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SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS LLC - Quarter Report: 2023 March (Form 10-Q)


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
☒     QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2023
☐    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the transition period from                to
☒ COMMISSION FILE NO. 000-50253
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SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS LLC
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
SD 46-0462968
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
100 Caspian Ave; PO Box 500
Volga, SD
57071
(Address of Principal Executive Offices(Zip Code)
(605) 627-9240
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes   x     No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate 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 x     No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
¨
Large Accelerated Filer
¨
Accelerated Filer
x
Non-Accelerated Filer
¨
Smaller Reporting Company
¨
Emerging Growth Company
  (do not check if a smaller reporting company) 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for company with a new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). 
¨    Yes       x    No
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   ¨  No   ¨
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 11, 2023, the registrant had 30,411,500 capital units outstanding.



Table of Contents  
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2


PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements
South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Financial Statements
March 31, 2023 and 2022
3


South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Balance Sheets
 March 31, 2023December 31, 2022
 (Unaudited)
Assets  
Current assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$692,547 $866,699 
Trade accounts receivable41,575,594 43,517,754 
Inventories127,615,183 134,246,154 
Commodity derivative instruments15,879,106 10,950,831 
Margin deposits3,220,204 5,603,930 
Prepaid expenses2,520,958 2,364,362 
Total current assets191,503,592 197,549,730 
Property and equipment142,033,176 140,903,867 
Less accumulated depreciation(67,396,150)(66,343,898)
Total property and equipment, net74,637,026 74,559,969 
Other assets  
Investments in related parties21,917,466 14,576,910 
Investments in cooperatives1,737,862 1,705,549 
Right-of-use lease asset, net30,861,084 22,708,362 
Other assets96,250 96,250 
Total other assets54,612,662 39,087,071 
Total assets$320,753,280 $311,196,770 
(continued on following page)
4


South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Balance Sheets (continued)
March 31, 2023December 31, 2022
(Unaudited)
Liabilities and Members' Equity  
Current liabilities  
Excess of outstanding checks over bank balance$14,403,535 $18,504,251 
Current maturities of long-term debt4,000,000 — 
Note payable - seasonal loan60,400,891 138,165 
Current operating lease liabilities3,007,006 2,632,995 
Accounts payable2,579,168 2,245,339 
Accrued commodity purchases32,889,307 70,744,667 
Commodity derivative instruments15,136,283 20,010,772 
Accrued expenses3,861,455 6,062,608 
Accrued interest452,032 135,081 
Deferred liabilities - current1,210,244 1,074,059 
Total current liabilities137,939,921 121,547,937 
Long-term liabilities
Long-term debt, net of current maturities and unamortized debt
    issuance costs
7,997,560 8,845,683 
Long-term operating lease liabilities25,005,864 17,168,224 
Deferred liabilities22,547 96,250 
Total long-term liabilities33,025,971 26,110,157 
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 6, 7, 8, and 13)
Members' equity  
Class A Units, no par value, 30,411,500 units issued and
    outstanding at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022
149,787,388 163,538,676 
Total liabilities and members' equity$320,753,280 $311,196,770 

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

5


South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
For the Three-Month Periods Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022
 20232022
 
Net revenues$171,913,308 $171,724,126 
Cost of revenues:  
Cost of product sold124,238,702 132,866,162 
Production10,718,977 8,997,876 
Freight and rail12,122,778 10,879,590 
Brokerage fees189,280 170,393 
Total cost of revenues147,269,737 152,914,021 
Gross profit24,643,571 18,810,105 
Operating expenses:  
Administration1,577,952 1,398,466 
Operating income23,065,619 17,411,639 
Other income (expense):  
Interest expense(920,108)(387,560)
Other non-operating income (expense)(96,046)574,161 
Patronage dividend income693,047 699,595 
Total other income (expense)(323,107)886,196 
Net income$22,742,512 $18,297,835 
  
Basic and diluted earnings per capital unit$0.75 $0.60 
 
Weighted average number of capital units outstanding for calculation of basic and diluted earnings per capital unit30,411,500 30,419,000 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
6


South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Statements of Changes in Members' Equity (Unaudited)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022
Class A Units
UnitsAmount
Balances, December 31, 2021
30,419,000 $113,414,905 
Net income— 18,297,835 
Distribution to members— (17,338,830)
Balances, March 31, 2022
30,419,000 $114,373,910 
Balances, December 31, 2022
30,411,500 $163,538,676 
Net income— 22,742,512 
Distribution to members— (36,493,800)
Balances, March 31, 2023
30,411,500 $149,787,388 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.
7


South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022
 20232022
Operating activities  
Net income$22,742,512 $18,297,835 
Charges and credits to net income not affecting cash:  
Depreciation and amortization1,415,296 1,386,716 
Net (gain) loss recognized on derivative activities(14,483,613)7,263,904 
Loss (gain) on sale of property and equipment(31,853)4,381 
Non-cash patronage dividends(32,313)(145,749)
Change in current assets and liabilities(25,239,631)(62,664,425)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities(15,629,602)(35,857,338)
Investing activities  
Purchase of investments(5,904,137)— 
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment100,000 — 
Purchase of property and equipment(1,559,279)(733,524)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities(7,363,416)(733,524)
Financing activities  
Change in excess of outstanding checks over bank balances(4,100,716)(3,214,188)
Net proceeds (payments) from seasonal borrowings60,262,726 57,816,612 
Distributions to members(36,493,800)(17,338,830)
Proceeds from long-term debt6,581,850 4,224,724 
Principal payments on long-term debt(3,431,194)(5,127,197)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities22,818,866 36,361,121 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents(174,152)(229,741)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period866,699 833,738 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$692,547 $603,997 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information  
Cash paid during the period for:  
Interest$603,157 $283,066 
Income taxes$— $— 
Noncash investing activities:
Soybean meal contributed as investment in related party$1,436,420 — 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements. 
8

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements

Note 1 -         Principal Activity and Significant Accounting Policies
The unaudited condensed financial statements contained herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities Exchange Commission. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations, although South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC (the “Company”, “LLC”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) believes that the disclosures made are adequate to make the information not misleading.
In the opinion of management, all normal recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included in the accompanying condensed financial statements. 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 balance sheet data as of December 31, 2022 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.
These statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2022, included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 30, 2023.
Use of estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue
The Company accounts for all of its revenues from contracts with customers under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
The Company principally generates revenue from merchandising and transporting manufactured agricultural products used as ingredients in food, feed, energy and industrial products. Revenue is measured based on the consideration specified in the contract with a customer, and excludes any amounts collected on behalf of third parties (e.g. - taxes). The Company follows a policy of recognizing revenue at a single point in time when it satisfies its performance obligation by transferring control over a product to a customer. Control transfer typically occurs when goods are shipped from our facilities or at other predetermined control transfer points (for instance, destination terms). Shipping and handling costs related to contracts with customers for sale of goods are accounted for as a fulfillment activity and are included in cost of revenues. Accordingly, amounts billed to customers for such costs are included as a component of revenues.
Payments received in advance to the transfer of goods, or "contract liabilities", are included in "Deferred liabilities - current" on the Company's condensed balance sheets. These customer prepayments totaled $1,210,244 and $1,074,059 as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Of the $1,074,059 balance as of December 31, 2022, the Company recognized $723,453 as revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Of the $1,347,409 customer prepayments as of December 31, 2021, the Company recognized $1,340,132 of contract liabilities as revenues during the three months ended March 31, 2022.
9

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
The following table presents a disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers for the three month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, by product type:
20232022
Soybean meal and hulls$97,123,852 $87,424,050 
Soybean oil and oil byproducts74,789,456 84,300,076 
Totals$171,913,308 $171,724,126 
Recent accounting pronouncements
Any recent accounting pronouncements are not expected to have a material impact on our condensed financial statements.
Note 2 -         Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are considered past due when payments are not received on a timely basis in accordance with the Company’s credit terms, which is generally 30 days from invoice date. Accounts considered uncollectible are written off. The Company’s estimate of the allowance for credit losses is based on historical experience, its evaluation of the current status of receivables, and unusual circumstances, if any.
The following table presents the aging analysis of trade receivables as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
 March 31,
2023
December 31,
2022
Past due:  
Less than 30 days past due$8,871,435 $13,779,760 
30-60 days past due395,774 1,780,664 
60-90 days past due363,178 182,146 
Greater than 90 days past due41,034 45,830 
Total past due9,671,421 15,788,400 
Current31,904,173 27,729,354 
Totals$41,575,594 $43,517,754 
The following table provides information regarding the Company's allowance for credit losses as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
March 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Balances, beginning of period$— $— 
Amounts charged (credited) to costs and expenses— (115,208)
Additions (deductions)— 115,208 
Balances, end of period$— $— 
In general, cash received is applied to the oldest outstanding invoice first, unless payment is for a specified invoice. The Company, on a case by case basis, may charge a late fee of 1.5% per month on past due receivables.
10

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
Note 3 -           Inventories
The Company’s inventories consist of the following at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
 March 31,
2023
December 31,
2022
Finished goods$63,553,506 $62,619,087 
Raw materials63,497,250 71,001,459 
Supplies & miscellaneous564,427 625,608 
Totals$127,615,183 $134,246,154 
Finished goods and raw materials are valued at estimated market value, which approximates net realizable value. Supplies and other inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value.
Note 4 -           Investments in Related Parties
The Company’s investments in related parties consist of the following at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
March 31,
2023
December 31,
2022
High Plains Partners, LLC$8,280,316 $2,376,180 
Prairie AquaTech, LLC1,553,727 1,553,727 
Prairie AquaTech Investments, LLC5,000,000 5,000,000 
Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC7,083,423 5,647,003 
Totals$21,917,466 $14,576,910 
The Company measures its investments in Prairie AquaTech, LLC, Prairie AquaTech Investments, LLC, Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC and High Plains Partners, LLC at their cost less any impairment plus or minus any observable price changes in orderly transactions since these equity investments do not have readily determinable fair values.
The Company invested $1,436,420 and $0 of soybean meal in Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
In February 2022, the Company announced its plans to construct a multi-seed processing plant near Mitchell, South Dakota. In September 2022, the Company entered into a capital contribution and commitment agreement with High Plains Partners, LLC. Per the agreement, the Company will transfer all rights, title and interest to all of the tangible and intangible development rights, including engineering, permitting, studies, records, etc., totaling $5.0 million held by the Company in exchange for 2,615 Class B units in High Plains Partners, LLC. The Company also committed to invest at least another $70.0 million for 17,169 Class B capital units in the entity. As of March 31, 2023, the Company had contributed $8,280,316 towards the project. Operation of the facility is expected to begin in late 2025.
11

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
Note 5 -         Property and Equipment
The following is a summary of the Company's property and equipment at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
 20232022
 CostAccumulated DepreciationNetNet
Land$516,326 $— $516,326 $516,326 
Land improvements2,695,462 (1,110,726)1,584,736 1,625,212 
Buildings and improvements26,288,868 (11,454,054)14,834,814 15,001,754 
Machinery and equipment95,048,269 (53,266,772)41,781,497 42,924,227 
Railroad cars10,679,356 (532,038)10,147,318 10,200,714 
Company vehicles151,682 (129,630)22,052 26,226 
Furniture and fixtures1,528,219 (902,930)625,289 394,353 
Construction in progress5,124,994 — 5,124,994 3,871,157 
Totals$142,033,176 $(67,396,150)$74,637,026 $74,559,969 
Depreciation of property and equipment was $1,414,076 and $1,385,495 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Note 6 -         Note Payable – Seasonal Loan
The Company has entered into a revolving credit agreement with CoBank which expires December 1, 2023. The purpose of the credit agreement is to finance the operating needs of the Company. Under this agreement, the Company could borrow up to $85 million, and advances on the revolving credit agreement are secured. Interest accrues at a variable rate (7.05% at March 31, 2023). The Company pays a 0.20% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed. There were advances outstanding of $60,400,891 and $138,165 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The remaining available funds to borrow under the terms of the revolving credit agreement were $24.6 million as of March 31, 2023.
Note 7 -         Long-Term Debt
The following is a summary of the Company's long-term debt at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
 March 31,
2023
December 31,
2022
Revolving term loan from CoBank, interest at variable rates (7.35% and 6.85% at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively), secured by substantially all property and equipment. Loan matures March 20, 2026.
$12,000,000 $8,849,344 
Less current maturities(4,000,000)— 
Less debt issuance costs, net of amortization of $21,560 and $20,339 as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively
(2,440)(3,661)
Total long-term debt$7,997,560 $8,845,683 
The Company entered into an agreement as of April 27, 2022 with CoBank to amend and restate its Credit Agreement, which includes both the revolving term and seasonal loans. Under the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement, CoBank agreed to make advances to the Company for up to $16,000,000 on the revolving term loan with a variable effective interest rate of 7.35%. The amount available for borrowing on the revolving term loan will decrease by $2,000,000 every six months until the loan's maturity date of March 20, 2026. The Company pays a 0.40% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed. The debt issuance costs of $24,000 paid by the Company will be amortized over the term of loan. The principal balance outstanding on the revolving term loan was
12

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
$12,000,000 and $8,849,344 as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. There were no remaining commitments available to borrow on the revolving term loan as of March 31, 2023.
Under this agreement, the Company is subject to compliance with standard financial covenants and the maintenance of certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with all covenants and conditions with CoBank as of March 31, 2023.
The following are minimum principal payments on long-term debt obligations for the twelve-month periods ended March 31:
2024$4,000,000 
20254,000,000 
20264,000,000 
  
Total$12,000,000 
Note 8 -        Operating Leases
The Company has several operating leases for railcars. These leases have terms ranging from 3-12 years and most do not have renewal terms provided. The leases require the Company to maintain the condition of the railcars, restrict the use of the railcars to specified products, such as soybean meal, hulls or oil, limit usage to the continental United States, Canada or Mexico, require approval to sublease to other entities, and require the Company's submission of its financial statements. Lease expense for all railcars was $880,151 and $664,488 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The following is a schedule of the Company's operating leases for railcars as of March 31, 2023:
LessorQuantity of
Railcars
Commencement
Date
Maturity
Date
Monthly
Payment
American Railcar Leasing13 6/1/20215/31/2024$7,150 
Andersons Railcar Leasing Co.10 7/1/20186/30/20235,000 
Andersons Railcar Leasing Co.20 7/1/20196/30/202611,300 
Andersons Railcar Leasing Co.15 11/1/202110/31/20268,250 
Farm Credit Leasing87 9/1/20208/31/203234,929 
Farm Credit Leasing6/1/20215/31/20335,966 
Farm Credit Leasing10/1/20219/30/20334,624 
Farm Credit Leasing23 7/1/20226/30/203413,863 
Farm Credit Leasing30 8/1/20227/31/203430,422 
Farm Credit Leasing20 10/1/20229/30/203421,668 
Farm Credit Leasing100 4/1/20233/31/203581,466 
GATX Corporation14 7/1/20206/30/20244,200 
Trinity Capital29 11/1/202010/31/202317,255 
Trinity Capital20 11/1/202010/31/202311,900 
Trinity Capital6/1/20215/31/2026980 
Wells Fargo Rail109 3/1/20222/28/202751,775 
Wells Fargo Rail5/1/20224/30/20272,765 
Wells Fargo Rail15 5/1/20224/30/20275,925 
Wells Fargo Rail105 1/1/202312/31/202949,875 
636 $369,313 
13

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
The Company also has a number of other operating leases for machinery and equipment. These leases have terms ranging from 3-7 years; however, most of these leases have automatic renewal terms. These leases require monthly payments of $3,929. Rental expense under these other operating leases was $11,219 and $46,416 for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
On March 19, 2020, the Company entered into an agreement with an entity in the western United States to provide storage and handling services for the Company's soybean meal. The Company paid the entity $3,300,000 after the entity's construction of additional storage and handling facilities. The agreement began May 1, 2021 and will mature on April 30, 2027 but includes an additional seven-year renewal period at the sole discretion of the Company. Rental expense under this agreement was $58,929 and $58,929 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Operating leases are included in right-to-use lease assets, current operating lease liabilities, and long-term lease liabilities on the Company's condensed balance sheets. These assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of remaining lease payments over the lease term using the Company's secured incremental borrowing rates or implicit rates, when readily determinable. Short-term operating leases, which have an initial term of 12 months or less, are not recorded on the condensed balance sheet.
Lease expense for these operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease terms. The components of lease costs recognized within our condensed statements of operations for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
20232022
Cost of revenues - Freight and rail$880,151 $664,488 
Cost of revenues - Production65,642 99,013 
Administration expenses4,506 6,332 
Total operating lease costs$950,299 $769,833 
The following summarizes the supplemental cash flow information for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
20232022
Cash paid for amounts included in measurement of lease liabilities$875,288 $749,933 
Supplemental non-cash information:
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities$8,914,885 $3,386,523 
The following summarizes the weighted-average remaining lease term and weighted-average discount rate as of March 31, 2023:
Weighted-average remaining lease-term - operating leases (in years)9.8
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases4.2 %
14

South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
The following is a maturity analysis of the undiscounted cash flows of the operating lease liabilities as of March 31, 2023:
RailcarsOtherTotal
Twelve-month periods ended March 31:
2024$4,240,974 $40,539 $4,281,513 
20253,912,589 30,038 3,942,627 
20263,885,689 14,790 3,900,479 
20273,681,164 10,256 3,691,420 
20282,922,439 5,742 2,928,181 
Thereafter15,458,688 — 15,458,688 
Total lease payments34,101,543 101,365 34,202,908 
Less amount of lease payments representing interest(6,184,265)(5,773)(6,190,038)
Total present value of lease payments$27,917,278 $95,592 $28,012,870 
Note 9 -        Member Distribution
On January 31, 2023, the Company’s Board of Managers approved a cash distribution of approximately $36.5 million, or $1.20 per capital unit. The distribution was paid in accordance with the Company’s operating agreement and distribution policy on February 2, 2023.
Note 10 -         Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into contractual arrangements as a means of managing exposure to changes in commodity prices and, occasionally, foreign exchange and interest rates. The Company’s derivative instruments primarily consist of commodity futures, options and forward contracts, and interest rate swaps, caps and floors. Although these contracts may be effective economic hedges of specified risks, they are not designated as, nor accounted for, as hedging instruments. These contracts are recorded on the Company’s condensed balance sheets at fair value as discussed in Note 11, Fair Value.
As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the value of the Company’s open futures, options and forward contracts was $742,823 and $(9,059,941), respectively.
  
As of March 31, 2023
 Balance Sheet ClassificationAsset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:  
Commodity contractsCurrent Assets/Liabilities$14,820,737 $14,954,846 
Foreign exchange contractsCurrent Assets/Liabilities46,443 38,622 
Interest rate caps and floorsCurrent Assets/Liabilities1,011,926 142,815 
Totals $15,879,106 $15,136,283 
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South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
  
As of December 31, 2022
 Balance Sheet ClassificationAsset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:  
Commodity contractsCurrent Assets/Liabilities$9,716,111 $19,820,839 
Foreign exchange contractsCurrent Assets/Liabilities77,983 53,267 
Interest rate caps and floorsCurrent Assets/Liabilities1,156,737 136,666 
Totals $10,950,831 $20,010,772 
During the three-month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative transactions were recognized in the condensed statements of operations as follows:
 Net Gain (Loss) Recognized 
on Derivative Activities for the
Three Months Ended March 31,
 20232022
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:  
Commodity contracts$13,826,366 $(7,832,140)
Foreign exchange contracts814,321 (2,228)
Interest rate swaps, caps and floors(157,074)570,464 
Totals$14,483,613 $(7,263,904)
The Company recorded gains (losses) in cost of goods sold related to its commodity derivative instruments of $14,483,613 and $(7,263,904) for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Note 11 -       Fair Value
ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, defines fair value, establishes a comprehensive framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures which are required about fair value measurements. Specifically, this guidance establishes a hierarchy prioritizing the inputs to valuation techniques, giving the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable value inputs. The three levels of hierarchy and examples are as follows:
Level 1 – Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 1 are highly liquid and actively traded instruments with quoted prices, such as equities listed on the New York Stock Exchange and commodity derivative contracts listed on the Chicago Board of Trade (“CBOT”).
Level 2 – Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, but are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date. The types of assets and liabilities in Level 2 are typically either comparable to actively traded securities or contracts, or priced with models using highly observable inputs, such as commodity prices using forward future prices.
Level 3 – Significant inputs to pricing that are unobservable as of the reporting date. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 3 are those with inputs requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as complex and subjective models and forecasts used to determine the fair value of financial transmission rights.
The following tables set forth financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the condensed balance sheets and the respective levels to which fair value measurements are classified within the fair value hierarchy as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
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South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
 
Fair Value as of March 31, 2023
 Level 1Level 2Level 3Total
Financial assets:    
Inventory$— $126,699,208 $— $126,699,208 
Commodity derivative instruments$742,823 $— $— $742,823 
Margin deposits (deficits)$3,220,204 $— $— $3,220,204 
 
Fair Value as of December 31, 2022
 Level 1Level 2Level 3Total
Financial assets:    
Inventory$— $133,543,821 $— $133,543,821 
Commodity derivative instruments$(9,059,941)$— $— $(9,059,941)
Margin deposits$5,603,930 $— $— $5,603,930 
The Company enters into various commodity derivative instruments, including futures, options, swaps and other agreements. The fair value of the Company’s commodity derivatives is determined using unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments on the CBOT. The Company estimates the fair market value of their finished goods and raw materials inventories using the market price quotations of similar forward future contracts listed on the CBOT and adjusts for the local market adjustments derived from other grain terminals in our area.
The Company considers the carrying amount of significant classes of financial instruments on the balance sheets, including cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable, to be reasonable estimates of fair value due to their length or maturity. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt approximates the carrying value. The interest rates on the long-term debt are similar to rates the Company would be able to obtain currently in the market.
The Company has patronage investments in other cooperatives and common and preferred stock holdings in privately held entities. There is no market for their patronage credits or the entity’s common and preferred holdings, and it is impracticable to estimate the fair value of the Company’s investments. These investments are carried on the balance sheet at original cost plus the amount of patronage earnings allocated to the Company, less any cash distributions received.
Note 12 -       Related Party Transactions
The Company has equity investments in Prairie AquaTech, LLC, Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC and Prairie AquaTech Investments, LLC. The Company sold soybean products to Prairie AquaTech, LLC and Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC totaling $2,947,866 and $3,755,756 during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Prairie AquaTech, LLC and Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC owed the Company $0 and $1,433,551, respectively.
Note 13 -       Commitments and Contingencies
As of March 31, 2023, the Company had unpaid commitments of approximately $1,866,000 for construction and acquisition of property and equipment, all of which is expected to be incurred by March 31, 2024.
The Company has entered into an agreement with High Plains Partners, LLC (“HPP”) to commit $75.0 million into HPP to facilitate the construction of a multi-seed processing facility near Mitchell, South Dakota. The funding of the commitment is subject to several conditions.
From time to time in the ordinary course of our business, the Company may be named as a defendant in legal proceedings related to various issues, including without limitation, workers’ compensation claims, tort claims, or contractual dispute. The Company carries insurance that provides protection against general commercial liability claims, claims against our directors, officer and employees, business interruption, automobile liability, and workers' compensation. The Company is not currently involved in any material legal proceedings and are not aware of any potential claims.
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South Dakota Soybean Processors, LLC
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
Note 14 -       Subsequent Event
The Company evaluated all of its activities and concluded that no subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition in its financial statements or disclosed in the notes to its financial statements.
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Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, (including reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC” or “Commission”), contains “forward-looking statements” that deal with future results, expectations, plans and performance, and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. 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. Actual results or actual business or other conditions may differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements are identified in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.
We are not under any duty to update the forward-looking statements contained in this report, nor do we 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.
Executive Overview and Summary
For the first quarter of 2023, we had a net profit of $22.7 million, a $4.4 million increase over the same period in 2022, as strong soybean oil values and soybean meal demand continued from 2022. Oil values benefited from continuing demand in the food and fuel sectors. Meal demand was boosted by concerns over a reduced soybean crop in Argentina which reduced meal product there and led to increased meal purchasing in the U.S. An above-average soybean crop in terms of quality further contributed to our bottom line. Soybeans harvested last fall were above historical averages in oil and protein content, and lower in moisture.
Looking ahead, we expect earnings to decrease in the second quarter. Soybean oil demand continues to be influenced by a rapid build out in renewable diesel capacity. Many new diesel plants which were previously forecast to come online during the first quarter of 2023 have, however, experienced construction-related delays or have struggled starting up. Consequently, some of these plants have had to delay purchases of oil or have had to sell oil back oil into the market, causing a sharp drop in nearby soybean oil values. We anticipate, however, these plants will get back on track and demand will improve later this year. As for soybean meal, we expect an over-supply situation both domestically and globally over the next few months. Brazil is currently experiencing a record soybean crop and processing at maximum capacity. Argentina, while dealing with a short domestic crop, has been able to procure supply from Brazil and maintain exports of meal. Once the Brazilian harvest is complete, Argentine processors are expected to slow down due to a lack of supply. As U.S. processors enter the seasonal maintenance period, soybean meal values should also improve. Available soybean supplies are currently difficult to forecast. Crop reports released at the end of March indicated that South Dakota should have adequate inventories to provide a new crop. Growing conditions in South Dakota this summer will be a key determining factor for our fourth quarter performance. Finally, we continue to take additional steps toward the planning and building of a crushing plant near Mitchell, South Dakota. We are actively working on its development including financing, engineering and permitting.
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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Comparison of the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022
 Three Months Ended March 31, 2023Three Months Ended March 31, 2022
 $% of Revenue$% of Revenue
Revenue$171,913,308 100.0 $171,724,126 100.0 
Cost of revenues(147,269,737)(85.7)(152,914,021)(89.0)
Gross profit24,643,571 14.3 18,810,105 11.0 
Operating expenses(1,577,952)(0.9)(1,398,466)(0.8)
Interest expense(920,108)(0.5)(387,560)(0.2)
Other non-operating income (expense)597,001 0.3 1,273,756 0.7 
Net income$22,742,512 13.2 $18,297,835 10.7 
Revenue – Revenue increased $0.2 million, or 0.1%, for the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in revenues was primarily due to increases in the average sales price of soybean meal and refined soybean oil. The average sales price of soybean meal increased 16% during the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, due to drought conditions in Argentina as well as North America. A severe drought in Argentina, which is responsible for almost 30% of the world's soybean meal exports, shifted demand for meal to the U.S., and allowed producers like us to benefit from increased export opportunities.The average sales price of soybean oil increased approximately 7% in the three months ended March 31, 2023 from the same period in 2022, due to surging demand from the renewable diesel and food sectors. Partially offsetting the increases in average sales price was an 18% decrease in sales volume of refined soybean oil due primarily to a refinery shutdown. Early in the first quarter of 2023, our refinery was shut down for two weeks because of a mechanical breakdown which has since been resolved.
Gross Profit/Loss – Gross profit increased $5.8 million, or 31.0%, for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in gross profit was primarily due to increased demand for soybean meal and oil. Demand for soybean meal improved due to drought conditions in Argentina and other parts of the U.S. Soybean oil demand also increased from the renewable diesel sector as more diesel plants were opened in the U.S.
Operating Expenses – Administrative expenses, including all selling, general and administrative expenses, increased approximately $179,000, or 12.8%, during the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to a decrease in the recovery of accounts receivable previously determined to be uncollectible. During the three months ended March 31, 2022, we received payments of $114,000 towards previously written-off accounts receivable, compared to $0 during the same period in 2023.
Interest Expense – Interest expense increased $533,000, or 137.4%, during the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in interest expense was due to increases in interest rates on our senior debt with CoBank and borrowings from our lines of credit. As of March 31, 2023, the interest rate on our revolving long-term loan was 7.35%, compared to 2.90% as of March 31, 2022. The average debt level, in addition, increased from $54.7 million during the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 to $60.3 million for the same period in 2023 mainly due to higher commodity prices and payments for capital improvements and investments in related parties.
Other Non-Operating Income – Other non-operating income (expense), including patronage dividend income, decreased $677,000 during the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The decrease in other non-operating income was due to a $727,000 change in gains (losses) on our interest rate hedge instruments. During the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, losses on interest rate hedges totaled $157,000, compared to a $570,000 gain during the same period in 2022.
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Net Income/Loss – During the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, we generated a net income of $22.7 million, compared to $18.3 million for the same period in 2022. The $4.4 million increase was primarily attributable to an increase in gross profit.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash provided by operations and borrowings under our two revolving lines of credit which are discussed below under “Indebtedness.” On March 31, 2023, we had working capital, defined as current assets less current liabilities, of approximately $53.6 million, compared to $36.8 million on March 31, 2022. Working capital increased between periods primarily due to increases in net income during that period. Based on current plans, we will continue funding our capital and operating needs from cash from operations and revolving lines of credit.
Comparison of the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022
 20232022
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities$(15,629,602)$(35,857,338)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities(7,363,416)(733,524)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities22,818,866 36,361,121 
Cash Flows Used For Operations
The $20.2 million decrease in cash flows used for operating activities was largely due to a $34.4 million change in inventory, $9.8 million in margin deposits, $8.2 million change in accounts receivable, and a $4.4 million increase in net income. During the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, our inventories decreased by $6.6 million, compared to a $27.8 million increase during the same period in 2022. Margin deposits decreased $2.4 million during the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to a $7.4 million increase in 2022. Accounts receivable also decreased $1.9 million during the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to a $6.2 million increase during the same period in 2022. Partially offsetting changes in inventory, margin deposits, accounts receivable, and net income, was a $21.8 million increase in net gains on derivative activities and a $19.9 million decrease in accrued commodity purchases. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, we recognized $14.5 million in gains on derivative activities, compared to $7.3 million in losses during the same period in 2022. Accrued commodity purchases decreased $37.9 million during the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to $18.0 million during the same period in 2022.
Cash Flows Used For Investing Activities
The $6.6 million increase in cash flows used for investing activities during the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, was largely due to a $5.9 million increase in expenditures towards investments in related parties. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, we spent $5.9 million on investments in High Plains Partners, LLC, a related party, compared to $0 during the same period in 2022.
Cash Flows Provided By (Used For) Financing Activities
The $13.5 million decrease in cash flows provided by financing activities was principally due to a $19.2 million increase in cash distributions to our members during the three-month period ended March 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. Partially offsetting the decrease was a $6.5 million increase in net proceeds on borrowings. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, net proceeds on borrowings increased $63.4 million, compared to $56.9 million during the same period in 2022.
Indebtedness
We have two lines of credit with CoBank, our primary lender, to meet the short and long-term needs of our operations. The first credit line is a revolving long-term loan. Under this loan, we may borrow funds as needed up to the credit line maximum, or $14.0 million, and then pay down the principal whenever excess cash is available. Repaid amounts may be borrowed up to the available credit line. The available credit line decreases by $2.0 million every six months until the credit line’s maturity on March 20, 2026. We pay a 0.40% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed. The principal balance outstanding on the revolving term loan was $12.0 million and $8.8 million
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as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Under this loan, there were no additional funds available to borrow as of March 31, 2023.
The second credit line is a revolving working capital (seasonal) loan. The primary purpose of this loan is to finance our operating needs. The maximum we may borrow under this line is $85.0 million until the loan's maturity on December 1, 2023. We pay a 0.20% annual commitment fee on any funds not borrowed; however, we have the option to reduce the credit line during any given commitment period listed in the credit agreement to avoid the commitment fee. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the principal balance outstanding on this credit line was $60.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively, allowing us to borrow an additional $24.6 million as of March 31, 2023.
Both the revolving and seasonal loans with CoBank are set up with a variable rate option. The variable rate is set daily by CoBank. 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. The annual interest rate on the revolving term loan was 7.35% and 6.85% as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the interest rate on the seasonal loan was 7.05% and 6.55%, respectively. We were in compliance with all covenants and conditions under the loans as of March 31, 2023.
OFF BALANCE SHEET FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
We do not utilize variable interest entities or other off-balance sheet financial arrangements.
Contractual Obligations
The following table shows our contractual obligations for the periods presented:
Payment due by period
CONTRACTUAL
OBLIGATIONS
TotalLess than
1 year
1-3 years3-5 yearsMore than
5 years
Long-Term Debt Obligations (1)$13,325,000 $4,750,000 $8,575,000 $— $— 
Operating Lease Obligations37,051,000 4,517,000 8,315,000 7,091,000 17,128,000 
Totals$50,376,000 $9,267,000 $16,890,000 $7,091,000 $17,128,000 
(1)    Represents principal and interest payments on our notes payable, which are included on our Balance Sheet.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Note 1 of our Financial Statements under Part I, Item 1, for a discussion on the impact, if any, of the recently pronounced accounting standards.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates from those set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.
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 or options futures contract) on a regulated commodity futures exchange, the Chicago Board of Trade. While hedging activities reduce the risk of loss from changing market prices, such activities also limit the gain potential which otherwise could result from these significant fluctuations in market prices. 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. Our management does not
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anticipate that hedging activities 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 our facility 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 managers. We monitor current market conditions and may expand or reduce the limits in response to changes in those conditions.
An adverse change in market prices would not materially affect our profitability since we generally take opposite and offsetting positions by entering into commodity futures and forward contracts as economic hedges of price risk.
Foreign Currency Risk. We conduct essentially all of our business in U.S. dollars and have minimal 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.
An adverse change in market prices would not materially affect our profitability since we generally take opposite and offsetting positions by entering into commodity futures and forward contracts as economic hedges of price risk.
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.
As of March 31, 2023, we had $0 in fixed rate debt outstanding and $97.0 million of variable rate lines of credit. Interest rate changes impact the amount of our interest payments and, therefore, our future earnings and cash flows. Assuming other variables remain constant, a 1.0% increase in interest rates on our variable rate debt could have an estimated impact on profitability of approximately $970,000 per year.
Item 4.    Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Based on their evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. There were no changes to our internal controls over financial reporting that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2023.
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 dispute. We carry insurance that provides protection against general commercial liability claims, claims against our directors, officer and employees, business interruption, automobile liability, and workers' compensation. We are not currently involved in any material legal proceedings and are not aware of any potential claims.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
During the quarter ended March 31, 2023, there were no material changes to the Risk Factors disclosed in Item 1A (Part I) of our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
None.
Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
None.
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures.
None.
Item 5.    Other Information.
None.
Item 6.    Exhibits. 
Exhibit
Number
Description
3.1(i)
3.1(ii)
3.1(iii)
4.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
____________________________________________________________________________

(1) 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).
(2) Incorporated by reference from the same numbered exhibit to the issuer’s Form 8-K filed on June 21, 2022.
(3) Incorporated by reference from the same numbered exhibit to the issuer’s Form 10-Q filed 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).
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 11, 2023By/s/ Thomas Kersting
  Thomas Kersting, Chief Executive Officer
 (Principal Executive Officer)
 
Dated:May 11, 2023By/s/ Mark Hyde
  Mark Hyde, Chief Financial Officer
  (Principal Financial Officer)
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