturing products; and
  innovating, developing and improving performance chemical products and manufacturing processes.

 

Our research and development capabilities comprise analytical chemistry competencies to assay and characterize raw materials and products, organic chemistry expertise applied across a breadth of reaction chemistries and materials, design and process engineering capabilities for batch and continuous processing of both solid and liquid materials, and proficiency in process safety to design and scale-up safe chemical manufacturing processes. We believe that these core competencies, established in support of the legacy chemical business, are applicable to building a technology-based position in biofuels and associated bio-based specialty products and expanding our performance chemicals product line.

 

 
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Research and development expense incurred by us for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $3,168,000, $3,444,000, and $3,444,000, respectively. Substantially all of such research and development expense are related to the development of new products, services, and processes or the improvement of existing products, services, and processes.

 

Environmental Matters

 

Various aspects of our operations are subject to regulation by state and federal agencies. Biofuel and chemical operations are subject to numerous, stringent and complex laws and regulations at the federal, state and local levels governing the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection. These laws and regulations may:

 

 

require acquisition of permits regarding discharges into the air and discharge of waste waters;

 

place restrictions on the handling and disposal of hazardous and other wastes; and;

 

require capital expenditures to implement pollution control equipment.

 

Compliance with such laws and regulations can be costly and noncompliance can result in substantial civil and even criminal penalties. Some environmental laws impose strict liability for environmental contamination, rendering a person liable for environmental damages and cleanup costs without regard to negligence or fault. Moreover, public interest in the protection of the environment has increased substantially in recent years. Our operations could be adversely affected to the extent laws are enacted or other governmental action is taken that imposes environmental protection requirements that result in increased costs to the biofuels and/or chemical manufacturing industry in general. The following provides a general discussion of some of the significant environmental laws and regulations that impact our activities.

 

The federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (or CERCLA), and analogous state laws, impose joint and several liability, without regard to fault or the legality of the original act, on certain classes of persons that contributed to the release of a hazardous substance into the environment. These persons include the owner and operator of the site where the release occurred, past owners and operators of the site, and companies that disposed or arranged for the disposal of hazardous substances found at the site. Responsible parties under CERCLA may be liable for the costs of cleaning up hazardous substances that have been released into the environment and for damages to natural resources. Additionally, it is not uncommon for third parties to assert claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the release of hazardous substances or other pollutants into the environment.

 

The federal Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (or RCRA), is the principal federal statute governing the management of wastes, including the treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes. RCRA imposes stringent operating requirements, and liability for failure to meet such requirements, on a person who is either a generator or transporter of hazardous waste or an owner or operator of a hazardous waste treatment, storage or disposal facility. Many of the wastes generated in our manufacturing facility are governed by RCRA.

 

The federal Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (or OPA) and regulations thereunder impose liability on responsible parties for damages resulting from oil spills into or upon navigable waters, adjoining shorelines, or in the exclusive economic zone of the United States. A responsible party includes the owner or operator of an onshore facility. OPA limits liability for onshore facilities to $350 million. These liability limits may not apply if a spill is caused by a party’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, the spill resulted from violation of a federal safety, construction, or operating regulation, or if a party fails to report a spill or to cooperate fully in a clean-up. Failure to comply with OPA’s requirements may subject a responsible party to civil, criminal, or administrative enforcement actions.

 

The federal Water Pollution Control Act (also referred to as the Clean Water Act) imposes restrictions and controls on the discharge of pollutants into navigable waters. These controls have become more stringent over the years, and it is possible that additional restrictions may be imposed in the future. Permits must be obtained to discharge pollutants into state and federal waters. The Clean Water Act provides for civil, criminal, and administrative penalties for discharges of oil and other pollutants, and imposes liability on parties responsible for those discharges for the costs of cleaning up any environmental damage caused by the release and for natural resource damages resulting from the release. Comparable state statutes impose liability and authorize penalties in the case of an unauthorized discharge of petroleum or its derivatives, or other pollutants, into state waters.

 

 
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The federal Clean Air Act and associated state laws and regulations restrict the emission of air pollutants from many sources, including facilities involved in manufacturing chemicals and biofuels. New facilities are generally required to obtain permits before operations can commence, and new or existing facilities may be required to incur certain capital expenditures to install air pollution control equipment in connection with obtaining and maintaining operating permits and approvals. Federal and state regulatory agencies can impose administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for non-compliance with permits or other requirements of the Clean Air Act and associated state laws and regulations.

 

The federal Endangered Species Act, the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, and similar federal and state wildlife protection laws prohibit or restrict activities that could adversely impact protected plant and animal species or habitats. Manufacturing activities could be prohibited or delayed in areas where such protected species or habitats may be located, or expensive mitigation may be required to accommodate such activities.

 

Our policy is to operate our plant and facilities in a manner that protects the environment and the health and safety of our employees and the public. We intend to continue to make expenditures for environmental protection and improvements in a timely manner consistent with our policies and with the technology available. In some cases, applicable environmental regulations such as those adopted under the Clean Air Act and RCRA, and related actions of regulatory agencies, determine the timing and amount of environmental costs incurred by us.

 

We establish reserves for closure/post-closure costs associated with the environmental and other assets we maintain. Environmental assets include waste management units such as chemical waste destructors, landfills, storage tanks, and boilers. When these types of assets are constructed or installed, a reserve is established for the future costs anticipated to be associated with the closure of the site based on the expected life of the environmental assets, the applicable regulatory closure requirements, and our environmental policies and practices. These expenses are charged into earnings over the estimated useful life of the assets. Currently, we estimate the useful life of each individual asset up to 35 years.

 

In addition to our general environmental policies and policies for asset retirement obligations and environmental reserves, we accrue environmental costs when it is probable that we have incurred a liability and the amount can be reasonably estimated. In some instances, the amount cannot be reasonably estimated due to insufficient data, particularly in the nature and timing of the future performance. In these cases, the liability is monitored until such time that sufficient data exists. With respect to a contaminated site, the amount accrued reflects our assumptions about remedial requirements at the site, the nature of the remedy, the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies and other potentially responsible parties at multi-party sites, and the number and financial viability of other potentially responsible parties. Changes in the estimates on which the accruals are based, unanticipated government enforcement action, or changes in health, safety, environmental, chemical control regulations, and testing requirements could result in higher or lower costs.

 

Our cash expenditures related to environmental protection and improvement were approximately $10,007,000, $9,798,000, and $9,759,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. These amounts pertain primarily to operating costs associated with environmental protection equipment and facilities, but also include expenditures for construction and development. While we do not expect future environmental capital expenditures arising from requirements of environmental laws and regulations to materially increase our planned level of annual capital expenditures for environmental control facilities, we can give no assurances that such requirements will not materialize in the future.

 

We believe that we have obtained in all material respects the necessary environmental permits and licenses to carry on our operations as presently conducted. We have reviewed environmental investigations of the properties owned by us and believe, on the basis of the results of the investigations carried out to date, that there are no material environmental issues which adversely impact us. In connection with the acquisition of our warehouse in Batesville, the seller agreed to remediate certain environmental conditions existing at the facility on the date that we acquired it and to indemnify us with respect to those environmental conditions.

 

 
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Management Team and Workforce

 

Our executive management team at our Batesville plant consists of individuals with a combined 90 plus years of experience in the chemicals industry, comprising technical, operational, and business responsibilities. The members of the executive team also have international experience, including assignments in Europe. The operational and commercial management group at the Batesville site includes additional degreed professionals with an average experience of over 25 years in the chemical industry.

 

Our Batesville workforce comprises approximately 500 full-time employees, and includes degreed professionals including chemists (some with PhDs) and engineers (including licensed professional electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineers). Operations personnel have received extensive training and are highly skilled. Additionally, all site manufacturing and infrastructure is fully automated and computer-controlled. Due to the lack of locally-available process industry infrastructure, the workforce is substantially self-sufficient in the range of required operational skills and experience. Voluntary attrition at the site has averaged 3.1% annually since 2007. We believe that we have good relations with our employees.

 

Financial Information about Geographic Areas

 

Most of our sales are FOB the Batesville plant, although some transfer points are in other states or foreign ports. While many of our chemicals are utilized to manufacture products that are shipped, further processed, and/or consumed throughout the world, the chemical products, with limited exceptions, generally leave the United States only after we have transferred ownership. Rarely are we the exporter of record, never are we the importer of record into foreign countries, and we are not always aware of the exact quantities of our products that are moved into foreign markets by our customers. We do track the addresses of our customers for invoicing purposes and use this address to determine whether a particular sale is within or outside the United States. Our revenues for the last three fiscal years attributable to the United States and foreign countries (based upon the billing addresses of our customers) were as set forth in the following table.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Period

 

United States

   

All Foreign

Countries

   

Total

 

Year ended December 31, 2014

  $ 334,210     $ 7,628     $ 341,838  

Year ended December 31, 2013

  $ 430,096     $ 14,823     $ 444,919  

Year ended December 31, 2012

  $ 338,307     $ 13,522     $ 351,829  

 

For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, revenues from Mexico accounted for 1%, 3%, and 3%, respectively, of total revenues. Other than Mexico, revenues from a single foreign country during 2014, 2013, and 2012 did not exceed 1% of our total revenues.

 

All of our long-lived assets are located in the United States.

 

Available Information

 

We file annual, quarterly, and other reports, proxy statements, and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers such as us that file electronically with the SEC. You may access that site at http://www.sec.gov. 

 

Our Internet website address is www.futurefuelcorporation.com. We make available free of charge, through the “Investor Relations - SEC Filings” section of our Internet website (http://ir.futurefuelcorporation.com/sec.cfm), our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (or the Exchange Act), as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing such material with, or furnishing it to, the SEC.

 

We also make available free of charge, through the “Investor Relations - Corporate Governance” section of our website (http://ir.futurefuelcorporation.com/governance.cfm), the corporate governance guidelines of our board of directors, the charters of each of the committees of our board of directors, and the code of business conduct and ethics for our directors, officers, and employees. Such materials will be made available in print upon the written request of any shareholder to FutureFuel Corp., 8235 Forsyth Blvd., 4th Floor, Clayton, Missouri 63105, Attention: Investor Relations.

 

 

 
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Item 1A. Risk Factors.

 

An investment in us involves a high degree of risk and may result in the loss of all or part of your investment. You should consider carefully all of the information set out in this document and the risks attaching to an investment in us, including, in particular, the risks described below. The information below does not purport to be an exhaustive list and should be considered in conjunction with the contents of the rest of this document.

 

Risks Associated With Our Business Activities

 

The federal excise tax credit for biodiesel expired on December 31, 2014 and Congress has not enacted legislation to extend this credit. If the credit is not renewed, our cost of producing biodiesel will be increased or our selling price could decrease, which could have an adverse effect on our financial position.

 

In October 2004, Congress passed a biodiesel tax incentive, structured as a federal excise tax credit, as part of the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.  The credit amounted to one cent for each percentage point of vegetable oil or animal fat biodiesel that was blended with petrodiesel (and one-half cent for each percentage point of recycled oils and other non-agricultural biodiesel, subsequently amended and increased to one cent).  For example, blenders that blended B20 made from soy, canola, and other vegetable oils and animal fats received a $0.20 per gallon excise tax credit.  The tax incentive generally was taken by petroleum distributors and was passed on to the consumer.  It was designed to lower the cost of biodiesel to consumers in both taxable and tax-exempt markets.  The tax credit was scheduled to expire at the end of 2006, but was extended in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to December 31, 2008. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 extended the biodiesel tax credit through December 31, 2009 and qualified all biodiesel for a BTC, including biodiesel made from non-virgin feedstocks such as yellow grease. Most recently, the biodiesel tax credit was reinstated to January 1, 2014 and expired on December 31, 2014. No reinstatement of the credit has been made to date.

  

If biodiesel feedstock costs do not decrease significantly relative to biodiesel prices, we could realize a negative gross margin on biodiesel.  As a result, we could cease producing biodiesel, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition.

 

Our biofuels operations may be harmed if the government were to change current laws and regulations.

 

Alternative fuels businesses benefit from government subsidies and mandates. If any of the state or federal laws and regulations relating to the government subsidies and mandates change, including failure to reinstate the federal biodiesel BTC, our ability to benefit from our alternative fuels business could be harmed.

 

Our biofuels platform is subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the application and use of alternative energy products, including those related specifically to biodiesel. For instance, biodiesel products benefit from being the only alternative fuel certified by the USEPA that fulfills the requirements of Section 211(B) of the Clean Air Act. If agency determinations, laws, and regulations relating to the application and use of alternative energy are changed, the marketability and sales of biodiesel production could be materially adversely affected.

 

As of this filing, the EPA has not finalized the 2014 or 2015 mandates.

 

The industries in which we compete are highly competitive.

 

The biodiesel and specialty chemical industries are highly competitive. There is competition within these industries and also with other industries in supplying the energy, fuel and chemical needs of industry and individual customers. We compete with other firms in the sale or purchase of various goods or services in many national and international markets. We compete with large national and multi-national companies that have longer operating histories, greater financial, technical, and other resources, and greater name recognition than we do. In addition, we compete with several smaller companies capable of competing effectively on a regional or local basis, and the number of these smaller companies is increasing. Our competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or emerging technologies and services and changes in customer requirements. As a result of competition, we may lose market share or be unable to maintain or increase prices for our products and/or services or to acquire additional business opportunities, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Although we will employ all methods of competition which are lawful and appropriate for such purposes, no assurances can be made that they will be successful. A key component of our competitive position, particularly given the expected commodity-based nature of many of our products, will be our ability to manage expenses successfully, which requires continuous management focus on reducing unit costs and improving efficiency. No assurances can be given that we will be able to successfully manage such expenses.

 

 
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Our competitive position in the markets in which we participate is, in part, subject to external factors in addition to those that we can impact. Natural disasters, changes in laws or regulations, war or other outbreak of hostilities, or other political factors in any of the countries or regions in which we operate or do business, or in countries or regions that are key suppliers of strategic raw materials, could negatively impact our competitive position and our ability to maintain market share.

 

As to our biofuels segment, biodiesel produced in Canada, South America, Europe, Eastern Asia, the Pacific Rim, or other regions may be imported into the United States to compete with U.S. produced biodiesel. These regions may benefit from biodiesel production incentives or other financial incentives in their home countries that offset some of their biodiesel production costs and enable them to profitably sell biodiesel in the U.S. at lower prices than U.S.-based biodiesel producers. Under the RFS2, imported biodiesel may be eligible to satisfy an obligated party’s requirements and therefore may compete to meet the volumetric requirements of RFS2. This could make it more challenging for us to market or sell biodiesel in the United States, which would have a material adverse effect on our revenues.

 

The total production capacity and that currently under construction is well in excess of the current 1.28 billion gallons per year RFS2 mandate for 2014. The excess of production capacity over the 2014 mandate could result in a decline in biodiesel prices and profitability, negatively impacting our ability to maintain the profitability of our biofuels segment and recover capital expenditures in this business segment.

 

We are reliant upon a relatively small number of customers.

 

All sales of the bleach activator are made to The Procter & Gamble Company and totaled $43,927,000, $56,596,000, and $60,710,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. This customer represented approximately 13% of our revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014. The loss of this company as a customer may have a material adverse effect on us.

 

On August 28, 2012, we signed an amendment to our existing agreement with the customer. Among other things, the amendment: (i) extended the term of the agreement to December 31, 2016 (unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions of the agreement), and (ii) allows us to sell certain formulations of the bleach activator to third parties as a performance chemical. Revenues from the bleach activator decreased 22% in the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to the year ended December 31, 2013. We continue to work collaboratively with The Procter & Gamble Company to assess their future demand, which demand may continue to decline. 

 

Additionally, sales of biodiesel to one customer represented approximately 32% of our biofuels revenues (18% of total revenues) for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to 48% (30% of total revenues) for the year ended December 31, 2013. We do not have a contract with this customer, but rather sell on the basis of monthly or short-term, multi-month purchase orders placed with us by this customer at prices based upon then-prevailing market rates.

 

Fluctuations in commodity prices may cause a reduction in the demand or profitability of the products or services we produce.

 

Prices for alternative fuels tend to fluctuate widely based on a variety of political and economic factors. These price fluctuations heavily influence the oil and gas industry. Lower energy prices for existing products tend to limit the demand for alternative forms of energy services and related products and infrastructure. Historically, the markets for alternative fuels have been volatile, and they are likely to continue to be volatile. Wide fluctuations in alternative fuel prices may result from relatively minor changes in the supply of and demand for oil and natural gas, market uncertainty, and other factors that are beyond our control, including:

 

 

 
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worldwide and domestic supplies of oil and gas;

 

the price and/or availability of biodiesel feedstocks;

 

weather conditions;

 

the level of consumer demand;

 

the price and availability of alternative fuels;

 

the availability of pipeline and refining capacity;

 

the price and level of foreign imports;

 

domestic and foreign governmental regulations and taxes;

 

the ability of the members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to agree to and maintain oil price and production controls;

 

political instability or armed conflict in oil-producing regions; and

 

the overall economic environment.

 

These factors and the volatility of the commodity markets make it extremely difficult to predict future alternative fuel price movements with any certainty. There may be a decrease in the demand for our products or services and our profitability could be adversely affected.

 

We are reliant on certain strategic raw materials for our operations.

 

We are reliant on certain strategic raw materials (such as acetic anhydride, pelargonic acid, biodiesel feedstocks and methanol) for our operations. We have implemented certain risk management tools, such as multiple suppliers and hedging, as appropriate, to mitigate short-term market fluctuations in raw material supply and costs. There can be no assurance, however, that such measures will result in cost savings or supply stability or that all market fluctuation exposure will be eliminated. In addition, natural disasters, changes in laws or regulations, war or other outbreak of hostilities, or other political factors in any of the countries or regions in which we operate or do business, or in countries or regions that are key suppliers of strategic raw materials, could affect availability and costs of raw materials.

 

While temporary shortages of raw materials may occasionally occur, these items have historically been sufficiently available to cover current requirements. However, their continuous availability and price are impacted by natural disasters, plant interruptions occurring during periods of high demand, domestic and world market and political conditions, changes in government regulation, and war or other outbreak of hostilities. In addition, as we increase our biodiesel capacity, we will require larger supplies of raw materials which have not yet been secured and may not be available for the foregoing reasons, or may be available only at prices higher than current levels. Our operations or products may, at times, be adversely affected by these factors.

 

The European Commission has imposed anti-dumping and countervailing duties on biodiesel blends imported into Europe, which have effectively eliminated our ability to sell those biodiesel blends in Europe.

 

In March 2009, as a response to the federal BTC, the European Commission imposed anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tariffs on biodiesel produced in the United States. These tariffs have effectively eliminated European demand for B20 or higher blends imported from the United States. The European Commission extended these tariffs through 2014. In May 2011, the European Commission imposed similar anti-dumping and countervailing duties on biodiesel blends below B20. These duties significantly increase the price at which we and other United States biodiesel producers will be able to sell such biodiesel blends in European markets, making it difficult or impossible to compete in the European biodiesel market. These anti-dumping and countervailing duties therefore decrease the demand for biodiesel produced in the United States and increase the supply of biodiesel available in the United States market. Such market dynamics may negatively impact our revenues and profitability.

 

Changes in technology may render our products or services obsolete.

 

The alternative fuel and chemical industries may be substantially affected by rapid and significant changes in technology. Examples include competitive product technologies, such as green gasoline and renewable diesel produced from catalytic hydroforming of renewable feedstock oils and competitive process technologies such as advanced biodiesel continuous reactor and washing designs that increase throughput. Additionally, new supplies of natural gas in the U.S., primarily as a result of shale gas development, have lowered natural gas prices. Lower natural gas prices may lead to increased use of natural gas as a transportation fuel. Increased usage of natural gas in the transportation market, or other markets which have traditionally utilized petrodiesel or biodiesel, may lead to declines in the demand for petrodiesel and biodiesel. Lastly, new and more active compounds may be discovered that require less volume or different manufacturing methods, or the end products may become obsolete and be replaced with differing materials.

 

 
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These changes may render obsolete certain existing products, energy sources, services, and technologies currently used by us. We cannot assure you that the technologies used by or relied upon by us will not be subject to such obsolescence. While we may attempt to adapt and apply the services provided by us to newer technologies, we cannot assure you that we will have sufficient resources to fund these changes or that these changes will ultimately prove successful.

 

Failure to comply with governmental regulations could result in the imposition of penalties, fines, or restrictions on operations and remedial liabilities.

 

The biofuel and chemical industries are subject to extensive federal, state, local, and foreign laws and regulations related to the general population’s health and safety and those associated with compliance and permitting obligations (including those related to the use, storage, handling, discharge, emission, and disposal of municipal solid waste and other waste, pollutants or hazardous substances or waste, or discharges and air and other emissions) as well as land use and development. Existing laws also impose obligations to clean up contaminated properties or to pay for the cost of such remediation, often upon parties that did not actually cause the contamination. Compliance with these laws, regulations, and obligations could require substantial capital expenditures. Failure to comply could result in the imposition of penalties, fines, or restrictions on operations and remedial liabilities. These costs and liabilities could adversely affect our operations.

 

Changes in environmental laws and regulations occur frequently, and any changes that result in more stringent or costly waste handling, storage, transport, disposal, or cleanup requirements could require us to make significant expenditures to attain and maintain compliance and may otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business segments in general and on our results of operations, competitive position, or financial condition. We are unable to predict the effect of additional environmental laws and regulations which may be adopted in the future, including whether any such laws or regulations would materially adversely increase our cost of doing business or affect our operations in any area.

 

Under certain environmental laws and regulations, we could be held strictly liable for the removal or remediation of previously released materials or property contamination regardless of whether we were responsible for the release or contamination, or if current or prior operations were conducted consistent with accepted standards of practice. Such liabilities can be significant and, if imposed, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

Market conditions or transportation impediments may hinder access to raw goods and distribution markets.

 

Market conditions, the unavailability of satisfactory transportation, or the location of our manufacturing complex from more lucrative markets may hinder our access to raw goods and/or distribution markets. The availability of a ready market for biodiesel depends on a number of factors, including the demand for and supply of biodiesel and the proximity of the plant to trucking and terminal facilities. The sale of large quantities of biodiesel necessitates that we transport our biodiesel to other markets since the Batesville, Arkansas regional market is not expected to absorb all of our contemplated production. Currently, common carrier pipelines are not transporting biodiesel or biodiesel/ petrodiesel blends. This leaves trucks, barges, and rail cars as the means of distribution of our product from the plant to these storage terminals for further distribution. However, the current availability of rail cars is limited and at times unavailable because of repairs or improvements, or as a result of priority transportation agreements with other shippers. Additionally, the current availability of barges is limited, particularly heated barges to transport biodiesel during winter months. If transportation is restricted or is unavailable, we may not be able to sell into more lucrative markets and consequently our cash flow from sales of biodiesel could be restricted.

 

The biodiesel industry also faces several challenges to wide biodiesel acceptance, including cold temperature limitations, storage stability, fuel quality standards, and exhaust emissions. If the industry does not satisfy consumers that these issues have been resolved or are being resolved, biodiesel may not gain widespread acceptance which may have an adverse impact on our cash flow from sales of biodiesel.

 

 
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Our insurance may not protect us against our business and operating risks.

 

We maintain insurance for some, but not all, of the potential risks and liabilities associated with our business. For some risks, we may not obtain insurance if we believe the cost of available insurance is excessive relative to the risks presented. As a result of market conditions, premiums and deductibles for certain insurance policies can increase substantially and, in some instances, certain insurance policies may become unavailable or available only for reduced amounts of coverage. As a result, we may not be able to renew our existing insurance policies or procure other desirable insurance on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. Although we will maintain insurance at levels we believe are appropriate for our business and consistent with industry practice, we will not be fully insured against all risks which cannot be sourced on economic terms. In addition, pollution and environmental risks generally are not fully insurable. Losses and liabilities from uninsured and underinsured events and delay in the payment of insurance proceeds could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

If a significant accident or other event resulting in damage to our operations (including severe weather, terrorist acts, war, civil disturbances, pollution, or environmental damage) occurs and is not fully covered by insurance or a recoverable indemnity from a customer, it could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We depend on key personnel, the loss of any of whom could materially adversely affect our future operations.

 

Our success depends to a significant extent upon the efforts and abilities of our executive officers. The loss of the services of one or more of these key employees could have a material adverse effect on us. Our business is also dependent upon our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. Acquiring or retaining these personnel could prove more difficult to hire or cost substantially more than estimated. This could cause us to incur greater costs.

 

If we are unable to effectively manage the commodity price risk of our raw materials or finished goods, we may have unexpected losses.

 

We hedge our raw materials and/or finished products for our biofuels segment to some degree to manage the commodity price risk of such items. This requires the purchase or sale of commodity futures contracts and/or options on those contracts or similar financial instruments. We may be forced to make cash deposits available to counterparties as they mark-to-market these financial hedges. This funding requirement may limit the level of commodity price risk management that we are prudently able to complete. If we do not manage or are not capable of managing the commodity price risk of our raw materials and/or finished products for our biofuels segment, we may incur losses as a result of price fluctuations with respect to these raw materials and/or finished products.

 

In most cases we are not capable of hedging raw material and/or finished products for our chemicals segment. Certain of our products are produced under manufacturing agreements with our customers which provide us the contractual ability to pass along raw material price increases. However, we do not have this protection for all product lines within the chemicals segment. If we do not manage or are not capable of managing escalating raw material prices and/or passing these increases along to our customers via increased prices for our finished products, we may incur losses.

 

If we are unable to acquire or renew permits and approvals required for our operations, we may be forced to suspend or cease operations altogether.

 

The operation of our manufacturing plant requires numerous permits and approvals from governmental agencies. We may not be able to obtain or renew all necessary permits (or modifications thereto) and approvals and, as a result, our operations may be adversely affected. In addition, obtaining all necessary renewal permits (or modifications to existing permits) and approvals for future expansions may necessitate substantial expenditures and may create a significant risk of expensive delays or loss of value if a project is unable to function as planned due to changing requirements.

 

 
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Our indebtedness may limit our ability to borrow additional funds or capitalize on acquisition or other business opportunities.

 

We have entered into a $50 million revolving credit facility with a commercial bank. Although as of the date of this report we have no outstanding borrowings under this facility, when we do borrow the restrictions governing this indebtedness (such as total debt to EBITDA limitations) could reduce our ability to incur additional indebtedness, engage in certain transactions, or capitalize on acquisition or other business opportunities.

 

We expect to have capital expenditure requirements, and we may be unable to obtain needed financing on satisfactory terms.

 

We expect to make capital expenditures for the expansion of our biofuels and chemicals production capacity and complementary infrastructure. We intend to finance these capital expenditures primarily through cash flow from our operations, borrowings under our credit facility, and existing cash. However, if our capital requirements vary materially from those provided for in our current projections, we may require additional financing sooner than anticipated. A decrease in expected revenues or adverse change in market conditions could make obtaining this financing economically unattractive or impossible. As a result, we may lack the capital necessary to complete the projected expansions or capitalize on other business opportunities.

 

We may be unable to successfully integrate future acquisitions with our operations or realize all of the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions.

 

Failure to successfully integrate future acquisitions, if any, in a timely manner may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. The difficulties of combining acquired operations include, among other things:

 

 

operating a significantly larger combined organization;

 

consolidating corporate technological and administrative functions;

 

integrating internal controls and other corporate governance matters; and

 

diverting management’s attention from other business concerns.

 

In addition, we may not realize all of the anticipated benefits from future acquisitions, such as increased earnings, cost savings, and revenue enhancements, for various reasons, including difficulties integrating operations and personnel, higher and unexpected acquisition and operating costs, unknown liabilities, and fluctuations in markets. If benefits from future acquisitions do not meet the expectations of financial or industry analysts, the market price of our shares of common stock may decline.

 

If we are unable to respond to changes in ASTM or customer standards, our ability to sell biodiesel may be harmed.

 

We currently produce biodiesel to conform to or exceed standards established by ASTM. ASTM standards for biodiesel and biodiesel blends may be modified in response to new observations from the industries involved with diesel fuel. New tests or more stringent standards may require us to make additional capital investments in, or modify, plant operations to meet these standards. In addition, some biodiesel customers have developed their own biodiesel standards which are stricter than the ASTM standards. If we are unable to meet new ASTM standards or our biodiesel customers’ standards cost effectively or at all, our production technology may become obsolete, and our ability to sell biodiesel may be harmed, negatively impacting our revenues and profitability.

 

If we fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, we might not be able to report our financial results accurately or prevent fraud; in that case, our stockholders could lose confidence in our financial reporting, which would harm our business and could negatively impact the value of our stock.

 

Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. The process of maintaining our internal controls may be expensive and time consuming and may require significant attention from management. Although we have concluded as of December 31, 2014 that our internal control over financial reporting provides reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP, because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect fraud or misstatements. Failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our results of operations or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. If we or our independent registered public accounting firm discover a material weakness, the disclosure of that fact could harm the value of our stock and our business.

 

 
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Confidentiality agreements with customers, employees, and others may not adequately prevent disclosures of confidential information, trade secrets, and other proprietary information.

 

We rely in part on trade secret protection to protect our confidential and proprietary information and processes. However, trade secrets are difficult to protect. We have taken measures to protect our trade secrets and proprietary information, but these measures may not be effective. For example, we require new custom manufacturing chemical customers to execute confidentiality agreements before we begin manufacturing custom chemicals for them. We also require employees and consultants to execute confidentiality agreements upon the commencement of their employment or consulting arrangement with us. These agreements generally require that all confidential information developed by the individual or made known to the individual by us during the course of the individual’s relationship with us be kept confidential and not disclosed to third parties. These agreements also generally provide that know-how and inventions conceived by the individual in the course of rendering services to us are our exclusive property. Nevertheless, these agreements may be breached, or may not be enforceable, and our proprietary information may be disclosed. Further, despite the existence of these agreements, third parties may independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information and techniques. Accordingly, it may be difficult for us to protect our trade secrets. Costly and time-consuming litigation could be necessary to enforce and determine the scope of our proprietary rights, and failure to obtain or maintain trade secret protection could adversely affect our competitive business position.

 

Moreover, we cannot assure you that our technology does not infringe upon any valid claims of patents that other parties own. In the future, if we were found to be infringing on a patent owned by a third party, we might have to seek a license from such third party to use the patented technology. We cannot assure you that, if required, we would be able to obtain such a license on terms acceptable to us, if at all. If a third party brought a legal action against us or our licensors, we could incur substantial costs in defending ourselves, and we cannot assure you that such an action would be resolved in our favor. If such a dispute were to be resolved against us, we could be subject to significant damages.

 

We depend on our ability to maintain relationships with industry participants, including our strategic partners.

 

Our ability to maintain commercial arrangements with chemical and biodiesel customers, raw material and feedstock suppliers, and transportation and logistics services providers may depend on maintaining close working relationships with industry participants. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain or establish additional necessary strategic relationships, in which case the opportunity to grow our business may be negatively affected.

 

If automobile manufacturers and other industry groups express reservations regarding the use of biodiesel, our ability to sell biodiesel will be negatively impacted.

 

Because it is a relatively new product, research on biodiesel use in automobiles is ongoing. Some industry groups have recommended that blends of no more than 5% biodiesel be used for automobile fuel due to concerns about fuel quality, engine performance problems, and possible detrimental effects of biodiesel on rubber components and other engine parts. Although some manufacturers have encouraged use of biodiesel fuel in their vehicles, cautionary pronouncements by other manufacturers or industry groups may impact our ability to market our biodiesel.

 

There is currently excess production capacity and low utilization in the biodiesel industry and if non-operational and underutilized facilities commence or increase operations, our results of operations may be negatively affected.

 

Many biodiesel plants in the United States do not currently operate, and of those that do, many do not operate at full capacity. Further, plants under construction and expansion in the United States as of December 2014, if completed, would add additional biodiesel production capacity. The annual production capacity of existing plants and plants under construction far exceeds both historic consumption of biodiesel in the United States and required consumption under RFS2. If this excess production capacity was utilized for biodiesel production, it would increase competition for our feedstocks, increase the volume of biodiesel on the market, and may reduce biodiesel gross margins, harming our revenues and profitability.

 

 
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Perception about “food vs. fuel” could impact public policy which could impair our ability to operate at a profit and substantially harm our revenues and operating margins.

 

Some people believe that biodiesel may increase the cost of food, as some feedstocks such as soybean oil used to make biodiesel can also be used for food products. This debate is often referred to as “food vs. fuel.” This is a concern to the biodiesel industry because biodiesel demand is heavily influenced by government policy and, if public opinion were to erode, it is possible that these policies would lose political support. These views could also negatively impact public perception of biodiesel. Such claims have led some, including members of Congress, to urge the modification of current government policies which affect the production and sale of biofuels in the United States.

 

Concerns regarding the environmental impact of biodiesel production could affect public policy which could impair our ability to operate at a profit and substantially harm our revenues and operating margins.

 

Because biodiesel is a new product, the environmental impacts associated with biodiesel production and use have not yet been fully analyzed. Under the 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act, the USEPA is required to produce a study every three years of the environmental impacts associated with current and future biofuel production and use, including effects on air and water quality, soil quality and conservation, water availability, energy recovery from secondary materials, ecosystem health and biodiversity, invasive species, and international impacts. A draft of the first such triennial report was released in January 2011 and a final report was submitted to Congress on January 31, 2012. See http://www.epa.gov/ncea/biofuels/. The report concluded the following: (i) the extent of negative impacts to date due to the biofuels industry is limited in magnitude and primarily associated with intensification of corn production; (ii) future negative or positive impacts will be determined by the choice of feedstock, land use change, cultivation and conservation practices; and (iii) potential benefits will likely require implementation of conservation measures and innovative technologies, best management practices, and improvements in production efficiency. These factors, along with any negative findings or interpretations of this report or subsequent reports, may negatively impact public perception of biodiesel, its acceptance and development as an alternative fuel, and its political support.

 

To the extent that state or federal laws are modified or public perception turns against biodiesel, use requirements such as RFS2 may not continue, which could materially harm our ability to operate profitably.

 

Growth in the sale and distribution of biodiesel is dependent on the expansion of related infrastructure which may not occur on a timely basis, if at all, and our operations could be adversely affected by infrastructure limitations or disruptions.

 

Growth in the biodiesel industry depends on substantial development of infrastructure for the distribution of biodiesel. Substantial investment required for these infrastructure changes and expansions may not be made on a timely basis or at all. The scope and timing of any infrastructure expansion are generally beyond our control. Also, we compete with other biofuel companies for access to some of the key infrastructure components such as pipeline and terminal capacity. As a result, increased production of biodiesel or other biofuels will increase the demand and competition for necessary infrastructure. Any delay or failure in expanding distribution infrastructure could hurt the demand for or prices of biodiesel, impede delivery of our biodiesel, and impose additional costs, each of which would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. Our business will be dependent on the continuing availability of infrastructure for the distribution of increasing volumes of biodiesel and any infrastructure disruptions could materially harm our business.

 

 
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Nitrogen oxide emissions from biodiesel may harm its appeal as a renewable fuel and increase costs.

 

In some instances biodiesel may increase emissions of nitrogen oxide as compared to petrodiesel, which could harm air quality. Nitrogen oxide is a contributor to ozone and smog. These emissions may decrease the appeal of biodiesel to environmental groups and agencies who have been historic supporters of the biodiesel industry, potentially harming our ability to market our biodiesel.

 

In addition, several states have acted to regulate potential nitrogen oxide emissions from biodiesel. Texas currently requires that biodiesel blends contain an additive to eliminate this perceived nitrogen oxide increase. California is in the process of formulating biodiesel regulations that may also require such an additive. In states where such an additive is required to sell biodiesel, the additional cost of the additive may make biodiesel less profitable or make biodiesel less cost competitive against petrodiesel or renewable diesel, which would negatively impact our ability to sell our products in such states and therefore have an adverse effect on our revenues and profitability.

 

Several biofuels companies throughout the United States have filed for bankruptcy over the last several years due to industry and economic conditions.

 

Unfavorable worldwide economic conditions, lack of financing, and volatile biofuel prices and feedstock costs have likely contributed to the necessity of bankruptcy filings by biofuel producers. Our business may be negatively impacted by the industry conditions that influenced the bankruptcy proceedings of other biofuel producers, or we may encounter new competition from buyers of distressed biodiesel properties who enter the industry at a lower cost than original plant investors.

 

We are exposed to credit risk and fluctuations in market values of our investments

 

We could experience significant declines in the market value of our investment portfolio. Credit ratings and pricing of these investments can be negatively affected by liquidity, credit deterioration, financial results, economic risk, political risk, sovereign risk, or other factors. As a result, the value and liquidity of our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities could decline and result in significant impairment.

 

Risks Associated With Owning Our Shares

 

If our founding shareholders and Mr. Novelly or his designees exercise their registration rights, such exercise may have an adverse effect on the market price of our shares of common stock.

 

Those shareholders holding shares of our common stock prior to our July 2006 offering (our founding shareholders; see “Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters -- Founding Shares Owned by the Founding Shareholders” below) and Mr. Paul A. Novelly, our executive chairman of the board, or his designees, are entitled to demand that we register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (or the “Securities Act”), the resale of their shares of our common stock issued prior to our July 2006 offering (the founding shares) and their shares included in the units purchased in our initial public offering. The demand may be made at any time after the date on which we became a reporting company under the Exchange Act, and their founding shares have been released from escrow. This occurred on July 12, 2009. If our founding shareholders exercise their registration rights with respect to all of their shares of our common stock, there will be an additional 16,250,000 shares (which includes the 5,000,000 shares issued on exercise of their warrants) eligible for trading in the public market. The presence of this additional number of shares eligible for trading in the public market may have an adverse effect on the market price of our shares. 

 

We may be suspended or delisted from the New York Stock Exchange if we do not satisfy their continued listing requirements.

 

Our common stock commenced trading on the NYSE on March 23, 2011 under the symbol “FF”. Securities admitted to the NYSE may be suspended from dealing or delisted at any time the listed company fails to satisfy certain continued listing criteria. These criteria could be triggered if, among other things, the number of our publicly-held shares falls below 600,000, the average closing price of our common stock is less than $1.00 per share over a consecutive 30 trading-day period, or we fail to file certain reports with the SEC. As a matter of practice, the NYSE generally gives a listed company notice if any of these criteria are triggered, and generally provides the listed company with certain cure periods. If we suffer such an event but do not cure it, or if such event cannot be cured, trading of our common stock on the NYSE may be suspended from dealing or our stock may be delisted. Any such suspension or delisting may have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

 

 
27

 

  

We may issue substantial amounts of additional shares without stockholder approval.

 

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 75,000,000 shares of common stock and 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock. As of the date of this report, 43,722,388 shares of our common stock currently are outstanding. The issuance of any additional shares of our common stock or preferred stock would dilute the percentage ownership of our company held by existing stockholders.

 

The market price of our common stock is highly volatile and may increase or decrease dramatically at any time.

 

The market price of our common stock is highly volatile and our shares are thinly traded. Our stock price may change dramatically as the result of: (i) announcements of new products or innovations by us or our competitors; (ii) uncertainty regarding the viability of any of our product initiatives; (iii) significant customer contracts; (iv) significant litigation; (v) the loss of the RFS2 mandate; or (vi) other factors or events that would be expected to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and future prospects.

 

The market price for our common stock may also be affected by various factors not directly related to our business or future prospects, including the following:

 

 

a reaction by investors to trends in our stock rather than the fundamentals of our business;

 

a single acquisition or disposition, or several related acquisitions or dispositions, of a large number of our shares, including by short sellers covering their position;

 

the interest of the market in our business sector, without regard to our financial condition, results of operations, or business prospects;

 

positive or negative statements or projections about us or our industry by analysts and other persons;

 

the adoption of governmental regulations or government grant programs and similar developments in the United States or abroad that may enhance or detract from our ability to offer our products and services or affect our cost structure; and

 

economic and other external market factors, such as a general decline in market price due to poor economic conditions, investor distrust, or a financial crisis.

  

 

If securities or industry analysts issue an adverse or misleading opinion regarding our stock or do not publish research or reports about our business, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

 

The trading market for shares of our common stock will rely in part on the research and reports that equity research analysts publish about us and our business. It may be difficult for companies such as ours to attract independent equity research analysts to cover our common stock. We do not control these analysts or the content and opinions included in their reports. The price of our common stock could decline if one or more equity research analysts downgrade our common stock or if those analysts issue other unfavorable commentary or cease publishing reports about us or our business. If one or more equity research analysts cease coverage of us, we could lose visibility in the market, which in turn could cause our stock price to decline.

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

 

None.

 

Item 2. Properties.

 

Our principal asset is a manufacturing plant situated on approximately 2,200 acres of land six miles southeast of Batesville in north central Arkansas fronting the White River. Approximately 500 acres of the site are occupied with batch and continuous manufacturing facilities, laboratories, and infrastructure, including on-site liquid waste treatment. Our subsidiary FutureFuel Chemical Company is the fee owner of this plant and the land upon which it is situated (which plant and land are not subject to any major encumbrances), and manufactures both biofuels and chemicals at the plant. Utilization of these facilities may vary with product mix and economic, seasonal, and other business conditions, but the plant is substantially utilized with the exception of facilities designated for capacity expansion of biodiesel. The plant, including approved expansions, has sufficient capacity for existing needs and expected near-term growth. We believe that the plant is generally well maintained, in good operating condition, and suitable and adequate for its uses.

 

 
28

 

  

In February 2009, we formed FFC Grain, L.L.C. to acquire a granary in Marianna, Arkansas for use in our biofuels business. FFC Grain, L.L.C. acquired the granary in March 2009 and owns it in fee simple, and the land and improvements thereon are not subject to any material encumbrances.

 

On December 13, 2011, we acquired a 197,000 square foot warehouse in Batesville, Arkansas. We intend to store inventories (both raw goods and finished products) from our chemicals business in this facility. The warehouse is owned in fee simple by our subsidiary FutureFuel Warehouse Company, LLC, and the land and improvements thereon are not subject to any material encumbrances.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

 

We are not a party to, nor is any of our property subject to, any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to our business. However, from time to time, we may be parties to, or targets of, lawsuits, claims, investigations, and proceedings, including product liability, personal injury, asbestos, patent and intellectual property, commercial, contract, environmental, antitrust, health and safety, and employment matters, which we expect to be handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. While we are unable to predict the outcome of any matters currently pending, we do not believe that the ultimate resolution of any such pending matters will have a material adverse effect on our overall financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. However, adverse developments could negatively impact earnings or cash flows in future periods.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

Not applicable.

 

 

 
29

 

 

Part II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

 

Market Information

 

The high and low sales price on the NYSE for our shares of common stock for the period January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2014 are set forth in the following table.

 

   

Shares

 

Period

 

High

   

Low

 

January 1, 2013 - March 31, 2013

  $ 14.08     $ 12.04  

April 1, 2013 - June 30, 2013

  $ 15.11     $ 11.69  

July 1, 2013 - September 30, 2013

  $ 18.82     $ 13.87  

October 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013

  $ 19.09     $ 14.76  

January 1, 2014 - March 31, 2014

  $ 22.25     $ 14.78  

April 1, 2014 - June 30, 2014

  $ 21.62     $ 15.79  

July 1, 2014 - September 30, 2014

  $ 17.25     $ 11.77  

October 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014

  $ 13.78     $ 10.57  

 

As of March 1, 2015, there are 43,722,388 shares of our common stock outstanding.

 

Holders

 

The shares of our common stock were held by approximately 295 holders of record on March 10, 2015 as recorded on our transfer agents’ register. However, we believe that the number of beneficial owners of our common stock is substantially greater than the number of holders of record.

 

Dividends

 

The payment of cash dividends by us is dependent upon our existing cash and cash equivalents, future earnings, capital requirements, and overall financial condition. Based on such criteria, we paid special cash dividends in 2013 follows.

 

Per Share Amount

 

Record Date

 

Payment Date

 

Date of Declaration

$0.25

 

December 2, 2013

 

December 16, 2013

 

November 20, 2013

 

We declared and paid regular cash dividends for the remainder of 2013 and 2014 as follows:

 

Per Share Amount

 

Record Date

 

Payment Date

 

Date of Declaration

$0.11

 

March 1, 2013

 

March 15, 2013

 

November 14, 2012

$0.11

 

June 3, 2013

 

June 17, 2013

 

November 14, 2012

$0.11

 

September 3, 2013

 

September 17, 2013

 

November 14, 2012

$0.11

 

December 2, 2013

 

December 16, 2013

 

November 14, 2012

$0.12

 

March 3, 2014

 

March 14, 2014

 

November 20, 2013

$0.12

 

June 2, 2014

 

June 13, 2014

 

November 20, 2013

$0.12

 

September 2, 2014

 

September 12, 2014

 

November 20, 2013

$0.12

 

December 1, 2014

 

December 12, 2014

 

November 20, 2013

 

We have also declared dividends for 2015 as follows:

 

Per Share Amount

 

Record Date

 

Payment Date

 

Date of Declaration

$0.06 

 

March 2, 2015

 

March 13, 2015

 

December 19, 2014

$0.06

 

June 1, 2015

 

June 12, 2015

 

December 19, 2014

$0.06

 

September 1, 2015

 

September 11, 2015

 

December 19, 2014

$0.06

 

December 1, 2015

 

December 11, 2015

 

December 19, 2014

 

No assurances can be given that we will declare or pay dividends for years after 2015.

 

 
30

 

  

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plan

 

Our board of directors adopted an omnibus incentive plan which was approved by our shareholders at our 2007 annual shareholder meeting on June 26, 2007. We do not have any other equity compensation plan or individual equity compensation arrangement. Under this plan, we are authorized to issue 2,670,000 shares of our common stock. The shares to be issued under the plan were registered with the SEC on a Form S-8 filed on April 29, 2008. Through December 31, 2014, we issued options to purchase 1,030,500 shares of our common stock and awarded an additional 414,800 shares to participants under the plan. The following additional information regarding this plan is as of December 31, 2014.

 

 

 

Number of securities

to be issued upon

exercise of

outstanding options,

warrants and rights

 

Weighted-average

exercise price of

outstanding options,

warrants and rights

 

Number of securities

remaining available for future

issuance under equity

compensation plans (excluding

securities reflected in column

(a))

Plan Category  

(a)

 

(b)

 

(c)

Equity

compensation

plans approved by

security holders

 

240,000

 

$11.77

 

1,224,700

 

Performance Graph

 

The following graph shows changes over the 60-month period beginning January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2014 in the value of a $100 investment in: (i) our common stock; (ii) Russell 2000; and (iii) an industry group of other companies that file reports with the SEC using SIC Code 2860. The companies in this industry group are: Aemetis Inc., All Energy Corp., American Jianye Greentech Holdings Inco, Benchmark Energy Corp., Bioamber, Inc., Bluefire Renewables, Inc., Cardinal Ethanol, LLC, Celanese Corp., China Clean Energy, Inc., Clean Tech Biofuels Inco., Codexis, Inc., Easylink Solutions Corp., ESP Resources, Inc., Global Energy, Inc., Good Vibrations Shoes Inco., Granite Falls Energy, LLC, Green Energy Live, Inc., Green Energy Resources, Inc., Green Plains, Inc., Greenshift Corp., Heron Lake Bioenergy, LLC, Highwater Ethanol, LLC, Hydrophi Technologies Group, Inc., Innophos Holdings, Inc., International Flavors & Fragrances Inco., Kior, Inc., KL Energy Corp., KMG Chemicals, Inc., Koppers Holdings, Inc., Kreido Biofuels, Inc., Methes Energies International Limited, New America Energy Corp., Newmarket Corp., Nouveau Life Pharmaceuticals, Inc., OCI Partners, LP., Pacific Ethanol, Inc., Parabel, Inc., Rayonier Advanced Materials, Inc., Red Trail Energy, LLC, Renewable Energy Group, Inc., Rex American Resources Corp., SC Holdings Corp., Southwest Iowa, Space Propulsion Systems, Inc., Stevia First Corp., Syntec Biofuel, Inc., Westlake Chemical Partners, LP, and Zeons Corp.

 

 
31

 

 

 

 

Recent Sales of Securities

 

We did not sell any of our securities within the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 in transactions that were not registered under the Securities Act. 

 

 
32

 

 

Purchase of Securities by Us

 

During 2014, neither we nor anyone acting on our behalf purchased any shares of our common stock, which is the only class of our equity securities that is registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act.

 

Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

 

The following table sets forth summary historical financial and operating data regarding us for the periods indicated below. This summary historic financial and operating data has been derived from our consolidated financial statements for the twelve months ended December 31, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. The information presented in the table below should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our financial statements and notes thereto.

 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Item

 

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014

   

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2013

   

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012

   

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2011

   

Twelve Months Ended

December 31, 2010

 

Operating Revenues

  $ 341,838     $ 444,919     $ 351,829     $ 309,885     $ 219,183  

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304     $ 34,509     $ 23,094  

Earnings per common share:

                                       

Basic

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83     $ 0.85     $ 0.63  

Diluted

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83     $ 0.84     $ 0.62  

Total Assets

  $ 461,488     $ 414,447     $ 355,237     $ 385,244     $ 343,156  

Long-term obligations

  $ 51,952     $ 45,461     $ 58,669     $ 61,207     $ 46,674  

Cash dividends per common share

  $ 0.48     $ 0.69     $ 1.60     $ 0.40     $ 0.80  

Net cash provided by operating activities

  $ 51,882     $ 62,454     $ 64,888     $ 50,429     $ 17,839  

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

  $ 6,708     $ (24,111 )   $ (32,613 )   $ (51,367 )   $ (30,767 )

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  $ (21,044 )   $ (10,617 )   $ (63,283 )   $ (374 )   $ 38,473  

 

 

 
33

 

 

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, set forth herein.

 

In the course of preparing our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2014 on Form 10-K, we determined that there had been a misclassification of certain related party transactions between the Company and Apex Oil Company, Inc. (“Apex Oil”) in our financial statements for the previously reported fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, and for the previously reported quarters ended March 31, 2013 and 2014, June 30, 2013 and 2014, September 30, 2013 and 2014, and December 31, 2013 (collectively, the “Affected Financial Statements”). The misclassification related to certain diesel fuel purchases made by the Company from Apex Oil in one location.

 

We assessed the materiality of these items on previously issued annual and interim financial statements and we have concluded that the effect of these misstatements were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to any of the prior reporting periods, and therefore, amendments of previously filed reports were not required. However, we have revised prior period comparative information presented herein in order to present such information on a consistent basis. The misclassification and related revisions had no impact on the total cost of goods sold, gross profits, segment gross profits, net income, or net income per share amounts for the years ended December 31, 2013 or 2012. Additionally, this reclassification did not change the balance sheet, statements of cash flow, or statements of stockholders’ equity. Refer to Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion regarding this revision. The following discussion and analysis has been updated to reflect this revision.

 

This discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. See “Forward-Looking Information” below for additional discussion regarding risks associated with forward-looking statements.

 

Results of Operations

 

In General

 

We break our chemicals business into two main product groups: custom manufacturing and performance chemicals. Custom manufacturing consists of products made for specific customers based upon specifications provided by such customers. Major products in the custom manufacturing group include: (i) nonanoyloxybenzene-sulfonate, a bleach activator manufactured exclusively for a customer for use in a household detergent; (ii) a proprietary herbicide (and intermediates) manufactured exclusively for a customer; (iii) chlorinated polyolefin adhesion promoters (or “CPOs”) and antioxidant precursors (or “DIPB”) for a customer; and (iv) a biocide intermediate for another customer. The custom manufacturing group also includes agrochemicals as well as industrial and consumer products (cosmetics and personal care products, specialty polymers, and specialty products used in the fuels industry).

 

Revenues generated from the bleach activator are based on a supply agreement with the customer. The supply agreement stipulates selling price per kilogram based on volume sold, with price moving up as volumes move down, and vice-versa. On August 28, 2012, we signed an amendment to our existing agreement with the bleach activator customer.   Among other things, the amendment: (i) extended the term of the agreement to December 31, 2016 (unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions of the agreement); and (ii) allows us to sell certain formulations of the bleach activator to third parties as a performance chemical.   We pay for raw materials required to produce the bleach activator.  The contract with the customer provides that the price received by us for the bleach activator is indexed to changes in certain items, enabling us to pass along most inflationary increases in production costs to the customer. This customer has informed us that, due to a decline in demand for the household detergent, associated demand for the bleach activator is likely to fall. The financial impact of any future decline in demand is not known at this time.

 

From 1992 through the fourth quarter of 2013, we (and our predecessor at our Batesville plant) had been the primary manufacturer of a proprietary herbicide and certain intermediates for a customer (and its predecessors).  As a result of generic competition from Asia and price pressure exerted by our customer, we terminated the existing contracts effective in September and October of 2013. We discontinued sales of the proprietary herbicide to the customer in 2014 and are retrofitting assets deployed to other growth opportunities. Currently, we are seeking additional customers for this product, although no assurances can be given that additional sales will be achieved.

 

In 2013, we completed a supply agreement with a major multi-national life sciences company to manufacture an intermediate to a new herbicide. The equipment utilized for this project is, in part, the equipment vacated from the termination of the contracts on the proprietary herbicide mentioned above. The contract is effective through December 31, 2016 and has a provision for two, two-year extensions at the customer’s option. No assurances can be given, however, that the agreement will be extended past 2016.

 

In 2008, we entered into a contract with a new customer for the toll manufacture of an industrial intermediate utilized in the antimicrobial industry. We invested approximately $10 million in capital expenditures to modify and expand our plant to produce this industrial intermediate. The customer reimbursed these expenditures, which reimbursements have been classified as deferred revenue on our balance sheet and will be earned into income over the expected life of the product. The contract stipulates a price curve based on volumes sold and has an inflationary pricing provision whereby we pass along most inflationary changes in production costs to the customer.

 

Pricing for the other custom manufacturing products is negotiated directly with the customer. Some, but not all, of these products have pricing mechanisms and/or protections against raw material or conversion cost changes.

 

 
34

 

  

Performance chemicals consist of specialty chemicals that are manufactured to general market-determined specifications and are sold to a broad customer base. The major product line in the performance chemicals group is SSIPA/LiSIPA, a polymer modifier that aids the properties of nylon. This group of products also includes other sulfonated monomers and hydrotropes, specialty solvents, polymer additives, and chemical intermediates, such as glycerin.

 

SSIPA/LiSIPA revenues are generated from a diverse customer base of nylon fiber manufacturers and other customers that produce condensation polymers. Contract sales are, in certain instances, indexed to key raw materials for inflation; otherwise, there is no pricing mechanism or specific protection against raw material or conversion cost changes.

 

Pricing for the other performance chemical products is established based upon competitive market conditions. Some, but not all, of these products have pricing mechanisms and/or specific protections against raw material or conversion cost changes.

 

For our biofuels segment, we procure all of our own feedstock and only sell biodiesel for our own account. In rare instances, we purchase biodiesel from other producers for resale. We have the capability to process multiple types of feedstock including vegetable oils, animal fats, and separated food waste oils. We can receive feedstock by rail or truck, and we have substantial storage capacity to acquire feedstock at advantaged prices when market conditions permit. Our annual capacity is in excess of 58 million gallons per year.

 

There currently is uncertainty as to whether we will produce biodiesel in the future. This uncertainty results from: (i) changes in feedstock prices relative to biodiesel prices; and (ii) the lack of permanency of government mandates and tax credits. See “Risk Factors” above.

 

While biodiesel is the principal component of the biofuels segment, we also generate revenue from the sale of petrodiesel both in blends with our biodiesel and, from time to time, with no biodiesel added. Petrodiesel and biodiesel blends are available to customers at our leased storage facility in North Little Rock, Arkansas and at our Batesville plant. In addition, we deliver blended product to a small group of customers within our region. We also sell refined petroleum products on common carrier pipelines in part to maintain our status as a shipper on these pipelines.

 

The majority of our expenses are cost of goods sold. Cost of goods sold includes raw material costs as well as both fixed and variable conversion costs, conversion costs being those expenses that are directly or indirectly related to the operation of our plant. Significant conversion costs include labor, benefits, energy, supplies, depreciation, and maintenance and repair. In addition to raw material and conversion costs, cost of goods sold includes environmental reserves and costs related to idle capacity. Finally, cost of goods sold includes hedging gains and losses recognized by us related to our biofuels segment. Cost of goods sold is allocated to the chemicals and biofuels business segments based on equipment and resource usage for most conversion costs and based on revenues for most other costs.

 

Operating costs include selling, general and administrative, and research and development expenses.

 

The discussion of results of operations that follows is based on revenues and expenses in total and for individual product lines and do not differentiate related party transactions. 

 

 
35

 

  

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2013

 

Set forth below is a summary of certain financial information for the periods indicated.

 

(Dollars in thousands other than per share amounts)

 

   

Twelve Months

Ended

December 31, 

2014

   

Twelve

Months

Ended

December 31,

2013

   

Dollar 

Change

   

Change

 

Revenues

  $ 341,838     $ 444,919     $ (103,081 )     (23.2% )

Income from operations

  $ 56,128     $ 90,254     $ (34,126 )     (37.8% )

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ (20,834 )     (28.1% )

Earnings per common share:

                               

Basic

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ (0.49 )     (28.7% )

Diluted

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ (0.49 )     (28.7% )

Capital expenditures (net of customer reimbursements and regulatory grants)

  $ 7,002     $ 6,370     $ 632       9.9 %

Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 43,604     $ 96,745     $ (53,141 )     (54.9% )

 

We use adjusted EBITDA as a key operating metric to measure both performance and liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. Adjusted EBITDA is not a substitute for operating income, net income, or cash flow from operating activities (each as determined in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of performance or liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of results as reported under GAAP. We define adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization expenses, excluding, when applicable, non-cash stock-based compensation expenses, public offering expenses, acquisition-related transaction costs, purchase accounting adjustments, losses on disposal of property and equipment, gains or losses on derivative instruments, and other non-operating income or expenses. Information relating to adjusted EBITDA is provided so that investors have the same data that we employ in assessing the overall operation and liquidity of our business. Our calculation of adjusted EBITDA may be different from similarly titled measures used by other companies; therefore, the results of our calculation are not necessarily comparable to the results of other companies.

 

Adjusted EBITDA allows our chief operating decision makers to assess the performance and liquidity of our business on a consolidated basis to assess the ability of our operating segments to produce operating cash flow to fund working capital needs, to fund capital expenditures and to pay dividends. In particular, our management believes that adjusted EBITDA permits a comparative assessment of our operating performance and liquidity, relative to a performance and liquidity based on GAAP results, while isolating the effects of depreciation and amortization, which may vary among our operating segments without any correlation to their underlying operating performance, and of non-cash stock-based compensation expense, which is a non-cash expense that varies widely among similar companies, and gains and losses on derivative instruments, whose immediate recognition can cause net income to be volatile from period to period due to the timing of the valuation change in the derivative instruments relative to the sale of biofuel.

 

 
36

 

  

The following table reconciles adjusted EBITDA with net income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

Twelve Month Ended December 31, 2014

   

Twelve Month Ended December 31, 2013

 

Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 43,604     $ 96,745  

Depreciation and amortization

    (8,981 )     (10,316 )

Reimbursement to customers for BTC

    (18,628 )     -  

Retroactive reinstatement of BTC

    28,954       2,535  

Non-cash stock-based compensation

    (1,440 )     -  

Interest and dividend income

    6,877       5,875  

Interest expense

    (25 )     (24 )

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

    (108 )     (261 )

Gains on derivative instruments

    12,757       1,151  

Gains on marketable securities

    4,335       1,646  

Income tax expense

    (14,145 )     (23,317 )

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034  

 

The following table reconciles adjusted EBITDA with cash flows from operations, the most directly comparable GAAP liquidity financial measure:

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014

   

Twelve Month Ended December 31, 2013

 

Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 43,604     $ 96,745  

Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes

    5,388       (1,972 )

Reimbursement to customers for BTC

    (18,628 )     -  

Retroactive reinstatement of BTC

    28,954       2,535  

Impairment of fixed assets

    247       18,102  

Interest and dividend income

    6,877       5,875  

Income tax expense

    (14,145 )     (23,317 )

Gains on derivative instruments

    12,757       1,151  

Change in fair value of derivative instruments

    (396 )     (617 )

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net

    (12,706 )     (36,048 )

Net cash provided by operating activities

  $ 51,952     $ 62,454  

  

Revenues

 

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $341,838,000 as compared to revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 of $444,919,000, a decrease of 23%. Revenues from biofuels decreased 31% and accounted for 57% of total revenues in 2014 as compared to 64% in 2013. Revenues from chemicals decreased 10% and accounted for 43% of total revenues in 2014 as compared to 36% in 2013. Within the chemicals segment, revenues for 2014 changed as follows as compared to 2013: (i) revenues from the bleach activator decreased 22%; (ii) revenues from the legacy and new proprietary herbicide and intermediates increased 4%; (iii) revenues from DIPB and CPOs increased 12%; (iv) revenues from other custom products decreased 16%; and (v) revenues from proprietary chemicals increased 26%.

 

Revenues from the bleach activator and the legacy proprietary herbicide and intermediates are together the most significant components of our chemicals segment revenue base, accounting for 14% of total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to 17% for the year ended December 31, 2013. The contract with the legacy customer ceased in 2014. We are unable to predict with any certainty the revenues we will receive from the bleach activator in the future.

 

 
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Revenues from CPOs and DIPB together increased 12% during 2014. The primary end market for CPOs is the automotive industry, an industry whose economic activity can vary significantly from year to year. This product line experienced a decrease in demand from 2013 to 2014. DIPB, however, experienced an increase in sales revenue from 2013 to 2014. DIPB is an intermediate in the production of hydroquinone. Our customer experienced increased sales in 2014, some of which were driven by a change in its customers' order patterns.

 

Revenues from other custom chemical products decreased 17% in 2014 as compared to 2013. This decrease was primarily due to products we no longer sell and reduced sales volumes for existing products. These reductions were partially offset by shortfall payments totaling $8,816,000 from a former customer that previously contracted to purchase certain minimum quantities of graphite anode material. This contract was cancelled effective August 9, 2014.

 

Revenues from proprietary chemicals increased 26% in 2014 as compared to 2013 and account for approximately 5% of total revenues in 2014. This increase was due in part to increased volumes from existing products and the addition of two new products.

 

Revenues from biofuels decreased 31% or $87,726,000 from $283,418,000 in 2013 to $195,692,000 in 2014. The expiration of the BTC on December 31, 2013 and the absence of the government mandated renewable fuel standard for biodiesel combined to weaken the economics of biodiesel in 2014. The BTC was reinstated in late December 2014 and made retroactive to January 1, 2014, but has not been extended into 2015. As a result of contractual provisions with certain customers, a share of the BTC was owed upon reinstatement of a retroactive BTC. Revenues from our biofuels have also benefited by our sales of refined petroleum products as a shipper on common carrier pipelines which totaled $40,263,000 in 2014 compared to $12,521,000 in 2013. 

 

A portion of our biodiesel sold in 2014 was to a major refiner in the United States and no assurances can be given that we will continue to sell to such major refiner, or, if we do sell, the volume we will sell or the profit margin we will realize. We continue to expand our regional blended-fuel distribution business.

 

 Cost of Goods Sold and Distribution

 

Total cost of goods sold and distribution for 2014 were $275,865,000 as compared to total cost of goods sold and distribution of $344,754,000 in 2013, a decrease of 20%, which compares to a 23% decrease in revenues for the period.

 

Cost of goods sold and distribution for 2014 for our chemicals segment totaled $100,084,000 as compared to cost of goods sold and distribution for 2013 of $106,793,000, a 6% reduction. This reduction in cost of goods sold and distribution was primarily due to reduced sales volumes of certain chemical products including the bleach activator and the other custom products we no longer produce. On a percentage basis, the 6% reduction in costs of goods sold and distribution in 2014 is less than the 10% decrease in chemical segment revenues as a result of (i) the change in product mix; (ii) increased fixed cost share with reduced biodiesel production; and (iii) from adjustments in our inventory carrying value as determined utilizing the LIFO method of inventory accounting.

 

Cost of goods sold and distribution for 2014 for our biofuel segment were $175,781,000 as compared to cost of goods sold and distribution for 2013 of $237,961,000. On a percentage basis, cost of goods sold and distribution decreased 26% versus a decrease in revenues of 31%. Despite the retroactive reinstatement of the BTC in December 2014 for the year 2014, market conditions were less favorable for biodiesel in 2014 as compared to 2013. Such market conditions were largely the result of the industry not having clarity for most of the year as to whether or not the BTC would exist in 2014. Additionally in 2014, the industry operated, and continues to operate, without a clear government mandate for renewable fuel. The BTC expired on December 31, 2014 and has not been reinstated. We recorded this credit as a reduction in cost of goods sold and distribution expense in our consolidated statement of operations. As a result of the current year reinstatement, we recognized a $28,954,000 reduction to cost of goods sold in the fourth quarter of 2014. As a result of the 2012 retroactive reinstatement, we recognized a $2,535,000 reduction to cost of goods sold in the first quarter of 2013. Furthermore, increases in cost of goods sold and distribution resulted from adjustments in our inventory carrying value as determined utilizing the LIFO method of inventory accounting. Our hedging activity helped offset the increased cost of goods sold. For 2014, our hedging gain was $12,757,000 as compared to a hedging gain for 2013 of $1,151,000. Finally, and to a lesser extent, the biodiesel segment benefited from a reduced share of plant allocated fixed costs.

 

 
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Operating Expenses

 

Operating expenses decreased 1% from $9,911,000 in 2013 to $9,845,000 in 2014. This decrease was primarily the result of reduced travel expenses and research and development partially offset by increased compensation expense from the issuance of restricted stock awards.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

The effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 reflect our expected tax rate on reported operating earnings before income taxes.

 

In 2013, as a result of then recently issued technical guidance from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, FutureFuel changed its position related to the benefit from the $1 biodiesel BTC to exclude this credit from taxable income for the years 2010 through 2013.  This change had a significant impact on FutureFuel’s provision for income taxes in the fourth quarter of 2013.  This benefit reduced FutureFuel’s provision for income taxes by $11,633,000 in 2013, with $7,755,000 related to the years 2010 through 2012 and $3,878,000 related to 2013.  This same treatment was followed in 2014 when the $1 biodiesel BTC was retroactively reinstated for 2014 in December of 2014.  This benefit is not expected to recur in the future as the $1 biodiesel BTC expired on December 31, 2014 and has not been reinstated.  FutureFuel’s treatment of the $1 biodiesel BTC for income tax purposes is expected to result in refunds from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and various state taxing authorities for a portion of the amount FutureFuel has paid for income taxes in prior years.

 

Income Taxes

 

Our liability for uncertain tax positions totaled $3,027,000 and $1,718,000 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. See Note 14 to our consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2012

 

Revenues

 

Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 were $444,919,000 as compared to revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 of $351,829,000, an increase of 26%. Revenues from biofuels increased 48% and accounted for 64% of total revenues in 2013 as compared to 54% in 2012. Revenues from chemicals increased 1% and accounted for 36% of total revenues in 2013 as compared to 46% in 2012. Within the chemicals segment, revenues for 2013 changed as follows as compared to 2012: (i) revenues from the bleach activator decreased 7%; (ii) revenues from the proprietary herbicide and intermediates decreased 35%; (iii) revenues from DIPB and CPOs decreased 6%; and (iv) revenues from other custom products increased 36%.

 

Revenues from the bleach activator and the proprietary herbicide and intermediates were together the most significant components of our chemicals segment revenue base, accounting for 17% of total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to 25% for the year ended December 31, 2012. These products comprised a smaller percentage of our total revenues in 2013 as revenues from our biofuels segment assumed a larger percentage. Additionally, revenues from the bleach activator and the proprietary herbicide decreased in 2013. This decrease was attributable to reduced volumes for both products in 2013, and was partially offset by increased per unit sales prices.

 

Revenues from CPOs and DIPB together decreased 6% during 2013. The primary end market for CPOs is the automotive industry, an industry whose economic activity can vary significantly from year to year. This product line experienced an increase in demand from 2012 to 2013. DIPB, however, experienced a decline in sales revenue from 2012 to 2013. DIPB is an intermediate in the production of hydroquinone. Our customers experienced reduced sales in 2013, some of which were driven by a change in their customers’ order patterns. We also experienced minor operational problems in the fourth quarter which reduced sales. 

 

Revenues from other custom chemical products increased 36% in 2013 as compared to 2012. This increase was primarily due to new sales of products we periodically produce for customers, increased volume of a product we periodically produce for a customer and, to a lesser extent, the recognition of contract shortfall payments from our customer for the graphite anode material. On July 29, 2013, we received notice from our customer of the graphite anode battery material that they were terminating the contract in accordance with its terms effective August 9, 2014. Our customer remained liable for the take or pay quantity contained in our sales agreement through August 9, 2014. Also partly impacting revenue for the other custom chemical products was a reduction from two products we no longer sell.

 

 
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Revenues from proprietary chemicals increased 5% in 2013 as compared to 2012 and account for approximately 3% of total revenues in 2013. This increase was due to sales of new performance chemicals, including crude glycerin and increased sales of SSIPA.

 

Revenues from biofuels increased from $191,379,000 in 2012 to $283,418,000 in 2013. The reinstatement of the BTC in January 2013 along with the government mandated renewable fuel standard for biodiesel combined to improve the economics of biodiesel in 2013. The BTC had expired on December 31, 2011 and was reinstated in January 2013 retroactive to January 1, 2012 and extended through December 31, 2013. Revenues from our biofuels were benefited by sales of refined petroleum products as a shipper on common carrier pipelines which totaled $12,521,000 in 2013 compared to $8,881,000 in 2012. 

 

A substantial portion of our biodiesel sold in 2013 was to a major refiner in the United States and no assurances can be given that we will continue to sell to such major refiner, or, if we do sell, the volume we will sell or the profit margin we will realize. We continued to expand our regional blended-fuel distribution business.

 

  Cost of Goods Sold and Distribution

 

Total cost of goods sold and distribution for 2013 were $344,754,000 as compared to total cost of goods sold and distribution of $294,576,000 in 2012, an increase of 17%, which compares to a 26% increase in revenues for the period.

 

Cost of goods sold and distribution for 2013 for our chemicals segment totaled $106,793,000 as compared to cost of goods sold and distribution for 2012 of $111,789,000, a 4% reduction. This reduction in cost of goods sold and distribution was primarily due to reduced sales volumes of certain chemical products including the bleach activator and the proprietary herbicide. Further reductions in cost of goods sold and distribution resulted from adjustments in our inventory carrying value as determined utilizing the LIFO method of inventory accounting. On a percentage basis, the 4% reduction in costs of goods sold and distribution in 2013 as compared to 2012 was greater than the 1% increase in chemical segment revenues due to increased sales prices of certain chemical products as compensation for lower quantities of material purchased and inflationary price adjustments.

 

Cost of goods sold and distribution for 2013 for our biofuel segment were $237,961,000 as compared to cost of goods sold and distribution for 2012 of $182,787,000. On a percentage basis, cost of goods sold and distribution increased 30% versus an increase in revenues of 48%. Market conditions were more favorable for biodiesel in 2013 as compared to 2012 as a result of the reinstated BTC on January 3, 2013 made retroactive to January 1, 2012. We record this credit as a reduction in cost of goods sold and distribution expense in our consolidated statement of operations. As a result of the prior year reinstatement, we recognized a $2,535,000 reduction to cost of goods sold in the first quarter of 2013. No such reduction existed for 2012. The existence of this credit was a significant factor in the profitability of biodiesel production in 2013. This credit expired at December 31, 2013. Further reductions in cost of goods sold and distribution resulted from adjustments in our inventory carrying value as determined utilizing the LIFO method of inventory accounting.

 

Biodiesel profitability slowed in the fourth quarter of 2013 as the biodiesel consumption mandate established by the government was largely met early in the quarter. During the fourth quarter of 2012, the government mandate had also been met, however, profitability slowed considerably more in the fourth quarter of 2012 due to the absence of the BTC.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Operating expenses decreased 13% from $11,161,000 in 2012 to $9,911,000 in 2013. This decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense from reduced staffing, reduced legal expenditures associated with litigation of ongoing cases, and reduced expenditures incurred for the registration of product for sale in the European Union.

 

 
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Provision for Income Taxes

 

The effective tax rates for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 reflected our expected tax rate on reported operating earnings before income taxes.

 

Historically, we included the benefit from the $1 biodiesel BTC in taxable income on our federal and state income tax returns. As a result of an issued technical guidance from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, we changed our position related to this benefit to exclude it from taxable income for the years 2010 through 2013. This change had a significant impact on our provision for income taxes in the fourth quarter of 2013. This benefit reduced our provision for income taxes by $11,633,000, with $7,755,000 related to the years 2010 through 2012, and $3,878,000 related to the current year. This benefit is not expected to recur in the future as the $1 biodiesel BTC expired on December 31, 2013 and has not been renewed. This change reduced taxable income in each year between 2010 and 2012 and also impacted fiscal 2013.

 

Income Taxes

 

Our liability for uncertain tax positions totaled $1,718,000 and $0 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. See Note 14 to our consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

We reduce our accounts receivable by amounts that may be uncollectible in the future. This estimated allowance is based upon management’s evaluation of the collectability of individual invoices and is based upon management’s evaluation of the financial condition of our customers and historical bad debt experience. This estimate is subject to change based upon the changing financial condition of our customers. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, we recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0 and $0, respectively. We historically have not experienced significant problems in collecting our receivables, and we do not expect this to change going forward.

 

Depreciation

 

Depreciation is provided for using the straight-line method over the associated assets’ estimated useful lives. We primarily base our estimate of an asset’s useful life on our experience with other similar assets. The actual useful life of an asset may differ significantly from our estimate for such reasons as the asset’s build quality, the manner in which the asset is used, or changes in the business climate. When the actual useful life differs from the estimated useful life, impairment charges may result. We monitor the estimated useful lives of our assets and do not currently anticipate impairment charges.

 

Asset Retirement Obligations

 

We establish reserves for closure/post-closure costs associated with the environmental and other assets we maintain. Environmental assets include waste management units such as incinerators, landfills, storage tanks, and boilers. When these types of assets are constructed or installed, a reserve is established for the future costs anticipated to be associated with the closure of the site based on an expected life of the environmental assets, the applicable regulatory closure requirements, and our environmental policies and practices. These expenses are charged into earnings over the estimated useful life of the assets. The future costs anticipated to be associated with the closure of the site are based upon estimated current costs for such activities adjusted for anticipated future inflation rates. Unanticipated changes in either of these two variables or changes in the anticipated timing of closure/post-closure activities may significantly affect the established reserves. As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we recorded a reserve for closure/post-closure liabilities of $796,000 and $771,000, respectively. We monitor this reserve and the assumptions used in its calculation. As deemed necessary, we have made changes to this reserve balance and anticipate that future changes will occur.

 

 
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Revenue Recognition

 

For most product sales, revenue is recognized when product is shipped from our facilities and risk of loss and title have passed to the customer, which is in accordance with our customer contracts and the stated shipping terms. Nearly all custom manufactured products are manufactured under written contracts. Performance chemicals and biodiesel are generally sold pursuant to the terms of written purchase orders. In general, customers do not have any rights of return, except for quality disputes. However, all of our products are tested for quality before shipment, and historically returns have been inconsequential. We do not offer rebates or warranties.

 

Bill and hold transactions for 2014 related to specialty chemical customers whereby revenue was recognized in accordance with contractual agreements based upon product being produced and ready for use. These sales were subject to written monthly purchase orders with agreement that production was reasonable. The inventory was custom manufactured and stored at the customer’s request and could not be sold to another buyer. Credit and payment terms for bill and hold transactions are similar to other specialty chemical customers. Sales revenues under bill and hold arrangements totaled $31,598,000, $44,047,000, and $50,076,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

We sell petroleum products from time to time on common carrier pipelines in part to maintain our status as a shipper on these pipelines. When such transactions result in us purchasing and selling product to the same counterparty, such transactions are recorded net as an element of revenue or cost of goods sold.

 

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities

 

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are recorded on a net basis within cost of goods sold.

  

Income Taxes

 

We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this method, income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective income tax basis. A future income tax asset or liability is estimated for each temporary difference using enacted and substantively enacted income tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the asset is realized or the liability settled. Changes in the expected tax rates and laws to be in effect when the asset is realized or the liability settled could significantly affect the income tax assets and liabilities booked by us. We monitor changes in applicable tax laws and adjust our income tax assets and liabilities as necessary.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, investing activities, and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 are set forth in the following table.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  $ 51,952     $ 62,454     $ 64,888  

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

  $ 6,708     $ (24,111 )   $ (32,613 )

Net cash used by financing activities

  $ (21,044 )   $ (10,617 )   $ (63,283 )

  

Operating Activities

 

Cash provided by operating activities decreased from $62,454,000 in 2013 to $51,952,000 in 2014, a net decrease of $10,502,000. This decrease was attributed to: (i) decreased cash earnings from the biofuels segment; (ii) a decrease in the adjustment to cash for the impairment of fixed assets; (iii) a decrease in cash from the change in accounts receivable; (iv) a decrease in cash from an increase in inventory; and (v) a decrease in cash from an increase in accrued expenses and other current liabilities. In 2014, there were impairments of fixed assets of $247,000. In 2013, there were impairments of $18,102,000 primarily related to the graphite anode material plant and equipment. In 2014, accounts receivable, including accounts receivable due from related parties, decreased cash provided by operating activities by $18,059,000. In 2013, accounts receivable, including accounts receivable due from related parties, decreased cash provided by operating activities by $10,467,000. This universal reduction was primarily due to the timing and amount of receipts of customer payments and the receivable for the 2014 BTC. In 2014, inventory decreased cash $3,189,000. In 2013, inventory decreased cash $172,000. In 2014, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including accrued liabilities and other current liabilities with related parties, decreased cash $3,110,000. In 2013, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including accrued liabilities and other current liabilities with related parties, increased cash $4,212,000.

 

 
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Mostly offsetting these decreases in cash from operating activities was: (i) accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties; (ii) deferred revenue; and (iii) income tax receivable. In 2014, accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties, increased cash $17,514,000. In 2013, accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties, decreased cash $692,000. In 2014, deferred revenue decreased cash $2,524,000 and in 2013, increased cash $14,734,000. This change from 2013 was primarily the result of a reduction in the deferred revenue balance as the result of the contract termination by our customer for the anode graphite material. Lastly, in 2014, income tax receivable decreased cash by $4,984,000. In 2013, an increase in cash from our income tax receivable balance combined with a decrease in our income tax payable balance in 2013 reduced cash provided by operating activities by $15,352,000.

 

Cash provided by operating activities decreased from $64,888,000 in 2012 to $62,454,000 in 2013, a net decrease of $2,434,000. This decrease was primarily attributed to: (i) the timing of collections of accounts receivable including those due from related parties; (ii) changes in income tax receivable and income tax payable; and (iii) deferred revenue. In 2013, accounts receivable, including accounts receivable due from related parties, decreased cash provided by operating activities by $10,467,000. In 2012, accounts receivable, including accounts receivable due from related parties, increased cash provided by operating activity by $12,895,000. This decrease was primarily due to the timing and amount of receipts of customer payments. Additionally, an increase in our income taxes receivable balance combined with the decrease in our income taxes payable reduced cash provided by operating activities by $15,352,000 in 2013. In 2012, income taxes payable reduced cash provided by operating activities by $503,000. This change was largely the result of changing our position with respect to the inclusion of the benefit from the $1 biodiesel BTC in taxable income. Historically, we included the benefit in taxable income on our federal and state income tax returns. We changed our position in the fourth quarter of 2013 for tax years 2010 through the current year. The anticipated amendments to the income tax returns have given rise to an increased income tax receivable. Lastly, deferred revenue decreased cash provided by operating activities by $14,734,000. In 2012, deferred revenue increased cash provided by operating activities by $941,000. This change is primarily the result of our graphite anode material customer notifying us that they were terminating our contract effective August 9, 2014. We assessed the carrying value of our fixed assets and deferred revenue associated with this product and recorded an impairment loss on the fixed assets and a reduction in the deferred revenue balance.

 

Mostly offsetting these reductions in cash from operating activities was: (i) accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties; (ii) accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including accrued expenses and other current liabilities for related parties; and (iii) impairment of fixed assets. In 2013, accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties, decreased cash provided by operating activities by $692,000. In 2012, accounts payable, including accounts payable to related parties, decreased cash provided by operating activities by $5,212,000. This change was primarily attributable to differences in the timing and amount of payments to suppliers. In 2013, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including accrued expenses and other current liabilities for related parties increased cash provided by operating activities by $4,212,000. In 2012, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including related parties increased cash provided by operating activities by $325,000. This change is a result of the timing and amount of services provided and not yet invoiced. In 2012, there were no impairments of fixed assets that required an adjustment to net income from cash from operating activities. In 2013, there were impairments of $18,102,000 primarily related to the graphite anode material plant and equipment.

 

Investing Activities

 

Cash from investing activities increased from a $24,111,000 use of cash in 2013 to $6,708,000 of cash from investing activities in 2014. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the net proceeds from the sale of marketable securities in 2014 compared to 2013. Such purchases totaled a net $8,150,000 in 2013, as compared to total net proceeds of $15,729,000 in 2014. In addition, cash used for capital expenditures declined from $18,542,000 in 2013 to $8,117,000 in 2014. This decrease was attributable to certain larger capital projects undertaken on behalf of certain of our customers being completed in 2013. Our capital expenditures and customer reimbursements are summarized in the table below. 

 

 
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(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Cash paid for capital expenditures

  $ 8,117     $ 18,542  

Cash received as reimbursement of capital expenditures

    (1,115 )     (12,172 )

Cash paid, net of reimbursement, for capital expenditures

  $ 7,002     $ 6,370  

  

Cash used in investing activities decreased from $32,613,000 in 2012 to $24,111,000 in 2013. This decrease was primarily attributable to a reduction in the net purchases of marketable securities in 2013 compared to 2012. Such purchases totaled a net $26,258,000 in 2012 and decreased to total net purchases of $8,150,000 in 2013. Partially offsetting this was an increase in cash used for capital expenditures from $9,112,000 in 2012 to $18,542,000 in 2013. This increase was attributable to certain capital projects undertaken and completed in 2013 on behalf of certain of our customers. Our capital expenditures and customer reimbursements are summarized in the table above. 

 

Financing Activities

 

Cash used in financing activities increased from $10,617,000 in 2013 to $21,044,000 in 2014. This increase was primarily due to $19,292,000 being received in 2013 from the issuance of stock and no such receipts being present in 2014. Partially off-setting the decrease in proceeds from the issuance of stock was a decrease in dividends paid in 2014. In 2013, dividends paid totaled $29,904,000 and included a special dividend of $0.25 per share of our common stock. In 2014, dividends paid totaled $20,928,000 and no special dividends were paid.

 

Cash used in financing activities decreased from $63,283,000 in 2012 to $10,617,000 in 2013. This decrease was primarily due to decreased dividends paid in 2013 compared to 2012 and an increase in proceeds from the issuance of stock in 2013 compared to 2012. In 2013, we paid $29,904,000 in dividends on our common stock including a special dividend payment of $0.25 per share of our common stock. Dividend payments in 2012 included a special dividend payment of $1.20 per common share and totaled $66,538,000. Additionally, cash proceeds from the issuance of common shares as part of our At-the Market offering and cash received from options exercised was $3,149,000 in 2012. In 2013, such net proceeds totaled $19,292,000.

 

Capital Expenditure Commitments

 

We had no material capital projects that generated commitments as of December 31, 2014.

 

Historically, we finance capital requirements for our business with cash flows from operations and have not had the need to incur bank indebtedness to finance any of our operations during the periods discussed herein.

 

Credit Facility

 

We renewed a $50 million credit agreement with a commercial bank effective June 30, 2013. The loan is a revolving facility the proceeds of which may be used for our working capital, capital expenditures, and general corporate purposes. The facility terminates on June 30, 2018. Advances are made pursuant to a borrowing base. Advances are secured by a perfected first priority security interest in our accounts receivable and inventory. The interest rate floats at certain margins over LIBOR or base rate based upon the leverage ratio from time to time. There is an unused commitment fee. The ratio of total funded debt to EBITDA may not be more than 3:1. We had no borrowings under this credit facility at December 31, 2014, 2013, or 2012.

 

We intend to fund future capital requirements for our businesses from cash flow generated by us as well as from existing cash, cash investments, and, if the need should arise, borrowings under our credit facility. We do not believe there will be a need to issue any securities to fund such capital requirements.

 

Department of Energy Grant

 

We entered into a contract with a customer to design, construct, and operate a commercial-scale plant to produce intermediate anode powder as a component of high-performance graphite anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. In connection with this contract, we applied for a financial assistance award under the Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative administered by the Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory on behalf of the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. An award was granted to us in the amount of $12,600,000, which we accepted on July 27, 2010. The funds were to be used to modify existing idle assets and to acquire and construct new assets to be used for the production of specialized materials for lithium-ion batteries for electric cars and other applications. We received grant monies on a cost share basis as we incurred construction-related expenditures.

 

 
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On July 29, 2013, FutureFuel received notice from the chemicals segment customer for the intermediate anode powder that the customer would terminate the contract in accordance with its terms effective August 9, 2014. FutureFuel did not produce or sell additional material in 2013 or 2014 under that agreement. As a result of this notice, FutureFuel assessed the carrying values of its fixed assets and deferred revenue associated with this product and recorded an impairment loss of $17,580,000 for the equipment and recorded a reduction of deferred revenue as an element of cost of goods sold slightly offset by other expenses in the amount of $16,160,000 in the third quarter of 2013. The net impact of this impairment of $1,420,000 was recorded in cost of goods sold.

 

In 2014, FutureFuel’s customer paid the final minimum take or pay amounts per the terms of the sales agreement through the termination date. Revenues from this arrangement totaled $8,816,000 and $4,640,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Dividends

 

In 2014, we paid regular cash dividends aggregating $0.48 per share on our common stock with record dates and payment dates as previously discussed. The regular cash dividends totaled $20,928,000. 

 

In 2013, we declared a special cash dividend aggregating $0.25 per share on our common stock, with a record date and payment date previously discussed. The special cash dividend amounted to $10,835,000. We also paid regular cash dividends aggregating $0.44 per share on our common stock, with record dates and payment dates as previously discussed. The regular cash dividends amounted to $19,069,000, for total dividends paid by us in 2013 of $29,904,000.

 

Capital Management

 

As a result of our initial equity offering, our subsequent positive operating results, the exercise of warrants, and the issuance of shares in our At-the-Market offering, we accumulated excess working capital. Some of this excess working capital was paid out in 2013, and 2014 as special cash dividends and as regular cash dividends. Regular cash dividends will also be paid in 2015 as previously discussed. We intend to retain the remaining cash to fund infrastructure and capacity expansion at our Batesville plant or to otherwise fund our future growth. Third parties have not placed significant restrictions on our working capital management decisions.

 

A significant portion of these funds were held in cash or cash equivalents at multiple financial institutions. In 2014 and 2013, we also had investments in certain preferred stock, trust preferred securities, exchange traded debt, and other equity instruments. We classify these investments as current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and designate them as being “available-for-sale”. Accordingly, they are recorded at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as a component of stockholders’ equity. The fair value of these preferred stock, trust preferred securities, exchange traded debt, and other equity instruments, including accrued dividends and interest, totaled $87,720,000 and $104,271,000 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Lastly, we maintain depository accounts such as checking accounts, money market accounts, and other similar accounts at selected financial institutions.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We engage in two types of hedging transactions. First, we hedge our biofuels sales through the purchase and sale of futures contracts and options on futures contracts of energy commodities. This activity was captured on our balance sheet at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Second, we hedge our biofuels feedstock through the execution of purchase contracts and supply agreements with certain vendors. These hedging transactions are recognized in earnings and were not recorded on our balance sheet at December 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013 as they do not meet the definition of a derivative instrument as defined under accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The purchase of biofuels feedstock generally involves two components: basis and price. Basis covers any refining or processing required as well as transportation. Price covers the purchases of the actual agricultural commodity. Both basis and price fluctuate over time. A supply agreement with a vendor constitutes a hedge when we have committed to a certain volume of feedstock in a future period and have fixed the basis for that volume.

 

 
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Contractual Obligations

 

The following table sets forth as of December 31, 2014 the payments due by period for the following contractual obligations.

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

                               

Contractual Obligations

 

Total

   

Less than 1 Year

   

1-3

Years

   

4-5

Years

   

More than 5

Years

 
                                         

Long-term debt obligations(a)

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

Capital lease obligations

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

Operating lease obligations

  $ 2,868     $ 992     $ 1,375     $ 191     $ 310  

Purchase obligations(b)

  $ 5,658     $ 5,658     $ -     $ -     $ -  

Other long-term liabilities reflected on our balance sheet under GAAP(c)

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

Total

  $ 8,526     $ 6,650     $ 1,375     $ 191     $ 310  

        

  (a) As of December 31, 2014, we had no borrowings under the $50 million credit agreement described above.
     
 

(b)

Purchase obligations within less than one year include: (i) the purchase of biodiesel feedstock to be taken during 2015; and (ii) various other infrastructure and capital repairs.

 

 

(c)

A component of other noncurrent liabilities is a reserve for asset retirement obligations and environmental contingencies of $796 at December 31, 2014. We are liable for these asset retirement obligations and environmental contingencies only in certain events, primarily the closure of our Batesville, Arkansas facility. As such, we do not expect a payment related to these liabilities in the foreseeable future and therefore we have excluded this amount from the table above.

 

 

 
46

 

  

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

In recent years, general economic inflation has not had a material adverse impact on our costs and, as described elsewhere herein, we have passed some price increases along to our customers. However, we are subject to certain market risks as described below.

 

Market risk represents the potential loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices. Commodity price risk is inherent in the chemical and biofuels business both with respect to input (electricity, coal, raw materials, biofuel feedstocks, etc.) and output (manufactured chemicals and biofuels).

 

We seek to mitigate our market risks associated with the manufacturing and sale of chemicals by entering into term sale contracts that include contractual market price adjustment protections to allow changes in market prices of key raw materials to be passed on to the customer. Such price protections are not always obtained, however, so raw material price risk remains a significant risk.

 

In order to manage price risk caused by market fluctuations in biofuel prices, we may enter into exchange traded commodity futures and options contracts. We account for these derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815-20-25, Derivatives and Hedging, Hedging-General, Recognition. Under this standard, the accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends upon whether it has been designated as an accounting hedging relationship and, further, on the type of hedging relationship. To qualify for designation as an accounting hedging relationship, specific criteria must be met and appropriate documentation maintained. We had no derivative instruments that qualified under these rules as designated accounting hedges in 2014 or 2013. Changes in the fair value of our derivative instruments are recognized at the end of each accounting period and recorded in the statement of operations as a component of cost of goods sold.

 

Our immediate recognition of derivative instrument gains and losses can cause net income to be volatile from period to period due to the timing of the change in value of the derivative instruments relative to the sale of biofuel being sold. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the fair values of our derivative instruments were a net asset in the amount of $68,000 and a net liability in the amount of $328,000, respectively.

 

Our gross profit will be impacted by the prices we pay for raw materials and conversion costs (costs incurred in the production of chemicals and biofuels) for which we do not possess contractual market price adjustment protection. These items are principally comprised of crude corn oil and yellow grease and petrodiesel. The availability and price of these items are subject to wide fluctuations due to unpredictable factors such as weather conditions, overall economic conditions, governmental policies, commodity markets, and global supply and demand.

 

We prepared a sensitivity analysis of our exposure to market risk with respect to key raw materials and conversion costs for which we do not possess contractual market price adjustment protections, based on average prices in 2014. We included only those raw materials and conversion costs for which a hypothetical adverse change in price would result in a 1% or greater decrease in gross profit. Assuming that the prices of the associated finished goods could not be increased and assuming no change in quantities sold, a hypothetical 10% change in the average price of the commodities listed below would result in the following change in annual gross profit.

 

 
47

 

  

(Volumes and dollars in thousands)

 

Item

 

Volume(a)

Requirements

 

Units

 

Hypothetical Adverse

Change in Price

   

Decrease in

Gross Profit

   

Percentage

Decrease in Gross

Profit

 

Crude corn oil and yellow grease

    279,423  

LB

    10%     $ 9,025       13.7 %

Petrodiesel

    24,639  

GAL

    10%     $ 7,001       10.6 %

Methanol

    121,931  

LB

    10%     $ 2,743       4.2 %

Natural Gas

    1,292  

MCF

    10%     $ 636       1.0 %


(a)

Volume requirements and average price information are based upon volumes used and prices obtained for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014. Volume requirements may differ materially from these quantities in future years as our business evolves.

 

We had no borrowings as of December 31, 2014 or 2013 and, as such, we were not exposed to interest rate risk for those years. Due to the relative insignificance of transactions denominated in a foreign currency, we consider our foreign currency risk to be immaterial.

 

 

 
48

 

  

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

 

Financial Statements.

 

The following sets forth our consolidated balance sheets as at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and our consolidated statements of operations, statements of cash flows, and statements of stockholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, together with RubinBrown LLP’s report thereon.

  

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders

 

FutureFuel Corp.:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of FutureFuel Corp. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. FutureFuel Corp.’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of FutureFuel Corp. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), FutureFuel Corp. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated March 12, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ RubinBrown LLP

 

St. Louis, Missouri

March 12, 2015

 

 
49

 

 

FutureFuel Corp.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As of December 31, 2014 and 2013

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Assets

               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 124,079     $ 86,463  

Accounts receivable, inclusive of the BTC of $28,954 and $0, and net of allowance of $0 and $0,  in 2014 and 2013, respectively

    50,135       28,620  

Accounts receivable – related parties

    1,173       4,629  

Inventory

    45,353       42,164  

Income tax receivable

    19,716       14,732  

Prepaid expenses

    1,670       1,843  

Marketable securities

    87,720       104,271  

Other current assets

    1,619       566  

Total current assets

    331,465       283,288  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    127,371       128,671  

Other assets

    2,652       2,488  

Total noncurrent assets

    130,023       131,159  

Total Assets

  $ 461,488     $ 414,447  
                 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

               

Accounts payable

  $ 30,386     $ 14,927  

Accounts payable - related parties

    2,912       857  

Current deferred income tax liability

    11,003       8,787  

Deferred revenue – short-term

    1,940       6,869  

Contingent liability – short-term

    1,151       1,151  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    4,649       7,802  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities - related parties

    46       3  

Total current liabilities

    52,087       40,396  

Deferred revenue – long-term

    15,927       13,522  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    4,024       2,690  

Noncurrent deferred income tax liability

    30,441       29,249  

Total noncurrent liabilities

    50,392       45,461  

Total Liabilities

    102,479       85,857  

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 2, 15, 23, and 28)

               

Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding

    -       -  

Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 43,722,388 and 43,342,830 issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively

    4       4  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

    4,259       7,436  

Additional paid in capital

    277,652       276,328  

Retained earnings

    77,094       44,822  

Total stockholders’ equity

    359,009       328,590  

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

  $ 461,488     $ 414,447  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 
50

 

 

FutureFuel Corp.

Consolidated Statements of Operations

For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

         

As reclassified

(see Note 2)

 
   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Revenues

  $ 302,748     $ 435,499     $ 338,812  

Revenues – related parties

    39,090       9,420       13,017  

Cost of goods sold

    213,172       289,828 (1)      275,412 (2) 

Cost of goods sold – related parties

    58,822       50,635 (1)      14,331 (2) 

Distribution

    3,536       3,899       4,362  

Distribution - related parties

    335       392       471  

Gross profit

    65,973       100,165       57,253  

Selling, general, and administrative expenses

                       

Compensation expense

    4,268       3,647       4,142  

Other expense

    2,195       2,421       3,123  

Related party expense

    214       399       452  

Research and development expenses

    3,168       3,444       3,444  
      9,845       9,911       11,161  

Income from operations

    56,128       90,254       46,092  

Interest and dividend income

    6,877       5,875       4,776  

Interest expense

    (25 )     (24 )     (27 )

Gain on marketable securities

    4,335       1,646       3,927  

Other income (expense)

    30       (400 )     112  
      11,217       7,097       8,788  

Income before income taxes

    67,345       97,351       54,880  

Provision for income taxes

    14,145       23,317       20,576  

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  
                         

Earnings per common share:

                       

Basic

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83  

Diluted

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83  

Weighted average shares outstanding:

                       

Basic

    43,357,602       43,237,513       41,366,860  

Diluted

    43,392,011       43,276,931       41,507,660  

 

Comprehensive income

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Net income

    $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

Other comprehensive income (loss) – unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities, net of tax of ($1,980) in 2014, $3,018 in 2013, and $495 in 2012

      (3,177 )     4,839       794  

Comprehensive income

    $ 50,023     $ 78,873     $ 35,098  

 

  (1) For the year ended December 31, 2013, $35,271 has been reclassified from “Cost of goods sold” to “Cost of goods sold – related parties.” Refer to Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion regarding the revision.
     
 

(2)

For the year ended December 31, 2012, $4,965 has been reclassified from “Cost of goods sold” to “Cost of goods sold – related parties.” Refer to Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion regarding the revision.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 
51

 

 

FutureFuel Corp.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Cash flows provided by operating activities

                       

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

                       

Depreciation and amortization

    8,981       10,316       10,454  

Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes

    5,388       (1,972 )     1,827  

Change in fair value of derivative instruments

    (396 )     (617 )     (1,506 )

Other than temporary impairment of marketable securities

    -       336       -  

Impairment of fixed assets

    247       18,102       -  

Gain on sale of investments

    (4,335 )     (1,982 )     (3,927 )

Losses on disposals of fixed assets

    108       261       63  

Stock based compensation

    1,440       -       281  

Noncash interest expense

    25       24       24  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                       

Accounts receivable

    (21,515 )     (5,838 )     12,772  

Accounts receivable – related parties

    3,456       (4,629 )     123  

Inventory

    (3,189 )     (172 )     15,447  

Income taxes receivable

    (4,984 )     (14,732 )     -  

Prepaid expenses

    173       (248 )     (135 )

Prepaid expenses - related parties

    -       32       (32 )

Accrued interest on marketable securities

    99       (79 )     (109 )

Other assets

    65       (266 )     (249 )

Accounts payable

    15,459       2,338       (6,076 )

Accounts payable - related parties

    2,055       (3,030 )     864  

Income taxes payable

    -       (620 )     (503 )

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    (3,153 )     4,209       368  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities - related parties

    43       3       (43 )

Deferred revenue

    (2,524 )     (14,734 )     941  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    1,309       1,718       -  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    51,952       62,454       64,888  

Cash flows from investing activities

                       

Collateralization of derivative instruments

    (985 )     1,374       2,510  

Purchase of marketable securities

    (41,369 )     (49,348 )     (58,745 )

Proceeds from the sale of marketable securities

    57,098       41,198       33,637  

Sales (purchases) of auction rate securities

    -       1,150       (1,150 )

Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets

    81       57       247  

Capital expenditures

    (8,117 )     (18,542 )     (9,112 )

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

    6,708       (24,111 )     (32,613 )

Cash flows from financing activities

                       

Proceeds from the issuance of stock

    -       19,292       3,149  

Minimum tax withholding on stock options exercised

    (175 )     (45 )     (255 )

Excess tax benefits associated with stock options

    59       40       361  

Payment of dividend

    (20,928 )     (29,904 )     (66,538 )

Net cash used in financing activities

    (21,044 )     (10,617 )     (63,283 )

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

    37,616       27,726       (31,008 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    86,463       58,737       89,745  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 124,079     $ 86,463     $ 58,737  

Cash paid for interest

  $ -     $ 23     $ 3  

Cash paid for income taxes

  $ 12,372     $ 38,890     $ 19,252  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 
52

 

 

FutureFuel Corp.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

                    Accumulated                          
                    Other     Additional             Total  
   

Common Stock

   

Comprehensive

   

paid-in

   

Retained

   

Stockholders’

 
   

Shares

   

Amount

    Income    

Capital

    Earnings      Equity  

Balance - December 31, 2011

    41,308,446     $ 4     $ 1,803     $ 253,505     $ 32,926     $ 288,238  

Cash dividends (special and regular)

    -       -       -       -       (66,538 )     (66,538 )

Proceeds from the issuance of stock

    431,123       -       -       2,894       -       2,894  

Stock based compensation

    -       -       -       281       -       281  

Excess income tax benefits from exercise of stock options

    -       -       -       361       -       361  

Other comprehensive income

    -       -       794       -       -       794  

Net income

    -       -       -       -       34,304       34,304  

Balance - December 31, 2012

    41,739,569       4       2,597       257,041       692       260,334  

Cash dividends (special and regular)

    -       -       -       -       (29,904 )     (29,904 )

Proceeds from the issuance of stock

    1,603,261       -       -       19,247       -       19,247  

Excess income tax benefits from exercise of stock options

    -       -       -       40       -       40  

Other comprehensive income

    -       -       4,839       -       -       4,839  

Net income

    -       -       -       -       74,034       74,034  

Balance - December 31, 2013

    43,342,830       4       7,436       276,328       44,822       328,590  

Cash dividends

    -       -       -       -       (20,928 )     (20,928 )

Stock based compensation

    379,558       -       -       1,440       -       1,440  

Excess income tax benefits from exercise of stock options

    -       -       -       59       -       59  

Minimum tax withholdings on options and awards

    -       -       -       (175 )     -       (175 )

Other comprehensive loss

    -       -       (3,177 )     -       -       (3,177 )

Net income

    -       -       -       -       53,200       53,200  

Balance - December 31, 2014

    43,722,388     $ 4     $ 4,259     $ 277,652     $ 77,094     $ 359,009  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

 

 
53

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

1)

Nature of operations and basis of presentation

 

Viceroy Acquisition Corporation

 

Viceroy Acquisition Corporation (“Viceroy”) was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware on August 12, 2005 to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition of one or more operating businesses in the oil and gas industry. On July 12, 2006 Viceroy completed an equity offering (see Note 16).

 

On October 31, 2006, Viceroy acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Eastman SE, Inc. (“Eastman SE”) from Eastman Chemical Company (“Eastman Chemical”). Immediately subsequent to the acquisition, Viceroy changed its name to FutureFuel Corp. (“FutureFuel”) and Eastman SE changed its name to FutureFuel Chemical Company (“FutureFuel Chemical”).

 

Eastman SE, Inc.

 

Eastman SE was incorporated under the laws of the state of Delaware on September 1, 2005 and subsequent thereto operated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastman Chemical through October 31, 2006. Eastman SE was incorporated for purposes of effecting a sale of Eastman Chemical’s manufacturing facility in Batesville, Arkansas (the “Batesville Plant”).

 

The Batesville Plant was constructed to produce proprietary photographic chemicals for Eastman Kodak Company (“Eastman Kodak”). Over the years, Eastman Kodak shifted the plant’s focus away from the photographic imaging business to the custom synthesis of fine chemicals and organic chemical intermediates used in a variety of end markets, including paints and coatings, plastics and polymers, pharmaceuticals, food supplements, household detergents, and agricultural products.

 

In 2005, the Batesville Plant began the implementation of a bio-based products platform. This included the production of biofuels (biodiesel) and bio-based specialty chemical products (bio-based solvents, chemicals, and intermediates). In addition to bio-based products, the Batesville Plant continues to manufacture fine chemicals and other organic chemicals.

 

2)

Significant accounting policies

 

Consolidation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of FutureFuel and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: FutureFuel Chemical Company; FFC Grain, L.L.C., which was formed in 2009 to acquire a granary in Marianna, Arkansas; FutureFuel Warehouse Company, L.L.C., which was formed in 2011 to acquire a warehouse in Batesville, Arkansas; and Legacy Regional Transport, L.L.C., which was formed in 2012 and operates FutureFuel’s truck fleet.

 

All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated. 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased and are carried at cost, which approximates market. FutureFuel places its temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. At times, bank deposits may be in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limit.

 

 
54

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts, and credit risk

 

Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. FutureFuel has established procedures to monitor credit risk and has not experienced significant credit losses in prior years. Accounts receivable have been reduced by an allowance for amounts that may be uncollectible in the future. This estimated allowance is based upon management’s evaluation of the collectability of individual invoices and is based upon management’s evaluation of the financial condition of its customers and historical bad debt experience. Write-offs are recorded at the time a customer receivable is deemed uncollectible.

 

Customer concentrations

 

Significant portions of FutureFuel’s sales are made to a relatively small number of customers. All sales of a bleach activator are made to a leading North American consumer products company. Sales of the bleach activator totaled $43,927 for the year ended December 31, 2014 and $56,596 for the year ended December 31, 2013. Additionally, sales of biodiesel to one customer totaled $62,994 for the year ended December 31, 2014 and $135,273 for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Inventory

 

FutureFuel determines the cost of substantially all raw materials and finished goods inventories by the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method. FutureFuel writes down its inventories for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory equal to the difference between the carrying value of inventory and the estimated market value based upon current demand and market conditions.

 

Financial and derivative instruments

 

The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate their fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.

 

FutureFuel maintains inventories of biodiesel and utilizes various derivative instruments such as regulated futures and regulated options as an economic hedge to reduce the effects of fluctuations in the prices of biodiesel. These derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting under the specific guidelines of ASC 815-20-25, Derivatives and Hedging, Hedging-General, Recognition. While management believes each of these instruments are entered into in order to effectively manage various market risks, none of the derivative instruments are designated and accounted for as hedges primarily as a result of the extensive record-keeping requirements.

 

FutureFuel records all derivative instruments at fair value. Fair value is determined by using the closing prices of the derivative instruments on the New York Mercantile Exchange at the end of an accounting period. Changes in fair value of the derivative instruments are recorded in the statements of operations as a component of cost of goods sold. FutureFuel maintains a margin account with a broker to collateralize these derivative instruments.

 

 
55

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

Property, plant, and equipment

 

Property, plant, and equipment is carried at cost. Maintenance and repairs are charged to earnings; replacements and betterments are capitalized. When FutureFuel retires or otherwise disposes of an asset, it removes the cost of such asset and related accumulated depreciation from the accounts. FutureFuel records any profit and loss on retirement or other disposition in earnings. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:

 

Building & building equipment (years)

  20 - 39  

Machinery and equipment (years)

 

3 – 33

 

Transportation equipment (years)

 

5 – 33

 

Other (years)

 

5 – 33

 

 

Customer relationships

 

Customer relationships are recorded at acquisition cost and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of five years. FutureFuel reviews and evaluates the recoverability of the carrying amounts of its acquired customer contracts annually, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

 

Impairment of assets

 

FutureFuel evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Such events and circumstances include, but are not limited to, significant decreases in the market value of the asset, adverse changes in the extent or manner in which the asset is being used, significant changes in business climate, or current or projected cash flow losses associated with the use of the assets. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is considered impaired when the total projected undiscounted cash flows from such assets are separately identifiable and are less than its carrying value. In that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the long-lived asset. For long-lived assets to be held for use in future operations and for fixed (tangible) assets, fair value is determined primarily using either the projected cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk involved or an appraisal. For long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale or other than sale, fair value is determined in a similar manner, except that fair values are reduced for disposal costs.

 

Deferred revenue

 

FutureFuel has signed contracts with customers to construct plant and related assets on FutureFuel’s property for the manufacture of custom chemicals. The cost of construction has been funded by the customers with title and risk of loss to the equipment residing with FutureFuel. Reimbursements are recognized as deferred revenue and are amortized over the expected life of the customer relationship starting upon the completion of construction and the asset being placed into service.

 

Additionally, FutureFuel has been awarded grants from governmental agencies related to the construction of production equipment and infrastructural improvements at its plant site. The cost of construction of these projects has been either funded by the governmental agencies directly or funded by FutureFuel who has then been reimbursed by the governmental agencies. Direct payments and reimbursements for construction costs have been recognized as deferred revenue and will be amortized into earnings over the expected life of the applicable customer relationship or the life of the asset if no direct customer relationship is tied to the asset. Such amortization will not begin until the asset has been placed into service and all contingencies associated with the grants are fulfilled.

 

 
56

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

Asset retirement obligations

 

FutureFuel establishes reserves for closure/post-closure costs associated with the environmental and other assets it maintains. Environmental assets include but are not limited to waste management units such as destructors, landfills, storage tanks, and boilers. When these types of assets are constructed or installed, a liability is established for the future costs anticipated to be associated with the closure of the site based on an expected life of the environmental assets, the applicable regulatory closure requirements, and FutureFuel’s environmental policies and practices. These expenses are charged into earnings over the estimated useful life of the assets. Currently, FutureFuel estimates the useful life of each individual asset up to 35 years. Changes made in estimates of the asset retirement obligation costs or the estimate of the useful lives of these assets are reflected in earnings as an increase or decrease in the period such changes are made.

 

Environmental costs are capitalized if they extend the life of the related property, increase its capacity, and/or mitigate or prevent future contamination. The cost of operating and maintaining environmental control facilities is charged to expense.

 

Income taxes

 

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective income tax basis. A future income tax asset or liability is estimated for each temporary difference using enacted and substantively enacted income tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the asset is realized or the liability settled. A valuation allowance is established, if necessary, to reduce any future income tax asset to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.

 

FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements. ASC 740 provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. Income tax positions must meet a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold to be recognized. ASC 740 also provides guidance on measurement, derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition.

 

Revenue recognition

 

For most product sales, revenue is recognized when product is shipped from our facilities and risk of loss and title have passed to the customer, which is in accordance with our customer contracts and the stated shipping terms. All custom manufactured products are manufactured under written contracts. Performance chemicals and biofuels are usually sold pursuant to the terms of written purchase orders. In general, customers do not have any rights of return, except for quality disputes. However, all of our products are tested for quality before shipment, and historically returns have been inconsequential. FutureFuel does not offer rebates or warranties.

 

 
57

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Bill and hold transactions for 2014, 2013, and 2012 related to four specialty chemical customers in 2014 and six in 2013 and 2012, whereby revenue was recognized in accordance with contractual agreements based on product produced and ready for use. These sales were subject to written monthly purchase orders with agreement that production was reasonable. The inventory was custom manufactured and stored at the customer’s request and could not be sold to another buyer. Credit and payment terms for bill and hold transactions are similar to other specialty chemical customers. Sales revenue under bill and hold arrangements totaled $31,598, $44,047, and $50,076 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities 

 

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are recorded on a net basis within cost of goods sold.

  

Shipping and handling fees

 

Shipping and handling fees related to sales transactions are billed to customers and recorded as sales revenues.

 

Cost of goods sold and selling, general, and administration expenses

 

Cost of goods sold includes the costs of inventory sold, related purchasing, distribution, and warehousing costs, costs incurred for shipping and handling, and environmental remediation costs. In 2014 and 2013, the biodiesel tax incentive for blending biodiesel with petroleum diesel is netted with costs of goods sold. The biodiesel BTC amounted to one cent for each percentage point of vegetable oil or animal fat biodiesel that was blended with petrodiesel. The credit was recognized as it was earned, i.e., when biodiesel blended with petrodiesel was sold or when such credit was made law. This tax credit expired on December 31, 2014 and has not been reinstated.

 

Selling, general, and administration expenses include personnel costs associated with sales, marketing and administration, legal and legal-related costs, consulting and professional services fees, advertising expenses, and other similar costs.

 

Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification

 

In the course of preparing our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2014 on Form 10-K, we determined that there had been a misclassification of certain related party transactions between the Company and Apex Oil in our financial statements for the previously reported fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, and for the previously reported quarters ended March 31, 2012, 2013 and 2014, June 30, 2012, 2013 and 2014, September 30, 2012, 2013 and 2014, and December 31, 2012 and 2013 (collectively, the “Affected Financial Statements”).

 

The Company determined that it had misclassified the dollar amount of related party transactions involving certain diesel fuel purchases made by the Company from Apex Oil in our leased storage facility in North Little Rock, Arkansas, resulting in (i) the incorrect recording in the Consolidated Statements of Operations contained in the Affected Financial Statements of such dollar amounts as “Cost of goods sold” instead of “Cost of goods sold – related parties,” and (ii) the incorrect recording in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements – “Related party transactions,” contained in the Annual Reports on Form 10-K for fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, under the section titled “Related party income statement accounts,” of the amount of “Cost of goods sold - biodiesel, petrodiesel, blends, and other petroleum products,” and the amount of “Total cost of goods sold.”

 

The type of misclassified related party transactions between the Company and Apex Oil have been described in prior Annual Reports, and continuing agreements between the Company and Apex Oil have been filed as exhibits to the Annual Reports. The reclassification set forth herein had no impact on the total cost of goods sold, gross profits, segment gross profits, net income, or net income per share amounts for the years ended December 31, 2013 or 2012. Additionally, this reclassification did not change the balance sheet, statements of cash flow, or statements of stockholders’ equity. The Company assessed the materiality of these items on previously issued annual and interim financial statements and we have concluded that the effect of these misstatements was not material, individually or in the aggregate, to any of the prior reporting periods, and therefore, amendments of previously filed reports were not required. However, we have revised prior period comparative information presented herein in order to present such information on a consistent basis. The effects of this revision on selected line items from our financial statements can be found within Note 19 – “Related party transactions” under the section titled “Related party income statement accounts.” A reconciliation of these changes is also shown on a quarterly basis within Note 24 – “Quarterly financial information” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 
58

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 

 

Research and development

 

All costs identified as research and development costs are charged to expense when incurred.

 

Planned major maintenance activities

 

Expenditures for planned major maintenance activities are recognized as expense as incurred.

 

Earnings per share

 

Earnings per share is computed using the two-class method in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share. The two-class method is an allocation of earnings between the holders of common stock and a company’s participating security holders. FutureFuel’s outstanding nonvested shares of restricted stock contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and, therefore, are considered participating securities for purposes of computing earning per share pursuant to the two-class method. FutureFuel had no other participating securities at December 31, 2014 or 2013.

 

Contingently issuable shares associated with outstanding service-based restricted stock shares were not included in the earnings per share calculations for the year ended December 31, 2014 as the vesting conditions had not been satisfied. No such restricted stock units existed in 2013 and 2012.

 

Comprehensive income

 

Comprehensive income is comprised of net income and other comprehensive income (“OCI”). Comprehensive income comprises all changes in stockholders’ equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. FutureFuel’s OCI is comprised of unrealized gains and losses resulting from its investment in certain marketable securities classified as available for sale (see Note 6). For the year ended December 31, 2014, FutureFuel recorded other comprehensive losses of $3,177, net of income taxes of $1,980, on these securities. For the year ended December 31, 2013, FutureFuel recorded other comprehensive income of $4,839, net of income taxes of $3,018, on these securities. For the year ended December 31, 2012, FutureFuel recorded other comprehensive income of $794, net of income taxes of $495, on these securities. For the year ended December 31, 2013, FutureFuel reclassified a portion of its unrealized income related to certain of its available-for-sale securities from OCI to a component of net income as a result of recording an other than temporary impairment. This reclassification totaled $207, net of income taxes of $129. No such reclassification was made for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2012.

 

Commitments and contingent liabilities

 

In the ordinary course of its business, FutureFuel enters into supply and sales contracts as deemed commercially desirable. Supply contracts are utilized to ensure the availability of raw materials used in the production process. Sales contracts are utilized to ensure the future sale of produced product.

 

FutureFuel and its operations from time to time may be parties to or targets of lawsuits, claims, investigations, and proceedings including product liability, personal injury, patent and intellectual property, commercial, contract, environmental, health and safety, and environmental matters, which are handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. FutureFuel accrues a liability for such matters when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. When a single amount cannot be reasonably estimated but the cost can be estimated within a range, FutureFuel accrues the minimum amount.

 

 
59

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp. 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)  

 

Use of estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during a reporting period. Estimates are used when accounting for allowance for doubtful accounts, depreciation, amortization, asset retirement obligations, and income taxes as well as the evaluation of potential losses due to impairments or future liabilities. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.

 

Segment reporting

 

FutureFuel identifies operating segments when separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by its chief operating decision maker in assessing the performance of those segments and in determining how to allocate resources. FutureFuel has determined that it has two reportable segments organized along product lines -- chemicals and biofuels.

 

3)

Reinstatement of biodiesel BTC and small agri-biodiesel producers tax credit

 

On January 3, 2013, the BTC was retroactively reinstated for 2012 and extended through December 31, 2013. This action resulted in FutureFuel’s biodiesel blending activities from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012 qualifying for this credit. The retroactive credit for 2012 totaled $2,535. As a result of its passage into law subsequent to yearend 2012, the retroactive credit was recognized as a reduction in cost of goods sold in the first quarter of 2013. On December 22, 2014, the BTC was retroactively reinstated for 2014 and expired on December 31, 2014. The retroactive credit for 2014 totaled $28,954 and was recognized as a reduction in cost of goods sold in the fourth quarter of 2014. Pursuant to the terms of certain 2014 sales commitments, $18,628 of the 2014 retroactive credit was owed to customers. This obligation was recognized as a reduction in sales revenue in the fourth quarter. The BTC has not been reinstated.

 

On January 3, 2013, a tax credit for small agri-biodiesel producers with production capacity not in excess of 60 million gallons of $0.10 per gallon for the first 15 million gallons of agri-biodiesel sold was retroactively reinstated for 2012 and extended through December 31, 2013. This action resulted in FutureFuel’s biodiesel production activities from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012 qualifying for this credit. The retroactive income tax credit for 2012 totaled $1,500. As a result of its passage into law subsequent to yearend 2012, the retroactive income tax credit was recognized as a component of the provision for income taxes in the first quarter of 2013. This credit is part of the BTC mentioned above. As such, this tax credit was also retroactively reinstated for 2014 and 2013 totaled $1,500. The small agri-biodiesel producers’ credit expired December 31, 2014 and has not been reinstated.

 

 
60

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

4)

Inventory

 

The carrying values of inventory were as follows as of December 31:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

At average cost (approximates current cost)

               

Finished goods

  $ 25,369     $ 13,590  

Work in process

    2,391       1,569  

Raw materials and supplies

    25,935       36,292  
      53,695       51,451  

LIFO reserve

    (8,342 )     (9,287 )

Total inventory

  $ 45,353     $ 42,164  

   

In the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 changes in inventory quantities and price index values resulted in partial liquidations of FutureFuel’s LIFO inventory. In the aggregate, these inventories were carried at the lower costs prevailing in prior years as compared with the cost of current purchases. The effect of these LIFO liquidations was to reduce cost of goods sold by $945 and $2,914 in the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

5)

Derivative instruments

 

FutureFuel is exposed to certain risks relating to its ongoing business operations. Commodity price risk is the primary risk managed by using derivative instruments. Regulated fixed price futures and option contracts are utilized to manage the price risk associated with future purchases of feedstock used in FutureFuel’s biodiesel production along with physical feedstock and finished product inventories attributed to this process.

  

FutureFuel recognizes all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in its consolidated balance sheet. FutureFuel’s derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting under the specific guidelines of ASC 815-20-25, Derivatives and Hedging, Hedging-General, Recognition. While management believes each of these instruments are entered into in order to effectively manage various risks, none of the derivative instruments are designated and accounted for as hedges primarily as a result of the extensive record keeping requirements.The fair value of FutureFuel’s derivative instruments is determined based on the closing prices of the derivative instruments on relevant commodity exchanges at the end of an accounting period. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments and changes in fair value of the derivative instruments are recorded in the statement of operations as a component of cost of goods sold, and amounted to a gain of $12,757, $1,151, and $4,528 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

The volumes and carrying values of FutureFuel’s derivative instruments were as follows at December 31:

 

   

Asset/(Liability)

 
   

2014

   

2013

 
    Quantity           Quantity        
    (contracts)           (contracts)        
    Long/     Fair      Long/     Fair  
   

(Short)

   

Value

   

(Short)

   

Value

 

Regulated options, included in other current assets

    (350 )   $ (794 )     (50 )   $ (328 )

Regulated fixed price future commitments, included in other current assets

    (225 )   $ 862       4     $ -  

 

 
61

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

The margin account maintained with a broker to collateralize these derivative instruments carried an account balance of $1,464 and $479 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and is classified as other current assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The carrying values of the margin account and of the derivative instruments are included, net, in other current assets.

 

6)

Marketable securities

 

At December 31, 2014 and 2013, FutureFuel had investments in certain preferred stock, trust preferred securities, exchange traded debt instruments, and other equity instruments. These investments are classified as current assets in the consolidated balance sheet. FutureFuel has designated these securities as being available-for-sale. Accordingly, they are recorded at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as a component of stockholders’ equity.

 

FutureFuel’s marketable securities were comprised of the following at December 31:

 

   

2014

 
    Adjusted     Unrealized     Unrealized        
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Fair Value

 

Equity instruments

  $ 35,062     $ 5,214     $ (1,526 )   $ 38,750  

Preferred stock

    21,660       1,626       -       23,286  

Trust preferred securities

    18,920       1,285       (1 )     20,204  

Exchange traded debt instruments

    5,292       192       (4 )     5,480  

Total

  $ 80,934     $ 8,317     $ (1,531 )   $ 87,720  

 

 
62

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

   

2013

 
    Adjusted     Unrealized     Unrealized          
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Fair Value

 

Equity instruments

  $ 51,711     $ 11,597     $ (278 )   $ 63,030  

Preferred stock

    18,519       893       (299 )     19,113  

Trust preferred securities

    19,726       386       (235 )     19,877  

Exchange traded debt instruments

    2,243       34       (26 )     2,251  

Total

  $ 92,199     $ 12,910     $ (838 )   $ 104,271  

 

The aggregate fair value of investments with unrealized losses totaled $15,688 and $26,321 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, FutureFuel had no investments in marketable securities that were in an unrealized loss position for a greater than 12-month period, respectively.

 

In 2014, FutureFuel recategorized a net gain of $5,712 from accumulated other comprehensive income to a component of net income as a result of sales of available for sale securities. This amount totaled $334 and $2,411 of net gains in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

7)

Property, plant, and equipment

 

Property, plant, and equipment consisted of the following at December 31:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Land and land improvements

  $ 5,741     $ 5,741  

Buildings and building equipment

    26,524       26,240  

Machinery and equipment

    152,792       142,874  

Construction in progress

    1,186       4,069  

Accumulated depreciation

    (58,872 )     (50,253 )

Total

  $ 127,371     $ 128,671  

 

Depreciation expense totaled $8,981, $10,316, and $10,454 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

8)

Intangible assets

 

In connection with its acquisition of Eastman SE, a certain portion of the purchase price was allocated to the intangible asset customer relationships. Customer relationships consisted of the following at December 31:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Cost

  $ 567     $ 567  

Accumulated amortization

    (567 )     (567 )

Total

  $ -     $ -  

 

Amortization expense totaled $0, $0, and $0 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  

 

 
63

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

9)

Other assets

 

Other assets are primarily comprised of supplies and parts that have been held longer than 24 months and are not expected to be used in the twelve-month period subsequent to the balance sheet date. The balance related to these items totaled $2,652 and $2,488 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

10)

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities, including those associated with related parties, consisted of the following at December 31:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Accrued employee liabilities

  $ 3,227     $ 5,010  

Accrued property, use, and franchise taxes

    1,340       2,558  

Other

    128       237  

Total

  $ 4,695     $ 7,805  

 

11)

Borrowings

 

Effective June 30, 2013, FutureFuel Chemical extended the term of its $50 million credit agreement with a commercial bank. The loan is a revolving facility the proceeds of which may be used for working capital, capital expenditures, and the general corporate purposes of FutureFuel Chemical. The facility terminates on June 30, 2018. Advances are made pursuant to a borrowing base comprised of 85% of eligible accounts plus 60% of eligible direct inventory plus 50% of eligible indirect inventory. Advances are secured by a perfected first priority security interest in accounts receivable and inventory. The interest rate floats at certain margins over the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or base rate based upon the leverage ratio from time to time as set forth in the following table.

 

Leverage   Base Rate     LIBOR  

Ratio

 

Margin

   

Margin

 
> 3  

 

    -0.55%       1.70%  
> 2  

< 3

    -0.70%       1.50%  
> 1  

< 2

    -1.00%       1.25%  
   

< 1 

    -1.00%       1.00%  

 

There is an unused commitment fee of 0.25% per annum. On the last day of each fiscal quarter, the ratio of EBITDA to fixed charges may not be less than 3:1. FutureFuel has guaranteed FutureFuel Chemical’s obligations under this credit agreement.

 

There were no borrowings at December 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

 

12)

Asset retirement obligations and environmental reserves

 

The Batesville Plant generates hazardous and non-hazardous wastes, the treatment, storage, transportation, and disposal of which are regulated by various governmental agencies. In addition, the Batesville Plant may be required to incur costs for environmental and closure and post-closure costs under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. FutureFuel’s liability for asset retirement obligations and environmental contingencies was $796 and $771 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These amounts are recorded in other noncurrent liabilities in the accompanying balance sheet.  

 

 
64

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

The following table summarizes the activity of accrued obligations for asset retirement obligations:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Beginning balance

  $ 771     $ 747  

Accretion expense

    25       24  

Balance at December 31

  $ 796     $ 771  

  

13)

Stock based compensation

 

The board of directors of FutureFuel adopted an omnibus incentive plan which was approved by the shareholders of FutureFuel at its 2007 annual shareholder meeting on June 26, 2007. The purpose of the plan is to:

 

 

Encourage ownership in FutureFuel by key personnel whose long-term employment with or engagement by FutureFuel or its subsidiaries is considered essential to its continued progress and, thereby, encourage recipients to act in FutureFuel’s shareholders’ interests and share in its success;

 

Encourage such persons to remain in FutureFuel’s employ or in the employ of its subsidiaries; and

 

Provide incentives to persons who are not FutureFuel employees to promote FutureFuel’s success.

 

The plan authorizes FutureFuel to issue stock options (including incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options), stock awards, and stock appreciation rights. Eligible participants in the plan include: (i) members of FutureFuel’s board of directors and its executive officers; (ii) regular, active employees of FutureFuel and any of its subsidiaries; and (iii) persons engaged by FutureFuel or any of its subsidiaries to render services to FutureFuel or its subsidiaries as an advisor or consultant.

 

Awards under the plan are limited to shares of FutureFuel’s common stock, which may be shares acquired by FutureFuel, including shares purchased in the open market, or authorized but un-issued shares. Awards are limited to 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of FutureFuel’s common stock in the aggregate.

 

The plan became effective upon its approval by FutureFuel’s shareholders on June 26, 2007 and continues in effect for a term of ten years thereafter unless amended and extended by FutureFuel or unless otherwise terminated.

 

FutureFuel recognizes compensation expense in its financial statements for stock based options based upon the grant-date fair value over the requisite service period.

 

In April 2012, FutureFuel granted a total of 80,000 stock options to members of its board of directors and a total of 40,000 stock options to selected members of its management. Additionally, in August 2012, FutureFuel granted a total of 10,000 stock options to a consultant. The options awarded in 2012 have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for FutureFuel’s common stock as of the grant date as reported by the New York Stock Exchange. All options awarded in 2012 vested immediately upon grant. The options awarded in April 2012 expire on April 10, 2017 and the options awarded in August 2012 expire August 22, 2017. FutureFuel has utilized the Black Scholes Merton option pricing model, which relies on certain assumptions, to estimate the fair value of the options it granted.

 

In May 2014, FutureFuel issued a restricted stock award of 250,000 shares to Paul A. Novelly, FutureFuel’s Chief Executive Officer. The restricted shares vest in three annual installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the award was $4,195 and will be recognized into expense equally over the three years.

 

 
65

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

In July 2014, FutureFuel issued a restricted stock award of 125,000 shares to Paul M. Flynn, FutureFuel’s Executive Vice President of Business and Marketing, upon commencement of employment on September 2, 2014. Twenty percent of the shares vested immediately. The remaining shares vest equally over the remaining annual installments on the first, second, third, and fourth anniversaries of the commencement of employment as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the award was $2,136, with 20% recognized immediately and the remainder to be recognized into expense equally over the four years.

 

In December 2014, FutureFuel granted a total of 90,000 stock options to select members of management. The options awarded have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for FutureFuel’s common stock as of the grant date as reported by the New York Stock Exchange. The options awarded vest annually in equal increments over three years and expire on December 2, 2019. FutureFuel has utilized the Black Scholes Merton option pricing model, which relies on certain assumptions, to estimate the fair value of the options it granted.

 

The assumptions used in the determination of the fair value of the options granted are provided in the following table:

 

    April     August     December  
    2012     2012     2014  

Assumptions

 

Options

   

Options

   

Options

 

Expected volatility rate

    41.00 %     43.38 %     41.48 %

Expected dividend yield

    3.77 %     3.40 %     4.23 %

Risk-free interest rate

    0.35 %     0.32 %     1.25 %

Expected forfeiture rate

    0.00 %     0.00 %     0.00 %

Expected term in years

    2.5       2.5       4.5  

 

The volatility rate for the options granted in 2012 and 2014 were derived from the historical stock price volatility of FutureFuel’s common stock over the same time period as the expected term of each stock option award. The volatility rate is derived by a mathematical formula utilizing the daily closing stock price data over the expected term.

 

The expected dividend yield is calculated using FutureFuel’s expected dividend amount at the date of the option grant over the expected term divided by the fair market value of FutureFuel’s common stock.

 

The risk-free interest rate is derived from the United States Federal Reserve’s published interest rates of yields for the same time period as the expected term.

 

FutureFuel has only included share-based awards expected to vest in share-based compensation expense. The estimated forfeiture rates are based upon FutureFuel’s expected rate of forfeiture and are excluded from the quantity of awards included in share-based compensation expense.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, total share-based compensation expense (before tax) totaled $1,440, $0, and $281, respectively. In the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, this balance was recorded as an element of selling, general, and administrative expenses. As of December 31, 2014, $4,894 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock awards is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.73 years.  As of December 31, 2014, $240 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.92 years.   Each amounts will be adjusted for any future changes in estimated forfeitures.

 

The weighted average fair value of options granted in 2014 was $2.78 per option, in 2012, it was $2.17 per option, and no options were granted in 2013. 

 

 
66

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

A summary of the activity of FutureFuel’s stock option awards for the period beginning January 1, 2012 and ending December 31, 2014 is presented below.

  

          Weighted Average  
   

Options

   

Exercise Price

 

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

    521,888     $ 7.84  

Granted

    130,000     $ 10.58  

Exercised

    (441,277 )   $ 6.85  

Canceled, forfeited, or expired

    -     $ -  

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

    210,611     $ 11.62  

Granted

    -     $ -  

Exercised

    (30,000 )   $ 11.16  

Canceled, forfeited, or expired

    -     $ -  

Outstanding at December 31, 2013

    180,611     $ 11.70  

Granted

    90,000     $ 11.34  

Exercised

    (30,611 )   $ 10.06  

Canceled, forfeited, or expired

    -     $ -  

Outstanding at December 31, 2014

    240,000     $ 11.77  

  

There were 1,224,700 options available for grant under the incentive plan at December 31, 2014. The following table provides the remaining contractual term and weighted average exercise prices of stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2014.

 

         

Options Outstanding

   

Options Exercisable

 
                                             
                  Weighted                          
          Number     Average     Weighted     Number     Weighted  
          Outstanding at     Remaining     Average     Exercisable at     Average  
  Exercise     December 31,     Contractual     Exercise     December 31,     Exercise  
 

Price

   

2014

   

Life

   

Price

   

2014

   

Price

 
  $ 12.74       100,000       1.33     $ 12.74       100,000     $ 12.74  
  $ 10.62       50,000       2.28     $ 10.62       50,000     $ 10.62  
  $ 11.34       90,000       4.92     $ 11.34       -     $ -  
            240,000             $ 11.77       150,000     $ 12.03  

 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of all exercisable options is 1.65 years.

 

The aggregate intrinsic values of total options outstanding and at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $299 and $741, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic values of total options exercisable at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $148 and $741, respectively. Intrinsic value is the amount by which the last trade price of the common stock closest to December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, exceeded the exercise price of the options granted.

 

A total of 375,000 shares of stock were awarded in 2014, and 30,611 stock options were exercised during the year. In 2014, FutureFuel realized gross proceeds from stock option exercises of $0 and realized a net tax benefit of $59. All of the options exercised in 2014 were exercised on a cashless basis and resulted in 17,477 shares of FutureFuel’s common stock being returned to FutureFuel by the stock option holder. All of the stock awards that vested were issued on a cashless basis and resulted in 8,729 shares of FutureFuel’s common stock being returned to FutureFuel by the stock award holder. Such shares were returned to satisfy payment of the exercise price along with minimum tax requirements. Such minimum tax requirements totaled $175.

 

 
67

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

The following summarizes unvested restricted stock activity:

 

   

Number of

Restricted

Stock

   

Weighted Average

Grant Date

Fair Value

   

Weighted Average

Life Remaining

 

Unvested as of January 1, 2012

    -     $ -       -  

Granted

    -       -       -  

Vested

    -       -       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2012

    -       -       -  

Granted

    -       -       -  

Vested

    -       -       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2013

    -       -       -  

Granted

    375,000     $ 16.88       -  

Vested

    25,000       17.09       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2014

    350,000     $ 16.87       2.73  

  

The company realized a tax benefit of $164 in the year ended December 31, 2014 related to the vesting of restricted shares. The excess tax benefit attributable to restricted stock has been recorded as an decrease to additional paid-in-capital and is reflected as a financing cash inflow in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. 

 

 
68

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 

 

The following summarizes unvested stock option activity:

 

   

 

Stock Options

   

Weighted Average

Grant Date

Fair Value

   

Weighted Average

Life Remaining

 

Unvested as of January 1, 2012

    -     $ -       -  

Granted

    -       -       -  

Vested

    -       -       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2012

    -       -       -  

Granted

    -       -       -  

Vested

    -       -       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2013

    -       -       -  

Granted

    90,000     $ 2.78       -  

Vested

    -       -       -  

Forfeited

    -       -       -  

Unvested as of December 31, 2014

    90,000     $ 2.78       2.92  

  

14)

Provision for income taxes

 

The following table summarizes the provision for income taxes:

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Income before taxes - U.S.

  $ 67,345     $ 97,351     $ 54,880  

Provision for income taxes:

                       

Current

    8,455       22,933       16,643  

Deferred

    3,858       (2,200 )     1,587  

State and other

                       

Current

    1,306       2,829       2,106  

Deferred

    526       (245 )     240  

Total

  $ 14,145     $ 23,317     $ 20,576  

 

Differences between the provision for income taxes computed using the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate were as follows:

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Amount computed using the statutory rate of 35%

  $ 23,571     $ 34,072     $ 19,208  

Section 199 manufacturing deduction

    -       (2,092 )     (762 )

Agri-biodiesel production credit

    (975 )     (1,950 )     -  

Federal excise tax benefit

    (10,344 )     (9,566 )     -  

State excise tax benefit

    (2,409 )     (2,067 )     -  

Credit for increasing research activities

    (80 )     (180 )     -  

Alternative fueling equipment credit

    (2 )     (23 )     -  

Tax exempt interest income

    -       (2 )     (6 )

Change in the valuation allowance

    -       -       (25 )

State income taxes, net

    3,189       3,983       2,133  

Tax expense recorded as an increase in other noncurrent liabilities

    1,309       1,718       -  

Other

    (114 )     (576 )     28  

Provision for income taxes

  $ 14,145     $ 23,317     $ 20,576  

  

The effective tax rates for the years December 31, 2014 and 2013 reflect FutureFuel’s expected tax rate on reported operating earnings before income tax.

 

 
69

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows as of December 31:

 

   

2014

   

2013

Deferred tax assets

                 

Compensation

  $ 1,005     $ 1,211    

Inventory reserves

    628       530    

Self insurance

    88       97    

Asset retirement obligation

    289       275    

Derivative instruments

    -       52    

Deferred revenue

    10,110       12,051    

Stock based compensation

    244       240    

Other

    81       78    

Total deferred tax assets

    12,445       14,534    

Deferred tax liabilities

                 

Available for sale securities

    (2,618 )     (4,414 )  

Derivative instruments

    (488 )     -    

Accrued expenses

    (592 )     (662 )  

LIFO inventory

    (6,062 )     (4,785 )  

Depreciation

    (41,520 )     (40,425 )  

Other

    (2,609 )     (2,284 )  

Total deferred tax liabilities

    (53,889 )     (52,570 )  

Valuation allowance

    -       -    

Net deferred tax liabilities

  $ (41,444 )   $ (38,036 )  

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

As recorded in the consolidated balance sheet

               

Current deferred tax liability

  $ (11,003 )   $ (8,787 )

Noncurrent deferred tax liability

    (30,441 )     (29,249 )

Net deferred tax liabilities

  $ (41,444 )   $ (38,036 )

 

In 2013, as a result of then recently issued technical guidance from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, FutureFuel changed its position related to the benefit from the biodiesel BTC to exclude this credit from taxable income for the years 2010 through 2013.  This change had a significant impact on FutureFuel’s provision for income taxes in the fourth quarter of 2013.  This benefit reduced FutureFuel’s provision for income taxes by $11,633 in 2013, with $7,755 related to the years 2010 through 2012 and $3,878 related to 2013.  This same treatment was followed in 2014 when the biodiesel BTC was retroactively reinstated for 2014 in December of 2014.  This benefit is not expected to recur in the future as the biodiesel BTC expired on December 31, 2014 and has not been renewed.  FutureFuel’s treatment of the biodiesel BTC for income tax purposes is expected to result in refunds from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and various state taxing authorities for a portion of the amount FutureFuel has paid for income taxes in prior years.        

 

FutureFuel’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $2,981 and $1,718 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  

 

 
70

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

The following table summarizes FutureFuel’s unrecognized tax benefits activity.

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Beginning balance

  $ 1,718     $ -     $ -  

Increases to tax positions taken in the current year

    1,255       917       -  

Increases to tax positions taken in a prior year

    8       801       -  

Balance at December 31

  $ 2,981     $ 1,718     $ -  

 

FutureFuel does not expect its unrecognized tax benefits to change significantly over the next 12 months.

 

FutureFuel records interest and penalties net as a component of income tax expense. FutureFuel accrued balances of $46 and $0 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for interest or tax penalties.

 

FutureFuel and its subsidiaries file tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and with various state jurisdictions. In general, FutureFuel is subject to U.S., state, and local examinations by tax authorities from 2011 forward. The IRS has commenced an audit of the 2010 through 2012 amended income tax returns. FutureFuel has provided requested information and believes that it will be successful in recovering the benefits previously recorded in its financial statements. In addition, the State of Arkansas has initially rejected the 2010 through 2012 amended tax return refunds. FutureFuel has entered into the administrative appeals process, which is ongoing as of the date of these financial statements.

 

15)

Deferred revenue and contingent liability

 

FutureFuel has signed contracts with customers to construct plant and other related assets on FutureFuel’s property for the manufacture of custom chemicals. The cost of the construction has been funded by the customers. Additionally, FutureFuel has been awarded grants from governmental agencies related to the construction of production equipment and infrastructural improvements. As these customers and governmental agencies have paid for such projects, FutureFuel has recorded such amounts as deferred revenue. Deferred revenue totaled $17,867 at December 31, 2014, with $1,940 classified as a current liability and $15,927 classified as a noncurrent liability. Deferred revenue totaled $20,391 at December 31, 2013, with $6,869 classified as a current liability and $13,522 classified as a noncurrent liability.

 

The following table summarizes FutureFuel’s deferred revenue activity:

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Beginning balance

  $ 20,391     $ 33,755  

Amortization

    (6,790 )     (6,077 )

Additions

    4,283       9,094  

Impairment

    (17 )     (16,381 )

Balance at December 31

  $ 17,867     $ 20,391  

 

One of the grants from a governmental agency is contingent upon FutureFuel meeting certain employment goals. If these goals are not reached, FutureFuel may be required to remit a portion of the grant back to the agency. As a result of this provision, FutureFuel has recorded a contingent liability for the monies received under this grant. This balance totaled $1,151 and $1,151 at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

 
71

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

16)

Stockholders’ equity

 

On July 12, 2006, Viceroy and its founding shareholders entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which the holders of the majority of founding shares and shares of common stock included in the units purchased in Viceroy’s July 2006 offering by a director or his designees are entitled to make up to two demands that Viceroy register with the SEC their founding shares and the shares included in the units purchased in Viceroy’s July 2006 offering. The holders of the majority of such shares can elect to exercise these registration rights at any time after the date on which Viceroy has become a reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), and such shares have been released from any applicable escrow agreement and lock-in deeds. In addition, those shareholders have certain “piggyback” registration rights on registration statements filed subsequent to the date on which such shares are released from escrow or other lock up arrangements. Viceroy agreed to bear the expenses incurred in connection with the filing of any such registration statements. There are 16,250,000 shares of Viceroy’s common stock subject to this registration rights agreement.

 

On February 10, 2011, FutureFuel filed with the SEC a Form S-3 Registration Statement commonly referred to as a “shelf registration” whereby FutureFuel registered shares of its common stock, preferred stock, warrants, rights, and units which it might issue in the future in an aggregate amount not to exceed $50,000. This registration statement became effective on March 10, 2011. Pursuant to this registration statement, on May 11, 2011, FutureFuel commenced an “At-the-Market” offering under which FutureFuel could from time to time over the succeeding three years sell up to 3,000,000 shares of its common stock. During 2011, FutureFuel issued 1,313,985 shares of its common stock pursuant to this “At-the-Market” offering for a net aggregate purchase price of $15,763, and paid its underwriters $488 as compensation with respect to such issuances. During 2012, FutureFuel issued 91,143 shares of its common stock pursuant to this offering for a net aggregate purchase price of $1,074, and paid its underwriters $33 as compensation with respect to such issuances. During 2013, FutureFuel issued 1,594,872 shares of its common stock pursuant to this offering for a net aggregate purchase price of $19,292, and paid its underwriters $599 as compensation with respect to such issuances. 

 

On February 6, 2013, FutureFuel announced the completion of the sale of shares of its common stock under the At-the-Market offering. An aggregate 3,000,000 shares were sold in open market trading for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $37,247, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $36,127 after deducting commissions and fees.

 

17)

Earnings per share

 

We compute earnings per share using the two-class method in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share. The two-class method is an allocation of earnings between the holders of common stock and a company’s participating security holders. Our outstanding nonvested shares of restricted stock contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and, therefore, are considered participating securities for purposes of computing earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. We had no other participating securities at December 31, 2014 or 2013.  

 

 
72

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Contingently issuable shares associated with outstanding service-based restricted stock units were not included in the earnings per share calculations for the three-month and nine-month periods ended December 31, 2014 as the vesting conditions had not been satisfied. No such restricted stock units existed in 2013.

 

   

For the twelve months ended December 31,

 
   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 
Numerator:                        

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

Less: distributed earnings allocated to nonvested restricted stock

    (114

)

    -       -  

Less: undistributed earnings allocated to nonvested restricted stock

    (258

)

    -       -  

Numerator for basic earnings per share

  $ 52,828     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

Effect of dilutive securities:

                       

Add: undistributed earnings allocated to nonvested restricted stock

    258       -       -  

Less: undistributed earnings reallocated to nonvested restricted stock

    (258

)

    -       -  

Numerator for diluted earnings per share

  $ 52,828     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

Denominator:

                       

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic

    43,357,602       43,237,513       41,366,860  

Effect of dilutive securities:

                       

Stock options and other awards

    34,409       39,418       140,800  

Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted

    43,392,011       43,276,931       41,507,660  
                         

Basic earnings per share

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83  

Diluted earnings per share

  $ 1.22     $ 1.71     $ 0.83  

  

Certain options to purchase FutureFuel’s common stock were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2012 because they were anti-dilutive in the period. The weighted number of options excluded on this basis was 25,000 and 180,000, respectively. No options to purchase shares of FutureFuel’s common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

18)

Employee benefit plans

 

Defined contribution savings plan

 

FutureFuel currently offers its employees a company 401(k) matching savings plan, which covers substantially all employees. Under this plan, FutureFuel matches the amount of eligible employees’ contributions, subject to specified limits, up to 6% of earnings. Company contributions totaled $1,683, $1,664, and $1,655 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

19)

Related party transactions

 

FutureFuel enters into transactions with companies affiliated with or controlled by a director and significant stockholder. Revenues, expenses, prepaid amounts, and unpaid amounts related to these transactions are captured on our accompanying consolidated financial statements as related party line items. These related party transactions are summarized in the following table and further described below.

 

 
73

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Related party balance sheet accounts

 

   

2014

   

2013

 

Accounts receivable

               

Biodiesel, petrodiesel, blends and other petroleum products

  $ 1,173     $ 4,629  

Total accounts receivable

  $ 1,173     $ 4,629  

Prepaid expenses

               

Administrative services and other

  $ -     $ -  

Total prepaid expenses

  $ -     $ -  

Accounts payable

               

Natural gas and fuel purchases

  $ 2,912     $ 857  

Total accounts payable

  $ 2,912     $ 857  

Accrued liabilities

               

Travel and administrative services

  $ 46     $ 3  

Total accrued liabilities

  $ 46     $ 3  

 

Related party income statement accounts

 

          (As reclassified)  
   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Revenues

                       

Biodiesel, petrodiesel, blends and other petroleum products

  $ 39,090     $ 9,420     $ 13,017  

Total revenues

  $ 39,090     $ 9,420     $ 13,017  

Cost of goods sold

                       

Biodiesel, petrodiesel, blends, and other petroleum products

  $ 51,647     $ 44,548 (1)    $ 10,191 (2) 

Natural gas purchases

    7,095       6,007       4,059  

Income tax, consulting services and other

    80       80       81  

Total cost of goods sold

  $ 58,822     $ 50,635 (1)    $ 14,331 (2) 

Distribution

                       

Distribution and related services

  $ 335     $ 392     $ 471  

Total distribution

  $ 335     $ 392     $ 471  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

                       

Commodity trading advisory fees

  $ 132     $ 132     $ 132  

Travel and administrative services

    82       267       320  

Total selling, general, and administrative expenses

  $ 214     $ 399     $ 452  

 


  (1) For the year ended December 31, 2013, $35,271 has been reclassified from “Cost of goods sold” to “Cost of goods sold – related parties,” resulting in an increase equal to such amount. Refer to Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion regarding the revision.
     
 

(2)

For the year ended December 31, 2012, $4,965 has been reclassified from “Cost of goods sold” to “Cost of goods sold – related parties,” resulting in an increase equal to such amount. Refer to Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete discussion regarding the revision.

 

 
74

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Biodiesel, petrodiesel and blends

 

FutureFuel enters into agreements to buy and sell biofuels (biodiesel, petrodiesel, biodiesel/petrodiesel blends, RINs, and biodiesel production byproducts) and other petroleum products such as gasoline with an affiliate from time to time. Such agreements are priced at the then current market price of the product, as determined from bids from other customers and/or market pricing services. Cost of goods sold related to these sales includes variable costs and allocated fixed costs.

 

Natural gas purchases

 

FutureFuel utilizes natural gas to generate steam for its manufacturing process and to support certain of its air and waste treatment utilities. This natural gas is purchased through an affiliate provider of natural gas marketing services. Expenses related to these purchases include the cost of the natural gas only; transportation charges are paid to an independent third party.

 

Income tax and consulting services

 

An affiliate provides professional services to FutureFuel, primarily in the area of income tax preparation and consulting. FutureFuel also receives certain finance and accounting expertise from this affiliate as requested. Expenses related to these services are comprised of an agreed quarterly fee plus reimbursement of expense, at cost.

 

Distribution and related services

 

Distribution and related services are comprised of barge transportation and related unloading charges for petrodiesel that were arranged and paid by an affiliate and subsequently rebilled to FutureFuel. Additionally, FutureFuel leases oil storage capacity from an affiliate under a storage and throughput agreement. This agreement provides for the storage of biodiesel, diesel or biodiesel/petrodiesel blends, methanol, and biodiesel feedstocks in above-ground storage tankage at designated facilities of the affiliate. Expenses related to this agreement include monthly lease charges, generally on a per barrel basis, and associated heating, throughput, and other customary terminalling charges.

 

Commodity trading advisory fees

 

FutureFuel entered into a commodity trading advisory agreement with an affiliate. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement, the affiliate provides advice to FutureFuel concerning the purchase, sale, exchange, conversion, and/or hedging of commodities as FutureFuel may request from time to time.

 

Travel and administrative services

 

FutureFuel reimburses an affiliate for travel and other administrative services incurred on its behalf. Such reimbursement is performed at cost with the affiliate realizing no profit on the transaction.

 

Railcar sublease agreement

 

FutureFuel entered into a railcar sublease agreement with an affiliate. Pursuant to the terms of this sublease, FutureFuel leased from the affiliate railcars upon the same terms, conditions, and price the affiliate leased the railcars. Lease terms for individual railcars began upon delivery of the railcars. Forty railcars were received through December 31, 2009. From the onset of this lease, FutureFuel paid lease charges directly to the entity leasing the railcars to the affiliate, as opposed to paying the affiliate itself. Hence, no related party expense is reflected in the above table, although the affiliate has essentially been guaranteeing FutureFuel’s obligations to the lesser. In September 2009, the master lease was modified such that the affiliate was removed and FutureFuel leases the railcars directly, with no guarantee remaining on the part of the affiliate. Expenses related to this lease were $329, $315, and $331 for December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

 
75

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

20)

Segment information

 

FutureFuel has two reportable segments organized along product lines – chemicals and biofuels. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 2.

 

Chemicals

 

FutureFuel’s chemicals segment manufactures diversified chemical products that are sold externally to third party customers. This segment comprises two components: “custom manufacturing” (manufacturing chemicals for specific customers); and “performance chemicals” (multi-customer specialty chemicals).

 

Biofuels

 

FutureFuel’s biofuels business segment manufactures and markets biodiesel. Biodiesel revenues are generated through the sale of biodiesel to customers through FutureFuel’s distribution network at the Batesville Plant and through distribution facilities available at a leased oil storage facility near Little Rock, Arkansas at negotiated prices.

 

Summary of long-lived assets and revenues by geographic area

 

All of FutureFuel’s long-lived assets are located in the U.S.

 

Most of FutureFuel’s sales are transacted with title passing at the time of shipment from the Batesville Plant, although some sales are transacted based on title passing at the delivery point. While many of FutureFuel’s chemicals are utilized to manufacture products that are shipped, further processed, and/or consumed throughout the world, the chemical products, with limited exceptions, generally leave the United States only after ownership has transferred from FutureFuel to the customer. Rarely is FutureFuel the exporter of record, never is FutureFuel the importer of record into foreign countries, and FutureFuel is not always aware of the exact quantities of its products that are moved into foreign markets by its customers. FutureFuel does track the addresses of its customers for invoicing purposes and uses this address to determine whether a particular sale is within or without the United States. FutureFuel’s revenues for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 attributable to the United States and foreign countries (based upon the billing addresses of its customers) were as follows.

 

          All Foreign        

Fiscal Year

 

United States

   

Countries

   

Total

 

December 31, 2014

  $ 334,210     $ 7,628     $ 341,838  

December 31, 2013

  $ 430,096     $ 14,823     $ 444,919  

December 31, 2012

  $ 338,307     $ 13,522     $ 351,829  

 

For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, revenues from Mexico accounted for 1%, 3%, and 3%, respectively, of total revenues. Other than Mexico, revenues from a single foreign country during 2014, 2013, or 2012 did not exceed 1% of total revenues.

 

 
76

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Summary of business by segment

 

   

2014

   

2013

   

2012

 

Revenues

                       

Chemicals

  $ 146,146     $ 161,501     $ 160,450  

Biofuels

    195,692       283,418       191,379  

Total revenues

  $ 341,838     $ 444,919     $ 351,829  

Segment gross profit

                       

Chemicals

  $ 46,062     $ 54,708     $ 48,661  

Biofuels

    19,911       45,457       8,592  

Total segment gross profit

    65,973       100,165       57,253  

Corporate expenses

    9,845       9,911       11,161  

Income before interest and taxes

    56,128       90,254       46,092  

Interest and dividend income

    6,877       5,875       4,776  

Interest and other income

    4,340       1,222       4,012  

Provision for income taxes

    (14,145 )     (23,317 )     (20,576 )

Net income

  $ 53,200     $ 74,034     $ 34,304  

 

Depreciation is allocated to segment costs of goods sold based on plant usage. The total assets and capital expenditures of FutureFuel have not been allocated to individual segments as large portions of these assets are shared to varying degrees by each segment, causing such an allocation to be of little value. 

 

Gross margins for the biofuels segment for the year ended December 31, 2014 were favorably impacted by the receipt of approximately $420 awarded to FutureFuel under the United States Department of Agriculture Section 9005 – Advanced Biofuel Producers program in 2014. This award totaled $886 and $753 in 2013 and 2012, respectively. Based on the characteristics of this award, FutureFuel recognizes the income from the award in the period the funding is received. The biofuels segment also includes activity on common carrier pipelines.

 

21)

Fair value measurements

 

Fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. Fair value accounting pronouncements also include a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of FutureFuel. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect FutureFuel’s assumptions about the factors market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability developed based upon the best information available in the circumstances. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs (other than quoted prices) that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

 
77

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

The following table provides information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value, on a recurring basis.

 

   

Asset/(Liability)

 
    Fair Value at     Fair Value Measurements Using  
   

December 31,

   

Inputs Considered as

 

Description

 

2014

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Derivative instruments

  $ 68     $ 68     $ -     $ -  

Preferred stock, trust preferred securities, exchange traded debt instruments, and other equity instruments

  $ 87,720     $ 87,720     $ -     $ -  

 

   

Asset/(Liability)

 
    Fair Value at     Fair Value Measurements Using  
   

December 31,

   

Inputs Considered as

 

Description

 

2013

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Derivative instruments

  $ (328 )   $ (328 )   $ -     $ -  

Preferred stock, trust preferred securities, exchange traded debt instruments, and other equity instruments

  $ 104,271     $ 104,271     $ -     $ -  

  

22)

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income

   

 

The following tables summarize the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income from unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities: 

  

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized

Gains and Losses on Available-for-Sale Securities For the 

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014

(net of tax)

 

   

2014

 

Balance at January 1, 2014

  $ 7,436  

Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications

    (507 )

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income

    (2,670 )

Net current-period other comprehensive loss - twelve months ended December 31, 2014

    (3,177 )

Balance at December 31, 2014

  $ 4,259  

 

   

2013

 

Balance at January 1, 2013

  $ 2,597  

Other comprehensive income before reclassifications

    5,853  

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income

    (1,014 )

Net current-period other comprehensive loss - twelve months ended December 31, 2013

    4,839  

Balance at December 31, 2013

  $ 7,436  

  

 
78

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

The following table summarizes amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income in the years ended December 31, 2014: 

  

Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

   

2014

 

Affected Line Item in

Statement of Operations

Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities

  $ 4,335  

Gain on marketable securities

Total before tax

    4,335    

Tax expense

    (1,665 )  

Total reclassifications

  $ 2,670    
           

 

   

2013

   

Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities

  $ 1,646  

Gain on marketable securities

Total before tax

    1,646    

Tax expense

    (632 )  

Total reclassifications

  $ 1,014    

  

23)

Commitments

 

Lease agreements

 

FutureFuel has entered into lease agreements for oil storage capacity, railcars, isotainers, gas cylinders, argon tanks, and office machines. Minimum rental commitments under existing noncancellable operating leases as of December 31, 2014 were as follows:

 

    Minimum Rental  
   

Commitment

 

2015

  $ 992  

2016

    733  

2017

    529  

2018

    113  

2019

    95  

Thereafter

    406  

Total

  $ 2,868  

 

Lease expenses totaled $946, $1,207, and $1,190 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

Purchase obligations

 

FutureFuel has entered into contracts for the purchase of goods and services including contracts for the purchase of feedstocks for biodiesel and expansion of FutureFuel’s specialty chemicals segment and related infrastructure. 

 

 
79

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

24)

Quarterly financial information (unaudited)

 

   

Quarter

 
   

1st

   

2nd

   

3rd

   

4th

 

2014

                               

Revenues

  $ 82,197     $ 68,039     $ 103,135     $ 88,467  

Gross profit

  $ 9,602     $ 6,578     $ 20,872     $ 28,921  

Net income

  $ 6,274     $ 5,347     $ 11,451     $ 30,128  

Net income per common share:

                               

Basic

  $ 0.14     $ 0.12     $ 0.26     $ 0.69  

Diluted

  $ 0.14     $ 0.12     $ 0.26     $ 0.69  

 

2013

                               

Revenues

  $ 92,165     $ 106,063     $ 121,119     $ 125,572  

Gross profit

  $ 21,381     $ 27,626     $ 26,018     $ 25,140  

Net income

  $ 14,050     $ 18,156     $ 15,297     $ 26,531  

Net income per common share:

                               

Basic

  $ 0.33     $ 0.42     $ 0.35     $ 0.61  

Diluted

  $ 0.33     $ 0.42     $ 0.35     $ 0.61  

 

Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly amounts will not necessarily equal the total for the year.

 

As discussed in Note 2 – “Significant accounting policies” under the section titled “Revision of Related Party Transactions Classification,” in the course of preparing our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2014 on Form 10-K, we determined that there had been a misclassification of certain related party transactions between the Company and Apex Oil in our financial statements for the previously reported quarters ended March 31, 2013 and 2014, June 30, 2012, 2013 and 2014, September 30, 2013 and 2014, and for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013. The Company determined that it had misclassified the dollar amount of related party transactions involving certain diesel fuel purchases made by the Company from Apex Oil in our leased storage facility in North Little Rock, Arkansas. We determined that such misclassification did not materially impact any previously issued financial statements. However, we have revised prior quarterly periods’ comparative information presented herein in order to present such information on a consistent basis. The effects of this revision are summarized in the tables below.

 

 
80

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

The following table sets forth the consolidated statement of operations for FutureFuel, showing previously reported and reclassed amounts, for the year ended December 31, 2012:

 

Three months ended March 31, 2012 (unaudited)

 

As Previously

Reported

   

Reclassification

   

As

Reclassified

 

Revenues

  $ 84,837     $ -     $ 84,837  

Revenues - related parties

    890       -       890  

Cost of goods sold

    70,956       -       70,956  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    986       -       989  

Distribution

    864       -       864  

Distribution - related parties

    120       -       120  

Gross profit

  $ 12,801     $ -     $ 12,801  
                         

Three months ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited)

                       

Revenues

  $ 97,609     $ -     $ 97,609  

Revenues - related parties

    5,628       -       5,628  

Cost of goods sold

    86,466       (4,965 )     81,501  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    752       4,965       5,717  

Distribution

    1,476               1,476  

Distribution - related parties

    143       -       143  

Gross profit

  $ 14,400     $ -     $ 14,400  
                         

Three months ended September 30, 2012 (unaudited)

                       

Revenues

  $ 81,983     $ -     $ 81,983  

Revenues - related parties

    6,293       -       6,293  

Cost of goods sold

    63,866       -       63,866  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    1,263       -       1,263  

Distribution

    1,084       -       1,084  

Distribution - related parties

    100       -       100  

Gross profit

  $ 21,963     $ -     $ 21,963  
                         

Twelve months ended December 31, 2012

                       

Revenues

  $ 338,812     $ -     $ 338,812  

Revenues - related parties

    13,017       -       13,017  

Cost of goods sold

    280,377       (4,965 )     275,412  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    9,366       4,965       14,331  

Distribution

    4,362       -       4,362  

Distribution - related parties

    471       -       471  

Gross profit

  $ 57,253     $ -     $ 57,253  

 

 
81

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

The following table sets forth the consolidated statement of operations for FutureFuel, showing previously reported and reclassed amounts, for the year ended December 31, 2013:

 

Three months ended March 31, 2013 (unaudited)

 

As Previously

Reported

   

Reclassification

   

As

Reclassified

 

Revenues

  $ 90,771     $ -     $ 90,771  

Revenues - related parties

    1,394       -       1,394  

Cost of goods sold

    59,297       (1,432 )     57,865  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    10,620       1,432       12,052  

Distribution

    751       -       751  

Distribution - related parties

    116       -       116  

Gross profit

  $ 21,381     $ -     $ 21,381  
                         

Three months ended June 30, 2013 (unaudited)

                       

Revenues

  $ 104,031     $ -     $ 104,031  

Revenues - related parties

    2,032       -       2,032  

Cost of goods sold

    75,492       (6 )     75,486  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    1,725       6       1,731  

Distribution

    1,107       -       1,107  

Distribution - related parties

    113       -       113  

Gross profit

  $ 27,626     $ -     $ 27,626  
                         

Three months ended September 30, 2013 (unaudited)

                 

Revenues

  $ 118,758     $ -     $ 118,758  

Revenues - related parties

    2,361       -       2,361  

Cost of goods sold

    92,721       (6,657 )     86,064  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    1,238       6,657       7,895  

Distribution

    1,047       -       1,047  

Distribution - related parties

    95       -       95  

Gross profit

  $ 26,018     $ -     $ 26,018  
                         

Twelve months ended December 31, 2013

                 

Revenues

  $ 435,499     $ -     $ 435,499  

Revenues - related parties

    9,420       -       9,420  

Cost of goods sold

    325,099       (35,271 )     289,828  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    15,364       35,271       50,635  

Distribution

    3,899       -       3,899  

Distribution - related parties

    392       -       392  

Gross profit

  $ 100,165     $ -     $ 100,165  

 

 
82

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

Three months ended March 31, 2014 (unaudited)

 

As Previously

Reported

   

Reclassification

   

As

Reclassified

 

Revenues

  $ 80,303     $ -     $ 80,303  

Revenues - related parties

    1,894       -       1,894  

Cost of goods sold

    68,931       (17,844 )     51,087  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    2,669       17,844       20,513  

Distribution

    884       -       884  

Distribution - related parties

    111       -       111  

Gross profit

  $ 9,602     $ -     $ 9,602  
                         

Three months ended June 30, 2014 (unaudited)

                       

Revenues

  $ 66,933     $ -     $ 66,933  

Revenues - related parties

    1,106       -       1,106  

Cost of goods sold

    59,048       (11,183 )     47,865  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    1,427       11,183       12,610  

Distribution

    907       -       907  

Distribution - related parties

    79       -       79  

Gross profit

  $ 6,578     $ -     $ 6,578  
                         

Three months ended September 30, 2014 (unaudited)

                 

Revenues

  $ 93,418     $ -     $ 93,418  

Revenues - related parties

    9,717       -       9,717  

Cost of goods sold

    67,249       (7,285 )     59,964  

Cost of goods sold - related parties

    14,124       7,285       21,409  

Distribution

    817       -       817  

Distribution - related parties

    73       -       73  

Gross profit

  $ 20,872     $ -     $ 20,872  

 

25)

Recently issued accounting standards

 

In May 2014, the FASB and International Accounting Standards Board jointly issued new principles-based accounting guidance for revenue recognition that will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance. The core principle of this guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. To achieve the core principle, the guidance establishes the following five steps: 1) identify the contract(s) with a customer, 2) identify the performance obligation in the contract, 3) determine the transaction price, 4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and 5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. The guidance also details the accounting treatment for costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. Lastly, disclosure requirements have been enhanced to provide sufficient information to enable users of financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that reporting period. Early application is not permitted. FutureFuel is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its financial position, results of operations, and related disclosures. 

 

 
83

 

 

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

26)

Reserve roll forwards - valuation and qualifying accounts

 

           

2014 Additions

                 
    Balance at     Charged to     Charged           Balance at  
    January 1,     Cost and     to Other           December 31,  
   

2014

   

Expense

   

Accounts

   

Deductions

   

2014

 

Reserve for:

                                       

Doubtful accounts and returns

  $ -     $ 46     $ -     $ 46     $ -  

LIFO inventory

    9,287       -       -       945       8,342  

Aged and obsolete inventory

    408       225       -       -       633  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

    -       -       -       -       -  

Aged and obsolete supplies and parts

    945       4       -       -       949  
    $ 10,640     $ 229     $ -     $ 945     $ 9,924  

  

           

2013 Additions

                 
          Charged                    
    Balance at     to Cost     Charged           Balance at  
    January 1,     and     to Other           December 31,  
   

2013

   

Expense

   

Accounts

   

Deductions

   

2013

 

Reserve for:

                                       

Doubtful accounts and returns

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  

LIFO inventory

    12,201       -       -       2,914       9,287  

Aged and obsolete inventory

    260       148       -       -       408  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

    -       -       -       -       -  

Aged and obsolete supplies and parts

    960       -       -       15       945  
    $ 13,421     $ 148     $ -     $ 2,929     $ 10,640  

 

           

2012 Additions

                 
          Charged                    
    Balance at     to Cost     Charged           Balance at  
    January 1,     and     to Other           December 31,  
   

2012

   

Expense

   

Accounts

   

Deductions

   

2012

 

Reserve for:

                                       

Doubtful accounts and returns

  $ 10     $ -     $ -     $ 10     $ -  

LIFO inventory

    13,518       -       -       1,317       12,201  

Aged and obsolete inventory

    460       -       -       200       260  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

    25       -       -       25       -  

Aged and obsolete supplies and parts

    928       32       -       -       960  
    $ 14,941     $ 32     $ -     $ 1,552     $ 13,421  

 

 
84

 

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of FutureFuel Corp.

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

  

 

27)

Asset impairment

 

On July 29, 2013, FutureFuel received notice from the chemicals segment customer for the intermediate anode powder that the customer will terminate the contract in accordance with its terms effective August 9, 2014. This contract subsequently terminated on August 9, 2014 without any additional material being produced or sold in 2014. As a result of the cancelation notice, FutureFuel assessed the carrying values of its fixed assets and deferred revenue associated with this product and recorded an impairment loss of $17,580 for the equipment based on the scrap value method less disposition costs and recorded a reduction of deferred revenue as an element of cost of goods sold slightly offset by other expenses in the amount of $16,160 in 2013. The net impact of this impairment recorded in cost of goods sold for 2013 was $1,420. FutureFuel’s customer remitted payment for all remaining minimum take or pay quantities per the terms of the sales agreement in 2014. FutureFuel also recognized the shortfall payment from 2013 in 2014. Such amounts totaled $4,176 and $4,640, respectively, and were recorded as a component of chemicals segment revenue in 2014.

   

28)

Legal proceedings

 

FutureFuel is not a party to, nor is any of its property subject to, any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business. However, from time to time, FutureFuel may be a party to, or a target of, lawsuits, claims, investigations, and proceedings, including product liability, personal injury, asbestos, patent and intellectual property, commercial, contract, environmental, antitrust, health and safety, and employment matters, which FutureFuel expects to be handled and defended in the ordinary course of business. While FutureFuel is unable to predict the outcome of any matters currently pending, FutureFuel does not believe that the ultimate resolution of any such pending matters will have a material adverse effect on its overall financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. However, adverse developments could negatively impact earnings or cash flows in future periods.

 

 
85

 

 

Supplementary Financial Information.

 

The following is selected quarterly financial data for each full quarter within our two most recent fiscal years.

 

(Dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 

   

Quarter

 
   

1st

   

2nd

   

3rd

   

4th

 

2014

                               

Revenues

  $ 82,197     $ 68,039     $ 103,135     $ 88,467  

Gross profit

  $ 9,602     $ 6,578     $ 20,872     $ 28,921  

Net income

  $ 6,274     $ 5,347     $ 11,451     $ 30,128  

Net income per common share:

                               

Basic

  $ 0.14     $ 0.12     $ 0.26     $ 0.69  

Diluted

  $ 0.14     $ 0.12     $ 0.26     $ 0.69  
                                 

2013

                               

Revenues

  $ 92,165     $ 106,063     $ 121,119     $ 125,572  

Gross profit

  $ 21,381     $ 27,626     $ 26,018     $ 25,140  

Net income

  $ 14,050     $ 18,156     $ 15,297     $ 26,531  

Net income per common share:

                               

Basic

  $ 0.33     $ 0.42     $ 0.35     $ 0.61  

Diluted

  $ 0.33     $ 0.42     $ 0.35     $ 0.61  

 

Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly amounts will not necessarily equal the total for the year.

 

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

 

RubinBrown LLP was engaged as the principal accountant to audit our financial statements for 2012, 2013, and 2014, and no other independent accountant was so engaged. There were no disagreements with RubinBrown LLP on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our chief executive officer and our principal financial officer and other senior management personnel, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our chief executive officer and our principal financial officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2014 were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

 
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Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP.

 

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

 

Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2014, our internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

 

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 has been audited by our auditor, RubinBrown LLP, a registered public accounting firm, which expressed an unqualified opinion as stated in their report, a copy of which is included below.

 

 
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders

FutureFuel Corp.:

 

We have audited FutureFuel Corp. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

In our opinion, FutureFuel Corp. and its subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the balance sheets and related statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows of the Company, and our report dated March 12, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

 

/s/ RubinBrown LLP

 

St. Louis, Missouri

March 12, 2015

 

 
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Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

We did not make any changes in our internal control over financial reporting as a result of our evaluation that occurred during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2014.

 

Item 9B. Other Information.

 

We did not fail to disclose any information required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter of 2014. 

 

 
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Part III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance.

 

Identification of Directors

 

Our directors are as follows.

 

Name

 

Age

 

 

Director Since

 

 

Term Expires

Paul A. Novelly, Chairman and chief executive officer

 

71

 

2005

 

2015

Lee E. Mikles, President (a)

 

59

 

2005

 

2017

Edwin A. Levy

 

77

 

2005

 

2016

Thomas R. Evans

 

60

 

2006

 

2017

William J. Doré

 

72

 

2012

 

2015

Paul G. Lorenzini, Chief operating officer

 

75

 

2007

 

2015

Donald C. Bedell

 

73

 

2008

 

2016

Paul M. Manheim

 

66

 

2011

 

2017

 

               
 

(a)

Mr. Mikles resigned as President of FutureFuel effective January 31, 2015.

 

There is no arrangement or understanding between any of the above directors and any other person pursuant to which such person was or is to be selected as a director.

 

Identification of Executive Officers

 

Our executive officers are as follows. 

 

Name

 

 

Position

 

Age

 

Officer

Since

Paul A. Novelly

 

Chairman of the board and chief executive officer

 

71

 

2005

Lee E. Mikles(a)

 

President

 

59

 

2005

Paul G. Lorenzini

 

Chief operating officer

 

75

 

2008

Rose M. Sparks

 

Principal financial officer and chief financial officer

 

48

 

2012

 

               

  

 

(a)

Mr. Mikles resigned as President of FutureFuel effective January 31, 2015.

 

There is no arrangement or understanding between any of the above officers and any other person pursuant to which such person was or is to be selected as an officer.

 

Identification of Certain Significant Employees

 

The following individuals are executive officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company who are expected to make significant contributions to our business.

 

Name

 

 

Position

 

Age

 

Officer

Since

Samuel W. Dortch

 

Executive vice president and general manager

 

66

 

2007

Rose M. Sparks

 

Chief financial officer

 

48

 

2013

Paul M. Flynn

 

Executive vice president of business and marketing

 

48

 

2014

 

There is no arrangement or understanding between any of the above officers and any other person pursuant to which such person was or is to be selected as an officer.

 

 
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Family Relationships

 

There is no family relationship between any of our executive officers and directors.

 

Business Experience

 

Paul A. Novelly has been our chairman of the board since inception and chief executive officer since January 2013. Mr. Novelly is chairman and chief executive officer of Apex Oil Company, Inc., a privately-held company based in St. Louis, Missouri engaged in the trading, storage, marketing, and transportation of petroleum products, including liquid terminal facilities in the Midwest and Eastern United States, and towboat and barge operations on the inland waterway system. Mr. Novelly is president and a director of AIC Limited, a Bermuda-based oil trading company, chairman, president, chief executive officer and a director of World Point Terminals, Inc., a Delaware company based in Missouri which is the general partner of World Point Terminals, LP which is a publicly traded master limited partnership which owns and operates petroleum storage facilities in the United States, and chief executive officer of St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP, which provides corporate management services. He currently serves on the board of directors at Boss Holdings, Inc., a distributor of work gloves, boots and rainwear, and other consumer products, and FCB Financial Holdings, Inc., a holding company whose material subsidiary is Florida Community Bank. Within the past five years, Mr. Novelly also served on the board of directors of World Point Terminals Inc., a Canadian and Toronto Stock Exchange predecessor to World Point Terminals, Inc.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Novelly’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise as our chairman since 2005 and his knowledge of our operations and effectiveness of our business strategies provide valuable perspective to our board and add significant value. Additionally, Mr. Novelly’s experience as the chief executive officer of Apex Oil Company, Inc., AIC Limited, and St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP and as the chairman of World Point Terminals, Inc., as well as a number of executive positions with other oil refining, terminalling, storage, and transportation companies, are integral to our board’s assessment of our business opportunities and strategic options. Finally, Mr. Novelly’s service and experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategic planning for those companies, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

Lee E. Mikles has been a member of our board since inception, served as our chief executive officer from inception through January 2013, and as our president from January 2013 through January 2015. In addition, he served as our principal financial officer before our acquisition of FutureFuel Chemical Company and thereafter through January 31, 2008. Mr. Mikles was chairman of Mikles/Miller Management, Inc., a registered investment adviser and home to the Kodiak family of funds, between 1992 and 2005. He was also chairman of Mikles/Miller Securities, LLC, a registered broker-dealer, between 1999 and 2005. Additionally, Mr. Mikles has served on the board of directors of Pacific Capital Bancorp, Official Payments Corporation, Coastcast Corporation, Nelnet, Inc., Boss Holdings, Inc., Imperial Bank, and Imperial Bancorp. He currently serves as interim president, chief executive officer, and is a member of the board of directors of Pendrell Corporation.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Mikles’ experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise as a member of our board and his knowledge of our operations and business strategies gained over his seven plus years of service to us in various roles provide valuable perspective to our board and add significant value. Additionally, Mr. Mikles’ finance and investment experience from his involvement with Mikles/Miller Management, Inc. is integral to our board’s assessment of our business opportunities and strategic options. Finally, Mr. Mikles’ service and experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategic planning for those companies, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

Paul G. Lorenzini has been a member of our board since January 2007 and our chief operating officer since April 21, 2008. In January 1970, Mr. Lorenzini co-founded Packaging Consultants, Inc., a distribution business supplying packaging materials to the food industry. In 1983, Bunzl PLC, a supplier of supermarket and food service packaging, acquired Packaging Consultants, Inc. Mr. Lorenzini continued to work for Bunzl PLC and in 1986 became president of Bunzl USA. He subsequently became the chief executive officer and chairman of Bunzl North America and grew Bunzl North America to the largest food packaging distributor in North America and retired in July 2004 with the title of chairman emeritus. Mr. Lorenzini served as a director of Bunzl PLC between 1988 and 1991 and between 1999 and 2004.

 

 
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Our board believes that Mr. Lorenzini’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise as our chief operating officer and his knowledge of our operations and business strategies gained over his six plus years of service as chief operating officer provide valuable perspective to our board and add significant value. Additionally, Mr. Lorenzini’s operational and management experience with Bunzl PLC, Bunzl USA, and Bunzl North America is integral to our board’s assessment of our business opportunities and strategic options. Finally, Mr. Lorenzini’s service and experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategic planning for those companies, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

Edwin A. Levy has been a member of our board since November 2005. In 1979, Mr. Levy co-founded Levy, Harkins & Co., Inc., an investment advisory firm, where he now serves as chairman of the board and individual advisor. Mr. Levy was a director of Traffix, Inc. between November 1995 and 2006, and served as a member of its audit committee and stock options committee. He is a director of World Point Terminals, Inc., a Delaware company based in Missouri which is the general partner of World Point Terminals, LP which is a publicly traded master limited partnership which owns and operates petroleum storage facilities in the United States. In the past five years, Mr. Levy was a director of World Point Terminals Inc., a Canadian and Toronto Stock Exchange predecessor to World Point Terminals, Inc.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Levy’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise as a member of our board and his knowledge of our operations and business strategies gained over his eight plus years of service to us in that capacity provide valuable perspective to our board and add significant value. Additionally, Mr. Levy’s finance and investment experience from his involvement with Levy, Harkins & Co., Inc. is integral to our board’s assessment of our business opportunities and strategic options. Finally, Mr. Levy’s service and experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategic planning for those companies, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

Thomas R. Evans has been a member of our board since May 2006. From June 2004 until December 2013, he served as president and chief executive officer of Bankrate, Inc., an Internet based aggregator of financial rate information. Mr. Evans was elected to Bankrate, Inc.’s board of directors in May 2004. From 1999 to 2002, Mr. Evans was chairman and chief executive officer of Official Payments Corporation, an Internet processor of payment to government entities.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Evans’ experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise acquired as the president and chief executive officer at Bankrate, Inc., including experience and understanding of business strategy formation and execution from both a board and management perspective, add significant value to our board. Additionally, Mr. Evans’ service and experience as the head of our audit committee and an independent director of our board, together with his experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategy discussions and other matters, strengthen the functioning of our board.

 

William J. Doré  has been a member of our board since July, 2012 and was previously a member of our board between May 24, 2006 and March 20, 2007.  Mr. Doré is also the founder and retired chairman/chief executive officer of Global Industries, Ltd., now Technip, a worldwide organization that operated one of the largest fleets of marine construction assets in the world.  In 2000, in recognition of his accomplishments in the oil and gas industry, Mr. Doré was presented with the Rhodes Petroleum Industry Leadership Award from the Petroleum Division of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.  He is also the recipient of the 2000 Horatio Alger Award, a prestigious national recognition of our country's most successful and admirable men and women who have overcome significant personal adversity through hard work, integrity, determination, and a strong dedication to helping others.  In 2011, Mr. Doré was named as the Civic Service Award recipient from the Chamber Southwest Louisiana.  The Civic Service Award is presented annually to an outstanding member of the community who exemplifies leadership and service.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Doré’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise as a member of our board of directors and his operational and management experience with Global Industries, Ltd. is integral to our board’s assessment of our business opportunities and strategic options.  Further, Mr. Doré’s service and experience in community matters and his commitment to education and the environment strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

 
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Donald C. Bedell has been a member of our board since March 17, 2008. Mr. Bedell is chairman of the board of privately held Castle Partners and its affiliates, based in Sikeston, Missouri, which operate over 35 skilled nursing, health care, pharmaceutical, hospice, and therapy facilities throughout Missouri and other states. Mr. Bedell is a director of First Community Bank of Batesville, Arkansas and is a member of the executive committee of such bank and its holding company. He is also a director of World Point Terminal, Inc., serving as chairman of World Point’s Corporate Governance and Human Resources Committees. FutureFuel Corp.’s chairman, Paul A. Novelly, is the chairman of the board of World Point Terminal, Inc. Mr. Bedell is the former chairman of the Missouri Department of Conservation. In the past five years, Mr. Bedell has served on the board of directors of World Point Terminals Inc., a Canadian and Toronto Stock Exchange predecessor to World Point Terminals, Inc.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Bedell’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise acquired as the chairman at Castle Partners, including experience and understanding of business strategy formation and execution from both a board and management perspective, add significant value to our board. Additionally, Mr. Bedell’s service and experience as a director for other boards, including active involvement in strategic planning for those companies, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board.

 

Paul M. Manheim has been a member of our board since July 15, 2011. Mr. Manheim is currently a non-executive director of HAL Real Estate Investments Inc., which develops and owns a portfolio of real estate in the Pacific Northwest consisting of multi-family, office, and mixed-use assets. He was the president and chief executive officer of HAL Real Estate Investments Inc. until September 2005. HAL Real Estate Investments Inc. is a subsidiary of HAL Holding N.V. Mr. Manheim joined Holland America Line, N.V., the predecessor of HAL Holding N.V., an international holding company traded on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, in 1982 and filled various positions in the financial and corporate development areas. Since June 2005, Mr. Manheim has been the chairman of the board of Shanghai Red Star Optical Company, which owns a portfolio of optical retail outlets in China and is affiliated with Europe’s largest optical retailer. Mr. Manheim has served as a director and chairman of the audit committee of WPT GP, LLC, the general partner of World Point Terminals, LP and its predecessor since 2009. Mr. Manheim received a bachelor of commerce degree with honors from the University of New South Wales, Australia, and qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1976.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Manheim’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise acquired as the president and chief executive officer at HAL Real Estate Investments Inc., including experience and understanding of business strategy formation and execution from both a board and management perspective, add significant value to our board. Additionally, Mr. Manheim’s service and experience as a director for other boards, strengthens the governance and functioning of our board. Finally, Mr. Manheim’s experience as the chairman of the audit committee of WPT GP, LLC and his experience as a chartered accountant add significant value to our board.

 

Samuel W. Dortch was the vice president - operations services of FutureFuel Chemical Company between July 30, 2007 and October 14, 2007 and senior vice president - operations between October 15, 2007 and August 30, 2010. On August 30, 2010, Mr. Dortch became FutureFuel Chemical Company’s executive vice president and general manager. In 1972, Mr. Dortch joined Eastman Chemical Company’s technical services division in Kingsport, Tennessee as a development chemical engineer. He has served in numerous management positions in Kingsport, Batesville and at Eastman Kodak’s Kirby, England facility. In 2004, Mr. Dortch became manager of research and development at the Batesville plant and director of research and development in December 2006.

 

Our board believes that Mr. Dortch’s experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise acquired as the executive vice president and general manager of FutureFuel Chemical Company, and his knowledge of our operations and business strategies gained over his nine years of service to us in various roles and his years of service to Eastman Chemical Company, including his knowledge of the chemical business, are of significant value to the company.

 

Rose M. Sparks has been our principal financial officer and treasurer and principal accounting officer since November 8, 2012 and our chief financial officer since June 1, 2013. Prior to June 1, 2013, Mrs. Sparks served as the controller of FutureFuel Chemical Company since its acquisition in 2006 and has over twenty years of experience at the Batesville facility. Prior to our acquisition of FutureFuel Chemical Company, Mrs. Sparks worked for Eastman Chemical as the controller at the Batesville plant. Mrs. Sparks is a certified public accountant.

 

 
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Our board believes that Mrs. Sparks’ experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise acquired as controller of FutureFuel Chemical Company, and her knowledge of our operations and business strategies gained over her years of service in that role, as well as experience as certified public accountant, add significant value to us.

 

Paul M. Flynn became FutureFuel Chemical Company’s executive vice president of business and marketing on September 2, 2014. Mr. Flynn is a veteran business executive with 25 years in the chemical and biotech industries. After joining Monsanto Company in 2008 as Director of Strategic Alliances, he spent six years developing corporate strategy, and recently led its development of a new biologicals growth platform. Prior to Monsanto, Mr. Flynn was global business manager for automotive and electrical products for Eastman Chemical Company. He eventually led the strategy development and execution for transforming Specialty Plastics into a profitable growth division for Eastman. He has extensive global experience, including prior relocations to Japan and Singapore. He received an MBA from Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University and graduated from Athlone Institute in Ireland with a B.S. in Polymer Technology. 

 

Our board believes the experience, knowledge, skills, and expertise Mr. Flynn established in Monsanto Company’s corporate strategy division will add significant, strategic value to the company. Additionally, Mr. Flynn’s experience with Eastman’s Specialty Plastics division and as a global business manager provides to the company a fresh perspective and practical insight to the regional and global chemical industry.

 

Involvement in Legal Proceedings

 

None of our directors or executive officers were involved within the past ten years in any matter described in Item 401(f) of Regulation S-K.

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Based solely upon a review of Forms 3 and Forms 4 and amendments thereto furnished to us under the rules of the SEC promulgated under Section 16 of the Exchange Act during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, and Forms 5 and amendments thereto furnished to us with respect to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, as well as any written representation from a reporting person that no Form 5 is required, we are not aware that any officers, members of our board of directors and/or beneficial owners of more than 10% of our common stock failed to file on a timely basis, as disclosed in the aforementioned forms, reports required by Section 16 of the Exchange Act during the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

 

We adopted a revised code of business conduct and ethics that applies to all of our employees and the employees of our subsidiaries, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. A copy of this revised code of business conduct and ethics has been posted on our Internet website and may be accessed at http://ir.futurefuelcorporation.com/governance.cfm. We will provide any person, without charge, a copy of such code of business conduct and ethics upon request to FutureFuel Corp., 8235 Forsyth Blvd., 4th Floor, Clayton, Missouri 63105, attention: Investor Relations.

 

Nominating Committee

 

Our board established a nominating/corporate governance committee and adopted a revised charter for such committee. A copy of this revised nominating/corporate governance committee charter is posted on our Internet website and may be accessed at http://ir.futurefuelcorporation.com/governance.cfm. The nominating/corporate governance committee charter contains procedures for Company shareholders to submit recommendations for nomination to our board. There have not been any changes to those procedures since the original nominating committee charter was attached as an exhibit to our Form 10 Registration Statement filed with the SEC on April 24, 2007. 

 

 
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Audit Committee

 

We have a separately-designated standing audit committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act, and have adopted a revised audit committee charter. A copy of this revised audit committee charter has been posted on our Internet website and may be accessed at http://ir.futurefuelcorporation.com/governance.cfm. The current members of the audit committee are as follows:

 

Thomas R. Evans

Edwin A. Levy

Donald C. Bedell

Paul M. Manheim

 

Audit Committee Expert

 

Our board of directors determined that each member of our audit committee is an audit committee financial expert. Each such member of our audit committee is independent, as independence for audit committee members is defined in the listing standards applicable to us. 

 

 
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Item 11. Executive Compensation.

 

General

 

Our board of directors has established a compensation committee. The compensation committee’s responsibilities include, among other things, determining our policy on remuneration to our (that is, FutureFuel Corp.’s) officers and directors and the executive officers and directors of FutureFuel Chemical Company. We paid each of our directors $30,000 for 2014 and committee heads were paid an additional $10,000. Additionally, the compensation committee also approved the payment to our directors of $2,000 for each board and committee meeting attended in person and $1,000 for each board and committee meeting attended telephonically. We determined for 2014 not to pay salaries, bonuses, or other forms of cash compensation to any of our executive officers (in their capacities as such) (other than other executive officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company as described below). No other director compensation and no compensation for our executive officers have been set at this time for the calendar year 2015. Rather, our board believes it is more appropriate to set such compensation later in the year when 2015 results are capable of reasonable estimation.

 

In 2014 we paid salaries, bonuses, and other forms of compensation to the officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company as described below.

 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

 

The objectives of our compensation program are to provide a competitive compensation package that rewards sustained financial and operating performance that creates long-term value for our shareholders. Our compensation programs are intended to meet the goals of attracting and retaining qualified personnel; motivating these individuals to achieve short-term and long-term corporate goals without undue risk-taking and to promote equity among executive officer positions, while considering external competitiveness and differences in job responsibilities.

 

The elements of our compensation program include base salary, bonuses, and certain retirement, insurance, and other benefits generally available to all employees. In addition, our board adopted an Omnibus Incentive Plan (or the “Incentive Plan”) which was approved by our shareholders at our 2007 annual meeting on June 26, 2007. The Incentive Plan provides equity-based compensation to our executive officers and our directors. Our compensation committee, and the company generally, makes decisions with respect to each compensation element paid or payable to our personnel on an individual-by-individual basis and does not necessarily take into account decisions made with respect to other elements of compensation that may be paid to such individual. The overall goal of our compensation program, however, is to achieve the goals described above.

 

Cash Salaries and Bonuses

 

We determined not to pay cash salaries or bonuses to Messrs. Novelly, Lorenzini, or Mikles for 2014. Our chairman and chief executive officer, Mr. Novelly, receives compensation from our affiliate, St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP. Our former president, Mr. Mikles, receives compensation from existing business enterprises and investments, none of which are affiliated with us. Neither Messrs. Novelly, nor Mikles received any increase in their salary, bonus, or other income to compensate them for their services to us. As to our other executive officers, base salaries for Mr. Dortch and Mrs. Sparks were not materially adjusted as we determined that their base salaries for 2014 were competitive with current market levels, sufficient for the services provided, and sufficient to motivate these individuals to aid in the achievement of short-term and long-term corporate goals. Mr. Flynn was a new hire during 2014, with his base salary set largely in line with our other executives at FutureFuel Chemical Company and commensurate with his experience.

 

For the year 2014, we established a bonus pool for the employees of our subsidiary, FutureFuel Chemical Company. The total bonus target amount was determined by the Executive Officers. Eligible FutureFuel Chemical Company employees hired after January 1, 2014 received $250. Eligible employees hired prior to January 1, 2014 received approximately 109 hours of pay at their normal hourly rate. Salaried employees of FutureFuel Chemical Company received an additional bonus amount ranging from $0 to $70,000, with the larger bonuses going to FutureFuel Chemical Company’s executive officers as determined by FutureFuel Chemical Company’s board of directors. The bonus was paid in cash on December 12, 2014. After discussions with senior management and the review of historical financial performance, we determined the amount of bonuses distributed to Mr. Dortch, Mr. Flynn, and Ms. Sparks. Such bonus distributions were designed to be sufficient compensation for the services rendered, competitive with market rates for similar services and sufficient to motivate these individuals to aid in our achievement of short-term and long-term corporate goals.

 

 
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We expect to establish an annual cash bonus program for fiscal years commencing after 2014 in an amount equal to 10% of after-tax earnings of FutureFuel Chemical Company, subject to certain adjustments, but solely on a discretionary basis. In determining actual bonus payouts for such years, we expect that the compensation committee will consider performance against performance goals to be established by us, as well as individual performance goals. We expect that this annual cash bonus program will apply to certain key employees of FutureFuel Chemical Company in addition to the executives whose compensation is described herein. The actual amount of bonuses, if any, will be determined near the end of our fiscal year.

 

Omnibus Incentive Plan

 

Our board of directors adopted the Incentive Plan, which was approved by our shareholders at our 2007 annual shareholder meeting on June 26, 2007. The purpose of the Incentive Plan is to:

 

 

encourage share ownership by key personnel whose long-term employment with or engagement by us or our subsidiaries (including FutureFuel Chemical Company) is considered essential to our continued progress and, thereby, encourage recipients to act in our shareholders’ interests and share in our success;

 

encourage such persons to remain in our employ or in the employ of our subsidiaries; and,

 

provide incentives to persons who are not our employees to promote our success.

 

The Incentive Plan authorizes us to issue stock options (including incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options), stock awards, and stock appreciation rights. To date, options for 1,030,500 shares of stock and awards of 414,800 shares of stock have been made. Please see footnote 13 to our consolidated financial statements for a detailed discussion of 2014 stock based compensation awards.

 

Eligible participants in the Incentive Plan include: (i) members of our board of directors and our executive officers; (ii) regular, active employees of us or of any of our subsidiaries; and (iii) persons engaged by us or by any of our subsidiaries to render services to us or our subsidiaries as an advisor or consultant.

 

Awards under the Incentive Plan are limited to shares of our common stock, which may be shares reacquired by us, including shares purchased in the open market, or authorized but un-issued shares. Awards are limited to 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of our common stock in the aggregate, or 2,670,000 shares, as of the date of adoption of the Incentive Plan. Taking into account the prior grants of stock options and stock awards, there are 1,224,700 shares remaining to be issued under the Incentive Plan.

 

The Incentive Plan is administered by our board’s compensation committee (or Administrator). The Administrator may appoint agents to assist it in administering the Incentive Plan. The Administrator may delegate to one or more individuals the day-to-day administration of the Incentive Plan and any of the functions assigned to the Administrator in the Incentive Plan. Such delegation may be revoked at any time. All decisions, determinations, and interpretations by the Administrator regarding the Incentive Plan and the terms and conditions of any award granted thereunder will be final and binding on all participants.

 

The Administrator may grant a stock option or provide for the grant of a stock option either from time to time in the discretion of the Administrator or automatically upon the occurrence of events specified by the Administrator, including the achievement of performance goals or the satisfaction of an event or condition within the control of the participant or within the control of others. Each option agreement must contain provisions regarding: (i) the number of shares of common stock that may be issued upon exercise of the option; (ii) the type of option; (iii) the exercise price of the shares and the means of payment for the shares; (iv) the term of the option; (v) such terms and conditions on the vesting or exercisability of the option as may be determined from time to time by the Administrator; (vi) restrictions on the transfer of the option and forfeiture provisions; and (vii) such further terms and conditions not inconsistent with the plan as may be determined from time to time by the Administrator. Unless otherwise specifically determined by the Administrator or otherwise set forth in the Incentive Plan, the vesting of an option will occur only while the participant is employed or rendering services to us or one of our subsidiaries, and all vesting will cease upon a participant’s termination of employment for any reason.

 

 
97

 

  

The Administrator may grant annual performance vested options. Performance will be tied to annual cash flow targets (our consolidated income plus depreciation plus amortization) in amounts to be determined. Annual performance vested options will vest 25% for each year that the annual cash flow target is achieved (with provisions for subsequent year catch-ups). Neither our management nor our compensation committee, however, has through the year ended December 31, 2014 made any awards that were contingent upon the achievement of specified performance goals or that were otherwise performance-vested. Rather, through 2014, all grants were made in the discretion of our compensation committee based upon their authority under the Incentive Plan.

 

The Administrator may grant cumulative performance vested options. Performance will be tied to cumulative cash flow in amounts to be determined for periods to be determined.

 

The Administrator may issue other options based upon the following performance criteria either individually, alternatively, or in any combination, applied to either us as a whole or to a business unit, subsidiary, or business segment, either individually, alternatively, or in any combination, and measured either annually or cumulatively over a period of years, on an absolute basis or relative to a pre-established target, to previous years’ results or to a designated comparison group, in each case as specified by the Administrator: (i) cash flow; (ii) earnings (including gross margin, earnings before interest and taxes, earnings before taxes, and net earnings); (iii) earnings per share; (iv) growth in earnings or earnings per share; (v) stock price; (vi) return on equity or average shareholders’ equity; (vii) total shareholder return; (viii) return on capital; (ix) return on assets or net assets; (x) return on investment; (xi) revenue; (xii) income or net income; (xiii) operating income or net operating income; (xiv) operating profit or net operating profit; (xv) operating margin; (xvi) return on operating revenue; (xvii) market share; (xviii) overhead or other expense reduction; (xix) growth in shareholder value relative to the moving average of the S&P 500 Index or a peer group index; (xx) strategic plan development and implementation; and (xxi) any other similar criteria.

 

Such options will vest and expire (including on a pro rata basis) on such terms as may be determined by the Administrator from time to time consistent with the terms of the Incentive Plan.

 

The Administrator may award our common stock to participants. The grant, issuance, retention, or vesting of each stock award may be subject to such performance criteria and level of achievement versus these criteria as the Administrator determines, which criteria may be based on financial performance, personal performance evaluations, or completion of service by the participant. Unless otherwise provided for by the Administrator, upon the participant’s termination of employment other than due to death or retirement, the unvested portions of the stock award and the shares of our common stock subject thereto will generally be forfeited. Unless otherwise provided for by the Administrator, if a participant’s termination of employment is due to death or retirement, all outstanding stock awards will continue to vest provided certain conditions to be determined are met. Unless otherwise provided for by the Administrator, if a participant’s termination of employment is due to his death, a portion of each outstanding stock award granted to such participant will immediately vest and all forfeiture provisions and repurchase rights will lapse as to a prorated number of shares of common stock determined by dividing the number of whole months since the grant date by the number of whole months between the grant date and the date that the stock award would have fully vested.

 

The Administrator may grant stock appreciation rights either alone or in conjunction with other awards. The Administrator will determine the number of shares of common stock to be subject to each award of stock appreciation rights. The award of stock appreciation rights will not be exercisable for at least six months after the date of grant except as the Administrator may otherwise determine in the event of death, disability, retirement, or voluntary termination of employment of the participant. Except as otherwise provided by the Administrator, the award of stock appreciation rights will not be exercisable unless the person exercising the award of stock appreciation rights has been at all times during the period beginning with the date of the grant thereof and ending on the date of such exercise, employed by or otherwise performing services for us or one of our subsidiaries.

 

In the event there is a change in control of the Company, as determined by our board, our board may, in its discretion: (i) provide for the assumption or substitution of, or adjustment to, each outstanding award; (ii) accelerate the vesting of awards and terminate any restrictions on cash awards or stock awards; and (iii) provide for the cancellation of awards for a cash payment to the participant.

 

 
98

 

  

Retirement Benefits

 

We adopted a 401(k) plan for FutureFuel Chemical Company which is generally available to all of its employees.

 

Founder’s Grant

 

Certain of our executive officers were granted founders shares as described herein. Please refer to the discussion under “Item 12. - Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters - Founding Shares Owned by the Founding Shareholders” below.

 

Life Insurance and Other Employee Benefits

 

Our executive officers who are not officers of FutureFuel Corp. participate in employee welfare plans (life insurance, medical insurance, disability insurance, vacation pay, and the like) maintained by FutureFuel Chemical Company for all of its employees.

 

The Compensation Committee

 

Our compensation committee currently consists of Donald C. Bedell, William J. Doré, and Edwin A. Levy. Each of these individuals is an “independent director” under the rules of the NYSE, a “Non-Employee Director” within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act, and an “outside director” within the meaning of §162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

Recommendations from Management

 

Our chairman and chief executive officer makes recommendations to the compensation committee regarding salaries and bonuses for executive officers, as well as awards under the Incentive Plan. The compensation committee takes these recommendations into consideration in approving all such salaries, bonuses, and awards.

 

 
99

 

  

Summary Compensation Table

 

Our executive officers were paid the following compensation for the three-year period ended December 31, 2014.

 

Summary Compensation Table 

 

                              All Other        
                  Stock     Option     Compensation        

Person

Year

 

Salary

   

Bonus

   

Awards(d)

   

Awards(d)

   

(b)

   

Total

 

Paul A. Novelly(a)

2014   $ 0     $ 0     $ 902,770     $ 0     $ 35,000     $ 937,770  

Chairman and Chief executive officer

2013

  $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 37,000     $ 37,000  

FutureFuel Corp.

2012

  $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 21,600     $ 39,000     $ 60,600  

Lee E. Mikles(a)(c)

2014

  $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 35,000     $ 35,000  
President

2013

  $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 36,000     $ 36,000  
FutureFuel Chemical Company 2012   $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 21,600     $ 36,000     $ 57,600  

Paul G. Lorenzini

2014

  $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 0     $ 35,000     $ 35,000  
Chief operating officer 2013   $ 0     $ 100,000     $ 0     $ 0     $ 31,000     $ 131,000  
FutureFuel Corp. 2012   $ 0     $ 100,000     $ 0     $ 21,600     $ 31,000     $ 152,600  

Samuel W. Dortch(a)

2014

  $ 208,616     $ 70,000     $ 0     $ 41,700     $ 18,490     $ 338,806  
Executive vice president and general

2013

  $ 207,431     $ 92,587     $ 0     $ 0     $ 20,089     $ 320,107  
manager, FutureFuel Chemical Company 2012   $ 201,718     $ 84,170     $ 0     $ 21,600     $ 18,111     $ 325,599  

Rose M. Sparks(a)

2014

  $ 145,763     $ 70,000     $ 0     $ 41,700     $ 14,454     $ 271,917  
Chief financial officer, principal financial 2013   $ 145,045     $ 63,349     $ 0     $ 0     $ 13,860     $ 222,255  
officer, and treasurer, FutureFuel Corp. 2012   $ 127,000     $ 57,590     $ 0     $ 21,600     $ 12,343     $ 218,533  
Paul M. Flynn(a)(e)                                                  

Executive vice president of business and marketing, FutureFuel Chemical Company

2014

  $ 59,427     $ 30,667     $ 348,500     $ 0     $ 983     $ 439,577  
                       

  

 

(a)

Executive officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company for the years indicated.

 

 

(b)

For Messrs. Novelly, Mikles, and Lorenzini, includes $35,000, $35,000 and $35,000, respectively, in director fees for 2014. Includes $37,000 and 39,000 in directors fees for Mr. Novelly; $36,000 and $36,000 for Mr. Mikles, and $31,000 and $31,000 for Mr. Lorenzini, respectively in 2013 and 2012. For executive officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company, includes our contributions (including accrued contributions) to vested and unvested defined contribution plans, HSA matching contributions, and the dollar value of any insurance premiums paid by, or on behalf of, us during or for the covered fiscal year with respect to life and disability insurance for the benefit of the named person. The above amounts do not include travel expenses reimbursed pursuant to Company policy.

 

 

(c)

Mr. Mikles resigned as President of FutureFuel effective January 31, 2015.

  

 
100

 

 

 

(d)

Represents the grant date valuation of the awards under FASB ASC Topic 718. Assumptions used for determining the value of option awards reported here are set forth in Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.

 

 

(e)

Mr. Flynn became FutureFuel Chemical Company’s executive vice president of business and marketing effective September 2, 2014. He was awarded 125,000 shares of our common stock, of which 25,000 vested immediately.

 

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 

In December 2014, we granted a total of 90,000 stock options to select members of management. The options awarded have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for FutureFuel’s common stock as of the grant date as reported by the New York Stock Exchange. The options awarded vest annually over three years and expire on December 2, 2019. These option awards were recommended by our chief executive officer and approved by our board's compensation committee to reward the selected managers for 2014 performance. Please see footnote 13 to our consolidated financial statements for a discussion of the company’s plan-based awards.

 

In May 2014, we issued a restricted stock award of 250,000 shares to Paul A. Novelly, FutureFuel’s Chief Executive Officer. The restricted shares vest in three annual installments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the award was $4,195,000 and will be recognized into expense equally over the three years. The restricted stock award to Mr. Novelly was made by the compensation committee of the board in its discretion in recognition of Mr. Novelly’s having served without salary or bonus as chairman of our board of directors since 2006 and as our chief executive officer since January 2013. In determining the amount of the restricted stock grant, the compensation committee particularly considered the compensation paid to chief executive officers of publicly held competitors of the company during the periods involved, as well as the appreciation of the company’s share price in comparison to its competitors through the date of grant.

 

In July 2014, we issued a restricted stock award of 125,000 shares to Paul M. Flynn, FutureFuel’s Executive Vice President of Business and Marketing, upon commencement of employment on September 2, 2014. Twenty percent of the shares vested immediately. The remaining shares vest equally over the remaining annual installments on the first, second, third, and fourth anniversaries of the commencement of employment as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the award was $2,136,000 with 20% recognized immediately and the remainder to be recognized into expense equally over the four years. The restricted stock grant to Mr. Flynn was made in connection with his employment agreement dated July 2, 2014. The amount and specific terms of the restricted stock grant were negotiated as part of and incorporated into the employment agreement. The terms of the grant, including provisions for potential payments upon termination of employment or change in control of the company, were recommended by our chief executive officer as appropriate to obtain the services of a seasoned executive with 25 years of international experience in the chemical and biotech industry. The terms of the grant and Mr. Flynn’s employment agreement were approved by the compensation committee of our board.

 

The following tables set forth certain information regarding the awards to our executive officers and certain officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company of options and shares of our common stock under the incentive plan during 2014.

 

     

Estimated Future Payouts Under

Equity Incentive Plan Awards

   

 

               
  Grant   Threshold     Target     Maximum    

All 

Other

Stock

Awards:

Number of

Shares of

Stock or

 

All Other

Option

Awards: Number

of Securities

Underlying

 

Exercise

or Base

Price

of Option

Awards

   

Grant 

Date

Fair Value

of Stock 

and

Option

 
Name Date  

(#)

   

(#)

   

(#)

    Units (#)   Options (#)   ($/sh)     Awards ($)  

Paul A. Novelly(a)

5/9/2014

    n/a       n/a       n/a    

250,000

 

n/a

    n/a       16.78  

Rose M. Sparks(b)

12/2/2014

    15,000       15,000       15,000    

n/a

 

n/a

    11.34       2.78  

Sam W. Dortch(b)

12/2/2014

    15,000       15,000       15,000    

n/a

 

n/a

    11.34       2.78  

Paul M. Flynn (c)

9/2/2014

    n/a       n/a       n/a     125,000  

n/a

 

 

n/a       17.09  

  


    The 250,000 share restricted stock award vests in three annual instlallments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the reward was $4,195,000 and will be recognized into expense equally over those three years.
     
 

(b)

Option awards vest annually over three years, expiring on December 9, 2019, and have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for the company’s common stock as of the grant date. For a discussion of assumptions to estimate fair value, see Note 13 elsewhere herein.

 

 

(c)

The 125,000 share restricted stock award was issued to Mr. Flynn upon commencement of employment. Twenty percent of the total award vested immediately, resulting in a net exercise of 16,821 shares, with the remaining shares vesting equally over in four annual installments on the anniversary of grant date. The total expense for the reward was $2,136,000, with 20% recognized immediately

 

 

 
101

 

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table sets forth information concerning unexercised options, stock awards that have not vested, and equity incentive plan awards as of December 31, 2014 with respect to our executive officers.

 

   

Option Awards

Stock Awards

Name

 

Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable

   

Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable

   

Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Unexercised Unearned Options (#)

   

Option Exercise Price ($)

 

Option Expiration Date

 

Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#)

   

Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($)

 

Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#)

Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($)

Paul A.

 

10,000

   

0

   

0

   

12.74

 

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Novelly(a)   n/a     n/a     n/a     n/a   n/a   250,000     3,240,000   n/a n/a

Lee E. Mikles

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Paul G.

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Lorenzini     10,000       0       0       10.62   4/10/17                

Sam W.

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Dortch(b)     10,000       0       0       10.62   4/10/17                
      15,000       15,000       0       11.34   12/2/19                

Rose M.

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Sparks(b)(c)     10,000       0       0       10.62   4/10/17                
      15,000       15,000       0       11.34   12/2/19                

Paul M.

 

n/a

   

n/a

   

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

    100,000       1,296,000  

n/a

n/a

Flynn (a)(d)                                              

 

(a)

 

The company issued restricted stock awards to Messrs. Novelly and Flynn on May 9, 2014 and September 2, 2014, respectively. Mr. Novelly’s 250,000 share award vests in three annual instlallments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the reward was $4,195,000 and will be recognized into expense equally over those three years. 20% of the 125,000 shares awarded to Mr. Flynn vested immediately, with the remaining 100,000 shares vesting equally over four years. The total expense for the reward was $2,136,000, with 20% recognized immediately.

 

(b)

 

Option awards vest annually over three years, expiring on December 9, 2019, and have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for the company’s common stock as of the grant date. For a discussion of assumptions to estimate fair value, see footnote 13 to our consolidated financial statements.

 

(c)

 

Ms. Sparks became our Chief Financial Officer and treasurer effective June 1, 2013.

 

(d)

 

Mr. Flynn became our Executive Vice President of business and marketing effective September 2, 2014.

  

 
102

 

 

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

 

The following table sets forth the number of options exercised by each of our executive officers in 2014, and stock awards which vested in 2014.

 

   

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

Name

 

Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise

(#)

   

Value Realized on Exercise

($)

 

Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting

(#)

 

Value Realized on Vesting

($)

 

Paul A. Novelly

    0       0  

n/a

 

n/a

 

Lee E. Mikles

    0       0  

n/a

 

n/a

 

Paul G. Lorenzini

    0       0  

n/a

 

n/a

 

Samuel W. Dortch

    0       0  

n/a

 

n/a

 

Rose M. Sparks

    0       0  

n/a

 

n/a

 
Paul M. Flynn(a)     0       0   25,000(a)   348,500  

______

 

 

(a)

Pursuant to Mr. Flynn’s restricted stock award, 25,000 shares vested immediately. Upon issuance, 8,729 shares were withheld in payment of tax liability for a net exercise of 16,821 shares.

 

Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control

 

Restricted Stock Agreement with Paul A. Novelly

 

Paul A. Novelly, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, is party to a Restricted Stock Agreement dated May 9, 2014 under which he received 250,000 shares of restricted stock which vest in equal increments on the first through third anniversaries of the agreement. The agreement provides that all unvested shares automatically vest in the event (i) his employment is terminated by reason of his disability; (ii) his employment is terminated by reason of his death; or (iii) a change of control occurs. The triggering events are each as defined in the Incentive Plan.

 

Assuming one of the triggering events occurred on December 31, 2014, Mr. Novelly would have been able to receive accelerated vesting of restricted shares worth $3,240,000 based on the closing price of our shares on such date of $12.96.

 

Employment Agreement with Paul M. Flynn

 

Paul M. Flynn, FutureFuel Chemical Company’s executive vice president of business and marketing, is party to an Employment Agreement dated July 2, 2014 which provides that Mr. Flynn would be entitled to certain payments or benefits, as applicable, upon the occurrence of a triggering event. The receipt of each of these payments or benefits is contingent upon Mr. Flynn executing and delivering to the Company a general release.

 

Upon a termination of Mr. Flynn’s employment for death or disability, Mr. Flynn would be entitled to an immediate full vesting of his remaining unvested restricted shares. Had such a termination occurred on December 31, 2014, Mr. Flynn would have been able to receive accelerated vesting of restricted shares worth $1,296,000, based on the closing price of our shares on such date of $12.96.

 

Upon a termination of Mr. Flynn’s employment by Mr. Flynn for good reason, as defined in the employment agreement, Mr. Flynn would be entitled to (i) an immediate full vesting of his remaining unvested restricted shares; (ii) payment of his base salary for a period of six months; and (iii) to the extent eligible, reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of six months. Had such a termination occurred on December 31, 2014, Mr. Flynn would have been able to receive accelerated vesting of restricted shares worth $1,296,000, based on the closing price of our shares on such date of $12.96, $104,000 as payment of his base salary for a period of six months, and $5,876 as reimbursement for COBRA premiums for a period of six months.  

 

 
103

 

 

Upon the Company's voluntary termination of Mr. Flynn’s employment, as defined in the employment agreement, Mr. Flynn would be entitled to (i) an immediate vesting of 50% of the balance of his remaining unvested restricted shares; (ii) payment of his base salary for a period of six months; and (iii) to the extent eligible, reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a period of six months. Had such a termination occurred on December 31, 2014, Mr. Flynn would have been able to receive accelerated vesting of restricted shares worth $648,000, based on the closing price of our shares on such date of $12.96, $104,000 as payment of his base salary for a period of six months, and $5,876 as reimbursement for COBRA premiums for a period of six months.

 

Upon a change of control, as defined in the employment agreement, Mr. Flynn would be entitled to an immediate full vesting of his remaining unvested restricted shares plus payment of the amount, if any, by which $2,500,000 exceeds the value of the restricted shares at the time of the change in control. Had such a termination occurred on December 31, 2014, Mr. Flynn would have been able to receive accelerated vesting of restricted shares worth $1,296,000, based on the closing price of our shares on such date of $12.96, plus a cash payment in the amount of $880,000.

 

 

 

 

 

 
104

 

  

The following table sets forth information concerning unexercised options, stock that has not vested, and equity incentive plan awards as of December 31, 2014 with respect to our executive officers.

  

   

Option Awards  

  Stock Awards

Name

 

Number of

Securities

Underlying

Unexercised

Options (#)

Exercisable

   

Number of

Securities

Underlying

Unexercised

Options (#)

Unexercisable

   

Equity

Incentive Plan

Awards:

Number of

Securities

Unexercised

Unearned

Options (#)

   

Option

Exercise

Price ($)

 

Option

Expiration Date

 

Number of

Shares or

Units of

Stock That

Have Not

Vested (#)

   

Market

Value of

Shares or

Units of

Stock

That Have

Not

Vested ($)

 

Equity Incentive

Plan Awards:

Number of

Unearned

Shares, Units or

Other Rights

That Have Not

Vested (#)

Equity Incentive

Plan Awards:

Market or

Payout Value of

Unearned

Shares, Units or

Other Rights

That Have Not

Vested ($)

Paul A.

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Novelly(a)    n/a     n/a     n/a     n/a   n/a     250,000       3,240,000   n/a n/a

Lee E. Mikles

    10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Paul G.

   

10,000

      0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

Lorenzini     10,000       0       0       10.62   4/10/17                
Sam W.     10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

  n/a     n/a   n/a n/a
Dortch(b)     10,000       0       0       10.62  

4/10/17

               

 

      15,000       15,000       0         11.34  

12/2/19

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Rose M.     10,000       0       0       12.74  

4/29/16

  n/a     n/a   n/a n/a
Sparks(b)(c)     10,000       0       0       10.62  

4/10/17

               

 

   

 15,000

      15,000       0        11.34  

12/2/19

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Paul M. Flynn (a)(d)

 

n/a

   

n/a

   

n/a

   

n/a

 

n/a

    100,000       1,296,000  

n/a

n/a

 


  (a) The company issued restricted stock awards to Messrs. Novelly and Flynn onon May 9, 2014 and September 2, 2014, respectively. Mr. Novelly’s 250,000 share award vests in three annual instlallments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the reward was $4,195,000 and will be recognized into expense equally over those three years. Mr. Flynn’s 125,000 share award, twenty percent of which vesting immediately and the remainder vesting equally over four years. The total expense for the reward was $2,136,000, with 20% recognized immediately.
     
 

(b)

Option awards vest annually over three years, expiring on December 9, 2019, and have an exercise price equal to the mean between the highest and lowest quoted sales prices for the company’s common stock as of the grant date. For a discussion of assumptions to estimate fair value, see Note 13 elsewhere herein.

 

 

(c)

Ms. Sparks became our Chief Financial Officer and treasurer effective June 1, 2013.

 

 

(d)

Mr. Flynn became our Executive vice president of business and marketing effective September 2, 2014.

 

 
105

 

 

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

 

The following table sets forth the number of options exercised by each of our executive officers in 2014, and stock awards which vested in 2014.

  

   

Option Awards

   

Stock Awards

 
    Number of Shares     Value Realized     Number of Shares     Value Realized on  
    Acquired on Exercise     on Exercise     Acquired on Vesting     Vesting  

Name

 

(#)

    ($)    

(#)

    ($)  

Paul A. Novelly

  0     0    

n/a

   

n/a

 

Lee E. Mikles

  0     0    

n/a

   

n/a

 

Paul G. Lorenzini

  0     0    

n/a

   

n/a

 

Samuel W. Dortch

  0     0    

n/a

   

n/a

 

Rose M. Sparks

  0     0    

n/a

   

n/a

 

Paul M. Flynn

  0     0     25,000(a)     348,500  

 


 

(a)

Pursuant to Mr. Flynn’s restricted stock award, 25,000 shares vested immediately. Upon issuance, 8,729 securities were withheld in payment of tax liability for a net exercise of 16,821 securities.

 

 
106

 

  

Compensation of Directors

 

We paid each of our directors $30,000 for 2014 and committee heads were paid an additional $10,000. Additionally, the compensation committee also approved the payment to our directors of $2,000 for each board and committee meeting attended in person and $1,000 for each board and committee meeting attended telephonically. We believed this was fair for services provided. No director compensation has been set at this time for the calendar year 2015.

 

The following is the compensation our directors earned for 2014.

 

                                    Change in                  
                                    Pension Value                  
    Fees                             and Non-                  
    Earned                     Non-Equity     Qualified                  
    or Paid in     Stock     Option     Incentive Plan     Deferred     All Other          
    Cash     Awards     Awards     Compensation     Compensation     Compensation          

Director

    ($)       ($)       ($)       ($)    

Earnings ($)

      ($)    

Total ($)

 

Paul A. Novelly(a)

    35,000       902,770       0       0       0       0       937,770  

Lee E. Mikles

    35,000       0       0       0       0       0       35,000  

Edwin A. Levy

    50,000       0       0       0       0       0       50,000  

Thomas R. Evans

    48,000       0       0       0       0       0       48,000  

Paul G. Lorenzini

    35,000       0       0       0       0       0       35,000  

Donald C. Bedell

    50,000       0       0       0       0       0       50,000  

Paul M. Manheim

    38,000       0       0       0       0       0       38,000  

William J. Doré

    36,000       0       0       0       0       0       36,000  

 


 

(a)

The 250,000 share restricted stock award vests in three annual instlallments on the first, second, and third anniversaries of the grant date as service to the company is fulfilled. The total expense for the reward was $4,195,000 and will be recognized into expense equally over those three years.

 

 
107

 

 

The following table sets forth information concerning unexercised options, stock awards that have not vested and equity incentive plan awards as of December 31, 2014, with respect to our directors.  

 

   

Option Awards

Stock Awards

 

Name

 

Number of

Securities

Underlying

Unexercised

Options (#)

Exercisable

   

Number of

Securities

Underlying

Unexercised

Options (#)

Unexercisable

   

Equity

Incentive

Plan Awards:

Number of

Securities

Unexercised

Unearned

Options (#)

   

Option

Exercise

Price ($)

 

Option

Expiration

Date

Number

of

Shares or
Units of

Stock

That
Have Not

Vested

Market

Value of

Shares or

Units of

Stock That

Have Not

Vested ($)

 

Equity Incentive

Plan Awards:

Number of

Unearned

Shares, Units or

Other Rights

That Have Not

Vested (#)

   

Equity

Incentive Plan

Awards:

Market or

Payout Value

of Unearned

Shares, Units

or Other

Rights That

Have Not

Vested (#)

 

Paul A. Novelly(a)

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

250,000

3,240,000

    n/a       n/a  

Lee E. Mikles(a)

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

Paul G.

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 
Lorenzini(a)     10,000                     $ 10.62   4/10/17                    

Donald C. Bedell

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

Thomas R.

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 
Evans     10,000                     $ 10.62   4/10/17                    

Edwin A. Levy

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 

Paul M.

    10,000       0       0     $ 12.74  

4/29/16

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 
Manheim     10,000                     $ 10.62   4/10/17                    

William J. Doré

    0       0       0    

n/a

 

n/a

n/a

n/a

 

n/a

   

n/a

 


 

 

(a)

These options are also included in the table set forth above regarding our executive officers.

  

None of our directors were recipients of stock awards which vested in 2014. No options were exercised in 2014. 

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

 

The members of our compensation committee during 2014 were Donald C. Bedell, William J. Doré, and Edwin A. Levy. The committee was chaired by Mr. Bedell. None of such individuals are or have been an officer or employee of the Company, nor did we enter into any transactions with such individuals during 2014 (other than the payment of directors fees and other compensation, as noted above, solely in their capacity as directors).

 

Mr. Novelly, Mr. Levy (one of our directors and a member of our compensation committee), Mr. Bedell (one of our directors and a member of our compensation committee), and Mr. Manheim (one of our directors and a member of our audit committee) are directors of World Point Terminals, Inc.; World Point Terminals, Inc. does not have a separate compensation committee.

 

Compensation Committee Report

 

The compensation committee of our board has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis set forth above with our management. Based on this review and discussions, the compensation committee recommended to our board of directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this annual report on Form 10-K.

 

Donald C. Bedell, William J. Doré, and Edwin A. Levy

 

 
108

 

  

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

 

Our board of directors adopted the Incentive Plan which was approved by our shareholders at our 2007 annual shareholder meeting on June 26, 2007. We do not have any other equity compensation plan or individual equity compensation arrangement. Under this plan, we are authorized to issue 2,670,000 shares of our common stock. The shares to be issued under the plan were registered with the SEC on a Form S-8 filed on April 29, 2008. Through December 31, 2014, we issued options to purchase 1,030,500 shares of our common stock and awarded an additional 414,800 shares to participants under the plan. The following additional information regarding this plan is as of December 31, 2014.

 

                    Securities available  
    Securities to be issued     Weighted-average     for future issuance  
    upon exercise of     exercise price of     under equity  
    outstanding options,     outstanding options,     compensation plans -  

Plan Category

 

warrants and rights

   

warrants and rights

   

excluding column (a)

 
   

(a)

   

(b)

   

(c)

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

    240,000     $ 11.77       1,224,700  

  

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners

 

As of the date of this report, 43,722,388 shares of our common stock are issued and outstanding, and we have no other securities issued and outstanding. The shares of common stock are our only voting securities issued and outstanding. The following table sets forth the number and percentage of shares of common stock owned by all persons known by us to be the beneficial owners of more than 5% of shares of our common stock as of March 1, 2014.

 

      Amount of     Percent of  
      Beneficial     Common  

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner

 

Ownership

   

Stock

 

Paul A. Novelly, 8235 Forsyth Blvd., 4th Floor, Clayton, MO 63105(a)

    17,725,100       40.5 %

Lee E. Mikles, 1486 E. Valley Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108(b)

    2,271,230       5.2 %


 

(a)

Includes 16,835,100 shares of common stock held by St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP, 375,000 shares of common stock held by Apex Holding Co., and 515,000 shares of common stock held by Mr. Novelly personally.

 

 

(b)

Includes securities are owned by the Lee E. Mikles Gift Trust dated October 6, 1999 (“Gift Trust”) as to which Mr. Mikles is the settlor of the trust, but is not a trustee or a beneficiary. Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by the Gift Trust. Includes 27,500 shares owned by the Alison L. Mikles Irrevocable Trust dated December 15, 1997 ("Alison Trust") for the benefit of Mr. Mikles daughter, as to which Mr. Mikles was the settlor of the trust, but is not a trustee or a beneficiary. Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by the Alison Trust. Also includes 15,110 shares of common stock held by Lori Mikles, the spouse of Mr. Mikles, either in her own name or an IRA account. Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by his wife.

  

 
109

 

 

Security Ownership of Management

 

The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of the date of this report by each of our directors and executive officers and the executive officers of FutureFuel Chemical Company. Unless otherwise indicated, we believe that all persons named in the table below have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares of common stock beneficially owned by them and none of such shares have been pledged as security.

 

Name of Beneficial Owner

 

Amount of Beneficial Ownership

   

Percent of Common Stock

 

Paul A. Novelly(a)

    17,725,100       40.5 %

Lee E. Mikles(b)

    2,271,230       5.2 %

Paul G. Lorenzini(c)

    719,877       1.6 %

William J. Doré

    300,000       *  

Edwin A. Levy(d)

    288,750       *  

Paul M. Flynn

    116,821       *  

Sam W. Dortch(e)

    56,654       *  

Donald C. Bedell(f)

    50,097       *  

Thomas R. Evans

    45,000       *  

Rose M. Sparks

    9,432       *  

Paul M. Manheim

    2,000       *  

All directors and executive officers

    21,584,961       49.4 %
       

  

        *      Less than 1%

 

 

(a)

Includes 16,835,100 shares of common stock held by St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP, 375,000 shares of common stock held by Apex Holding Co., and 515,000 shares of common stock held by Mr. Novelly personally. Mr. Novelly is the chief executive officer of both named entities and thereby has voting and investment power over such shares, but he disclaims beneficial ownership except to the extent of a minor pecuniary interest.

 

 

(b)

Includes 2,075,200 shares of common stock held by the Lee E. Mikles Revocable Trust dated March 26, 1996, 5,000 shares held by Mr. Mikles’ IRA account, and 25,000 shares held by an SEP. Also includes 120,000 shares of common stock held by the Lee E. Mikles Gift Trust dated October 6, 1999, as to which Mr. Mikles is the settlor of the trust, but is not a trustee or a beneficiary. Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by the Gift Trust. Also includes 27,500 shares held by the Alison L. Mikles Irrevocable Trust. Miss Mikles is the minor child of Mr. Mikles and lives in Mr. Mikles’ household. However, Mr. Mikles is not the trustee or beneficiary of such trust and disclaims beneficial ownership. Also includes 15,110 shares of common stock held by Lori Mikles, the spouse of Mr. Mikles, either in her own name or an IRA account. Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares owned by his wife. Also includes 1,000 shares held for the benefit of Mr. Mikles daughter and 11,100 shares held for the benefit of Mr. Mikles sons. All children are minors and live in Mr. Mikles’ household, but Mr. Mikles disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares.

 

 

(c)

Includes 55,000 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Lorenzini’s spouse; Mr. Lorenzini disclaims beneficial ownership thereof. Includes 5,000 shares owned by the Lorenzini Friends and Family Gift Trust, a trust established by Mr. Lorenzini and his spouse, as to which Mr. Lorenzini and his spouse are the trustees but not the beneficiaries; Mr. Lorenzini disclaims any beneficial interest in the shares of our common stock held by this trust.

 

 

(d)

Does not include 1,275 shares of our common stock owned by The Edwin A. Levy Charitable Foundation, Inc., a New York not-for-profit corporation as to which Mr. Levy is a founder and director but not a beneficiary. Mr. Levy disclaims beneficial ownership of shares owned by the Foundation.

 

 

(e)

Includes 49,247 shares of common stock held in an IRA established by Mr. Dortch.

 

 

(f)

Includes 2,300 shares of common stock owned by the Alexandra Nicole Bedell Trust, a trust established by Mr. Bedell for his granddaughter as to which Mr. Bedell serves as trustee but holds no pecuniary interest; Mr. Bedell disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares of our common stock held by this trust. Includes 2,300 shares of common stock owned by the Ashlyn Tate Bedell Trust, a trust established by Mr. Bedell for his granddaughter as to which Mr. Bedell serves as trustee but holds no pecuniary interest; Mr. Bedell disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares of our common stock held by this trust. Includes 2,300 shares of common stock owned by the Hailey Bedell Trust, a trust established by Mr. Bedell for his granddaughter as to which Mr. Bedell serves as trustee but holds no pecuniary interest; Mr. Bedell disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares of our common stock held by this trust. Also includes 43,197 shares of our common stock held by the Africa Exempt Trust, of which Mr. Bedell is a beneficiary.

 

 
110

 

  

Founding Shares Owned by the Founding Shareholders

 

Prior to our July 2006 offering, there were 5,625,000 shares of our common stock (our founding shares) issued to our founding shareholder.

 

Change in Control

 

We are not aware of any arrangement the operation of which may at a date subsequent to the date of this report result in a change of control of our company.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

 

Transactions with Related Persons

 

From time to time, we may sell to Apex Oil Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates biofuels (including biodiesel) produced by us, and Apex Oil Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates may sell to us, or we may sell to them, diesel fuel, gasoline, natural gas, and other petroleum products in our biofuels business. Such sales will be at then posted prices for comparable products plus or minus applicable geographical differentials. The dollar amounts of such transactions and other related party transactions are detailed in footnote 19 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.

 

Review, Approval, or Ratification of Transactions with Related Persons

 

Any transaction in which we (or one of our subsidiaries) are a participant, the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or 1% of our net income, total assets, or total capital, and in which any party related to us has or will have a direct or indirect material interest must be approved by a majority of the disinterested members of our board of directors as fair to us and our shareholders. This policy was adopted by our board on January 8, 2007 and amended on February 2, 2011, and can be found through the “Investor Relations - Corporate Governance” section of our internet website (http://www.FutureFuelCorporation.com). All of the agreements described above in this Item 13 have been approved by a majority of the disinterested members of our board of directors. Subsequent to year end, a majority of the disinterested members of our board also ratified and approved certain related party transactions which previously had been misclassified, as specified in footnote 2 to our consolidated financial statements.

 

In addition, we adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics which sets forth legal and ethical standards of conduct for our directors, officers, and employees and the directors, officers, and employees of our subsidiaries. This Code is designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote: (i) honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships; (ii) full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that we file with, or submit to, the SEC and in other public communications made by us; (iii) compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules, and regulations; (iv) the prompt internal reporting of violations of this Code to appropriate persons identified in this Code; and (v) accountability for adherence to this Code. This Code was adopted by our board on November 30, 2005 and was amended on February 3, 2011, is in writing, and can be found through the “Investor Relations - Corporate Governance” section of our internet website (http://www.FutureFuelCorporation.com). Each of the transactions described above (under the caption “Transactions with Related Persons”) was undertaken in compliance with our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and approved by a majority of the disinterested members of our board of directors.

 

 
111

 

  

Director Independence

 

The SEC has promulgated Rule 10A-3, which sets forth the independence requirements for members of an audit committee. The following members of our board of directors are independent under the SEC’s definitions of independence:

 

Edwin A. Levy

Thomas R. Evans

William J. Doré

Donald C. Bedell

Paul M. Manheim

 

In addition, each member of our board of directors’ compensation, audit, and nominating/corporate governance committees are comprised of directors who are independent under such definitions.

 

  

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

 

Audit Fees

 

During fiscal 2014 and 2013, we incurred $260,000 and $250,000, respectively for audit and financial statement review services from RubinBrown LLP.

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

During fiscal 2014 and 2013, we incurred $10,836 and $11,050, respectively, for employee benefit plan audits and comfort letter procedures from RubinBrown LLP.

 

Tax Fees

 

During fiscal 2014 and 2013, we incurred fees of $27,000 and $24,200, respectively, for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning services from RubinBrown LLP.

 

All Other Fees

 

We did not incur any other fees for other services from RubinBrown LLP during fiscal 2014 or 2013.

 

Pre-Approval Policies

 

Our audit committee approves the engagement of our independent auditors prior to their rendering audit or non-audit services and sets their compensation. Pursuant to SEC regulations, our audit committee approves all fees payable to the independent auditors for all routine and non-routine services provided. Our audit committee considers and approves the budget for the annual audit and financial statement review services prior to the initiation of the work. Non-routine services in the ordinary course of business which are not prohibited under SEC regulation, such as tax planning, tax compliance, and other services generally are pre-approved on a case-by-case basis.

 

Percentage of Hours Expended

 

None of the hours expended on RubinBrown LLP’s engagement to audit our financial statements for 2014 were attributed to work performed by persons who were not RubinBrown LLP’s full-time, permanent employees.

 

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

 

This report, and the documents incorporated by reference into this report, contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements deal with our current plans, intentions, beliefs, and expectations, and statements of future economic performance. Statements containing such terms as “believe,” “do not believe,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” and other phrases of similar meaning are considered to contain uncertainty and are forward-looking statements. In addition, from time to time we or our representatives have made or will make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. Furthermore, such forward-looking statements may be included in various filings that we make with the SEC, or in press releases, or in oral statements made by or with the approval of one of our authorized executive officers.

 

 
112

 

 

These forward-looking statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in these forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, those set forth under the headings “Risk Factors” beginning at page 18 and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” beginning at page 34 and in our future filings made with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained in this report which reflect our management’s opinions only as of their respective dates. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to revise or publicly release the results of any revisions to forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties described in this report and in subsequent filings with the SEC are not the only ones we face. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict which will arise. There may be additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial to our business. In addition, we cannot assess the impact of each factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. If any such risks occur, our business, operating results, liquidity, and financial condition could be materially affected in an adverse manner. You should consult any additional disclosures we have made or will make in our reports to the SEC on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and any amendments thereto. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained in this report.

 

 
113

 

  

Part IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

 

(a) List separately all financial statements filed as part of this report.

 

 

1.

FutureFuel Corp.’s audited consolidated Balance Sheets as at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the related consolidated Statements of Operations, Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity, and Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012.

 

(b)

Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

 

 

3.1.

Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 3.3.f to Amendment No. 2 to Form 10 filed February 29, 2008)

 

 

3.2.

FutureFuel Corp.’s Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 3.2.a to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

4.1.

Registration Rights Agreement dated July 12, 2006 among FutureFuel Corp., St. Albans Global Management, Limited Partnership, LLLP, Lee E. Mikles as Trustee of the Lee E. Mikles Gift Trust dated October 6, 1999, Lee E. Mikles as Trustee of the Lee E. Mikles Revocable Trust dated March 26, 1996, Douglas D. Hommert as Trustee of the Douglas D. Hommert Revocable Trust, Edwin A. Levy, Joe C. Leach, Mark R. Miller, RAS LLC, Edwin L. Wahl, Jeffery H. Call and Ken Fenton (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 4.5 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.1.

Registrar Agreement dated June 27, 2008 between FutureFuel Corp. and Computershare Investor Services (Channel Islands) Limited (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.2 to Form 10-K filed March 16, 2009)

 

 

10.2.

Storage and Thruput Agreement dated November 1, 2006 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Center Point Terminal Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10. to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.3.

Commodity Trading Advisor Agreement dated November 1, 2006 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Apex Oil Company, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.5 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.4.

Service Agreement dated November 1, 2006 between FutureFuel Corp. and Pinnacle Consulting, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.6 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.5.

Purchase Agreement made and entered into as of April 1, 2008 between The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company, The Procter & Gamble Distributing LLC and Procter & Gamble International Operations SA, as buyer, and FutureFuel Chemical Company, as seller (portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-Q filed August 14, 2008)

 

 

10.6.

Custom Manufacturing Agreement dated September 1, 1992 between Tomen Corporation and Eastman Kodak Company, as amended October 2, 1992, February 1, 1993, March 19, 1993, September 28, 1995, October 30, 1998, May 24, 1999, November 10, 1999, December 12, 2000 and July 25, 2006 (portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.8 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.7.

Conversion Agreement dated October 1, 1993 between Tomen Corporation and Eastman Chemical Company, as amended March 7, 1994, May 13, 1994, May 17, 1994, June 14, 1994, July 19, 1994, August 17, 1994, February 10, 1995, May 25, 1995, October 15, 1997, March 27, 1998, June 23, 1998, September 29, 1998, October 30, 1998, November 10, 1999 and July 25, 2006 (portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.9 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

  

 
114

 

 

 

10.8.

Credit Agreement dated March 14, 2007 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Regions Bank (portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.10 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.9.

Revolving Credit Promissory Note dated March 14, 2007 executed by FutureFuel Chemical Company and payable to the order of Regions Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.11 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.10.

Security Agreement -Accounts and Inventory dated March 14, 2007 executed by FutureFuel Chemical Company in favor of Regions Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.12 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.11.

Continuing Unlimited Guaranty Agreement dated March 14, 2007 executed by FutureFuel Corp. in favor of Regions Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.13 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.12.

Second Modification Agreement dated March 14, 2010 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Regions Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.12 to Form 10-K filed March 16, 2011)

 

 

10.13.

Time Sharing Agreement dated April 18, 2007 between Apex Oil Company, Inc. and FutureFuel Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.15 to Form 10 filed April 24, 2007)

 

 

10.14.

Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.16 to Amendment No. 1 to Form 10 filed June 26, 2007)

 

 

10.15.

Assistance Agreement effective June 16, 2010 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and the U.S. Department of Energy/National Energy Technology Laboratory (portions of exhibit omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.15 to Form 10-K filed March 16, 2011)

 

 

10.16

At-The-Market Equity Offering Sales Agreement, dated May 10, 2011, between FutureFuel Corp. and Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to Form 8-K filed May 10, 2011)

 

 

10.17

Third Amendment to the Purchase Agreement made and entered into as of August 28, 2012 between The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company, The Procter & Gamble Distributing LLC, Procter & Gamble Home Products Limited and Procter & Gamble International Operations SA, as buyer, and FutureFuel Chemical Company, as seller (portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q filed November 8, 2012)

 

 

10.18

Third Modification Agreement dated June 30, 2013 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Regions Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Form 10-Q filed August 8, 2013)

 

 

10.19.1

Employment Agreement dated July 2, 2014 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Paul M. Flynn (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19.1 to Form 10-Q filed November 6, 2014)

 

 

10.19.2

Amendment to Employment Agreement dated July 2, 2014 between FutureFuel Chemical Company and Paul M. Flynn (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19.2 to Form 10-Q filed November 6, 2014)

 

 

11.

Statement re Computation of per Share Earnings

 

 

14.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 14 to Form 10-K filed March 16, 2011)

 

 

21.

Subsidiaries of FutureFuel Corp.

 

 

22.

Published report regarding matters submitted to vote of security holders (incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed July 19, 2011)

 

 

23.

Consent of RubinBrown LLP

 

 

31(a).

Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) Certification of chief executive officer

  

 
115

 

 

 

31(b).

Rule 13a-15(e)/15d-15(e) Certification of principal financial officer

 

 

32.

Section 1350 Certification of chief executive officer and principal financial officer

 

 

101

Interactive Data Files**

 

 

**

Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files in Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

  

 
116

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

FUTUREFUEL CORP.

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Rose M. Sparks                         

 

Rose M. Sparks, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Financial Officer

 

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

 

/s/ Paul A. Novelly

 

Paul A. Novelly, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 

 

By:

/s/ Rose M. Sparks                          

Rose M. Sparks, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Financial Officer 

 

/s/ Lee E. Mikles                              

Lee. E. Mikles, Director

 

/s/ Paul G. Lorenzini                         

Paul G. Lorenzini, Director and Chief Operating Officer 

 

/s/ Edwin A. Levy

Edwin A. Levy, Director 

 

/s/ Thomas R. Evans

 

Thomas R. Evans, Director 

 

/s/ William J. Doré

 

William J. Doré, Director 

 

/s/ Donald C. Bedell

 

Donald C. Bedell, Director 

 

/s/ Paul M. Manheim

 

Paul M. Manheim, Director

 

Date: March 12, 2015