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SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS LLC - Quarter Report: 2003 March (Form 10-Q)

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 

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

 

For the Quarterly period ended March 31, 2003

 

COMMISSION FILE NO. 333-75804

 


 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

South Dakota

 

46-0462968

(State of Other Jurisdiction of

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Incorporation or Organization)

 

Identification No.)

 

100 Caspian Avenue, Post Office Box 500, Volga, South Dakota 57071
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 

(605) 627-9240
(Registrant’s Telephone Number)

 


 

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 ý   No o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2).  Yes o   No ý

 

APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY
PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PRECEDING FIVE YEARS

 

Check whether the registrant filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.  Yes o   No o

 

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS

 

State the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common equity, as of the latest practicable date:

 

On May 13, 2003, the registrant had 14,129,250 capital units outstanding.

 

 



 

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.  Financial Statements

 

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This report contains forward-looking statements involving future events, future business and other conditions, our future performance, and our expected operations.  These statements are based on management’s beliefs and expectations and on information currently available to management. Forward-looking statements may include statements which use words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “predict,” “hope,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “future,” “potential,” or the negatives of these words, and all similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties.  Our actual results, actual business, or other conditions may differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements and we are not under any duty to update the forward-looking statements contained in this report. We cannot guarantee future results or performance, or what future business conditions will be like. We caution you not to put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report.

 

 

2



 

 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC
AND SUBSIDIARY

 

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MARCH 31, 2003 AND 2002

 

 

 



 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC
AND SUBSIDIARY

 

Table of Contents

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2003 (unaudited), March 31, 2002 (unaudited), and December 31, 2002

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited)

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

 

 

 


 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

 


 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2002*

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

423,315

 

$

5,025,916

 

$

11,170

 

Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible accounts - March 31, 2003 - $274,330, March 31, 2002 - $241,513, December 31, 2002 - $273,331

 

16,104,034

 

10,076,354

 

14,695,709

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inventories

 

18,061,014

 

6,465,398

 

13,113,098

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Margin deposits

 

314,980

 

 

927,339

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prepaid expenses

 

410,825

 

255,125

 

482,977

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets held for sale - Building

 

2,322,561

 

 

2,307,819

 

Total current assets

 

37,636,729

 

21,822,793

 

31,538,112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

49,512,064

 

45,724,215

 

49,172,714

 

Less accumulated depreciation

 

(16,216,971

)

(13,330,660

)

(15,411,529

)

 

 

33,295,093

 

32,393,555

 

33,761,185

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments

 

3,970,102

 

5,038,208

 

4,928,261

 

Patents

 

209,649

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

7,447,699

 

 

 

Loan fees, net of amortization

 

19,308

 

17,588

 

57,338

 

 

 

11,646,758

 

5,055,796

 

4,985,599

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

82,578,580

 

$

59,272,144

 

$

70,284,896

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excess of outstanding checks over bank balance

 

$

3,513,780

 

$

3,555,501

 

$

3,603,838

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

1,504,373

 

223,820

 

101,472

 

Note Payable - Seasonal loan

 

7,545,761

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

807,088

 

629,432

 

639,587

 

Accrued commodity purchases

 

12,081,134

 

12,278,200

 

20,150,385

 

Accrued expenses

 

2,006,985

 

1,795,834

 

1,628,022

 

Accrued interest

 

74,485

 

2,836

 

51,476

 

Total current liabilities

 

27,533,606

 

18,485,623

 

26,174,780

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, less current maturities

 

21,384,817

 

5,312,844

 

10,143,459

 

Deferred compensation

 

98,623

 

70,000

 

91,064

 

 

 

21,483,440

 

5,382,844

 

10,234,523

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINORITY INTEREST IN CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY

 

1,406,637

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MEMBERS’  EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Class A units, no par value 14,129,250 units issued and outstanding (March 31, 2002 has been restated-see Note 1)

 

32,154,897

 

35,403,677

 

33,875,593

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

82,578,580

 

$

59,272,144

 

$

70,284,896

 

*Derived from audited financial statements

 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1



 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

FOR THE THREE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 2003 AND 2002

 


 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET REVENUE

 

$

43,933,663

 

$

33,314,753

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COST OF REVENUE

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of product sold

 

35,881,208

 

25,142,846

 

Production

 

3,652,345

 

2,600,417

 

Freight and rail

 

3,422,608

 

2,850,484

 

Brokerage fees

 

65,649

 

54,920

 

Total cost of revenue

 

43,021,810

 

30,648,667

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GROSS PROFIT

 

911,853

 

2,666,086

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

 

 

 

 

 

Administration

 

867,764

 

760,256

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING PROFIT

 

44,089

 

1,905,830

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

(208,622

)

(86,110

)

Other non-operating income

 

789,511

 

655,833

 

Patronage dividend income

 

97,975

 

146,999

 

Total other income (expense)

 

678,864

 

716,722

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCOME BEFORE MINORITY INTEREST IN NET
LOSS OF SUBSIDIARY

 

722,953

 

2,622,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINORITY INTEREST IN NET LOSS OF SUBSIDIARY

 

96,177

 

 

NET INCOME

 

$

819,130

 

$

2,622,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC AND DILUTED
EARNINGS PER CAPITAL UNIT

 

$

0.06

 

$

0.19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF
UNITS OUTSTANDING
FOR CALCULATION OF BASIC AND
DILUTED EARNINGS PER CAPITAL UNIT

 

14,129,250

 

14,129,250

 

 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

2



 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

FOR THE THREE-MONTH PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 2003 AND 2002

 


 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

819,130

 

$

2,622,552

 

Charges and credits to net income not affecting cash:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

755,609

 

643,871

 

Amortization

 

11,322

 

1,015

 

Non-cash patronage dividends

 

(68,583

)

(35,900

)

Loss on retirement of asset

 

494

 

 

Minority interest in net loss of subsidiary

 

(96,177

)

 

 

Change in assets and liabilities

 

(13,962,963

)

6,085,567

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET CASH (USED FOR) FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

(12,541,168

)

9,317,105

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of patents

 

(12,579

)

 

Cash patronage received

 

56,133

 

 

Purchase of investments

 

(26,686

)

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

(204,476

)

(1,144,589

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET CASH (USED FOR) INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

(187,608

)

(1,144,589

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from members’ investment transactions

 

 

1,400

 

Distributions to members

 

(2,539,827

)

 

Proceeds from note payable - seasonal loan

 

7,545,761

 

 

 

Proceeds from long-term debt

 

8,325,380

 

 

Principal payments on long-term debt

 

(190,393

)

(5,163,257

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET CASH FROM (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

13,140,921

 

(5,161,857

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

412,145

 

3,010,659

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD

 

11,170

 

2,015,257

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD

 

$

423,315

 

$

5,025,916

 

 

(continued on next page)

 

3



 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest

 

$

179,929

 

$

122,951

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

$

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE OF NON CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt incurred to acquire common stock

 

$

4,050,000

 

 

 

 

See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

4



 

SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

AND SUBSIDIARY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 


 

NOTE 1 - PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Organization

 

On October 12, 2001, Soybean Processors, LLC (the Company) was formed.  The initial member of the LLC was the South Dakota Soybean Processors Cooperative (the Cooperative).  The board of directors of the Cooperative unanimously approved a plan of reorganization related to an exchange whereby the LLC would acquire the assets and liabilities of the Cooperative.  The reorganization required the approval of 75% of the members of the Cooperative who voted on the proposal.  On June 20, 2002, the members of the South Dakota Soybean Processors Cooperative duly approved the reorganization of the Cooperative into a limited liability company, which became effective on July 1, 2002.  Effective July 1, 2002, the LLC acquired the assets and liabilities of the Cooperative. The transaction was an exchange of interests whereby the assets and liabilities of the Cooperative were transferred for capital units of Soybean Processors, LLC.  For financial statement purposes, no gain or loss was recorded as a result of the exchange transaction. For income tax purposes, the difference between the tax basis and the fair market value of the assets resulted in an income tax liability.

 

As a result of the exchange, the Cooperative was dissolved on July 1, 2002, and the LLC’s capital units were distributed to the members of the Cooperative at a rate of one capital unit of the LLC for each share of equity stock of the Cooperative.  In connection with the reorganization, the LLC changed its name to South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC.  A minimum of 2,500 capital units is required for ownership of the LLC.  Such units will be subject to certain transfer restrictions.  The LLC will also retain the right to redeem the units at $.20 per unit in the event a member attempts to dispose of the units in a manner not in conformity with the Operating Agreement, if a member becomes a holder of less than 2,500 units, becomes an owner (directly or indirectly) of more than 1.5% of the issued and outstanding capital units or becomes a bankrupt member.  The Operating Agreement of the LLC also includes provisions whereby cash equal to a minimum of 30% of net income will be distributed to unit holders subject to certain limitations.  These limitations include a minimum net income of $500,000, restrictions imposed by debt and credit instruments or as restricted by law in the event of insolvency.

 

In connection with the reorganization, the delivery of soybeans under the previous member delivery agreements is no longer required as an obligation of membership.  Earnings, losses and cash distributions are allocated to members based on their percentage of ownership in the LLC.

 

The Company owns 58% of Urethane Soy Systems Company (USSC).  USSC is the manufacturer and patent holder of SoyOylâ, a polyol made from soybean oil.

 

Basis of presentation

 

The financial statements as of and for the periods ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 reflect, in the opinion of management of South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC and USSC, all normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the financial position and results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented.  The financial statements as of and for the three-month period ended March 31, 2003 include the financial data for the Company and its majority-owned subsidiary, USSC.  The results of operations and cash flows for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year due in part to the seasonal nature of some of the Company’s businesses.  The consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2002 has been derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiary.  The effects of all significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

 

(continued on next page)

 

 

5



 

These statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2002, included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 27, 2003.

 

As a result of the reorganization mentioned above, the financial statements of the prior periods have been restated to reflect the comparative basis of the Company versus the Cooperative.

 

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

 

The Company does not amortize goodwill.  The Company uses an impairment approach to account for goodwill.  Annually, the Company compares the fair value of goodwill to its carrying value.  If the fair value of the goodwill exceeds its carrying value, the carrying value does not change.  However, if the Company determines that the carrying value of the goodwill exceeds its fair value, the goodwill is written down to its fair value.  The Company amortizes intangible assets with definite lives using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.  The Company’s only intangible assets with definite lives are patents which are amortized over a 20 year period.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In January 2003, the FASB issued FIN No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.”  FIN No. 46 clarifies the application of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, “Consolidated Financial Statements,” to certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or in which equity investors do not bear the residual economic risks.  The interpretation applies to variable interest entities (“VIE”) created after January 31, 2003, and the VIEs in which an enterprise obtains an interest after that date.  It applies in the fiscal year or interim period beginning after June 15, 2003, to VIEs in which an enterprise holds a variable interest that was acquired before February 1, 2003.

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has issued Statement No. 149, Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.  The Statement amends and clarifies accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities under Statement 133.  Management is reviewing this pronouncement to determine if implementation will have an effect on the Company’s financial statements.

 

(continued on next page)

 

6



 

NOTE 2 - INVENTORIES

 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2002

 

Finished goods:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soy processing

 

$

11,123,237

 

$

2,815,206

 

$

9,550,460

 

Refined Oil

 

684,368

 

 

496,198

 

Polyurethane

 

37,091

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

26,609

 

Total

 

11,844,696

 

2,815,206

 

10,073,267

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Raw materials:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soy processing

 

6,136,921

 

3,426,154

 

2,935,400

 

Refined Oil

 

27,261

 

 

45,262

 

Polyurethane

 

2,216

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

106,774

 

9,424

 

Total

 

6,166,398

 

3,532,928

 

2,990,086

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplies & Miscellaneous

 

49,920

 

117,264

 

49,745

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Totals

 

$

18,061,014

 

$

6,465,398

 

$

13,113,098

 

 

Commodity inventories are valued at estimated market value, which approximates net realizable value. In addition, futures and option contracts are marked to market through cost of revenues, with unrealized gains and losses recorded in the above inventory amounts. Supplies and miscellaneous inventories are stated at lower of cost, using the average cost method, or market.

 

NOTE 3 - ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

 

The Company has entered into a letter of understanding with Minnesota Soybean Processors (MnSP) regarding the terms and conditions of the Company’s investment in a soybean oil storage facility located in Brewster, MN. The Company will own and operate the facility until MnSP commences its planned principal operations. Upon commencement of MnSP’s operations, the Company will transfer the facility to MnSP for consideration equal to the original cost of construction plus the cost of any improvements to the facility.

 

(continued on next page)

 

7



 

NOTE 4 - GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

On January 1, 2003, the Company acquired an additional 54% interest in the outstanding common stock of USSC to bring its total ownership interest to 58%. The results of USSC’s operations have been included in the financial statements since that date. The Company believes that the acquisition of a controlling interest in USSC will allow it to more effectively market and expand applications for USSC’s products.

 

The aggregate purchase price for the 54% interest was $8,576,686. The Company had previously acquired a 4% interest for $1,000,000. In preparing consolidated financial statements, the Company assigned the total consideration paid for the USSC stock to USSC’s assets and liabilities. This allocation resulted in an assignment of $7,447,699 to goodwill. None of the goodwill recognized for financial reporting purposes is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

 

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

 

 

Current assets

 

$

85,742

 

Property and equipment

 

255,894

 

Goodwill

 

7,447,699

 

Total assets acquired

 

$

7,789,335

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

1,054,906

 

Long-term debt

 

155,928

 

Total liabilities assumed

 

1,210,834

 

Net assets acquired

 

$

6,578,501

 

 

The Company has a note payable to former USSC shareholders of $4,050,000.  This obligation is payable in an installment of $1,377,000 in October 2003 and in three annual installments of $891,000 each October  thereafter.  The payments are made without interest.  It was not considered necessary to impute interest on the payments due to the immateriality of the imputed interest amounts.

 

The Company made a payment of  $1,125,000 in January 2003 to USSC in connection with the issuance of new common shares.  The Company has a remaining commitment to USSC to make future quarterly payments beginning in April 2003 and ending in 2005.  This future commitment was taken into consideration in determining the total purchase price for the 54% interest in USSC.

 

The following table provides information regarding the Company’s other intangible assets:

 

 

 

March 31, 2003

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carrying

 

Accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

Amount

 

Amortization

 

Net

 

Intangible assets with finite lives:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Patents

 

$

219,938

 

$

(10,289

)

$

209,649

 

 

(continued on next page)

 

8



 

 

The following table provides a summary of acquisitions of intangible assets during the quarter ended March 31, 2003.  The acquisition of patents include those of USSC:

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average

 

 

 

Acquistion Cost

 

Amortization Period

 

Intagible assets with finite lives:

 

 

 

 

 

Patents

 

$

219,938

 

20 years

 

 

Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $10,127 in the first quarter of 2003, compared with $0 in the same period last year.  Total estimated amortization expense for 2003 and the five succeeding fiscal years is estimated to be $11,000 annually.

 

NOTE 5 - NOTE PAYABLE — SEASONAL LOAN

 

The Company has entered into a revolving credit agreement with CoBank, which expires April 1, 2005.  The purpose of the credit agreement is to finance the inventory and accounts receivable of the Company.  The Company may borrow up to $6,000,000 between June 1 and September 30 and up to $10,000,000 between October 1 and May 31.  Interest is at a variable rate (3.53% at March 31, 2003).  There were advances of $7,545,761 outstanding as of March 31, 2003.  There were no advances outstanding at March 31, 2002 and December 31, 2002.

 

Advances on the revolving credit agreement are limited based upon inventory and accounts receivable, net of soybean accounts payable.

 

(continued on next page)

 

9



 

NOTE 6 - LONG-TERM DEBT

 

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2002

 

Revolving term loan from CoBank, interest at variable rates (3.53% at March 31, 2003), secured by substantially all property and equipment.
Loan matures 3/20/2011.

 

$18,200,000

 

$4,981,034

 

$9,874,620

 

Note payable to former USSC shareholders, interest at 0%, secured by USSC stock. 
Note matures on 10/31/2006.

 

4,050,000

 

 

 

Note payable to South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development, due in monthly principal and interest installments of $990, at 5% secured by a second lien on property and equipment.
Note matures 12/1/2002.

 

 

123,771

 

 

Note payable to Brookings County Railroad Authority, due in semi-annual principal and interest installments of $36,885 at 5% secured by railroad track assets.
Note matures 9/1/2007.

 

293,998

 

350,924

 

322,812

 

Contract payable to City of Volga, due in monthly installments of $3,229 at 0%.  Contract matures 12/31/2003.

 

29,058

 

67,803

 

38,745 .

 

Note payable to Butler Machinery Company, due in annual principal payments of $4,377 at 0% starting 10/31/02
Note matures 10/31/2004.

 

8,754

 

13,132

 

8,754

 

Note payable to Capital One, due in monthly principal and interest installments of $460, at 7.5%. Unsecured. 
Note matures 4/15/2009.

 

26,880

 

 

 

Note payable to Alpha Labs, currently due, carries no interest and is secured by the assets purchased.

 

30,500

 

 

 

 

 

Note payable issued February 13, 2002 for $250,000, 15.0% interest with payments beginning on the last day of the second quarter following the closing date and paid in quarterly installments thereafter on the last day of the applicable month. Principal is payable on the third anniversary date or upon demand in the event of default. No prepayment of principal is allowed prior to maturity.

 

250,000

 

 

 

 

 

22,889,190

 

5,536,664

 

10,244,931

 

Less current maturities

 

(1,504,373

)

(223,820

)

(101,472

)

Totals

 

$21,384,817

 

$5,312,844

 

$10,143,459

 

 

The Company entered into an agreement as of February 26, 2002 with CoBank to amend and restate its Master

 

(continued on next page)

 

10



 

Loan Agreement (MLA).  Under the terms and conditions of the MLA, CoBank agrees to make loans to the Company up to $18,200,000 as of August 1, 2002 and up to $21,000,000 as of May 1, 2003.  Beginning September 2003 the commitment decreases in scheduled periodic increments of $1,300,000 through March 2011.

 

The MLA contains financial covenants related to the maintenance of working capital and achieving debt service quotients among affirmative and negative covenants.

 

It is estimated that the minimum principal payments on long-term debt obligations will be as follows:

 

For the twelve months ending March 31:

 

 

 

2004

 

$1,504,373

 

2005

 

3,812,124

 

2006

 

3,561,230

 

2007

 

3,564,899

 

2008

 

2,658,482

 

Thereafter

 

7,788,082

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$22,889,190

 

 

NOTE 7 - EARNINGS PER CAPITAL UNIT

 

The ownership structure of the Company is made up of Class A capital units.  Earnings per capital unit are calculated based on the number of Class A capital units held.

 

For purposes of calculating basic earnings per capital unit, capital units issued by the Company are considered outstanding on the effective date of issuance.  During the three-month periods ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, there were 14,129,250 Class A capital units outstanding.

 

NOTE 8 - COMMITMENTS

 

During August 2000, the Company entered into an agreement with Minnesota Soybean Processors Cooperative  (MnSP) for certain services and management of a proposed soybean processing plant.  The agreement provides the Company a fee of 10% of the equity raised by MnSP for the Company’s services related to business planning and construction management services.  The Company has agreed to reinvest a minimum of 80% of the fees earned from MnSP in equity units of MnSP.  There were fees earned under this arrangement during the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 of $375,408 and $0, respectively.

 

In addition, the Company has agreed to provide management and marketing services to MnSP on a cost sharing basis.  The agreement is for automatically renewing five-year periods beginning sixty days before the plant is scheduled to begin operations.

 

In addition, the Company is making up to $1 million in interest free loans backed by retained local earnings available for members of the Company who invest in MnSP.

 

(continued on next page)

 

11



 

NOTE 9 - SEGMENT REPORTING

 

The Company organizes its business units into four reportable segments: soybean processing, crude oil refining, polyurethane and other.  Separate management of each segment is required because each segment is subject to different marketing, production, and technology strategies.  The soybean processing segment purchases soybeans and further processes them into primarily three products: soybean meal, crude soybean oil, and soybean hulls.  The oil refining segment further refines oil for sale in commercial applications.  The polyurethane segment processes oil into a bio-based polyurethane product which is used in foam applications.  The other segment captures items not related to soybean processing, oil refining and polyurethane production. The segments’ accounting policies are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting polices.  Market prices are used to report intersegment sales.

 

Segment information for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 are as follows:

 

 

 

Soybean

 

Oil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Processing

 

Refining

 

Polyurethane

 

Other

 

Total

 

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2003:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales to external customers

 

$

28,513,027

 

$

14,994,384

 

$

50,844

 

$

375,408

 

$

43,933,663

 

Interest expense

 

(55,036

)

(87,858

)

(65,728

)

 

(208,622

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

650,330

 

89,017

 

27,584

 

 

766,931

 

Segment profit (loss)

 

622,579

 

198,356

 

(265,720

)

263,915

 

819,130

 

Minority Interest (loss)

 

 

 

(96,179

)

 

(96,179

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Segment assets

 

59,940,682

 

10,462,731

 

8,573,607

 

3,601,560

 

82,578,580

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expenditures for segment assets

 

126,549

 

62,552

 

12,551

 

2,824

 

204,476

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2002:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales to external customers

 

$

33,312,425

 

$

 

$

2,328

 

$

 

$

33,314,753

 

Interest expense

 

(86,110

)

 

 

 

(86,110

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

635,345

 

 

9,541

 

 

644,886

 

Segment profit (loss)

 

2,623,259

 

 

(707

)

 

2,622,552

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Segment assets

 

57,133,949

 

 

 

2,138,195

 

59,272,144

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expenditures for segment assets

 

626,882

 

517,707

 

 

 

1,144,589

 

 

 

 

12



 

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

 

You should read the following discussion along with our financial statements, the notes to our financial statements included elsewhere in this report and our audited financial statements for our most recently completed fiscal year included in our annual report on Form 10-Q. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Our actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information.”

 

Company Profile

 

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC (SDSP) owns and operates an 80,000 bushel per day soybean processing plant in Volga, South Dakota that began producing crude soybean oil, soybean meal, and soybean hulls in late 1996. Since that time, we have expanded our business to include the development of new product lines and management services. In August 2002, we began refining crude soybean oil into a product known as “R&B”, refined and bleached oil, and on January 3, 2003, we became the majority owner of Urethane Soy Systems Company, Inc. (USSC). In compliance with financial accounting standards, we are reporting on four segments in the following discussion: Soy Processing, Oil Refining, Polyurethanes, and Other business operations that do not fit under one of the first three segments.

SDSP was originally formed as a South Dakota cooperative and then reorganized into a South Dakota limited liability company effective July 1, 2002. The following discussion relates to financial data of South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC and the predecessor cooperative for the periods indicated. Historically, the cooperative’s fiscal year end had been August 31; however, we converted to a December 31 fiscal year end as part of the reorganization. The historical financial information discussed below includes audited and unaudited financial data of our predecessor cooperative prior to the effectiveness of the reorganization on July 1, 2002. Periods prior to the reorganization have been restated to a December 31 year end, and the information provided for the quarter ended March 2003 include the consolidated information for SDSP and USSC. The acquisition was not considered substantial, and accordingly we have not provided pro forma information for prior periods on a restated basis.

 

The Soybean Processing segment processes whole soybeans into soybean meal, crude soybean oil, and soybean hulls. The meal is sold primarily to customers in the northeastern United States and Western Canada. The crude oil is sold primarily to the Oil Refining segment for further processing into R&B oil, and some to customers for use in animal feed. The soybean hulls are sold primarily to the local dairy market. The hulls may be sold in either loose form, or we can pellet the hulls to accomplish savings on freight.

 

The Oil Refining segment processes the crude soybean oil through a series of filters and other stages to produce refined and bleached oil. The R&B oil is then sold to a strategic partner in accordance with our supply agreement, and delivered to one of our customer’s facilities. It is then further processed and packaged for human consumption. Anticipated sales of R&B oil are expected to average approximately 25% of total revenue.

 

 

 

3



 

 

The segment labeled “Polyurethane” currently consists of sales of a product known as SoyOyl®, SoyOyl® is a product that is combined with chemicals produce a bio-based polyurethane product. South Dakota Soybean Processors produce the SoyOyl® at the Volga, South Dakota facility, and ship it to either USSC or the customer directly. USSC then either ships the other required chemicals for the customer to mix, or arranges for the customer to purchase the necessary chemicals directly from a manufacturer. In January 2003, we purchased 54% of the stock in USSC, giving us a total ownership percentage of 58%. In addition to becoming the majority owners in USSC, we have also assumed management control. Included in this segment is the consolidated financial statements of USSC, and the processing of SoyOyl® at SDSP.

 

The final segment labeled “Other” consists primarily of construction management fees for overseeing the general construction of the Minnesota Soybean Processors facility. At times, we earn miscellaneous income for the completion of feasibility studies or other projects. The revenue from these projects will also fall into this category.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Comparison of the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002

 

                The following table presents, for the periods indicated, the relative composition of selected statement of income data (dollars in thousands):

 

 

 

Quarter Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

% of

 

 

 

% of

 

 

 

$

 

Revenue

 

$

 

Revenue

 

Revenue from external customers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soybean Processing

 

28,888

 

 

 

33,313

 

 

 

Oil Refining

 

14,994

 

 

 

 

 

 

Polyurethane

 

51

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

Other

 

0

 

 

 

0

 

 

 

Total

 

43,933

 

 

 

33,315

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross Profit

 

912

 

2.1

%

2,666

 

8.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General and Administrative expense

 

868

 

2.0

%

760

 

2.3

%

Other Operating expense (income)

 

775

 

1.8

%

717

 

2.2

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soybean Processing

 

623

 

1.4

%

2,624

 

7.9

%

Oil Refining

 

198

 

.5

%

 

 

 

 

Polyurethane

 

(266

)

(.6%

)

(1

)

 

 

Other

 

264

 

.6

%

 

 

 

 

Total

 

819

 

1.9

%

2,623

 

7.9

%

 

 

4



 

Revenue — Revenue increased $10.6 million or 31.9% to $43.9 million for the first quarter of 2003 from $33.3 million for the first quarter of 2002. The improvement was due to increases in the selling prices of all of the commodities. The quantity of meal sales were down slightly by 1.7%, however the quantities of crude and refined oil sales were up 11.5%. These changes reflect the difference in the quality of soybeans we are receiving in the 2002 crop year compared to 2001 crop. Overall, the oil content has been much higher in the 2002 crop compared to the 2001 crop. The sales price of meal increased on average 11% for the first quarter of 2003 compared to the first quarter of 2002, and the sales price of oil increased by 24%. Much of the increase in the oil sales price reflects the premium received for refining the crude oil we produce.

 

Gross Profit — Gross profit decreased $1.8 million, or 65.8%, to $912,000 for the first quarter of 2003 from $2.7 million for the first quarter of 2002. Production expenses were $1.1 million, or 40.5% higher than the first quarter of 2002. The four categories that comprise the majority of the variance are Utilities, Depreciation, Insurance, and Maintenance. Utilities increased by $784,000 over the first quarter of 2002 due to the high natural gas prices. Depreciation increased by $103,000 due to the additional fixed assets that are being depreciated in the first quarter of 2003. Chicago Board of Trade margins were much lower in the first quarter of 2003 compared to the same quarter in 2002. The net effect of this was a reduction of $2.8 million in gross margin. This was offset, however, by increases in the basis adjustment and other income of $1.9 million for the first quarter of 2003 compared to the same quarter of 2002.

 

General and Administrative Expense — General and Administrative expense increased $108,000 or 14.1% for the first quarter of 2003 compared to the same period in 2002. This increase represents the consolidation of USSC in the financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2003, and the corresponding selling expense of $182,000. General Administration expense decreased by $74,000 compared to the same quarter of 2002.

 

Interest Expense — Interest expense increased $123,000, or 142% for the first quarter of 2003 compared to the same period in 2002. The increase was due to higher debt levels caused by carrying larger values in accounts receivable and inventory, and the early payment of dividends due to the reorganization and change in year end. During the first quarter of 2003, we had outstanding debt of $22.9 million, most of which was borrowed at 3.53% interest. During the first quarter of 2002, we had outstanding debt of only $5.5 million, borrowed at 3.91%. The increase in accounts receivable is due to the extended payment terms granted for the sales of R&B oil compared to the normal terms for the sales of crude soybean oil. The R&B oil is sold on 25-day terms, compared to the crude oil sold on “Cash Receipt of Invoice” terms. Inventory is at a higher carrying value because of the large volume of crude oil stored offsite, and the increase in market price.

 

Net Income — Net income decreased $1.8 million or 68.8% to $819,000 for the first quarter of 2003, from $2.6 million for the first quarter of 2002. This primarily is a result of the lower gross profit, which was discussed above, combined with the additional interest expense due to the higher debt balances.

 

 

5



 

Segment Disclosures

 

Dollars in Thousands (000’s)

 

Quarter Ended
March 31,

 

Soybean Processing

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

28,888

 

$

33,312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income

 

$

623

 

$

2,624

 

% of Revenue

 

1.4

%

7.9

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Assets

 

$

59,941

 

$

57,373

 

 

Soybean Processing is SDSP’s primary segment. The discussions in the preceding sections primarily describe the variances between the revenue and operating income, which relate to the Soybean Processing segment. The other segments are much smaller, and have little impact on the overall statement of operation or balance sheet.

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

Dollars in Thousands (000’s)

 

March 31,

 

Oil Refining

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

14,994

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income

 

$

198

 

$

 

% of Revenue

 

.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Assets

 

$

10,463

 

$

535

 

 

The Oil Refining segment began operation in August 2002. This segment processes the crude soybean oil produced by the Soybean Processing segment through a series of processes and filters to create the product known in the industry as “R&B” (Refined and Bleached) oil. We have a supply agreement to provide a strategic partner with a consistent supply of R&B oil. The oil is transported by rail from our plant in Volga, SD to one of the customer’s facilities, where it is further processed and then packaged for the edible oil market.

 

Revenue in the Oil Refining segment for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 was $15.0 million. There were no revenues in the first quarter of 2002 for this segment. The $15.0 million of revenue was based on 61 million pounds of R&B oil sold. The operating profit for the refining segment for the third quarter ended March 31, 2003 was $198,000.

 

6



 

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

Dollars in Thousands (000’s)

 

March 31

 

Polyurethane

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

51

 

$

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income

 

$

(266

)

$

(1

)

% of Revenue

 

-.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Assets

 

$

8,574

 

$

1,347

 

 

We have implemented a new segment beginning in January 2003 for Polyurethane related items.  In this segment, we present the product that SDSP produces for USSC, and the consolidated financial statements of USSC. We purchased majority ownership in USSC in January 2003. With that purchase, we assumed management control of the company. SoyOyl® is a product where we process crude oil into a substance that forms a bio-based polyurethane, when mixed with other chemicals. This polyurethane product is rather new in the market, and has been undergoing research and development for the past couple of years. SDSP processes the soybean oil and has an exclusive supply agreement with USSC to provide this processed oil. SDSP owns a patent for the processing of the crude oil, and USSC has a patent for the polyurethane product made with processed vegetable oil and other non-petroleum chemicals. USSC has several patents pending on different variations of this product as well.

 

Consolidated revenue for this segment was only $51,000 for the first quarter of 2003. We have hired two salespersons for USSC to start promoting the product in the polyurethane market. In the past, much of our time has been devoted to development of the product and testing with a limited number of customers. Now we feel it is time to start entering the general market, and that will be the function of the new salespersons.

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

Dollars in Thousands (000’s)

 

March 31

 

Other

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

0

 

$

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating Income

 

$

264

 

$

0

 

% of Revenue

 

1.9

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Assets

 

$

3,602

 

$

18

 

 

The other segment contains other income and expenses not related to soybean processing, the refinery, or polyurethane production. The main source of income in this segment is management fees. Management fees currently consist of the income earned from the Minnesota Soybean Processors (MnSP) project. They have hired us as construction manager for their new soybean processing facility in Brewster, MN. The management income was determined to be 10% of the

 

7



 

equity raised for the project. We recognize income as it is earned at SDSP based on percentage of completion of the project. The project was divided into four stages, and a period was established for each stage. We adjust the period each month if a particular stage appears that it will take longer to complete than anticipated. For the three-month period ended March 31, 2003, we recognized management income of $375,000 compared to $0 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2002. Allocated expenses against the management income were $111,000 and $0 for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Cash Flows from Operations

 

Operating activities used $12.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2003, compared to providing $9.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2002. The primary variance is the amount of the change in assets and liabilities. This changed by $20.0 million as a result of larger stocks of crude oil owned, increased accounts receivable carried due to the change in terms offered on refined oil, the purchase of assets held for sale at the Brewster site, and a reduction in the excess cash carried to meet working capital covenants of the Chicago Board of Trade.

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activity

 

Investing activities used $188,000 during the three-month period ending March 31, 2003 compared to the use of $1.1 million in the three-month period ending March 31, 2002. This $244,000 of expenditures consisted of equipment purchases for the plant of $204,000 legal fees of $39,000 associated with the purchase of USSC by SDSP, and USSC patents, and was offset by $56,000 of cash provided from cooperative patronage.

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activity

 

Net cash provided by financing activities for the three-month period ending March 31, 2003 was $13.1 million, and $5.2 million was used for the same period ending March 31, 2002. During the three months ended March 31, 2003, we made distribution to our members of $2.5 million. This payment was offset by our drawing an additional $15.8 million of financing on our lines of credit with CoBank.

 

CoBank is our primary lender. Effective February 26, 2002, we have had two lines of credit with CoBank to meet the needs of the company. The first is a revolving long-term loan agreement. Under the terms of this loan, we began with a $16.0 million credit line that increases in increments to $21.0 million by May 1, 2003, and then reduces by $1.3 million approximately every six months thereafter with a final payment equal to the remaining unpaid principal balance of the loan on March 20, 2011. The revolving loan is set up so we can borrow funds as needed up to the credit line maximum, and pay down whenever excess cash is available. Once we pay it down, the available borrowing amount increases up to the established credit line, and we have full access to borrow those funds again if needed. We pay a 0.375% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed.

 

 

8



 

The second credit line is a revolving working capital loan, with an agreement that expires on March 31, 2005, unless extended by CoBank. The primary purpose of this loan is to finance inventory and receivables. The maximum availability under this credit line ranges from $6.0 million to $10.0 million for particular commitment periods during the term of the loan to match our anticipated needs with respect to carrying inventory. For example, we have higher lines established during the months of October through May to cover the carrying costs of soybeans that are piled outside during the harvest season. Borrowing base reports and financial statements are required monthly to justify the balance borrowed on this line. We pay a 0.25% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed; however, we have the option to reduce these credit lines during any given commitment period listed in the agreement to avoid incurring the commitment fee on funds not borrowed.

Both CoBank loans are set up with a variable rate option. The variable rate is set by CoBank and changes weekly on the first business day of each week. We also have a fixed rate option on both loans allowing us to fix rates for any period between one day and the entire commitment period. We can get a fixed rate quote from CoBank at any time and lock-in the interest rate on all or a part of our borrowings that are available for fixing. Both CoBank loans are secured by substantially all of our assets and are subject to compliance with standard financial covenants and the maintenance of certain financial ratios. The balance borrowed on the revolving term loan was $18.2 million, and $5.0 million as of March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The seasonal working capital loan had advances of $7.5 million and $0 on March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The interest rate on both of these loans as of March 31, 2003 was 3.53%

We had a loan administered by the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development. This loan was an Agriculture Processing and Export fund loan (APEX). The principal was in the original amount $150,000 financed at 5% per annum. This loan had a balloon payment at the end of six years, which was on December 1, 2002.

Principal payments on the APEX loan for the three months ended March 31, 2003 were $0, and $1,411 for the three months ended March 31, 2002.

We have a note payable to the Brookings County Railroad Authority. This note is a ten-year note for $575,000, financed at 5%, which matures on September 1, 2007. Semi-annual principal and interest payments are due in February and August. Railroad track sidings located at the plant secure the note. Principal payments on the Brookings County Railroad Authority note were $28,815 and $27,426 for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

We have a long-term payable contract with the City of Volga for an error in the billing of electricity due to a faulty city meter that occurred between 1996 and 1999. Payments are made at a rate of $3,229 per month without interest. The contract matures on December 31, 2003. Payments of $29,061 were made in both of the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and March 31, 2002.

We have a note payable with the Butler Machinery Company to finance a new caterpillar skid steer. This is a three-year note for $13,132, financed at 0%, which matures on October 31, 2004. Payments are made annually in October for $4,337, at 0% interest. There were no payments made in either of the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and March 31, 2002.

 

9



 

We have a note payable to the former USSC shareholders for the purchase of shares in USSC. This is a four-year note for $4.05 million, financed at 0%, which matures on October 31, 2006. The note is secured by the USSC stock. Payments are required annually. The first payment is due in October 2003 for $1.4 million. The final three payments are due in October 2004 through 2006 each in the amount of $891,000. There were no principal payments made in either of the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and March 31, 2002.

USSC has a note payable to Capital One to provide working capital. This is a seven-year note for $30,000, financed at 0%, which matures on October 31, 2004. The note is unsecured. Payments are made monthly in the amount of $460.15 which includes 7.5% interest. Principal payments on the Capital One note were $810 and $0 for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

USSC has a note payable to Alpha Labs for the purchase of miscellaneous lab equipment. This note was originally for $35,000 financed at 0%, which matured on January 15, 2003. Payments were originally due for $15,250 on August 24, 2002, and January 15, 2003. There were no principal payments made in either of the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and March 31, 2002.

USSC has a note payable to Richard Kiphart to provide working capital prior to January 2003. This note is a $250,000 note, financed at 15%, which matures on the third anniversary date or upon demand in the event of default. Interest payments are due quarterly, and no prepayment of principal is allowed prior to maturity. There were no principal payments made in either of the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and March 31, 2002.

 

OFF BALANCE SHEET FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS

 

Lease Commitments

 

We have lease commitments under operating leases for rail cars, various types of vehicles, lab and office equipment, and oil storage tanks.

 

We lease 299 hopper rail cars and 10 oil tank cars from GE Capital. There are four separate leases, three with 18-year terms, and one with a 5-year term. The final lease expires in December 2018. These leases require monthly payments of $123,890. There is an additional lease with Trinity Capital for 100 oil tank cars, with monthly lease payments of $38,300. Lease expense for rail cars was $487,000 and $372,000 for the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The hopper rail cars earn mileage credit from the railroad through a sublease program. Mileage credit income was $373,000 and $381,000 for the three-month periods ending March 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

 

In addition to the rail car leases, we have several operating leases for various equipment and storage facilities. Total lease expense was $133,000 for the three-month period ending March 31, 2003 and $100,000 for the three-month period ending March 31, 2002. Some of these leases include purchase options; however, none are for a value less than fair market value at the end of the lease.

 

10



 

Minimum future lease payments, required under the operating leases are as follows:

 

Year

 

Rail Cars

 

Other

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2003

 

$

1,459,710

 

$

44,617

 

$

1,504,327

 

2004

 

1,946,280

 

43,815

 

1,990,095

 

2005

 

1,946,280

 

43,815

 

1,990,095

 

2006

 

1,899,030

 

33,116

 

1,932,146

 

2007

 

1,883,280

 

4,822

 

1,888,102

 

Thereafter

 

22,287,070

 

37,500

 

22,324,570

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

31,421,650

 

$

207,685

 

$

31,629,335

 

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In January 2003, the FASB issued FIN No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities”. FIN No. 46 clarifies the application of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, “Consolidated Financial Statements,” to certain entities in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or in which equity investors do not bear the residual economic risks. The interpretation applies to variable interest entities (“VIE”) created after January 31, 2003, and the VIEs in which an enterprise obtains an interest after that date. It applies in the fiscal year or interim period beginning after June 15, 2003, to VIEs in which an enterprise holds a variable interest that was acquired before February 1, 2003.

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has issued Statement No. 149, Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. The Statement amends and clarifies accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities under Statement 133. Management is reviewing this pronouncement to determine if implementation will have an effect on the Company’s financial statements.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

 

Preparation of our financial statements require estimates and judgments to be made that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses reported. Such decisions include the selection of the appropriate accounting principles to be applied and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. Management continually evaluates these estimates based on historical experience and other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances.

 

The difficulty in applying these policies arises from the assumptions, estimates, and judgments that have to be made currently about matters that are inherently uncertain, such as future economic conditions, operating results and valuations as well as management intentions. As the difficulty increases, the level of precision decreases, meaning that actual results can and probably will be different from those currently estimated.

 

 

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Of the significant accounting policies described in the notes to the financial statements, we believe that the following may involve a higher degree of estimates, judgments, and complexity:

 

Commitments and Contingencies

 

Contingencies, by their nature relate to uncertainties that require management to exercise judgment both in assessing the likelihood that a liability has been incurred, as well as in estimating the amount of the potential expense.  In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, we accrue an expense when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated.

 

Inventory Valuation

 

We account for our inventories at estimated net realizable market value. These inventories are agricultural commodities that are freely traded, have quoted market prices, may be sold without significant further processing and have predictable and insignificant costs of disposal. We derive our estimates from local market prices determined by grain terminals in our area. Processed product price estimates are determined by the ending sales contract price as of the close of the final day of the period. This price is determined by the closing price on the Chicago Board of Trade, net of the local basis. Changes in the market values of these inventories are recognized as a component of cost of goods sold.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

Depreciation and amortization of our property, plant, and equipment is provided on the straight-lined method by charges to operations at rates based upon the expected useful lives of individual or groups of assets. Economic circumstances or other factors may cause management’s estimates of expected useful lives to differ from actual.

 

Long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and investments are evaluated for impairment on the basis of undiscounted cash flows whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impaired asset is written down to its estimated fair market value based on the best information available. Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate future cash flows and may differ from actual.

 

Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

 

We minimize the effects of changes in the price of agricultural commodities by using exchange-traded futures and options contracts to minimize our net positions in these inventories and contracts. We account for these exchange-traded futures and option contracts and forward purchase and sales contracts at local market prices determined by grain terminals in our area.  Changes in the market value of all these contracts are recognized in earnings as a component of cost of goods sold.

 

 

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Commodities Risk & Risk Management.  To reduce the price change risks associated with holding fixed price commodity positions, we generally take opposite and offsetting positions by entering into commodity futures contracts (either a straight futures contract or options futures contract) on a regulated commodity futures exchange, the Chicago Board of Trade. While hedging activities reduce the risk of loss from increasing market values of soybeans, such activities also limit the gain potential which otherwise could result from significant decreases in market prices of soybeans. Our policy is generally to maintain a hedged position within limits, but we can be long or short at any time. Our profitability is primarily derived from margins on soybeans processed, not from hedging transactions. Management does not anticipate that its hedging activity will have a significant impact on future operating results or liquidity. Hedging arrangements do not protect against nonperformance of a cash contract.

At any one time, our inventory and purchase contracts for delivery to the plant may be substantial. We have risk management policies and procedures that include net position limits. They are defined by commodity, and include both trader and management limits. This policy and procedure triggers a review by management when any trader is outside of position limits. The position limits are reviewed at least annually with the Board of Directors. We monitor current market conditions and may expand or reduce the limits in response to changes in those conditions.

Foreign Currency Risk.  We conduct essentially all of our business in U.S. dollars and have no direct risk regarding foreign currency fluctuations. Foreign currency fluctuations do, however, impact the ability of foreign buyers to purchase U.S. agricultural products and the competitiveness of and demand for U.S. agricultural products compared to the same products offered by foreign suppliers.

Interest Rate Risk.  We manage exposure to interest rate changes by using variable rate loan agreements with fixed rate options. Long-term loan agreements can utilize the fixed option through maturity; however, the revolving ability to pay down and borrow back would be eliminated once the funds were fixed.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-14(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of a date (the “Evaluation Date”) within 90 days before the filing date of this quarterly report, have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that material information required to be disclosed is included in the reports that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Changes in Internal Controls.  There were no significant changes our internal controls or, to the knowledge of our management, in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the Evaluation Date.

 

 

13



 

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time in the ordinary course of our business, we may be named as a defendant in legal proceedings related to various issues, including without limitation, workers’ compensation claims, tort claims, or contractual disputes. We carry insurance that provides protection against general commercial liability claims, claims against our directors, officers and employees, business interruption, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation claims. Except as described below, we are not currently involved in any material legal proceedings and are not aware of any potential claims.

 

On January 28, 2003, we were served with notice that we had been named as a defendant in a breach of contract suit in the circuit court of Cook County, Illinois, along with a number of other individual defendants, including our Chief Executive Officer, Rodney Christianson. The plaintiff, James Jackson, was an employee of USSC whose services were terminated shortly after we became the majority owner in early January 2003. Mr. Jackson claims that he was wrongfully terminated and that the defendants unjustly interfered with his employment contract and committed fraud in connection with our acquisition of a controlling interest in USSC. He is claiming nearly $1 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages. Based upon our investigation of the facts surrounding the case, we believe that Mr. Jackson’s employment contract was not properly authorized and that his claims are substantially without merit. We are vigorously defending the action; however, we cannot provide any assurance that we will be successful in disposing of the case or that any costs of settlement or damages would not be material if we were unable to get the case dismissed. Under the terms of our stock purchase agreement with USSC, we believe that we would be entitled to indemnification from USSC for our costs to settle or defend the suit.

 

 

Item 2.  Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

                None.

 

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

                None.

 

Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

                None.

 

Item 5.  Other Information

 

                None.

 

 

14



 

Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

                (a)           Exhibits.  See Exhibit Index.

 

                (b)           Reports on Form 8-K.  A Form 8-K was filed on January 14, 2003 regarding the stock purchase agreement entered into for the purchase of controlling interest in Urethane Soy Systems Company, Inc.

 

 

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SIGNATURES

 

In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

 

SOUTH DAKOTA

 

 

SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated:  May 14, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

By 

/s/ Constance M. Kelly

 

 

 

Constance M. Kelly

 

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

16



 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, Rodney G. Christianson certify that:

1.              I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC;

2.              Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

3.              Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

4.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

a.               Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

b.               Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

c.               Presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of  registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a.               All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

b.               Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

6.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

May 14, 2003

 

By   /s/ Rodney G. Christianson

 

 

 

Rodney G. Christianson

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

17



 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, Constance M. Kelly certify that:

1.              I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC;

2.              Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report;

3.              Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report;

4.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and we have:

a.               Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

b.               Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this quarterly report (the “Evaluation Date”); and

c.               Presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

5.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of  registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a.               All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and

b.               Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

6.              The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

 

May 14, 2003

 

By  /s/ Constance M. Kelly

 

 

 

Constance M. Kelly

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

18



 

EXHIBIT INDEX
TO
FORM 10-Q
OF
SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS, LLC

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

2.1

 

Plan of Reorganization (1)

3.1(i)

 

Articles of Organization (2)

3.1(ii)

 

Operating Agreement, as adopted on July 1, 2002(3)

3.1(iii)

 

Articles of Amendment to Articles of Organization(3)

4.1

 

Form of Class A Unit Certificate(4)

99.1

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. 1350)


(1)                  Incorporated by reference from Appendix A to the information statement/prospectus filed as a part of the issuer’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-75804).

 

(2)                  Incorporated by reference from Appendix B to the information statement/prospectus filed as a part of the issuer’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-75804).

 

(3)                  Incorporated by reference from the same numbered exhibit to the issuer’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 2002.

 

(4)                  Incorporated by reference from the same numbered exhibit to the issuer’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-75804).

 

 

19