Annual Statements Open main menu
  1. Annual Statements
  2. » Companies
  3. » Stagwell Inc
  4. » Quarter Report: 2015 September (Form 10-Q)

Stagwell Inc - Quarter Report: 2015 September (Form 10-Q)

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One) 
 
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2015
or
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ______________ to ______________
Commission File Number: 001-13718 
MDC Partners Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Canada
 
98-0364441
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
745 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York
 
10151
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
(646) 429-1800
(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   ý   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   ý No   ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer; a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated Filer  x
Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated Filer  ¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes   ¨ No   ý
The numbers of shares outstanding as of October 26, 2015 were: 50,794,578 Class A subordinate voting shares and 3,755 Class B multiple voting shares.


Table of Contents


MDC PARTNERS INC.
 
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
Page
 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.

2
Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements
MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(thousands of United States dollars, except per share amounts)
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
Revenue:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Services
$
328,415

 
$
309,391

 
$
967,243

 
$
883,601

Operating Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of services sold
212,925

 
205,549

 
648,386

 
575,892

Office and general expenses
78,786

 
70,815

 
206,169

 
213,587

Depreciation and amortization
13,086

 
11,684

 
39,393

 
32,083

 
304,797

 
288,048

 
893,948

 
821,562

Operating profit
23,618

 
21,343

 
73,295

 
62,039

Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other, net
(15,623
)
 
(9,641
)
 
(29,315
)
 
(8,648
)
Interest expense and finance charges
(14,638
)
 
(14,022
)
 
(43,022
)
 
(40,663
)
Interest income
114

 
105

 
338

 
287

 
(30,147
)
 
(23,558
)
 
(71,999
)
 
(49,024
)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates
(6,529
)
 
(2,215
)
 
1,296

 
13,015

Income tax expense (benefit)
(1,191
)
 
(266
)
 
(566
)
 
2,764

Income (loss) from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates
(5,338
)
 
(1,949
)
 
1,862

 
10,251

Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
172

 
81

 
627

 
223

Income (loss) from continuing operations
(5,166
)
 
(1,868
)
 
2,489

 
10,474

Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
(1,316
)
 
(1,369
)
 
(6,281
)
 
(2,976
)
Net income (loss)
(6,482
)
 
(3,237
)
 
(3,792
)
 
7,498

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(2,122
)
 
(1,685
)
 
(7,343
)
 
(4,796
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
$
(8,604
)
 
$
(4,922
)
 
$
(11,135
)
 
$
2,702

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) Per Common Share
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Basic
 


 






Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
$
(0.15
)
 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
(0.10
)
 
$
0.11

Discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
(0.02
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.12
)
 
(0.06
)
Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
$
(0.17
)
 
$
(0.10
)
 
$
(0.22
)
 
$
0.05

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
$
(0.15
)
 
$
(0.07
)
 
$
(0.10
)
 
$
0.11

Discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
(0.02
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.12
)
 
(0.06
)

3
Table of Contents

Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
$
(0.17
)
 
$
(0.10
)
 
$
(0.22
)
 
$
0.05

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Basic
49,915,807

 
49,630,532

 
49,843,980

 
49,506,427

Diluted
49,915,807

 
49,630,532

 
49,843,980

 
50,134,263

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock-based compensation expense is included in the following line items above:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Cost of services sold
$
1,727

 
$
1,516

 
$
8,415

 
$
6,270

Office and general expenses
1,539

 
1,921

 
4,610

 
5,963

Total
$
3,266

 
$
3,437

 
$
13,025

 
$
12,233

See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

4
Table of Contents

MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(thousands of United States dollars)
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(6,482
)
 
$
(3,237
)
 
$
(3,792
)
 
$
7,498

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable tax:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
5,893

 
1,597

 
9,337

 
2,356

Other comprehensive income
5,893

 
1,597

 
9,337

 
2,356

Comprehensive income (loss) for the year
(589
)
 
(1,640
)
 
5,545

 
9,854

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(344
)
 
202

 
(3,409
)
 
(4,014
)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
$
(933
)
 
$
(1,438
)
 
$
2,136

 
$
5,840

See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

5
Table of Contents

MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(thousands of United States dollars)
 
September 30,
2015
 
December 31,
2014
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 

 
 

Current Assets:
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
15,758

 
$
113,348

Cash held in trusts
5,667

 
6,419

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,207 and $1,409
418,725

 
355,295

Expenditures billable to clients
56,715

 
40,202

Other current assets
30,465

 
36,978

Total Current Assets
527,330

 
552,242

Fixed assets, at cost, less accumulated depreciation of $104,068 and $95,083
62,109

 
60,240

Investment in non-consolidated affiliates
10,805

 
6,110

Goodwill
869,869

 
851,373

Other intangible assets, net
74,833

 
86,121

Deferred tax asset
21,849

 
18,758

Other assets
50,406

 
74,046

 
 
 
 
Total Assets
$
1,617,201

 
$
1,648,890

LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS, AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
 

 
 

Current Liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts payable
$
293,491

 
$
316,285

Trust liability
5,667

 
6,419

Accruals and other liabilities
313,349

 
264,854

Advance billings
134,867

 
142,608

Current portion of long-term debt
508

 
534

Current portion of deferred acquisition consideration
105,986

 
90,804

Total Current Liabilities
853,868

 
821,504

Long-term debt, less current portion
826,678

 
742,593

Long-term portion of deferred acquisition consideration
185,741

 
114,564

Other liabilities
43,782

 
45,861

Deferred tax liabilities
83,869

 
77,997

 
 
 
 
Total Liabilities
1,993,938

 
1,802,519

 
 
 
 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Note 2)
71,326

 
194,951

Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees (Note 11)


 


Shareholders’ Deficit:
 

 
 

Preferred shares, unlimited authorized, none issued
—

 
—

Class A Shares, no par value, unlimited authorized, 49,935,095 and 49,680,109 shares issued and outstanding in 2015 and 2014
269,557

 
265,817

Class B Shares, no par value, unlimited authorized, 3,755 shares issued and outstanding in 2015 and 2014, each convertible into one Class A share
1

 
1

Charges in excess of capital
(302,385
)
 
(209,668
)
Accumulated deficit
(500,768
)
 
(489,633
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
5,519

 
(7,752
)
MDC Partners Inc. Shareholders' Deficit
(528,076
)
 
(441,235
)
Noncontrolling Interests
80,013

 
92,655

Total Shareholders' Deficit
(448,063
)
 
(348,580
)
Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Shareholders’ Deficit
$
1,617,201

 
$
1,648,890

See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

6
Table of Contents

MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(thousands of United States dollars)
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2015
 
2014
Cash flows from operating activities:


 


Net income (loss)
$
(3,792
)
 
$
7,498

Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
(6,281
)
 
(2,976
)
Income from continuing operations
2,489

 
10,474

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) from continuing operations to cash (used in) provided by operating activities:


 


Stock-based compensation
13,025

 
12,233

Depreciation
13,666

 
11,966

Amortization of intangibles
25,727

 
20,117

Amortization of deferred finance charges and debt discount
1,702

 
1,704

Adjustment to deferred acquisition consideration
(3,866
)
 
16,129

Deferred income tax
(1,020
)
 
3,237

Earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
(627
)
 
(223
)
Other non-current assets and liabilities
3,930

 
(11,110
)
Foreign exchange
24,739

 
7,961

Changes in working capital:


 


Accounts receivable
(63,134
)
 
(55,066
)
Expenditures billable to clients
(16,582
)
 
(38,944
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
(1,371
)
 
(5,112
)
Accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities
(84
)
 
14,152

Advance billings
(7,741
)
 
51,437

Cash flows (used in) provided by continuing operating activities
(9,147
)
 
38,955

Discontinued operations
(1,342
)
 
(3,571
)
   Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(10,489
)

35,384

Cash flows used in investing activities:


 


Capital expenditures
(17,665
)
 
(18,678
)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(21,050
)
 
(57,728
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
21

 
77

Other investments
(6,507
)
 
(3,740
)
Distributions from non-consolidated affiliates
2,478

 
2,802

Cash flows used in continuing investing activities
(42,723
)
 
(77,267
)
Discontinued operations
17,101

 
(1,956
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(25,622
)

(79,223
)
Cash flows used in financing activities:


 


Proceeds from issuance of 6.75% Notes
—

 
78,937

Proceeds from revolving credit agreement
85,276

 
—

Acquisition related payments
(132,997
)
 
(71,255
)
Repayment of long-term debt
(397
)
 
(340
)
Purchase of shares
(1,792
)
 
(4,791
)
Deferred financing costs
—

 
(2,376
)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
(9,462
)
 
(6,014
)
Proceeds from exercise of options
224

 
—

Cash overdrafts
27,207

 
18,364

Payment of dividends
(31,692
)
 
(28,054
)
Other
—

 
57

Cash flows used in continuing financing activities
(63,633
)
 
(15,472
)
Discontinued operations
(40
)
 
(40
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(63,673
)

(15,512
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
2,194

 
(194
)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(97,590
)
 
(59,545
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
113,348

 
102,007

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
15,758

 
$
42,462

 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosures:


 


Cash income taxes paid
$
1,400

 
$
359

Cash interest paid
$
26,358

 
$
23,247

Change in cash held in trusts
$
(752
)
 
$
6,422

 
 
 
 
Non-cash transactions:


 


Capital leases
$
106

 
$
766


7
Table of Contents

Dividends payable
$
1,615

 
$
1,349

Note receivable exchanged for shares of subsidiary
$
—

 
$
1,746

See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

8
Table of Contents

MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
(thousands of United States dollars)
 
Common Stock
 
 
 
Charges in
 
 
 
Accumulated Other
 
MDC Partners Inc.
 
 
 
Total
 
Class A
 
Class B
 
Additional
 
Excess of
 
Accumulated
 
Comprehensive
 
Shareholders'
 
Noncontrolling
 
Shareholders'
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Paid-in Capital
 
Capital
 
Deficit
 
Income (Loss)
 
Deficit
 
Interests
 
Deficit
Balance at December 31, 2014
49,680,109

 
$
265,817

 
3,755

 
$
1

 
$
—

 
$
(209,668
)
 
$
(489,633
)
 
$
(7,752
)
 
$
(441,235
)
 
$
92,655

 
$
(348,580
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(11,135
)
 
—

 
(11,135
)
 
—

 
(11,135
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
13,271

 
13,271

 
(3,934
)
 
9,337

Issuance of restricted stock
285,764

 
5,189

 
—

 
—

 
(5,189
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Shares acquired and cancelled
(68,278
)
 
(1,792
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1,792
)
 
—

 
(1,792
)
Options exercised
37,500

 
343

 
—

 
—

 
(119
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
224

 
—

 
224

Stock-based compensation
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
6,563

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
6,563

 
—

 
6,563

Changes in redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(21,596
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(21,596
)
 
—

 
(21,596
)
Changes in noncontrolling interests and redeemable noncontrolling interests from step-up transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(40,446
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(40,446
)
 
(8,708
)
 
(49,154
)
Dividends paid and to be paid
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(31,930
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(31,930
)
 
—

 
(31,930
)
Transfer to charges in excess of capital
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
92,717

 
(92,717
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Balance at September 30, 2015
49,935,095

 
$
269,557

 
3,755

 
$
1

 
$
—

 
$
(302,385
)
 
$
(500,768
)
 
$
5,519

 
$
(528,076
)
 
$
80,013

 
$
(448,063
)
See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

9
Table of Contents

MDC PARTNERS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(thousands of United States dollars, unless otherwise stated)
1.    Basis of Presentation

MDC Partners Inc. (the “Company” or “MDC”) has prepared the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements included herein pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) of the United States of America (“US GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to these rules.
 
The accompanying financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of normally recurring accruals, which in the opinion of management are necessary for a fair presentation, in all material respects, of the information contained therein. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of annual results.
 
These statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
 
2.    Significant Accounting Policies
 
The Company’s significant accounting policies are summarized as follows:
 
Principles of Consolidation. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of MDC Partners Inc. and its domestic and international controlled subsidiaries that are not considered variable interest entities, and variable interest entities for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Reclassifications. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period financial statements to conform to the current period presentation.
 
Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities including goodwill, intangible assets, contingent deferred acquisition consideration, valuation allowances for receivables, deferred tax assets and the amounts of revenue and expenses reported during the period. These estimates are evaluated on an ongoing basis and are based on historical experience, current conditions and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
 
Fair Value. The Company applies the fair value measurement guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") Accounting Standards Codification (the "Codification") Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure, for financial assets and liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value and for nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets. The measurement of fair value requires the use of techniques based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect the Company's market assumptions. The inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:
 
•
Level 1 — Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•
Level 2 — Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations where inputs are observable or where significant value drivers are observable.
•
Level 3 — Instruments where significant value drivers are unobservable to third parties.

When available, the Company uses quoted market prices to determine the fair value of its financial instruments and classifies such items in Level 1. In some cases, quoted market prices are used for similar instruments in active markets and the Company classifies such items in Level 2.
 
Concentration of Credit Risk. The Company provides marketing communications services to clients who operate in most industry sectors. Credit is granted to qualified clients in the ordinary course of business. Due to the diversified nature of the Company’s client base, the Company does not believe that it is exposed to a concentration of credit risk. No client accounted for

10
Table of Contents

more than 10% of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable at September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014. No clients accounted for 10% of the Company’s revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 or for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents. The Company’s cash equivalents are primarily comprised of investments in overnight interest-bearing deposits, commercial paper and money market instruments and other short-term investments with original maturity dates of three months or less at the time of purchase. The Company has a concentration of credit risk in that there are cash deposits in excess of federally insured amounts.

Cash in Trust. A subsidiary of the Company holds restricted cash in trust accounts related to funds received on behalf of clients.  Such amounts are held in escrow under depositary service agreements and distributed at the direction of the clients.  The funds are presented as a corresponding liability on the balance sheet.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.  Trade receivables are stated at invoiced amounts less allowances for doubtful accounts. The allowances represent estimated uncollectible receivables associated with potential customer defaults usually due to customers’ potential insolvency. The allowances include amounts for certain customers where a risk of default has been specifically identified. The assessment of the likelihood of customer defaults is based on various factors, including the length of time the receivables are past due, historical experience and existing economic conditions.

Expenditures Billable to Clients.  Expenditures billable to clients consist principally of outside vendor costs incurred on behalf of clients when providing advertising, marketing and corporate communications services that have not yet been invoiced to clients. Such amounts are invoiced to clients at various times over the course of the production process.

Fixed Assets.  Fixed assets are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Computers, furniture and fixtures are depreciated on a straight-line basis over periods of 3 to 7 years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the term of the related lease or the estimated useful life of the asset. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

Equity Method Investments. The equity method is used to account for investments in entities in which the Company has an ownership interest of less than 50% and has significant influence, or joint control by contractual arrangement, (i) over the operating and financial policies of the affiliate or (ii) has an ownership interest greater than 50%; however, the substantive participating rights of the noncontrolling interest shareholders preclude the Company from exercising unilateral control over the operating and financial policies of the affiliate. The Company’s investments accounted for using the equity method include a 30% undivided interest in a real estate joint venture and various interests in investment funds. The Company’s management periodically evaluates these investments to determine if there has been a decline in value that is other than temporary. These investments are included in investments in non-consolidated affiliates.

Cost Method Investments. From time to time, the Company makes non-material cost based investments in start-up advertising technology companies and innovative consumer product companies where the Company does not exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The total net cost basis of these investments, which is included in Other Assets on the balance sheet, at September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014 was $12,833 and $10,196, respectively. These investments are periodically evaluated to determine whether a significant event or change in circumstances has occurred that may impact the fair value of each investment other than temporary declines below book value. A variety of factors are considered when determining if a decline is other than temporary, including, among others, the financial condition and prospects of the investee, as well as the Company’s investment intent.  In addition, the Company's partner agencies may receive minority equity interests from start-up companies in lieu of fees.
 
Business Combinations. Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method and accordingly, the assets acquired (including identified intangible assets), the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired business are recorded at their acquisition date fair values. The Company’s acquisition model typically provides for an initial payment at closing and for future additional contingent purchase price obligations. Contingent purchase price obligations are recorded as deferred acquisition consideration on the balance sheet at the acquisition date fair value and are remeasured at each reporting period. Changes in such estimated values are recorded in the results of operations. For further information see Note 4 and Note 8. For the three months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, $4,927 and $2,623 of expense was recognized in operations related to changes in estimated value, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, $5,566 of income and $14,716 of expense, respectively, related to changes in estimated value was recorded in results of operations. The Company expenses acquisition related costs. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, $728 and $1,658 and $2,444 and $3,713, respectively, of acquisition related costs were charged to operations.
 

11
Table of Contents

For each acquisition, the Company undertakes a detailed review to identify intangible assets and a valuation is performed for all such identified assets. The Company uses several market participant measurements to determine the estimated value. This approach includes consideration of similar and recent transactions, as well as utilizing discounted expected cash flow methodologies. Like most service businesses, a substantial portion of the intangible asset value that the Company acquires is the specialized know-how of the workforce, which is treated as part of goodwill and is not required to be valued separately. The majority of the value of the identifiable intangible assets acquired is derived from customer relationships, including the related customer contracts, as well as trade names. In executing the Company's overall acquisition strategy, one of the primary drivers in identifying and executing a specific transaction is the existence of, or the ability to, expand the existing client relationships. The expected benefits of the Company's acquisitions are typically shared across multiple agencies and regions.

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests. Many of the Company’s acquisitions include contractual arrangements where the noncontrolling shareholders have an option to purchase, or may require the Company to purchase, such noncontrolling shareholders' incremental ownership interests under certain circumstances and the Company has similar call options under the same contractual terms. The amount of consideration under these contractual arrangements is not a fixed amount, but rather is dependent upon various valuation formulas as described in Note 11. In the event that an incremental purchase may be required of the Company, the amounts are recorded as Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests in mezzanine equity on the balance sheet at their acquisition date fair value and adjusted for changes to their estimated redemption value through additional paid-in capital (but not less than their initial redemption value), except for foreign currency translation adjustments. These adjustments will not impact the calculation of earnings (loss) per share.
 
If the estimated redemption value is in excess of the fair value of the noncontrolling interests, the Company records a charge to income attributable to noncontrolling interests. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, there were no charges to income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Changes in the estimated redemption amounts of the redeemable noncontrolling interests are adjusted at each reporting period with a corresponding adjustment to equity. These adjustments will not impact the calculation of earnings (loss) per share.

The following table presents changes in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests:
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015
 
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Beginning Balance
$
194,951

 
$
148,534

Redemptions
(152,166
)
 
(4,820
)
Granted (1)
7,703

 
13,327

Changes in redemption value
21,596

 
38,850

Currency Translation Adjustments
(758
)
 
(940
)
Ending Balance
$
71,326

 
$
194,951

 
(1) Grants in 2015 consisted of transfers from noncontrolling interests related to step-up transactions and new
acquisitions.

Subsidiary and Equity Investment Stock Transactions. Transactions involving the purchase, sale or issuance of stock of a subsidiary where control is maintained are recorded as a reduction in the redeemable noncontrolling interests or noncontrolling interests, as applicable. Any difference between the purchase price and noncontolling interest are recorded to additional paid-in capital. In circumstances where the purchase of shares of an equity investment results in obtaining control, the existing carrying value of the investment is remeasured to the acquisition date fair value and any gain or loss is recognized in results of operations.

Variable Interest Entity. Effective March 28, 2012, the Company invested in Doner Partners LLC (“Doner”). The Company acquired a 30% voting interest and convertible preferred interests that allow the Company to increase ordinary voting ownership to 70% at the Company’s option. The Company has determined that (i) this entity is a variable interest entity, and (ii) the Company is the primary beneficiary because it receives a disproportionate share of profits and losses as compared to its ownership percentage. As such, Doner is consolidated for all periods subsequent to the date of investment.
 
Doner is a full service integrated creative agency that is included as part of the Company's portfolio in the Strategic Marketing Services Segment. The Company’s Credit Agreement (see Note 7) is guaranteed and secured by all of Doner’s assets.


12
Table of Contents

Total assets and total liabilities of Doner included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2015 were $116,998 and $83,131, respectively, and at December 31, 2014 were $223,305 and $192,340, respectively.

Guarantees.  Guarantees issued or modified by the Company to third parties after January 1, 2003 are generally recognized at the inception or modification of the guarantee as a liability for the obligations it has undertaken in issuing the guarantee, including its ongoing obligation to stand ready to perform over the term of the guarantee in the event that the specified triggering events or conditions occur. The initial measurement of that liability is the fair value of the guarantee. The recognition of a liability is required even if it is not probable that payments will be required under a guarantee. The Company’s liability associated with guarantees is not significant. (See Note 11).
 
Revenue Recognition. The Company’s revenue recognition policies are established in accordance with the Revenue Recognition topics of the FASB Codification, and accordingly, revenue is recognized when all of the following criteria are satisfied: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (ii) the selling price is fixed or determinable; (iii) services have been performed or upon delivery of the products when ownership and risk of loss has transferred to the client; and (iv) collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.

The Company follows the Multiple-Element Arrangement topic of the FASB Codification, which addresses certain aspects of the accounting by a vendor for arrangements under which it will perform multiple revenue-generating activities and how to determine whether an arrangement involving multiple deliverables contains more than one unit of accounting.

The Company follows the Principal Agent Consideration topic of the FASB Codification which addresses (i) whether revenue should be recorded at the gross amount billed because it has earned revenue from the sale of goods or services, or recorded at the net amount retained because it has earned a fee or commission, and (ii) that reimbursements received for out-of-pocket expenses incurred should be characterized in the income statement as revenue. Accordingly, the Company has included such reimbursed expenses in revenue.
 
The Company earns revenue from agency arrangements in the form of retainer fees or commissions; from short-term project arrangements in the form of fixed fees or per diem fees for services; and from incentives or bonuses.
 
Non-refundable retainer fees are generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the specific customer arrangement. Commission revenue is earned and recognized upon the placement of advertisements in various media when the Company has no further performance obligations. Fixed fees for services are recognized upon completion of the earnings process and acceptance by the client. Per diem fees are recognized upon the performance of the Company’s services. In addition, for a limited number of certain service transactions, which require delivery of a number of service acts, the Company uses the proportional performance model, which generally results in revenue being recognized based on the straight-line method.
 
Fees billed to clients in excess of fees recognized as revenue are classified as Advanced Billings on the Company's balance sheet.
 
A small portion of the Company’s contractual arrangements with customers include performance incentive provisions, which allows the Company to earn additional revenue as a result of its performance relative to both quantitative and qualitative goals. The Company recognizes the incentive portion of revenue under these arrangements when specific quantitative goals are assured, or when the Company’s clients determine performance against qualitative goals has been achieved. In all circumstances, revenue is only recognized when collection is reasonably assured. The Company records revenue net of sales and other taxes due to be collected and remitted to governmental authorities.

Cost of Services Sold.  Cost of services sold do not include depreciation charges for fixed assets.
 
Interest Expense. Interest expense primarily consists of the cost of borrowing on the Company's 6.75% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “6.75% Notes”) and the Company's $325 million senior secured revolving credit agreement due 2019 (the “Credit Agreement"). The Company uses the effective interest method to amortize the deferred financing costs and original issue premium on the 6.75% Notes. The Company also uses the straight-line method to amortize the deferred financing costs on the Credit Agreement. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, interest expense included $770 and $1,700, respectively, and $553 and $1,415, respectively, relating to present value adjustments for fixed deferred acquisition consideration payments.
 
Income Taxes. The Company’s US operating units are generally structured as limited liability companies, which are treated as partnerships for tax purposes. The Company is only taxed on its share of profits, while noncontrolling holders are responsible for taxes on their share of the profits. The Company currently has a fully reserved valuation allowance on its deferred

13
Table of Contents

tax assets related to US net operating losses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, the Company's effective tax rate was substantially lower than the statutory rate due primarily to (i) the utilization of previously fully reserved net operating losses, and (ii) noncontrolling interest charges and losses in certain tax jurisdictions where a valuation allowance was deemed necessary, offset by non-deductible stock-based compensation.
 
Stock-Based Compensation.  Under the fair value method, compensation cost is measured at fair value at the date of grant and is expensed over the service period, in this case the award’s vesting period. When awards are exercised, share capital is credited by the sum of the consideration paid, together with the related portion previously credited to additional paid-in capital when compensation costs were charged against income or acquisition consideration.
 
The Company uses its historical volatility derived over the expected term of the award to determine the volatility factor used in determining the fair value of the award.
 
Stock-based awards that are settled in cash, or may be settled in cash at the option of employees, are recorded as liabilities. The measurement of the liability and compensation cost for these awards is based on the fair value of the award, and is recorded in operating income over the service period, in this case the award's vesting period. Changes in the Company’s payment obligation prior to the settlement date of a stock-based award are recorded as compensation cost in operating income in the period of the change. The final payment amount for such awards is established on the date of the exercise of the award by the employee.
 
Stock-based awards that are settled in cash or equity at the option of the Company are recorded at fair value on the date of grant and recorded as additional paid-in capital. The fair value measurement of the compensation cost for these awards is based on using the Black-Scholes option pricing-model and is recorded in operating income over the service period, in this case the award's vesting period.
 
It is the Company’s policy for issuing shares upon the exercise of an equity incentive award to verify the amount of shares to be issued, as well as the amount of proceeds to be collected (if any) and to deliver new shares to the exercising party.
 
The Company has adopted the straight-line attribution method for determining the compensation cost to be recorded during each accounting period. However, awards based on performance conditions are recorded as compensation expense when the performance conditions are expected to be met.
 
The Company treats benefits paid by shareholders or equity members to employees as a stock-based compensation charge with a corresponding credit to additional paid-in-capital.

From time to time, certain acquisitions and step-up transactions include an element of compensation related payments. The Company accounts for those payments as stock-based compensation.
 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company issued 181,155 restricted stock units (“RSUs”) to its employees and directors. The RSUs have an aggregate grant date fair value of $3,780 and generally vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant.
 
A total of 805,217 Class A shares of restricted stock, granted to employees as equity incentive awards but not yet vested, has been excluded in the Company’s calculation of Class A shares outstanding as of September 30, 2015.

Income (loss) per Common Share.  Basic income (loss) per share is based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period, including the “Share capital to be issued” as reflected in Shareholders’ Equity on the balance sheet. Diluted income (loss) per share is based on the above, plus, if dilutive, common share equivalents, which include outstanding options, stock appreciation rights, and restricted stock units.

Foreign Currency Translation.  The Company’s financial statements were prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Foreign Currency Translation topic of the FASB Codification. The functional currency of the Company is the Canadian Dollar and it has decided to use US Dollars as its reporting currency for consolidated reporting purposes. Generally, the Company’s subsidiaries use their local currency as their functional currency. Accordingly, the currency impacts of the translation of the balance sheets of the Company’s non-US Dollar based subsidiaries to US Dollar statements are included as cumulative translation adjustments in accumulated other comprehensive income. Translation of intercompany debt, which is not intended to be repaid, is included in cumulative translation adjustments. Cumulative translation adjustments are not included in net earnings unless they are actually realized through a sale or upon complete or substantially complete liquidation of the Company’s net investment in the foreign operation. Translation of current intercompany balances are included in net earnings. The balance sheets of non-US

14
Table of Contents

Dollar based subsidiaries are translated at the period end rate. The income statements of non-US Dollar based subsidiaries are translated at average exchange rates for the period.

Gains and losses arising from the Company’s foreign currency transactions are reflected in net earnings. Unrealized gains or losses arising on the translation of certain intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature (that is settlement is not planned or anticipated in the future) are included as cumulative translation adjustments in accumulated other comprehensive income.

3.    Income Per Common Share
 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income per common share from continuing operations.
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
2015

2014
 
2015
 
2014
Numerator
 

 

 


 


Numerator for basic income (loss) per common share - income (loss) from continuing operations
$
(5,166
)

$
(1,868
)
 
$
2,489

 
$
10,474

Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(2,122
)

(1,685
)
 
(7,343
)
 
(4,796
)
Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders
(7,288
)

(3,553
)
 
(4,854
)
 
5,678

Effect of dilutive securities
—


—

 
—

 
—

Numerator for diluted income (loss) per common share - income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc. common shareholders from continuing operations
$
(7,288
)

$
(3,553
)
 
$
(4,854
)
 
$
5,678

Denominator




 


 


Denominator for basic income (loss) per common share - weighted average common shares
49,915,807


49,630,532

 
49,843,980

 
49,506,427

Effect of dilutive securities
—


—

 
—

 
627,836

Denominator for diluted income (loss) per common share - adjusted weighted shares and assumed conversions
49,915,807


49,630,532

 
49,843,980

 
50,134,263

Basic income (loss) per common share from continuing operations
$
(0.15
)

$
(0.07
)
 
$
(0.10
)
 
$
0.11

Diluted income (loss) per common share from continuing operations
$
(0.15
)
 
$
(0.07
)

$
(0.10
)
 
$
0.11

 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, options and other rights to purchase 942,574 shares of common stock, which includes 867,574 shares of non-vested restricted stock and restricted stock units, were outstanding and were excluded in the computation of diluted income per common share.

During the three months ended September 30, 2014, options and other rights to purchase 1,111,055 shares of common stock, which includes 998,555 shares of non-vested restricted stock, were outstanding and were excluded in the computation of diluted income per common share.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, options and other rights to purchase 1,111,055 shares of common stock, which includes 998,555 shares of non-vested restricted stock, were outstanding and were included in the computation of diluted income per common share.

4.    Acquisitions
 
Valuations of acquired companies are based on a number of factors, including specialized know-how, reputation, competitive position and service offerings. The Company's acquisition strategy has been focused on acquiring the expertise of an assembled workforce in order to continue to build upon the core capabilities of its various strategic business platforms to better serve the Company's clients. MDC’s strategy includes acquiring ownership stakes in well-managed businesses with strong reputations in the industry. The Company’s model of “Perpetual Partnership” often involves acquiring a majority interest rather than a 100% interest and leaving management owners with a significant financial interest in the performance of the acquired entity

15
Table of Contents

for a minimum period of time, typically not less than five years. The Company’s acquisition model in this scenario typically provides for (i) an initial payment at the time of closing, (ii) additional contingent purchase price obligations based on the future performance of the acquired entity, and (iii) an option by the Company to purchase (and in some instances a requirement to so purchase) the remaining interest of the acquired entity under a predetermined formula.

Contingent purchase price obligations. The Company's contingent purchase price obligations are generally payable within a five year period following the acquisition date, and are based on (i) the achievement of specific thresholds of future earnings, and (ii) in certain cases, the growth rate of those earnings. Contingent purchase price obligations are recorded as deferred acquisition consideration on the balance sheet at the acquisition date fair value and adjusted at each reporting period through operating income or net interest expense, depending on the nature of the arrangement. See Note 8 for additional information on deferred acquisition consideration.

Options to purchase. When acquiring less than 100% ownership, the Company may enter into agreements that give the Company an option to purchase, or require the Company to purchase, the incremental ownership interests under certain circumstances. Where the option to purchase the incremental ownership is within the Company's control, the amounts are recorded as noncontrolling interests in the equity section of the Company's balance sheet. Where the incremental purchase may be required of the Company, the amounts are recorded as redeemable noncontrolling interests in mezzanine equity at their acquisition date estimated redemption value and adjusted at each reporting period for changes to their estimated redemption value through additional paid-in capital (but not less than their initial redemption value), except for foreign currency translation adjustments. On occasion, the Company may initiate a renegotiation to acquire an incremental ownership interest and the amount of consideration paid may differ materially from the balance sheet amounts. See Note 11 for additional information on redeemable noncontrolling interests.

Employment conditions. From time to time, specifically when the projected success of an acquisition is deemed to be dependent on retention of specific personnel, such acquisition may include deferred payments that are contingent upon employment terms as well as financial performance. The Company accounts for those payments through operating income as stock-based compensation over the required retention period. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, stock-based compensation included $1,548 and $6,462, respectively, and $1,395 and $5,680, respectively, of expense relating to those payments.

Distributions to minority shareholders. If minority shareholders have the right to receive distributions based on the profitability of an acquired entity, the amount is recorded as income attributable to noncontrolling interests. However, there are circumstances when the Company acquires a majority interest and the selling shareholders waive their right to receive distributions with respect to their retained interest for a period of time, typically not less than five years.  Under this model, the right to receive such distributions typically begins concurrently with the purchase option period and, therefore, if such option is exercised at the first available date the Company may not record any minority interest over the entire period from the initial acquisition date through the acquisition date of the remaining interests.

Pro forma financial information has not been presented for 2015 as there were no material acquisitions. During 2015, the Company completed an acquisition and a number of step-up transactions to increase its equity ownership percentage in majority owned entities. Included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 was revenue of $4,615 and $7,797, respectively, and net income of $1,073 and $1,646, related to the 2015 acquisition.
 
2015 Acquisitions
Effective May 1, 2015, the Company acquired a majority of the equity interests of Y Media Labs LLC (“Y Media”), such that following the transaction, the Company's effective ownership was 60%. Y Media is in the Company's Performance Marketing Services segment. The aggregate purchase price of this acquisition has an estimated present value at acquisition date of $45,096 and consisted of total closing cash payments of $20,000 and additional deferred acquisition payments that will be based on the future financial results of Y Media. These additional deferred payments have an estimated present value at acquisition date of $25,096. An allocation of excess purchase price consideration of this acquisition to the fair value of the net assets acquired resulted in identifiable intangibles of $11,542, consisting primarily of customer lists, a trade name and covenants not to complete, and goodwill of $38,618, representing the value of the assembled workforce. The identified assets have a weighted average useful life of approximately 5.1 years and will be amortized in a manner represented by the pattern in which the economic benefits of the customer contracts/relationships are realized. In addition, the Company has recorded $1,999 as the present value of redeemable noncontrolling interests. None of the intangibles and goodwill are tax deductible.

The actual adjustments that the Company will ultimately make in finalizing the allocation of purchase price to fair value of the net assets acquired will depend on a number of factors.


16
Table of Contents

In 2015, the Company acquired incremental ownership interests of Sloane & Company LLC (“Sloane”), Anomaly Partners LLC (“Anomaly”), Allison & Partners LLC (“Allison”), Relevent Partners LLC (“Relevent”), Kenna Communications LP (“Kenna”) and 72andSunny Partners LLC (“72andSunny”). Sloane, Anomaly, Allison and 72andSunny are included within the Company’s Strategic Marketing Services segment. Relevent and Kenna are both included within the Company’s Performance Marketing Services segment. In addition, the Company also entered into various non-material transactions in connection with other majority owned entities.

The aggregate purchase price for these 2015 acquisitions of incremental ownership interests has an estimated present value at transaction date of $195,669 and consisted of total closing cash payments of $37,437 and additional deferred acquisition payments that are both fixed and based on the future financial results of the underlying businesses. These additional deferred payments have an estimated present value at acquisition date of $158,232. The Company reduced redeemable noncontrolling interests by $146,459 and noncontrolling interests by $8,708. The difference between the purchase price and the noncontrolling interests of $40,446 was recorded in additional paid-in capital.

2014 Acquisitions
 
During 2014, the Company entered into several acquisitions and various non-material transactions with certain majority owned entities. Effective January 1, 2014, the Company acquired 60% of the equity interests of Luntz Global Partners LLC (“LG”). Effective February 14, 2014, the Company acquired 65% of the equity interests of Kingsdale Partners LP (“Kingsdale”). LG and Kingsdale are both in the Company’s Performance Marketing Services segment. On June 3, 2014, the Company acquired a 100% equity interest in The House Worldwide Ltd (“THW”). On July 31, 2014, Union Advertising Canada LP acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding stock of Trapeze Media Limited (“Trapeze”). Effective August 1, 2014, the Company acquired 65% of the equity interests of Hunter PR LLC (“Hunter PR”). Effective August 18, 2014, the Company acquired a 75% interest in Albion Brand Communication Limited (“Albion”). In addition, in June 2014 and August 2014, the Company (through a subsidiary) entered into other non-material acquisitions. THW, Trapeze, Hunter PR, and Albion are all included within the Company's Strategic Marketing Services segment.
 
The aggregate purchase price of these 2014 acquisitions has an estimated present value at acquisition date of $151,202 and consisted of total closing cash payments of $67,236, and additional deferred acquisition payments that will be based on the future financial results of the underlying businesses. These additional deferred payments have an estimated present value at acquisition date of $83,966. An allocation of excess purchase price consideration of these acquisitions to the fair value of the net assets acquired resulted in identifiable intangibles of $64,733, consisting primarily of customer lists, a technology asset and covenants not to compete, and goodwill of $146,806, representing the value of the assembled workforce. The identified assets will be amortized over a five to six year period in a manner represented by the pattern in which the economic benefits of the customer contracts/relationships are realized. In addition, the Company has recorded $50,552 as the present value of noncontrolling interests and $13,327 as the present value of redeemable noncontrolling interests. Intangibles and goodwill of $149,232 are tax deductible. In addition, the Company recorded other income of $908 representing a gain on the previously held 18% interest in Trapeze.
 
The actual adjustments that the Company will ultimately make in finalizing the allocation of purchase price to fair value of the net assets acquired will depend on a number of factors.


17
Table of Contents

Noncontrolling Interests
 
Changes in the Company’s ownership interests in our less than 100% owned subsidiaries during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:
 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to MDC Partners Inc. and
Transfers (to) from the Noncontrolling Interests
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2015

2014
 
2015
 
2014
Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
$
(8,604
)

$
(4,922
)
 
$
(11,135
)
 
$
2,702

Transfers to (from) the noncontrolling interest:
 

 
 
 
 
 
Increase (decrease) in MDC Partners Inc. paid-in capital for purchase of equity interests in excess of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Noncontrolling Interests
(7,247
)

109

 
(40,446
)
 
(6,129
)
Net transfers to (from) noncontrolling interests
$
(7,247
)

$
109

 
$
(40,446
)
 
$
(6,129
)
Change from net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc. and transfers to noncontrolling interests
$
(15,851
)

$
(4,813
)
 
$
(51,581
)
 
$
(3,427
)

5.    Accruals and Other Liabilities
 
At September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014, accruals and other liabilities included accrued media of $192,473 and $168,508, respectively; and included amounts due to noncontrolling interest holders, for their share of profits, which will be distributed within the next twelve months of $3,853 and $6,014, respectively.

Changes in noncontrolling interest amounts included in accrued and other liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2014 and nine months ended September 30, 2015 were as follows:
 
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
Balance, December 31, 2013
$
5,210

Income attributable to noncontrolling interests
6,890

Distributions made
(6,523
)
Other (1)
437

Balance, December 31, 2014
$
6,014

Income attributable to noncontrolling interests
7,343

Distributions made
(9,462
)
Other (1)
(42
)
Balance, September 30, 2015
$
3,853

 
(1) Other primarily relates to step-up transactions, discontinued operations and cumulative translation adjustments.


18
Table of Contents

6.    Discontinued Operations
 
In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company classified Accent Marketing Services, L.L.C. (“Accent”), which was previously reported in the Performance Marketing Services segment, as discontinued operations. Effective May 31, 2015, the Company completed the sale of Accent for an aggregate selling price of $17,102, net of transaction expenses.
 
Included in discontinued operations in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 was the following:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
Revenue
$
—


$
17,499


$
27,025


$
53,577


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating loss
$
—


$
(1,289
)

$
(322
)

$
(2,586
)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other expense
$
—


$
(80
)

$
(752
)

$
(390
)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss on disposal
(1,316
)

—


(5,207
)

—


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
$
(1,316
)

$
(1,369
)

$
(6,281
)

$
(2,976
)

At September 30, 2015, the Company had no assets held for sale. At December 31, 2014, other current assets and other long term assets included assets held for sale of $5,591 and $16,409, respectively.


7.    Debt
 
The Company's indebtedness was comprised of:
 

September 30,
2015

December 31, 2014
Revolving credit agreement
$
85,276

 
$
—

6.75% Senior Notes due 2020
735,000

 
735,000

Original issue premium
6,133

 
7,017

 
826,409

 
742,017

Obligations under capital leases
777

 
1,110

 
827,186

 
743,127


 
 
 
Less current portion:
508

 
534

 
$
826,678

 
$
742,593

 
MDC Financing Agreement and Senior Notes
 
Issuance of 6.75% Senior Notes
 
On March 20, 2013, MDC entered into an indenture (the “Indenture”) among MDC, its existing and future restricted subsidiaries that guarantee, or are co-borrowers under or grant liens to secure, the Credit Agreement, as guarantors (the “Guarantors”) and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, relating to the issuance by MDC of its $550,000 aggregate principal amount of the 6.75% Notes. The 6.75% Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.75% per annum, accruing from March 20, 2013. Interest is payable semiannually in arrears in cash on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on October 1, 2013. The 6.75% Notes

19
Table of Contents

mature on April 1, 2020, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased. The Company received net proceeds from the offering of the 6.75% Notes equal to approximately $537,600. The Company used the net proceeds to redeem all of its existing 11% notes, together with accrued interest, related premiums, fees and expenses and recorded a charge for loss on redemption of such notes of $55,588, including write offs of unamortized original issue premium and debt issuance costs. Remaining proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.
 
On November 15, 2013, the Company issued an additional $110,000 aggregate principal amount of the 6.75% Notes. The additional notes were issued under the Indenture governing the 6.75% Notes and treated as a single series with the original 6.75% Notes. The additional notes were sold in a private placement in reliance on exceptions from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “'33 Act”). The Company received net proceeds before expenses of $111,925, which included an original issue premium of $4,125, and underwriter fees of $2,200. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

 On April 2, 2014, the Company issued an additional $75,000 aggregate principal amount of the 6.75% Notes. The additional 6.75% Notes were issued under the Indenture governing the 6.75% Notes and treated as a single series with the original 6.75% Notes. The additional 6.75% Notes were sold in a private placement in reliance on exceptions from registration under the '33 Act. The Company received net proceeds before expenses of $77,452, which included an original issue premium of $3,938, and underwriter fees of $1,500. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including the funding of deferred acquisition consideration, working capital, acquisitions and the repayment of the amount outstanding under its senior secured revolving credit facility.

The 6.75% Notes are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by all of MDC’s existing and future restricted subsidiaries that guarantee, or are co-borrowers under or grant liens to secure, the Credit Agreement. The 6.75% Notes are unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of MDC and rank (i) equally in right of payment with all of MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future senior indebtedness, (ii) senior in right of payment to MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future subordinated indebtedness, (iii) effectively subordinated to all of MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the collateral securing such indebtedness, including the Credit Agreement, and (iv) structurally subordinated to all existing and future liabilities of MDC’s subsidiaries that are not Guarantors.
 
MDC may, at its option, redeem the 6.75% Notes in whole at any time or in part from time to time, on and after April 1, 2016 (i) at a redemption price of 103.375% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on April 1, 2016, (ii) at a redemption price of 101.688% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on April 1, 2017 and (iii) at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed on April 1, 2018 and thereafter.
 
Prior to April 1, 2016, MDC may, at its option, redeem some or all of the 6.75% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus a “make whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest. MDC may also redeem, at its option, prior to April 1, 2016, up to 35% of the 6.75% Notes with the proceeds from one or more equity offerings at a redemption price of 106.75% of the principal amount thereof.
 
If MDC experiences certain kinds of changes of control (as defined in the Indenture), holders of the 6.75% Notes may require MDC to repurchase any 6.75% Notes held by them at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, if MDC sells assets under certain circumstances, it must offer to repurchase the 6.75% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest.
 
The Indenture includes covenants that, among other things, restrict MDC’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries (as defined in the Indenture) to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; pay dividends on or redeem or repurchase the capital stock of MDC; make certain types of investments; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts from MDC’s restricted subsidiaries; sell assets; enter into transactions with affiliates; create liens; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of MDC’s assets to, another person. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. The 6.75% Notes are also subject to customary events of default, including a cross-payment default and cross-acceleration provision.
 
Credit Agreement
 
On March 20, 2013, MDC, Maxxcom Inc. (a subsidiary of MDC) and each of their subsidiaries party thereto entered into an amended and restated, $225 million senior secured revolving credit agreement due 2018 (the “Credit Agreement”) with Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC, as agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. Advances under the Credit Agreement are

20
Table of Contents

to be used for working capital and general corporate purposes, in each case pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement. Capitalized terms used in this section and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in the Credit Agreement.
 
Effective October 23, 2014, MDC and its subsidiaries entered into an amendment to its Credit Agreement. The amendment: (i) expands the commitments under the facility by $100 million, from $225 million to $325 million; (ii) extends the date by an additional eighteen months to September 30, 2019; (iii) reduces the base borrowing interest rate by 25 basis points (the applicable margin for borrowing is 1.00% in the case of Base Rate Loans and 1.75% in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans) ; and (iv) modifies certain covenants to provide the Company with increased flexibility to fund its continued growth and other general corporate purposes.

Advances under the Credit Agreement bear interest as follows: (a)(i) LIBOR Rate Loans bear interest at the LIBOR Rate and (ii) Base Rate Loans bear interest at the Base Rate, plus (b) an applicable margin. The initial applicable margin for borrowing is 1.00% in the case of Base Rate Loans and 1.75% in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans. In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the Credit Agreement, MDC is required to pay an unused revolver fee to lenders under the Credit Agreement in respect of unused commitments thereunder.
 
The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by substantially all of MDC’s present and future subsidiaries, other than immaterial subsidiaries and subject to customary exceptions. The Credit Agreement includes covenants that, among other things, restrict MDC’s ability and the ability of its subsidiaries to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; pay dividends on or redeem or repurchase the capital stock of MDC; make certain types of investments; impose limitations on dividends or other amounts from MDC’s subsidiaries; incur certain liens, sell or otherwise dispose of certain assets; enter into transactions with affiliates; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of MDC’s assets to, another person. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. The Credit Agreement also contains financial covenants, including a total leverage ratio, a senior leverage ratio, a fixed charge coverage ratio and a minimum earnings level. The Credit Agreement is also subject to customary events of default.
 
The Company is currently in compliance with all of the terms and conditions of its Credit Agreement, and management believes, based on its current financial projections, that the Company will be in compliance with the covenants over the next twelve months. At September 30, 2015, there were $85,276 borrowings under the Credit Agreement.
 
At September 30, 2015, the Company had issued $5,035 of undrawn outstanding letters of credit.
 
At September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014, accounts payable included $44,941 and $72,147 of outstanding checks, respectively.

8.    Fair Value Measurements
 
Authoritative guidance for fair value establishes a framework for measuring fair value. A fair value measurement assumes a transaction to sell an asset or transfer a liability occurs in the principal market for the asset or liability or, in the absence of a principal market, the most advantageous market for the asset or liability.
 
In order to increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements, the guidance establishes a hierarchy for observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value into three broad levels, which are described below:
 
•
Level 1:  Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for assets or liabilities. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to Level 1 inputs.
•
Level 2:  Observable prices that are based on inputs not quoted on active markets, but corroborated by market data.
•
Level 3:  Unobservable inputs are used when little or no market data is available. The fair value hierarchy gives the lowest priority to Level 3 inputs.

In determining fair value, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible as well as considers counterparty credit risk in its assessment of fair value.

21
Table of Contents

 
Financial Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following tables present certain information for the financial liabilities that are disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
 
 
Level 1

Level 1
 
September 30, 2015

December 31, 2014
 
Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value
Liabilities:
 


 


 


 

6.75% Notes due 2020
$
741,133


$
733,163


$
742,017


$
751,538

 
Long term debt includes fixed rate debt. The fair value of this instrument is based on quoted market prices.
 
The following table presents changes in Deferred Acquisition Consideration:
 
 
Fair Value
Measurements Using
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
September 30,

December 31,
 
2015

2014
Beginning Balance of contingent payments
$
172,227


$
151,848

Payments
(77,196
)

(61,441
)
Grants (1)
163,168


68,642

Redemption value adjustments (2)
(2,350
)

20,816

Transfers to (from) fixed payments
—


(5,146
)
Foreign translation adjustment
(3,579
)

(2,492
)
Ending Balance of contingent payments
$
252,270


$
172,227

 
(1) Grants are the initial estimated deferred acquisition payments of new acquisitions and step-up transactions
completed within that fiscal period.

(2) Redemption value adjustments are fair value changes from the Company’s initial estimates of deferred acquisition
payments, including the accretion of present value and stock-based compensation charges relating to acquisition
payments that are tied to continued employment.

In addition to the above amounts, there are fixed payments of $39,457 and $33,141 for total deferred acquisition consideration of $291,727 and $205,368, which reconciles to the consolidated balance sheets at September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

The Company includes the payments of all deferred acquisition consideration in financing activities in the Company's consolidated statement of cash flows as the Company believes these payments to be seller-related financing activities, which is the predominant source of cash flows.
 
 Level 3 payments relate to payments made for deferred acquisition consideration. Level 3 grants relate to contingent purchase price obligations related to acquisitions and are recorded on the balance sheet at the acquisition date fair value. The estimated liability is determined in accordance with various contractual valuation formulas that may be dependent on future events, such as the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary during the contractual period and, in some cases, the currency exchange rate as of the date of payment. Level 3 redemption value adjustments relate to the remeasurement and change in these various contractual valuation formulas as well as adjustments of present value.
 

22
Table of Contents

At September 30, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the carrying amount of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable, approximated fair value because of their short-term maturity. The Company does not disclose the fair value for equity method investments or investments held at cost as it is not practical to estimate fair value since there is no readily available market data.

Non-financial Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
 
 On a nonrecurring basis, the Company uses fair value measures when analyzing asset impairment. Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If it is determined such indicators are present and the review indicates that the assets will not be fully recoverable, based on undiscounted estimated cash flows over the remaining amortization periods, their carrying values are reduced to estimated fair value. Measurements based on undiscounted cash flows are considered to be Level 3 inputs. During the fourth quarter of each year, the Company evaluates goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment at the reporting unit level. For each acquisition, the Company performed a detailed review to identify intangible assets and a valuation is performed for all such identified assets. The Company used several market participant measurements to determine estimated value. This approach includes consideration of similar and recent transactions, as well as utilizing discounted expected cash flow methodologies. The amounts allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisitions were determined using Level 3 inputs. Fair value for property and equipment was based on other observable transactions for similar property and equipment. Accounts receivable represents the best estimate of balances that will ultimately be collected, which is based in part on allowance for doubtful accounts reserve criteria and an evaluation of the specific receivable balances.

9.    Other Income (Expense)
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
Other income
$
4

 
$
1,386

 
$
482

 
$
1,767

Foreign currency loss
(15,627
)
 
(11,027
)
 
(29,797
)
 
(10,415
)
 
$
(15,623
)
 
$
(9,641
)
 
$
(29,315
)
 
$
(8,648
)

10.    Segment Information
 
The Company’s segment reporting is consistent with the current manner of how the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) and the Board of Directors view the business. The Company is focused on expanding its capabilities in order to position the Company for future business development efforts and revenue growth.
 
In order to position this strategic focus along the lines of how the CODM and management will base their business decisions, the Company reports in one reportable segment and two “other” segments. Decisions regarding allocation of resources are made and will be made based not only on the individual operating results of the subsidiaries but also on the overall performance of the reportable segments. These reportable segments are the aggregation of various reporting segments.
 
The Company reports in one reportable Strategic Marketing Services segment plus two “other” segments, Performance Marketing Services and Corporate. The operating segments are as follows:

23
Table of Contents

 
•
The Strategic Marketing Services segment consists of integrated marketing consulting services firms that offer a full complement of marketing, activation and consulting services including advertising and media, marketing communications, including direct marketing, public relations, corporate communications, market research, corporate identity and branding, interactive marketing, and sales promotion. Each of the entities within the Strategic Marketing Services segment share similar economic characteristics, specifically related to the nature of their respective services, the manner in which the services are provided and the similarity of their respective customers. Due to the similarities in these businesses, they exhibit similar long term financial performance and have been aggregated together.

•
The Performance Marketing Services segment includes firms that provide consumer insights and analytics to satisfy the growing need for targetable, measurable solutions or cost effective means of driving return on marketing investment. These services interface directly with the consumer of a client’s product or service. Such services include the design, development, research and implementation of consumer services, media planning and buying, and direct marketing initiatives. In addition, services include consumer activation, investor relations and general public insights.

The significant accounting policies of these segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included in these notes to the consolidated financial statements. The Company continues to evaluate its Corporate segment and the services provided by the Corporate segment to the operating segments.
 
Summary financial information concerning the Company’s operating segments is shown in the following tables:
 

24
Table of Contents

Three Months Ended September 30, 2015
(thousands of United States dollars)

 
Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
264,552


$
63,863


$
—


$
328,415













Cost of services sold
168,367


44,558


—


212,925













Office and general expenses
52,933


10,777


15,076


78,786













Depreciation and amortization
6,445


5,577


1,064


13,086













Operating profit (loss)
36,807


2,951


(16,140
)

23,618













Other Income (Expense):
 


 


 




Other expense, net
 


 


 


(15,623
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net
 


 


 


(14,524
)












Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


(6,529
)
Income tax benefit
 


 


 


(1,191
)












Loss from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


(5,338
)
Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


172













Loss from continuing operations
 


 


 


(5,166
)












Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
 


 


 


(1,316
)












Net loss
 


 


 


(6,482
)












Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(1,930
)

(192
)

—


(2,122
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 


 


 


$
(8,604
)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock-based compensation
$
2,594


$
508


$
164


$
3,266













Supplemental Segment Information:
 


 


 


 













Capital expenditures
$
7,524


$
627


$
10


$
8,161



25
Table of Contents

Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
(thousands of United States dollars)

 
Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
238,419


$
70,972


$
—


$
309,391













Cost of services sold
156,667


48,882


—


205,549













Office and general expenses
48,524


11,354


10,937


70,815













Depreciation and amortization
6,895


4,368


421


11,684













Operating profit (loss)
26,333


6,368


(11,358
)

21,343













Other Income (Expense):
 


 


 


 

Other expense, net
 


 


 


(9,641
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net

 


 


 


(13,917
)












Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


(2,215
)
Income tax benefit
 


 


 


(266
)












Loss from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


(1,949
)
Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


81













Loss from continuing operations
 


 


 


(1,868
)












Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
 


 


 


(1,369
)












Net loss
 


 


 


(3,237
)












Net (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(1,744
)

59


—


(1,685
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 


 


 


$
(4,922
)












Stock-based compensation
$
1,816


$
477


$
1,144


$
3,437













Supplemental Segment Information:
 


 


 


 













Capital expenditures
$
12,133


$
417


$
428


$
12,978















26
Table of Contents

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015
(thousands of United States dollars)

 
Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
775,079


$
192,164


$
—


$
967,243













Cost of services sold
515,624


132,762


—


648,386













Office and general expenses
151,023


22,586


32,560


206,169













Depreciation and amortization
19,360


16,797


3,236


39,393













Operating profit (loss)
89,072


20,019


(35,796
)

73,295













Other Income (Expense):
 


 


 




Other expense, net
 


 


 


(29,315
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net

 


 


 


(42,684
)












Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


1,296

Income tax benefit
 


 


 


(566
)












Income from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


1,862

Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


627













Income from continuing operations
 


 


 


2,489













Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
 


 


 


(6,281
)












Net loss
 


 


 


(3,792
)












Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(6,977
)

(366
)

—


(7,343
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 


 


 


$
(11,135
)












Stock-based compensation
$
9,205


$
2,467


$
1,353


$
13,025













Supplemental Segment Information:
 


 


 


 













Capital expenditures
$
16,083


$
1,309


$
273


$
17,665













Goodwill and intangibles
$
546,148


$
398,554


$
—


$
944,702













Total Assets
$
924,072


$
555,728


$
137,401


$
1,617,201




27
Table of Contents

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
(thousands of United States dollars)
 
 
Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
683,340


$
200,261


$
—


$
883,601













Cost of services sold
442,906


132,986


—


575,892













Office and general expenses
136,922


43,640


33,025


213,587













Depreciation and amortization
17,182


13,545


1,356


32,083













Operating profit (loss)
86,330


10,090


(34,381
)

62,039













Other Income (Expense):
 


 


 


 

Other expense, net
 


 


 


(8,648
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net

 


 


 


(40,376
)












Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


13,015

Income tax expense
 


 


 


2,764













Income from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


10,251

Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates
 


 


 


223













Income from continuing operations
 


 


 


10,474













Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes
 


 


 


(2,976
)












Net income
 


 


 


7,498













Net (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(4,994
)

198


—


(4,796
)
Net income attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 


 


 


$
2,702













Stock-based compensation
$
6,067


$
2,684


$
3,482


$
12,233













Supplemental Segment Information:























Capital expenditures
$
16,228


$
1,216


$
1,234


$
18,678













Goodwill and intangibles
$
572,453


$
421,330


$
—


$
993,783













Total Assets
$
973,884


$
553,637


$
179,805


$
1,707,326



28
Table of Contents

A summary of the Company’s revenue by geographic area, based on the location in which the services originated, is set forth in the following table:

 
United
States

Canada

Other

Total
Revenue
 


 


 


 

Three Months Ended September 30,
 


 


 


 

2015
$
270,512


$
29,559


$
28,344


$
328,415

2014
$
249,128


$
38,052


$
22,211


$
309,391

Nine Months Ended September 30,
 


 


 


 

2015
$
793,904


$
94,817


$
78,522


$
967,243

2014
$
721,089


$
107,993


$
54,519


$
883,601


11.    Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees
 
Deferred Acquisition Consideration. In addition to the consideration paid by the Company in respect of certain of its acquisitions at closing, additional consideration may be payable, or may be potentially payable based on the achievement of certain threshold levels of earnings. See Note 2 and Note 4.
 
Options to purchase. Noncontrolling shareholders in certain subsidiaries have the right in certain circumstances to require the Company to acquire the remaining ownership interests held by them. The noncontrolling shareholders’ ability to exercise any such option right is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including conditions requiring notice in advance of exercise and specific employment termination conditions. In addition, these rights cannot be exercised prior to specified staggered exercise dates. The exercise of these rights at their earliest contractual date would result in obligations of the Company to fund the related amounts during the remainder of 2015 to 2022. It is not determinable, at this time, if or when the owners of these rights will exercise all or a portion of these rights.
 
The amount payable by the Company in the event such rights are exercised is dependent on various valuation formulas and on future events, such as the average earnings of the relevant subsidiary through the date of exercise, the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary during that period and, in some cases, the currency exchange rate at the date of payment.
 
Management estimates, assuming that the subsidiaries owned by the Company at September 30, 2015, perform over the relevant future periods at their trailing twelve-months earnings levels, that these rights, if all exercised, could require the Company, in future periods, to pay an aggregate amount of approximately $18,574 to the owners of such rights to acquire such ownership interests in the relevant subsidiaries. Of this amount, the Company is entitled, at its option, to fund approximately $119 by the issuance of share capital.

In addition, the Company is obligated under similar contractual rights to pay an aggregate amount of approximately $49,153 only upon termination of such owner’s employment with the applicable subsidiary or death.

The amount the Company would be required to pay to the noncontrolling interest holders should the Company acquire the remaining ownership interests is $3,599 less than the initial redemption value recorded in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest.

Included in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests at September 30, 2015 is $71,326 of these options to purchase because they are not within the control of the Company. The ultimate amount payable relating to these transactions will vary because it is dependent on the future results of operations of the subject businesses and the timing of when these rights are exercised.
 
Natural Disasters. Certain of the Company’s operations are located in regions of the United States which typically are subject to hurricanes. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, these operations did not incur any costs related to damages resulting from hurricanes.
 
Guarantees.  Generally, the Company has indemnified the purchasers of certain assets in the event that a third party asserts a claim against the purchaser that relates to a liability retained by the Company. These types of indemnification guarantees typically extend for a number of years. Historically, the Company has not made any significant indemnification payments under such agreements and no amount has been accrued in the accompanying consolidated financial statements with respect to these indemnification guarantees. The Company continues to monitor the conditions that are subject to guarantees and indemnifications

29
Table of Contents

to identify whether it is probable that a loss has occurred, and would recognize any such losses under any guarantees or indemnifications in the period when those losses are probable and estimable.

Legal Proceedings.  The Company’s operating entities are involved in legal proceedings of various types. While any litigation contains an element of uncertainty, the Company has no reason to believe that the outcome of such proceedings or claims will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations of the Company, except as set forth below under “Part II Other Information Item 1 Legal Proceedings” and under - “Item 1A Risk Factors” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q in connection with the SEC investigation and the related class action litigation claims.
 
Commitments.   At September 30, 2015, the Company had issued $5,035 of undrawn outstanding letters of credit. In addition, the Company has commitments to fund investments in an aggregate amount of $5,420.

12.    New Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-16, Business Combinations. This update amends Topic 805 and requires that an acquirer (i) recognize adjustments to provision amounts identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, (ii) record the effect on earnings, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date, and (iii) disclose the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact on the presentation of its financial position and disclosures.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software. This update amends Topic 350 and provides explicit guidance about customer’s accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement and whether it includes a software license. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2016. The implementation of the amended accounting guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial position or results of operations.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest. This update amends Topic 835 and requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2016. The Company will adopt this amended guidance as of the quarter ended March 31, 2016.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This update supersedes Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The core principle of this guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve this core principle, an entity must apply a five-step approach. ASU 2014-09 provides for one of two methods of transition: retrospective application to each prior period presented; or, recognition of the cumulative effect of retrospective application of the new standard in the period of initial application. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company is currently assessing the impact and choice of transition method.

13.    Subsequent Events and Other

SEC Investigation Update
The Special Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Special Committee”) and management have continued to fully cooperate with the SEC in connection with its ongoing investigation of the Company, including with respect to payments made to or on behalf of Miles Nadal and Nadal Management Limited. Mr. Nadal resigned from his position as CEO and as a Director of the Company’s Board of Directors, effective July 20, 2015, and agreed to repay to the Company specified expenses paid by the Company on his behalf and prior cash bonus awards. 
Specifically, as of September 30, 2015, Mr. Nadal repaid to the Company an aggregate amount equal to $9,539 in respect of perquisites and improper payments identified by the Special Committee, and agreed to repay an additional $939 to the Company in two equal installments during the three month period ending December 31, 2015.
Separately, Mr. Nadal agreed to repay to the Company $10,582 in connection with amounts required to be repaid pursuant to cash bonus awards previously paid to Mr. Nadal, with such repayments to be made in five installments, with the last to be paid on December 31, 2017. Mr. Nadal repaid to the Company the first installment of $1,000 in September, 2015. The Company recorded a charge of approximately $5,338 in the third quarter for the balance of prior cash bonus award amounts that will not be

30
Table of Contents

recovered. The Company also recorded income in the third quarter relating to the additional $1,877 that Mr. Nadal agreed to repay.
The SEC investigation of these expenses and related matters remains ongoing. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company has incurred $2,722 and $12,366, respectively, of professional expenses relating to the ongoing SEC investigation.
     Following Mr. Nadal’s resignation on July 20, 2015, and as part of the ongoing investigation, the Special Committee and management undertook to review third-party payments and identify assets purchased by the Company that were used exclusively by or may still have been in Mr. Nadal’s possession. In October 2015, Mr. Nadal repaid an additional $808 for, among other things, travel-related expenses that were paid on his behalf and for certain assets that the Company determined had no ongoing business purpose, including computer and IT equipment.

Class Action Litigation
On July 31, 2015, North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District Firefighter Pension Plan filed a putative class action suit in the Southern District of New York, naming as defendants the Company, CFO David Doft, Mr. Nadal, and Mr. Sabatino. The plaintiff alleges violations of § 10(b), Rule 10b-5, and § 20 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, based on allegedly materially false and misleading statements in the Company’s SEC filings and other public statements regarding executive compensation, goodwill accounting, and the Company’s internal controls. The Company intends to vigorously defend this suit.
On August 7, 2015, Roberto Paniccia issued a Statement of Claim in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in the City of Brantford, Ontario seeking to certify a class action suit naming as Defendants the Company, former CEO Miles S. Nadal, former CAO Michael C. Sabatino, CFO David Doft and BDO U.S.A. LLP. The Plaintiff alleges violations of section 138.1 of the Ontario Securities Act (and equivalent legislation in other Canadian provinces and territories) as well as common law misrepresentation based on allegedly materially false and misleading statements in the company’s public statements, as well as omitting to disclose material facts with respect to an SEC investigation. The Company also intends to vigorously defend this suit.

Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Unless otherwise indicated, references to the “Company” or “MDC” mean MDC Partners Inc. and its subsidiaries, and references to a fiscal year means the Company’s year commencing on January 1 of that year and ending December 31 of that year (e.g., fiscal 2015 means the period beginning January 1, 2015, and ending December 31, 2015).

Website Access to Company Reports
MDC Partners Inc.’s internet website address is www.mdc-partners.com. The Company’s annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, will be made available free of charge through the Company’s website as soon as reasonably practical after those reports are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The information found on, or otherwise accessible through, the Company’s website is not incorporated into, and does not form a part of, this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. From time to time, the Company may use its website as a channel of distribution of material company information.
The Company reports its financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) of the United States of America (“US GAAP”). However, the Company has included certain non-US GAAP financial measures and ratios, which it believes provide useful information to both management and readers of this report in measuring the financial performance and financial condition of the Company. One such term is “organic revenue” which means growth in revenues from sources other than acquisitions or foreign exchange impacts. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by US GAAP and, therefore, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other publicly traded companies, nor should they be construed as an alternative to other titled measures determined in accordance with US GAAP.

The following discussion focuses on the operating performance of the Company for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 and the financial condition of the Company as of September 30, 2015. This analysis should be read in conjunction with the interim condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this interim report and the annual audited consolidated financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis presented in the Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2014 as reported on Form 10-K. All amounts are in dollars unless otherwise stated.

Executive Summary
 

31
Table of Contents

The Company’s objective is to create shareholder value by building and acquiring market-leading subsidiaries and affiliates that deliver innovative, value-added marketing communications and strategic consulting services to their clients. Management believes that shareholder value is maximized with an operating philosophy of “Perpetual Partnership” with proven committed industry leaders in marketing communications.
 
MDC manages the business by monitoring several financial and non-financial performance indicators. The key indicators that the Company reviews focus on the areas of revenues and operating expenses, which results in earnings before interest, income taxes and depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) and capital expenditures. Revenue growth is analyzed by reviewing the components and mix of the growth, including growth by major geographic location, existing growth by major reportable segment (organic), growth from currency changes and growth from acquisitions. The Company also monitors new client account win/loss records; the depth and scope of the pipeline of potential new client account activity; the overall quality of the services provided to clients; and the relative strength of next generation management teams that are in place as part of the potential succession plan to succeed the current senior executive team.
 
MDC conducts its businesses through the Marketing Communications Group. Within the Marketing Communications Group, there is one reportable operating segment, Strategic Marketing Services, and another operating segment, Performance Marking Services. In addition, MDC has a “Corporate Group” which provides certain administrative, accounting, financial, human resources and legal functions. Through our operating “partners,” MDC provides advertising, consulting, customer relationship management, and specialized communication services to clients throughout the world.
 
The operating companies earn revenue from agency arrangements in the form of retainer fees or commissions; from short-term project arrangements in the form of fixed fees or per diem fees for services; and from incentives or bonuses. Additional information about revenue recognition appears in Note 2 of the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
MDC measures operating expenses in two distinct cost categories: cost of services sold, and office and general expenses. Cost of services sold is primarily comprised of employee compensation related costs and direct costs related primarily to providing services. Direct costs include rebillable pass-through costs when the Company is acting as principle for certain client contracts. Office and general expenses are primarily comprised of rent and occupancy costs and administrative service costs including related employee compensation costs. Also included in office and general expenses are the changes of the estimated value of our contingent purchase price obligations, including the accretion of present value and acquisition related costs. Depreciation and amortization are also included in operating expenses.
 
Because the Company is a service business, these costs are monitored on a percentage of revenue basis. Cost of services sold tends to fluctuate in conjunction with changes in revenues, whereas office and general expenses and depreciation and amortization, which are not directly related to servicing clients, tend to decrease as a percentage of revenue as revenues increase because a significant portion of these expenses are relatively fixed in nature. The Company also monitors the resulting EBITDA generated to assist in determining where investment needs to be made.
 
The Company measures capital expenses as either maintenance or investment related. Maintenance capital expenses are primarily composed of general upkeep of our office facilities and equipment that are required to continue to operate our businesses. Investment capital expenses include expansion costs, the build out of new capabilities, technology, or other growth initiatives not related to the day to day upkeep of the existing operations. Growth capital expenses are measured and approved based on the expected return of the invested capital.
 
Certain Factors Affecting Our Business
 
Overall Factors Affecting our Business and Results of Operations. The most significant factors include national, regional and local economic conditions, our clients’ profitability, mergers and acquisitions of our clients, changes in top management of our clients and our ability to retain and attract key employees. New business wins and client losses occur due to a variety of factors. The two most significant factors are clients’ desire to change marketing communication firms and the creative product our firms are offering. A client may choose to change marketing communication firms for any number of reasons, including a change in top management and the desire of new management to retain an agency that it may have previously worked with. In addition, if the client is merged or acquired by another company, the marketing communication firm is often changed. Further, global clients are trending to consolidate the use of numerous marketing communication firms to just one or two. Lastly, a client may change firms if the agency’s campaign or work product is not providing results, and such client feels that a change is necessary in order to generate additional revenue.
 

32
Table of Contents

Clients will generally reduce or increase their spending or outsourcing needs based on their current business trends and profitability. These types of changes impact the Performance Marketing Services Group more than the Strategic Marketing Services Group due to the Performance Marketing Services Group having clients who require project-based work as opposed to the Strategic Marketing Services Group who primarily have retainer-based relationships.
 
Acquisitions and Dispositions. The Company's strategy includes acquiring ownership stakes in well-managed businesses with strong reputations in the industry. The Company engaged in a number of acquisition and disposal transactions during the 2009 to 2015 period, which affected revenues, expenses, operating income and net income. Additional information regarding acquisitions is provided in Note 4 “Acquisitions” and information on dispositions is provided in Note 6 “Discontinued Operations” in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
  
Foreign Exchange Fluctuations. Our financial results and competitive position are affected by fluctuations in the exchange rate between the US Dollar and non-US dollars, primarily the Canadian Dollar. See also “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk — Foreign Exchange.”
 
Seasonality. Historically, with some exceptions, the Company generates the highest quarterly revenues during the fourth quarter in each year. The fourth quarter has historically been the period in the year in which the highest volumes of media placements and retail related consumer marketing occur.

 


33
Table of Contents



Results of Operations:
Three Months Ended September 30, 2015
(thousands of United States dollars)


Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
264,552


$
63,863


$
—


$
328,415













Cost of services sold
168,367


44,558


—


212,925













Office and general expenses
52,933


10,777


15,076


78,786













Depreciation and amortization
6,445


5,577


1,064


13,086













Operating profit (loss)
36,807


2,951


(16,140
)

23,618













Other Income (Expense):











Other expense, net









(15,623
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net









(14,524
)












Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates









(6,529
)
Income tax benefit









(1,191
)












Loss from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates









(5,338
)
Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates









172













Loss from continuing operations









(5,166
)












Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes









(1,316
)












Net loss









(6,482
)












Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(1,930
)

(192
)

—


(2,122
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.









$
(8,604
)












Stock-based compensation
$
2,594


$
508


$
164


$
3,266











34
Table of Contents




Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
(thousands of United States dollars)

 
Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
238,419


$
70,972


$
—


$
309,391













Cost of services sold
156,667


48,882


—


205,549













Office and general expenses
48,524


11,354


10,937


70,815













Depreciation and amortization
6,895


4,368


421


11,684













Operating profit (loss)
26,333


6,368


(11,358
)

21,343













Other Income (Expense):











Other expense, net









(9,641
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net









(13,917
)












Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates









(2,215
)
Income tax benefit









(266
)












Loss from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates









(1,949
)
Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates









81













Loss from continuing operations









(1,868
)












Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes









(1,369
)












Net loss









(3,237
)












Net (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(1,744
)

59


—


(1,685
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.









$
(4,922
)












Stock-based compensation
$
1,816


$
477


$
1,144


$
3,437


35
Table of Contents

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015
(thousands of United States dollars)

Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
775,079


$
192,164


$
—


$
967,243













Cost of services sold
515,624


132,762


—


648,386













Office and general expenses
151,023


22,586


32,560


206,169













Depreciation and amortization
19,360


16,797


3,236


39,393













Operating profit (loss)
89,072


20,019


(35,796
)

73,295













Other Income (Expense):











Other expense, net









(29,315
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net









(42,684
)












Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates









1,296

Income tax benefit









(566
)












Income from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates









1,862

Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates









627













Income from continuing operations









2,489













Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes









(6,281
)












Net loss









(3,792
)












Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(6,977
)

(366
)

—


(7,343
)
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.









$
(11,135
)












Stock-based compensation
$
9,205


$
2,467


$
1,353


$
13,025



36
Table of Contents

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
(thousands of United States dollars)


Strategic
Marketing
Services

Performance
Marketing
Services

Corporate

Total
Revenue
$
683,340


$
200,261


$
—


$
883,601













Cost of services sold
442,906


132,986


—


575,892













Office and general expenses
136,922


43,640


33,025


213,587













Depreciation and amortization
17,182


13,545


1,356


32,083













Operating profit (loss)
86,330


10,090


(34,381
)

62,039













Other Income (Expense):











Other expense, net









(8,648
)
Interest expense and finance charges, net









(40,376
)












Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in non-consolidated affiliates









13,015

Income tax expense









2,764













Income from continuing operations before equity in non-consolidated affiliates









10,251

Equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates









223













Income from continuing operations









10,474













Loss from discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners Inc., net of taxes









(2,976
)












Net income









7,498













Net (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests
(4,994
)

198


—


(4,796
)
Net income attributable to MDC Partners Inc.









$
2,702













Stock-based compensation
$
6,067


$
2,684


$
3,482


$
12,233

 

37
Table of Contents

Three Months Ended September 30, 2015, Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
 
Revenue was $328.4 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2015, representing an increase of $19.0 million, or 6.1%, compared to revenue of $309.4 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2014. This revenue increase was driven by organic growth of $17.6 million, or 5.7% and acquisition growth of $10.4 million or 3.4%. The organic growth was driven by net new business wins and growth in most client sectors, most notably the automotive, health care, and consumer products sectors, offset by decreases in the financial and retail sectors. A strengthening of the US Dollar, primarily versus the Canadian Dollar, during the quarter ended September 30, 2015, resulted in decreased revenues of $9.0 million or 2.9% .
 
The operating profit for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 was $23.6 million, compared to operating profit of $21.3 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2014. The increase in operating profit was primarily the result of an increase in operating profit of $10.5 million in the Strategic Marketing Services segment, offset by a decrease in operating profit of $3.4 in the Performance Marketing Services segment and an increase in corporate expenses of $4.8 million.
 
Loss from continuing operations for the third quarter of 2015 was $5.2 million, compared to a loss of $1.9 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2014. This increase in loss of $3.3 million was primarily the result of (i) an increase in other expense, net of $6.0 million, of which $4.6 million is related to foreign exchange and (ii) an increase in interest expense, net of $0.6 million. These changes were offset by an increase in operating profit of $2.3 million, an increase in income tax benefit of $0.9 million, and an increase in equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates of $0.1 million.

Marketing Communications Group
 
Revenues in the third quarter of 2015 attributable to the Marketing Communications Group, which consists of two segments — Strategic Marketing Services and Performance Marketing Services, were $328.4 million compared to $309.4 million in the third quarter of 2014, representing a year-over-year increase of 6.1%.
 
The components of the increase in revenue in 2015 are shown in the following table:
 
 
Revenue
 
$   000’s
 
%
Quarter ended September 30, 2014
$
309,391

 


Organic
17,590

 
5.7
 %
Acquisitions
10,426

 
3.4
 %
Foreign exchange impact
(8,992
)
 
(2.9
)%
Quarter ended September 30, 2015
$
328,415

 
6.1
 %
 
The geographic mix in revenues was consistent between the third quarter of 2015 and 2014 and is demonstrated in the following table:
 
 
2015
 
2014
US
82
%
 
82
%
Canada
9
%
 
12
%
Other
9
%
 
6
%
 
The operating profit of the Marketing Communications Group increased from $32.7 million in the third quarter of 2014, to $39.8 million in the third quarter of 2015. Operating margins increased by 1.5% and were 12.1% for the third quarter of 2015, compared to 10.6% for the third quarter of 2014. The increase in operating profit and in operating margin was primarily due to increases in revenue and decreases in direct costs (excluding staff costs); offset by increases in staff cost. Direct costs decreased as a percentage of revenue from 17.2% in the third quarter of 2014, to 14.2% in the third quarter of 2015, as there were decreased pass-through costs incurred on the clients' behalf during the third quarter of 2015 where the Company was acting as principal for certain client contracts. Total staff costs increased as a percentage of revenue from 55.1% to 56.3%. This increase as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to decreased revenue in the Performance Marketing Services segment related to reduced billable pass-through costs where the Company was acting as principal. Office and general expenses was consistent as a percentage of

38
Table of Contents

revenue of 19.4% in both third quarters of 2014 and 2015. Depreciation and amortization increased from 3.6% in 2014 to 3.7% in the third quarter of 2015, due primarily to amortization expense relating to acquisitions completed throughout 2014 and 2015.

Strategic Marketing Services
 
Revenues attributable to the Strategic Marketing Services segment in the third quarter of 2015 were $264.6 million, compared to $238.4 million in the third quarter of 2014. The year-over-year increase of $26.1 million or 11.0% was attributable primarily to organic growth of 10.8% as a result of net new business wins and acquisition growth of 2.9%. A strengthening of the US Dollar in the third quarter of 2015 compared to the third quarter of 2014 resulted in a 2.7% decrease in revenue, primarily from the segment’s Canadian-based operations.
 
The operating profit of the Strategic Marketing Services segment increased by $10.5 million from $26.3 million in the third quarter of 2014 to $36.8 million in the third quarter of 2015. Operating margins increased from 11.0% in the third quarter of 2014 to 13.9% in the third quarter of 2015. The increase in operating profit and operating margins was primarily due to increases in revenue and decreases as a percentage of revenue in staff costs, direct costs (excluding staff costs), office and general expenses, and depreciation and amortization expense. Total staff costs decreased as a percentage of revenue from 58.6% in the third quarter of 2014 to 57.9% in the third quarter of 2015. This decrease was primarily due to the timing of revenue recognition in the third quarter of 2015. Direct costs decreased from 12.4% in the third quarter of 2014 to 11.6% in the third quarter of 2015 due to decreased pass-through costs incurred on the clients' behalf during the third quarter of 2015 where the Company was acting as principal versus agent for certain client contracts. Office and general expense decreased from 20.4% in the third quarter of 2014 to 20.0% in the third quarter of 2015. This was primarily due to increased revenue on relatively fixed costs. Depreciation and amortization decreased from 2.9% in the third quarter of 2014 to 2.4% in the third quarter of 2015, due primarily to decreased amortization expense from intangibles assets.
 
Performance Marketing Services
 
The Performance Marketing Services segment generated revenues of $63.9 million for the third quarter of 2015, a decrease of $7.1 million, or 10.0% compared to $71.0 million in the third quarter of 2014. The year-over-year decrease was attributed primarily to an organic revenue decline of 11.4%, offset by acquisition growth of 5.1%. The organic revenue decline was primarily due to $8.5 million of decreased billable pass-through costs incurred on the client's behalf from the Company acting as principal, which is offset in decreased cost of services sold. In addition, a strengthening of the US Dollar versus the Canadian Dollar in the third quarter of 2015 compared to the third quarter of 2014 resulted in a decrease in revenue of 3.7% from the segment’s Canadian-based operations.
 
The operating profit of Performance Marketing Services decreased by $3.4 million, from $6.4 million in the third quarter of 2014 to $3.0 million in the third quarter of 2015. Operating margins decreased from 9.0% in the third quarter of 2014 to 4.6% in the third quarter of 2015. The decrease in operating profits and operating margins was primarily due to decreases in revenue which was offset by decreases in direct costs (excluding staff costs). Staff costs, office and general expenses and depreciation and amortization increased as a percentage of revenue. Total staff costs increased by $1.0 million and as a percentage of revenue increased from 43.4% in the third quarter of 2014 to 49.7% in the third quarter of 2015, primarily due to the decreased revenue from billable pass-through costs. Office and general costs decreased by $0.6 million and increased as a percentage of revenue from 16.0% in the third quarter of 2014 to 16.9% in the third quarter of 2015. The increase as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to relatively fixed costs on decreased revenues and an increase of $1.8 million of expense relating to estimated deferred acquisition consideration. Direct costs decreased from 33.3% in the third quarter of 2014 to 25.2% in the third quarter of 2015 as there were decreased pass-through costs incurred on the clients' behalf during the third quarter of 2015 where the Company was acting as principal for certain client contracts. Depreciation and amortization increased from 6.2% in the third quarter of 2014 to 8.7% in the third quarter of 2015 due primarily to amortization expense relating to acquisitions completed in 2015.
 
Corporate
 
Operating costs related to the Company’s corporate operations increased $4.7 million to $16.1 million in the third quarter of 2015, from $11.4 million in the third quarter of 2014. This increase in 2015 was primarily related to (i) a one-time charge of $5.8 million for the balance of prior cash bonus award amounts that were paid to the former Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Accounting Officer (“CAO”) but will not be recovered pursuant to the repayment terms of the applicable Separation Agreements, and (ii) the write-off of certain assets related to the termination of the former CEO and CAO of $1.1 million. In addition, the Company incurred increased legal fees of $2.7 million primarily related to the ongoing SEC inquiry, offset by the reimbursement of $1.9 million from the former CEO. In addition, there were decreases in compensation and related costs of $1.9 million, reductions in travel and entertainment of $0.8 million, reductions of $0.4 million in advertising and promotional costs,

39
Table of Contents

and various other administrative expenses of $0.5 million. These decreases were offset in part by increased depreciation and amortization expense of $0.6 million.

Other expense, Net
 
Other expense increased to $15.6 million in the third quarter of 2015 compared to $9.6 million in the third quarter of 2014. The increase was primarily related to unrealized foreign exchange losses. Specifically, these unrealized gains and losses were due primarily to the fluctuation in the US Dollar during the third quarter of 2015 and the third quarter of 2014 compared to the Canadian Dollar primarily on the Company’s US Dollar denominated intercompany balances with its Canadian subsidiaries.
 
Net Interest Expense
 
Net interest expense for the third quarter of 2015 was $14.5 million, an increase of $0.6 million over the $13.9 million of net interest expense incurred during the third quarter of 2014.
 
Income Tax expense (benefit)
 
Income tax benefit was $1.2 million for the third quarter of 2015, compared to a benefit of $0.3 million for the third quarter of 2014. The Company’s effective tax rate in the third quarter of 2015 and in the third quarter of 2014 was substantially lower than the statutory rate due primarily to the utilization of previously fully reserved net operating losses, noncontrolling interest charges and losses in certain tax jurisdictions where a valuation allowance was deemed necessary, offset by non-deductible stock-based compensation.
 
The Company’s US operating units are generally structured as limited liability companies, which are treated as partnerships for tax purposes. The Company is only taxed on its share of profits, while noncontrolling holders are responsible for taxes on their share of the profits.
 
Equity in Affiliates
 
Equity in affiliates represents the income attributable to equity-accounted affiliate operations. Equity in affiliates had income of $0.2 million in the third quarter of 2015 and $0.1 million in the third quarter of 2014 .
 
Noncontrolling Interests
 
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests was $2.1 million for the third quarter of 2015, an increase of $0.4 million from the $1.7 million of noncontrolling interest expense incurred during the third quarter of 2014, primarily due to the Company’s increase in profitability of certain entities within both the Strategic Marketing Services segment and Performance Marketing Services segment.
 
Discontinued Operations Attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 
The loss from discontinued operations was $1.3 million for the third quarter of 2015, and a loss of $1.4 million for the third quarter of 2014.
 
Net Income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 
As a result of the foregoing, the net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. recorded for the third quarter of 2015 was $8.6 million, or $0.17 per diluted share. This amount is compared to a net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. of $4.9 million or $0.10 per diluted share reported for the third quarter of 2014.


40
Table of Contents

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015, Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
 
Revenue was $967.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, representing an increase of $83.6 million, or 9.5%, compared to revenue of $883.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. This revenue increase related primarily to organic growth of $62.3 million or 7.1%, and acquisition growth of $43.3 million or 4.9%. The organic growth was driven by net new business wins and growth in most client sectors most notably the automotive and health care sectors offset by decreases in the financial and retail sectors. A strengthening of the US Dollar, primarily versus the Canadian Dollar during the nine months ended September 30, 2015, resulted in decreased revenues of $22.0 million or 2.5%.
 
The operating profit for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $73.3 million, compared to operating profit of $62.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The increase in operating profit was primarily the result of an increase in operating profit of $9.9 million in the Performance Marketing Services segment, an increase in operating profit of $2.7 million in the Strategic Marketing Services segment, and a decrease in corporate expenses of $1.4 million.
 
Income from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $2.5 million, compared to $10.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. This decrease of $8.0 million was primarily the result of an increase in other expense, net of $20.7 million related to an increase of $19.4 million in unrealized foreign exchange loss, and an increase in interest expense, net of $2.3 million. These amounts were offset by an increase in operating profit of $11.3 million, a decrease in income tax expense of $3.3 million and an increase in equity in earnings of non-consolidated affiliates of $0.4 million.

Marketing Communications Group
 
Revenues in the nine months of 2015 attributable to the Marketing Communications Group, which consists of two segments — Strategic Marketing Services and Performance Marketing Services, were $967.2 million, compared to $883.6 million in the nine months of 2014, representing a year-over-year increase of 9.5%.
 
The components of the increase in revenue in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 are shown in the following table:
 
 
Revenue
 
$   000’s

%
Nine months ended September 30, 2014
$
883,601




Organic
62,328


7.1
 %
Acquisitions
43,296


4.9
 %
Foreign exchange impact
(21,982
)

(2.5
)%
Nine months ended September 30, 2015
$
967,243


9.5
 %
 
The geographic mix in revenues was consistent between the first nine months of 2015 and 2014 and is demonstrated in the following table:
 
 
2015
 
2014
US
82
%
 
82
%
Canada
10
%
 
12
%
Other
8
%
 
6
%
 
The operating profit of the Marketing Communications Group increased by $12.7 million to $109.1 million in the first nine months of 2015 from $96.4 million in the first nine months of 2014. Operating margins increased to 11.3% in the first nine months of 2015 from 10.9% in the first nine months of 2014. The increase in operating profit and margin was primarily due to the increases in revenue and decreases as a percentage of revenue in office and general expenses and direct costs (excluding staff costs), offset by increases in staff costs and depreciation and amortization. Office and general expenses decreased as a percentage of revenue from 20.4% in the first nine months of 2014 to 17.9% in the first nine months of 2015. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease of $20.3 million in expense relating to estimated deferred acquisition consideration and increased revenue on relatively fixed costs. Direct costs decreased as a percentage of revenue from 15.3% in the first nine months of 2014, to 14.9% in the first nine months of 2015, as there were decreased pass-through costs incurred on the clients’ behalf during the first nine months of 2015

41
Table of Contents

where the Company was acting as principal versus agent for certain client contracts. Total staff costs increased as a percentage of revenue from 56.1% in the first nine months of 2014 to 58.1% in the first nine months of 2015. This increase as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to decreased revenue in the Performance Marketing Services segment related to reduced billable pass-through costs where the Company was acting as principal. Total staff costs were also impacted by increased severance of $5.1 million. Depreciation and amortization as a percentage of revenue increased from 3.5% in the first nine months of 2014 to 3.7% in the first nine months of 2015 primarily due to amortization expense relating to acquisitions completed throughout 2014 and 2015.

Strategic Marketing Services
 
Revenues attributable to the Strategic Marketing Services segment in the nine months of 2015 were $775.1 million, compared to $683.3 million in the first nine months of 2014. The year-over-year increase of $91.7 million or 13.4% was attributable primarily to organic growth of $70.6 million or 10.3% as a result of net new business wins and acquisition growth of $37.2 million or 5.4%. A strengthening of the US Dollar in the first nine months of 2015 compared to the first nine months of 2014 resulted in a 2.3% decrease in revenue, primarily from the segment’s Canadian-based operations.
 
The operating profit of Strategic Marketing Services increased by $2.7 million from $86.3 million in the first nine months of 2014 to $89.1 million in the first nine months of 2015. Operating margins decreased from 12.6% in the first nine months of 2014 to 11.5% in the first nine months of 2015. The increase in operating profit and decrease in operating margin was primarily due to increases in revenue offset by increases in total staff costs and direct costs (excluding labor). Total staff costs increased as a percentage of revenue from 59.3% in the first nine months of 2014 to 60.1% in the first nine months of 2015. This increase as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to timing of revenue recognized in the first nine months of 2015. Total staff costs were also impacted by increased severance of $4.4 million. Direct costs increased as a percentage of revenue from 11.0% in the first nine months of 2014 to 12.5% in the first nine months of 2015. Direct costs increased as there were increased pass-through costs incurred on clients' behalf during the first nine months of 2015. Office and general expenses decreased as a percentage of revenue from 20.0% in the first nine months of 2014 to 19.5% in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease was due primarily to a decrease of $5.7 million in expense relating to estimated deferred acquisition consideration and increased revenue on relatively fixed costs. Depreciation and amortization as a percentage of revenue was 2.5% in the first nine months of both 2014 and 2015.

Performance Marketing Services
 
The Performance Marketing Services segment generated revenues of $192.2 million for the first nine months of 2015, a decrease of $8.1 million, or 4.0% compared to $200.3 million in the first nine months of 2014. The year-over-year decrease was attributed primarily to an organic revenue decline of 4.1% and a decline of 3.0% from foreign exchange, offset by acquisition growth of 3.1%. The organic revenue decline was primarily due to $14.2 million of decreased billable pass-through costs incurred on the client's behalf from the Company acting as principal, which is offset in decreased cost of services sold. The strengthening of the US Dollar versus the Canadian Dollar in the first nine months of 2015 compared to the first nine months of 2014, resulted in the decrease in revenue from the segment’s Canadian-based operations.
 
The operating profit of Performance Marketing Services increased by $9.9 million from operating profit of $10.1 million in the first nine months of 2014 to $20.0 million in the first nine months of 2015. Operating margins increased from 5.0% in the first nine months of 2014 to 10.4% in the first nine months of 2015. This increase in operating profit and operating margins was due to decreases in office and general expenses, direct costs (excluding staff costs), and offset by decreases in revenue, increased total staff costs and depreciation and amortization. Office and general costs decreased from 21.8% in the first nine months of 2014 to 11.8% in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease of $14.6 million in expense relating to estimated deferred acquisition consideration. Direct costs decreased by 20.4% and decreased as a percentage of revenue from 29.6% in the first nine months of 2014 to 24.6% in the first nine months of 2015. Direct costs decreased as there were less pass-through costs incurred on client's behalf during the first nine months of 2015. Total staff costs increased by $5.3 million and as a percentage of revenue from 45.2% in the first nine months of 2014 to 49.9% in the first nine months of 2015. The increase in staff costs as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to the decrease in revenue from reduced billable pass-through costs. Depreciation and amortization increased from 6.8% in the first nine months of 2014 to 8.7% in the first nine months of 2015 due primarily to amortization expense relating to acquisitions completed in 2014 and 2015.
 
Corporate
 
Operating costs related to the Company’s Corporate operations increased $1.4 million to $35.8 million in the first nine months of 2015 from $34.4 million in the first nine months of 2014. This increase was primarily related to (i) $12.4 million of legal fees related to the ongoing SEC inquiry, (ii) a one-time charge of $5.8 million for the balance of prior cash bonus award amounts that were paid to the Company's former CEO and CAO but will not be recovered pursuant to the repayment terms of the

42
Table of Contents

applicable Separation Agreements, and (iii) the write-off of certain assets related to the termination of the former CEO and CAO of $1.1 million, offset by $10.5 million of repayments from the Company's former CEO. In addition, there were reductions in (i) compensation-related costs of $4.3 million, (ii) travel and entertainment expenses of $2.6 million, and (iii) advertising and promotional expenses of $2.5 million. These expense reductions were offset by increases in various other administrative expenses of $0.1 million and $1.9 million in depreciation and amortization.

Other expense, Net
 
Other expense increased to $29.3 million in the first nine months of 2015 compared to $8.6 million in the first nine months of 2014. The increase in other expense was primarily related to an unrealized foreign exchange loss of $10.4 million million in the first nine months of 2014 compared to an unrealized foreign exchange loss of $29.8 million in the first nine months of 2015. Specifically, these unrealized losses were due primarily to the fluctuation in the US Dollar during 2015 and 2014, compared to the Canadian Dollar, on the Company’s US Dollar denominated intercompany balances with its Canadian subsidiaries. Additionally, in the first nine months of 2015, the Company had other income of $0.5 million compared to $1.8 million in the first nine months of 2014.
 
Net Interest Expense
 
Net interest expense for the first nine months of 2015 was $42.7 million, an increase of $2.3 million over the $40.4 million of net interest expense incurred during the first nine months of 2014. The increase in interest expense in the first nine months of 2015 was due to the issuance of the additional $75 million in principal amount of the 6.75% Notes in April 2014.
 
Income Tax expense (benefit)
 
Income tax benefit was $0.6 million for the first nine months of 2015 compared to expense of $2.8 million for the first nine months of 2014. The Company’s effective tax rate in 2015 and 2014 was substantially lower than the statutory rate due primarily to the utilization of previously fully reserved net operating losses and noncontrolling interest charges and losses in certain tax jurisdictions where a valuation allowance was deemed necessary, offset by non-deductible stock-based compensation.
 
The Company’s US operating units are generally structured as limited liability companies, which are treated as partnerships for tax purposes. The Company is only taxed on its share of profits, while noncontrolling holders are responsible for taxes on their share of the profits.
 
Equity in Affiliates
 
Equity in affiliates represents the income attributable to equity-accounted affiliate operations. Equity in affiliates had income of $0.6 million in the first nine months of 2015 compared to $0.2 million in the first nine months of 2014.
 
Noncontrolling Interests
 
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests was $7.3 million for the first nine months of 2015, an increase of $2.5 million from the $4.8 million of noncontrolling interest expense incurred during the first nine months of 2014, primarily due to the Company’s increases in profitability of certain entities within the Strategic Marketing Services segment and Performance Marketing Services segment.
 
Discontinued Operations Attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 
Loss from discontinued operations was $6.3 million for the first nine months of 2015, compared to $3.0 million for the first nine months of 2014. The increase in loss from discontinued operations resulted from the 2014 strategic decision to sell the net assets of the Company's Accent operations.
 
Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.
 
As a result of the foregoing, the net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. recorded for the first nine months of 2015 was a loss of $11.1 million, or a loss of $0.22 per diluted share.  This amount compares to net income attributable to MDC Partners Inc. of $2.7 million, or of $0.05 per diluted share, reported for the first nine months of 2014.


43
Table of Contents

Liquidity and Capital Resources:
 
Liquidity
 
The following table provides summary information about the Company’s liquidity position:
 
 
As of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2015

As of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2014

As of and for the year ended December 31, 2014
 
(000’s)

(000’s)

(000’s)
Cash and cash equivalents
$
15,758


$
42,462


$
113,348

Working capital (deficit)
$
(326,538
)

$
(256,469
)

$
(269,262
)
Cash from (used in) operations
$
(10,489
)
 
$
35,384


$
133,942

Cash from (used in) investing
$
(25,622
)
 
$
(79,223
)

$
(99,686
)
Cash from (used in) financing
$
(63,673
)
 
$
(15,512
)

$
(15,428
)
Long-term debt to total equity ratio
(1.85
)

(2.73
)

(2.13
)
Fixed charge coverage ratio
1.03

1.26


1.23

 
It is the Company’s intent through its cash management system to reduce any outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement by using available cash.
 
The Company intends to maintain sufficient cash and/or available borrowings to fund operations for the next twelve months.
 
Working Capital
 
At September 30, 2015, the Company had a working capital deficit of $326.5 million compared to a deficit of $269.3 million at December 31, 2014. Working capital deficit increased by $57.3 million, of which $15.2 million related to an increase in short term deferred acquisition consideration and the remainder was primarily due to the Company's growing media business, which impacts the timing of client collections and amounts paid to suppliers. The Company includes amounts due to noncontrolling interest holders, for their share of profits, in accrued and other liabilities. At September 30, 2015, $3.9 million remained outstanding to be distributed to noncontrolling interest holders over the next twelve months.

 The Company intends to maintain sufficient cash or availability of funds under the Credit Agreement at any particular time to adequately fund working capital should there be a need to do so from time to time.
 
Cash Flows
 
Operating Activities
 
Cash flows used in continuing operations, including changes in non-cash working capital, for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $9.1 million. This was attributable to an increase in accounts receivable of $63.1 million, an increase in expenditures billable to clients of $16.6 million, adjustments to deferred acquisition consideration of $3.9 million, deferred income taxes of $1.0 million, a decrease in advanced billings of $7.7 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $1.4 million, a decrease in accounts payable, accruals, and other liabilities of $0.1 million and earnings of non-consolidated affiliates of $0.6 million. This was offset by income from continuing operations of $2.5 million, depreciation, amortization of intangibles, and stock compensation of $52.4 million, amortization of deferred finance charges and debt discount of $1.7 million, a net decrease in other non-current assets and liabilities of $3.9 million, and foreign exchange of $24.7 million. Discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners used cash of $1.3 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2015.
 
Cash flows provided by continuing operations, including changes in non-cash working capital, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $39.0 million. This was attributable to income from continuing operations of $10.5 million, depreciation and amortization of intangibles and stock-based compensation of $44.3 million, adjustments to deferred acquisition consideration of $16.1 million, amortization of deferred finance charges and debt discount of $1.7 million, an increase in accounts payable, accruals, and other liabilities of $14.2 million, an increase in advanced billings of $51.4 million, foreign exchange of $8.0 million

44
Table of Contents

and deferred income taxes of $3.2 million. This was offset by an increase in accounts receivable of $55.1 million, expenditures billable to clients of $38.9 million, a net increase in other non-current assets and liabilities of $11.1 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets of $5.1 million. Discontinued operations attributable to MDC Partners used cash of $3.6 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Investing Activities
 
Cash flows used in investing activities was $25.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared with cash flows used of $79.2 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2014. In the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company used $21.1 million, net of cash acquired for acquisitions.
 
In the nine months ended September 30, 2015, capital expenditures totaled $17.7 million, of which $16.1 million was incurred by the Strategic Marketing Services segment, $1.3 million was incurred by the Performance Marketing Services segment, and $0.3 million was incurred by corporate. In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, capital expenditures totaled $18.7 million of which $16.2 million was incurred by the Strategic Marketing Services segment, $1.2 million was incurred by the Performance Marketing Services segment, and $1.2 million was incurred by corporate. These expenditures consisted primarily of computer equipment, furniture and fixtures, and leasehold improvements. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, discontinued operations provided cash of $17.1 million, of which $18.3 million related to proceeds from the sale of the Company's Accent operations. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, discontinued operations used cash of $2.0 million related to capital expenditures.
 
In the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company used $21.1 million, net of cash acquired for the acquisition of Y Media LLC and working capital payments for 2014 acquisitions. In addition, the Company paid $6.5 million for other investments. These outflows were offset by $2.5 million of profit distributions from affiliates.
 
In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company used $57.7 million, net of cash acquired for the acquisitions of Kingsdale Partners LP and Luntz Global Partners LLC. In addition, the Company paid $3.7 million for other investments. These outflows were offset by $2.8 million of profit distributions from affiliates.
 
Financing Activities
 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, cash flows used in financing activities amounted to $63.7 million, and consisted of $133.0 million of acquisition related payments, of which $37.4 million related to closing payments for the purchase of additional equity in our majority owned subsidiaries, payment of dividends of $31.7 million, distributions to noncontrolling partners of $9.5 million, the purchase of treasury shares for income tax withholding requirements of $1.8 million, and repayments of long term debt of $0.4 million. These outflows were offset by proceeds from the revolving credit agreement of $85.3 million and cash overdrafts of $27.2 million.
 
During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, cash flows used in financing activities amounted to $15.5 million, and consisted primarily of $71.3 million of acquisition related payments, payments of dividends of $28.1 million, the purchase of treasury shares for income tax withholding requirements of $4.8 million, distributions to noncontrolling partners of $6.0 million, and deferred financing costs of $2.4 million, and repayments of long term debt of $0.3 million. These outflows were offset by proceeds from the additional issuance of $78.9 million of Senior Notes due 2020 and cash overdrafts of $18.4 million.
 
Total Debt
 
6.75% Senior Notes Due 2020
 
On March 20, 2013, the Company entered into an indenture (the “Indenture”) among MDC, its existing and future restricted subsidiaries that guarantee, or are co-borrowers under or grant liens to secure, MDC’s senior secured revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), as guarantors (the “Guarantors”) and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, relating to the issuance by MDC of its $550 million aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “6.75% Notes”). The 6.75% Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.75% per annum, accruing from March 20, 2013. Interest is payable semiannually in arrears in cash on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on October 1, 2013. The 6.75% Notes mature on April 1, 2020, unless earlier redeemed or repurchased. The Company received net proceeds from the offering of the 6.75% Notes equal to approximately $537.6 million.  The Company used the net proceeds to redeem all of the existing 11% Notes, together with accrued interest, related premiums, fees and expenses and recorded a charge during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, for loss on redemption of notes of $55.6 million, including write offs of unamortized original issue premium and debt issuance costs. Remaining proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.

45
Table of Contents

 
On November 15, 2013, the Company issued an additional $110 million aggregate principal amount of its 6.75% Notes. The additional notes were issued under the Indenture governing the 6.75% Notes and treated as a single series with the original 6.75% Notes. The additional notes were sold in a private placement in reliance on exceptions from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company received net proceeds before expenses of $111.9 million, which included an original issue premium of $4.1 million, and underwriter fees of $2.2 million. The Company used the net proceeds of the offering for general corporate purposes.
 
On April 2, 2014, the Company issued an additional $75 million aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Notes due 2020. The additional notes were issued under the Indenture governing the 6.75% Notes and treated as a single series with the original 6.75% Notes. The additional notes were sold in private placement in reliance on exceptions from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company received net proceeds before expenses of $77.5 million, which included an original issue premium of $3.9 million, and underwriter fees of $1.5 million. The Company used the net proceeds of the offering for general corporate purposes, including the funding of deferred acquisition consideration, working capital, acquisitions and the repayment of the amount outstanding under its senior secured revolving credit facility.

The 6.75% Notes are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by all of MDC’s existing and future restricted subsidiaries that guarantee, or are co-borrowers under or grant liens to secure the Credit Agreement. The 6.75% Notes are unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of MDC and rank (i) equally in right of payment with all of MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future senior indebtedness, (ii) senior in right of payment to MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future subordinated indebtedness, (iii) effectively subordinated to all of MDC’s or any Guarantor’s existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the collateral securing such indebtedness, including the Credit Agreement, and (iv) structurally subordinated to all existing and future liabilities of MDC’s subsidiaries that are not Guarantors.

MDC may, at its option, redeem the 6.75% Notes in whole at any time or in part from time to time, on and after April 1, 2016 at a redemption price of 103.375% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on April 1, 2016, at a redemption price of 101.688% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on April 1, 2017 and at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount thereof if redeemed on April 1, 2018 and thereafter.
 
Prior to April 1, 2016, MDC may, at its option, redeem some or all of the 6.75% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus a “make whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest. MDC may also redeem, at its option, prior to April 1, 2016, up to 35% of the 6.75% Notes with the proceeds from one or more equity offerings at a redemption price of 106.750% of the principal amount thereof.
 
If MDC experiences certain kinds of changes of control (as defined in the Indenture), holders of the 6.75% Notes may require MDC to repurchase any 6.75% Notes held by them at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, if MDC sells assets under certain circumstances, it must offer to repurchase the 6.75% Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 6.75% Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest.
 
The Indenture includes covenants that, among other things, restrict MDC’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries (as defined in the Indenture) to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; pay dividends on or redeem or repurchase the capital stock of MDC; make certain types of investments; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts from MDC’s restricted subsidiaries; sell assets; enter into transactions with affiliates; create liens; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of MDC’s assets to, another person. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. The 6.75% Notes are also subject to customary events of default, including cross-payment default and cross-acceleration provisions.
           
Redemption of 11% Senior Notes Due 2016
 
On March 20, 2013, the Company redeemed all of the 11% Senior Notes due 2016.


46
Table of Contents

Revolving Credit Agreement
 
On March 20, 2013, MDC, Maxxcom Inc. (a subsidiary of MDC) and each of their subsidiaries party thereto entered into an amended and restated, $225 million senior secured revolving credit agreement due 2018 (the “Credit Agreement”) with Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC, as agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. Advances under the Credit Agreement will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes, in each case pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement. Capitalized terms used in this section and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in the Credit Agreement. 

Effective October 23, 2014, MDC, Maxxcom Inc. and each of their subsidiaries party thereto entered into an amendment of its Credit Agreement. The amendment: (i) expands the commitments under the facility by $100 million, from $225 million to $325 million; (ii) extends the date by an additional eighteen months to September 30, 2019; (iii) reduces the base borrowing interest rate by 25 basis points (the applicable margin for borrowing is 1.00% in the case of Base Rate Loans and 1.75% in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans) ; and (iv) modifies certain covenants to provide the Company with increased flexibility to fund its continued growth and other general corporate purposes.

Advances under the Credit Agreement bear interest as follows: (a)(i) LIBOR Rate Loans bear interest at the LIBOR Rate and (ii) Base Rate Loans bear interest at the Base Rate, plus (b) an applicable margin. The initial applicable margin for borrowing is 1.00% in the case of Base Rate Loans and 1.75% in the case of LIBOR Rate Loans. In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the Credit Agreement, MDC is required to pay an unused revolver fee to lenders under the Credit Agreement in respect of unused commitments thereunder.
 
The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by substantially all of MDC’s present and future subsidiaries, other than immaterial subsidiaries and subject to customary exceptions. The Credit Agreement includes covenants that, among other things, restrict MDC’s ability and the ability of its subsidiaries to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; pay dividends on or redeem or repurchase the capital stock of MDC; make certain types of investments; impose limitations on dividends or other amounts from MDC’s subsidiaries; incur certain liens, sell or otherwise dispose of certain assets; enter into transactions with affiliates; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and consolidate or merge with or into, or sell substantially all of MDC’s assets to, another person. These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. The Credit Agreement also contains financial covenants, including a senior leverage ratio, a total leverage ratio, a fixed charge coverage ratio and a minimum earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation and amortization level (in each case, as more fully described in the Credit Agreement). The Credit Agreement is also subject to customary events of default.
 
The foregoing descriptions of the Indenture and the Credit Agreement do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the agreements.

Debt as of September 30, 2015 was $827.2 million, an increase of $84.1 million, compared with $743.1 million outstanding at December 31, 2014.  This increase in debt was a result of the Company’s borrowing on the Credit Agreement in order to fund working capital. At September 30, 2015, approximately $165.9 million was available under the Credit Agreement.
 
The Company is currently in compliance with all of the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement, and management believes, based on its current financial projections, that the Company will be in compliance with its covenants over the next twelve months.
 
If the Company loses all or a substantial portion of its lines of credit under the Credit Agreement, or if the Company uses the maximum available amount under the Credit Agreement, it will be required to seek other sources of liquidity. If the Company were unable to find these sources of liquidity, for example through an equity offering or access to the capital markets, the Company’s ability to fund its working capital needs and any contingent obligations with respect to acquisitions and redeemable noncontrolling interests would be adversely affected.
 

47
Table of Contents

Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Company must comply with certain financial covenants including, among other things, covenants for (i) senior leverage ratio, (ii) total leverage ratio, (iii) fixed charges ratio, and (iv) minimum earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation and amortization, in each case as such term is specifically defined in the Credit Agreement. For the period ended September 30, 2015, the Company’s calculation of each of these covenants, and the specific requirements under the Credit Agreement, respectively, were calculated based on the trailing twelve months as follows:
 
 
September 30, 2015
Total Senior Leverage Ratio
0.5

Maximum per covenant
2.0

 
 

Total Leverage Ratio
4.3

Maximum per covenant
5.5

 
 

Fixed Charges Ratio
2.5

Minimum per covenant
1.0

 
 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
$
195,240

Minimum per covenant
$
105,000

    
 
These ratios are not based on generally accepted accounting principles and are not presented as alternative measures of operating performance or liquidity. Some of these measures include, among other things, proforma adjustments for acquisitions, one-time charges, and other items, as defined in the Credit Agreement. They are presented here to demonstrate compliance with the covenants in the Credit Agreement, as non-compliance with such covenants could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
 
Deferred Acquisition Consideration and Other Balance Sheet Commitments
 
Acquisitions of a business, or a majority interest of a business, by the Company may include future additional contingent purchase price obligations payable to the seller, which are recorded as Deferred Acquisition Consideration liabilities on the Company’s balance sheet at the estimated acquisition date fair value and are remeasured at each reporting period. These contingent purchase obligations are generally payable within a one to five-year period following the acquisition date, and are based on achievement of certain thresholds of future earnings and, in certain cases, the rate of growth of those earnings. The actual amount that the Company pays in connection with such contingent purchase obligations may differ materially from this estimate.

In connection with such contingent purchase obligations, the Company may have the option or, in some cases, the requirement, to purchase the remaining interest. Generally, the Company’s option or requirement to purchase the incremental ownership interest coincides with the final payment of the purchase price obligation obligations related to the Company’s initial majority acquisition. In the event the Company subsequently acquires the remaining incremental ownership interest, the acquisition fair value of the purchase price, net of any cash paid at closing, is recorded as a liability, any noncontrolling interests are removed and any difference between the purchase price and noncontrolling interest is recorded to additional paid-in capital.

The Deferred Acquisition Consideration and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests are impacted by (i) present value adjustments to accrete the acquisition date fair value of the obligation to the estimated future payment amount at the reporting date, and (ii) changes in the estimated future payment obligation resulting from the underlying subsidiary’s financial performance. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest are not adjusted below the related initial redemption value. Significant changes in actual results and metrics, such as profit margins and growth rates among others, relative to expectations would result in a higher or lower redemption value adjustment. In addition, the Deferred Acquisition Consideration and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests could be materially impacted by future acquisition activity, if any, and the particular structure of such acquisitions.

As result, and due to the factors noted above, the Company does not have a view of the future trajectory and quantification of potential changes in the Deferred Acquisition Consideration and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests.




48
Table of Contents

The following table presents the changes in the Deferred Acquisition Consideration by segment for the nine months ending September 30, 2015:

 
Strategic
Marketing
Services
 
Performance
Marketing
Services
 
Total
Beginning Balance of contingent payments
$
110,727

 
$
61,500

 
$
172,227

Payments
(54,339
)
 
(22,857
)
 
(77,196
)
Grants
131,437

 
31,731

 
163,168

Redemption value adjustments
6,033

 
(8,383
)
 
(2,350
)
Foreign translation adjustment
(176
)
 
(3,403
)
 
(3,579
)
Ending Balance of contingent payments
193,682

 
58,588

 
252,270

Fixed payments
25,948

 
13,509

 
39,457

 
$
219,630

 
$
72,097

 
$
291,727

 
As noted above, owners of interests in certain subsidiaries have the right in certain circumstances to require the Company to acquire the remaining ownership interests held by them. The owners’ ability to exercise any such option right is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including conditions requiring notice in advance of exercise and in certain cases termination of employment. In addition, these rights cannot be exercised prior to specified staggered exercise dates. The exercise of these rights at their earliest contractual date would result in obligations of the Company to fund the related amounts during the remainder of 2015 to 2022. It is not determinable, at this time, if or when the owners of these contractual rights will exercise all or a portion of these rights.

The amount payable by the Company in the event such contractual rights are exercised is dependent on various valuation formulas and on future events, such as the average earnings of the relevant subsidiary through that date of exercise, the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary during that period, and, in some cases, the currency exchange rate at the date of payment.
 
Management estimates, assuming that the subsidiaries owned by the Company at September 30, 2015, perform over the relevant future periods at their trailing twelve-month earnings level, that these rights, if all exercised, could require the Company, in future periods, to pay an aggregate amount of approximately $18.6 million to the owners of such rights to acquire such ownership interests in the relevant subsidiaries. The amount the Company would be required to pay to the holders should the Company acquire the remaining ownership interests is $1.2 million less than the initial redemption value recorded in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests. Of this amount, the Company is entitled, at its option, to fund approximately $0.1 million by the issuance of the Company’s Class A subordinate voting shares.

The Company intends to finance the cash portion of these contingent payment obligations using available cash from operations, borrowings under the Credit Agreement (and refinancings thereof) and, if necessary, through the incurrence of additional debt. The ultimate amount payable and the incremental operating income in the future relating to these transactions will vary because it is dependent on the future results of operations of the subject businesses and the timing of when these rights are exercised. Approximately $2.3 million of the estimated $18.6 million that the Company would be required to pay subsidiaries noncontrolling shareholders upon the exercise of outstanding contractual rights relates to rights exercisable within the next twelve months. Upon the settlement of the total amount of such options to purchase, the Company estimates that it would receive incremental operating income before depreciation and amortization of $4.3 million.
 











49
Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the potential timing of the consideration and incremental operating income before depreciation and amortization based on assumptions as described above:

Consideration (4)
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019 &
Thereafter
 
Total
 
 
 
($ Millions)
 
Cash
 
$
2.3

 
$
1.9

 
$
2.9

 
$
1.8

 
$
9.6

 
$
18.5

 
Shares
 
—

 
—

 
0.1

 
—

 
—

 
0.1

 
 
 
$
2.3

 
$
1.9

 
$
3.0

 
$
1.8

 
$
9.6

 
$
18.6

(1)
Operating income before depreciation and amortization to be received(2)
 
$
1.5

 
$
—

 
$
1.4

 
$
—

 
$
1.4

 
$
4.3

 
Cumulative operating income before depreciation and amortization(3)
 
$
1.5

 
$
1.5

 
$
2.9

 
$
2.9

 
$
4.3

 
 
(5)
  
(1)
This amount is in addition to $52.7 million of (i) options to purchase only exercisable upon termination not within the control of the Company, or death, and (ii) the excess of the initial redemption value recorded in Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests over the amount the Company would be required to pay to the holders should the Company acquire the remaining ownership interests.
(2)
This financial measure is presented because it is the basis of the calculation used in the underlying agreements relating to the put rights and is based on actual operating results. This amount represents additional amounts to be attributable to MDC Partners Inc., commencing in the year the put is exercised.
(3)
Cumulative operating income before depreciation and amortization represents the cumulative amounts to be received by the Company.
(4)
The timing of consideration to be paid varies by contract and does not necessarily correspond to the date of the exercise of the put.
(5)
Amounts are not presented as they would not be meaningful due to multiple periods included.

Critical Accounting Policies
 
The following summary of accounting policies has been prepared to assist in better understanding the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the related management discussion and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider this information together with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements as included herein for a more complete understanding of accounting policies discussed below.
 
Estimates.  The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (including goodwill, intangible assets, redeemable noncontrolling interests and deferred acquisition consideration), valuation allowances for receivables, deferred income tax assets and stock-based compensation, as well as the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. The statements are evaluated on an ongoing basis and estimates are based on historical experience, current conditions and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results can differ from those estimates, and it is possible that the differences could be material.
 
Revenue Recognition.   The Company’s revenue recognition policies are as required by the Revenue Recognition topics of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. The Company earns revenue from agency arrangements in the form of retainer fees or commissions; from short-term project arrangements in the form of fixed fees or per diem fees for services; and from incentives or bonuses. A small portion of the Company’s contractual arrangements with clients includes performance incentive provisions, which allow the Company to earn additional revenues as a result of its performance relative to both quantitative and qualitative goals. The Company records revenue net of sales and other taxes, when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, services are provided or upon delivery of the products when ownership and risk of loss has transferred to the customer, the selling price is fixed or determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.
 
The Company recognizes the incentive portion of revenue under these arrangements when specific quantitative goals are assured, or when the Company’s clients determine performance against qualitative goals has been achieved. In all circumstances, revenue is only recognized when collection is reasonably assured. The Company records revenue net of sales and other taxes due to be collected and remitted to governmental authorities. In the majority of the Company’s businesses, the Company acts as an agent and records revenue equal to the net amount retained, when the fee or commission is earned. In certain arrangements, the Company acts as principal and contracts directly with suppliers for third party media and production costs. In these arrangements,

50
Table of Contents

revenue is recorded at the gross amount billed. Additional information about our revenue recognition policy appears in Note 2 to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
 
Business Combinations.   The Company has historically made, and expects to continue to make, selective acquisitions of marketing communications businesses. In making acquisitions, the price paid is determined by various factors, including service offerings, competitive position, reputation and geographic coverage, as well as prior experience and judgment. Due to the nature of advertising, marketing and corporate communications services companies; the companies acquired frequently have significant identifiable intangible assets, which primarily consist of customer relationships. The Company has determined that certain intangibles (trademarks) have an indefinite life, as there are no legal, regulatory, contractual, or economic factors that limit the useful life.

Valuations of acquired companies are based on a number of factors, including specialized know-how, reputation, competitive position and service offerings. Our acquisition strategy has been to focus on acquiring the expertise of an assembled workforce in order to continue building upon the core capabilities of our various strategic business platforms to better serve our clients. Consistent with our acquisition strategy and past practice of acquiring a majority ownership position, most acquisitions include an initial payment at the time of closing and provide for future additional contingent purchase price payments. Contingent purchase price obligations for these transactions are recorded as a liability and are derived from the performance of the acquired entity and are based on predetermined formulas. These various contractual valuation formulas may be dependent on future events, such as the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary during the contractual period, and, in some cases, the currency exchange rate on the date of payment. The liability is adjusted quarterly based on changes in current information affecting each subsidiary's current operating results and the impact this information will have on future results included in the calculation of the estimated liability. In addition, changes in various contractual valuation formulas as well as adjustments to present value impact quarterly adjustments. These adjustments are recorded in results of operations. In addition, certain acquisitions also include options to purchase additional equity ownership interests. The estimated value of these interests are recorded as redeemable noncontrolling interests.
 
For each of the Company's acquisitions, a detailed review is undertaken to identify other intangible assets and a valuation is performed for all such identified assets. The Company's uses several market participant measurements to determine estimated value. This approach includes consideration of similar and recent transactions, as well as utilizing discounted expected cash flow methodologies. Like most service businesses, a substantial portion of the intangible asset value that the Company acquires is the specialized know-how of the workforce, which is treated as part of goodwill and is not required to be valued separately. The majority of the value of the identifiable intangible assets that the Company acquires is derived from customer relationships, including the related customer contracts, as well as trade names. In executing our acquisition strategy, one of the primary drivers in identifying and executing a specific transaction is the existence of, or the ability to, expand our existing client relationships. The expected benefits of our acquisitions are typically shared across multiple agencies and regions.
 
Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangibles.   The Company reviews goodwill and other indefinite live intangible assets for impairment annually at the beginning of the fourth quarter and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

The Company has the option of assessing qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the carrying value of its reporting units exceeds their respective fair value or proceeding directly to the two-step impairment test. If the Company elects to perform a qualitative assessment and concludes it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, no further assessment is deemed necessary. Otherwise, goodwill must be tested for impairment using a two-step process. In addition, the two-step process must be applied for any reporting units not included in the qualitative assessment. The first step involves a comparison of the estimated fair value of each of the Company's reporting units to its carrying value, including goodwill. In performing the first step, the Company determines the fair value of a reporting unit using a discounted cash flow (“DCF”) analysis. Determining fair value requires the exercise of significant judgment, including judgment about the amount and timing of expected future cash flows and appropriate discount rates.
The expected cash flows used in the DCF analysis are based on the Company's most recent budget and forecasted growth rates. Assumptions used in the DCF analysis, including the discount rate, are assessed annually based on the reporting units' current results and forecast, as well as macroeconomic and industry specific factors.

If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, then the goodwill of the reporting unit is not impaired. Otherwise, step two must be performed. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with its carrying value to measure the amount of impairment, if any.
 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests.   The minority interest shareholders of certain subsidiaries have the right to require the Company to acquire their ownership interest under certain circumstances pursuant to a contractual arrangement and the

51
Table of Contents

Company has similar call options under the same contractual terms. The amount of consideration under the put and call rights is not a fixed amount, but rather is dependent upon various valuation formulas and on future events, such as the average earnings of the relevant subsidiary through the date of exercise and the growth rate of the earnings of the relevant subsidiary through the date of exercise.
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.   Trade receivables are stated less allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance represents estimated uncollectible receivables usually due to customers’ potential insolvency. The allowance includes amounts for certain customers where risk of default has been specifically identified.
 
Income Tax Valuation Allowance.   The Company records a valuation allowance against deferred income tax assets when management believes it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Management considers factors such as the reversal of deferred income tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, the character of the income tax asset, tax planning strategies, changes in tax laws and other factors. A change to any of these factors could impact the estimated valuation allowance and income tax expense.
 
Interest Expense.  Interest expense primarily consists of the cost of borrowing on the revolving Credit Agreement and the 6.75% Notes. The Company uses the effective interest method to amortize the original issue discount and original issue premium on the 6.75% Notes. The Company amortizes deferred financing costs using the effective interest method over the life of the 6.75% Notes and straight line over the life of the revolving Credit Agreement.
 
Stock-based Compensation.  The fair value method is applied to all awards granted, modified or settled. Under the fair value method, compensation cost is measured at fair value at the date of grant and is expensed over the service period that is the award’s vesting period. When awards are exercised, share capital is credited by the sum of the consideration paid together with the related portion previously credited to additional paid-in capital when compensation costs were charged against income or acquisition consideration. Stock-based awards that are settled in cash or may be settled in cash at the option of employees are recorded as liabilities. The measurement of the liability and compensation cost for these awards is based on the fair value of the award, and is recorded into operating income over the service period, that is the vesting period of the award. Changes in the Company’s payment obligation are revalued each period and recorded as compensation cost over the service period in operating income.
 
The Company treats amounts paid by shareholders to employees as a stock-based compensation charge with a corresponding credit to additional paid-in capital.

From time to time, certain acquisitions and step-up transactions include an element of compensation related payments. The Company accounts for those payments as stock-based compensation.

New Accounting Pronouncements
 
In September 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-16, Business Combinations.This update amends Topic 805 and requires that an acquirer (i) recognize adjustments to provision amounts identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, (ii) record the effect on earnings, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date, and (iii) disclose the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact on the presentation of its financial position and disclosures.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software. This update amends Topic 350 and provides explicit guidance about customer’s accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement and whether it includes a software license. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2016. The implementation of the amended accounting guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest. This update amends Topic 835 and requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2016. The Company will adopt this amended guidance as of the quarter ended March 31, 2016.

52
Table of Contents

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This update supersedes Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve this core principle, an entity must apply a five-step approach. ASU 2014-09 provides for one of two methods of transition: retrospective application to each prior period presented; or, recognition of the cumulative effect of retrospective application of the new standard in the period of initial application. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2018. The Company is currently assessing the impact and choice of transition method.

Risks and Uncertainties

This document contains forward-looking statements. The Company’s representatives may also make forward-looking statements orally from time to time. Statements in this document that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, earnings guidance, recent business and economic trends, potential acquisitions, estimates of amounts for deferred acquisition consideration and “put” option rights, constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and are subject to change based on a number of factors, including those outlined in this section. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events, if any.
 
Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include, but are not limited to, the following:
 
•
risks associated with the SEC’s ongoing investigation and the related class action litigation claims;
•
risks associated with severe effects of international, national and regional economic conditions;
•
the Company’s ability to attract new clients and retain existing clients;
•
the spending patterns and financial success of the Company’s clients;
•
the Company’s ability to retain and attract key employees;
•
the Company’s ability to remain in compliance with its debt agreements and the Company’s ability to finance its contingent payment obligations when due and payable, including but not limited to those relating to “put” option rights and deferred acquisition consideration;
•
the successful completion and integration of acquisitions which complement and expand the Company’s business capabilities; and
•
foreign currency fluctuations.
The Company’s business strategy includes ongoing efforts to engage in acquisitions of ownership interests in entities in the marketing communications services industry. The Company intends to finance these acquisitions by using available cash from operations, from borrowings under the Credit Agreement and through the incurrence of bridge or other debt financing, either of which may increase the Company’s leverage ratios, or by issuing equity, which may have a dilutive impact on existing shareholders proportionate ownership. At any given time, the Company may be engaged in a number of discussions that may result in one or more acquisitions. These opportunities require confidentiality and may involve negotiations that require quick responses by the Company. Although there is uncertainty that any of these discussions will result in definitive agreements or the completion of any transactions, the announcement of any such transaction may lead to increased volatility in the trading price of the Company’s securities.
 
Investors should carefully consider these risk factors, and the risk factors outlined in more detail in (i) Part II, Item 1A (Risk Factors) in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and (ii) the Company’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K under the caption “Risk Factors”, and in the Company’s other SEC filings.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
The Company is exposed to market risk related to interest rates and foreign currencies.
 
Debt Instruments:  At September 30, 2015, the Company’s debt obligations consisted of amounts outstanding under its Credit Agreement and the Senior Notes. The Senior Notes bear a fixed 6.75% interest rate. The Credit Agreement bears interest

53
Table of Contents

at variable rates based upon the Eurodollar rate, US bank prime rate and US base rate, at the Company’s option. The Company’s ability to obtain the required bank syndication commitments depends in part on conditions in the bank market at the time of syndication. Given that there were $85.3 million borrowings under the Credit Agreement, as of September 30, 2015, a 1.0% increase or decrease in the weighted average interest rate, which was 3.98% at September 30, 2015, would have an interest impact of $0.9 million.
 
Foreign Exchange:  The Company conducts business in several currencies around the world. Our results of operations are subject to risk from the translation to the US Dollar of the revenue and expenses of our non-US operations. The effects of currency exchange rate fluctuations on the translation of our results of operations are discussed in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Result of Operations”. For the most part, our revenues and expenses incurred related to our non-US operations are denominated in their functional currency. This minimizes the impact that fluctuations in exchange rates will have on profit margins. The Company does not enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts or other derivative financial instruments to hedge the effects of adverse fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
 
The Company is exposed to foreign currency fluctuations relating to its intercompany balances between the US and foreign entities. For every one cent change in the exchange rate between the US and foreign currencies, the Company will incur a $2.4 million impact to its financial statements.
 
Item 4.    Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be included in our SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the applicable time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), who is our principal executive officer, and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), who is our principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives. However, our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurances of achieving our control objectives.
 
We conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO, CFO and management Disclosure Committee, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) of the Exchange Act. Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that, as of September 30, 2015, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that decisions can be made timely with respect to required disclosures, as well as ensuring that the recording, processing, summarization and reporting of information required to be included in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 is appropriate.
 
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
Except as set forth in the next section, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the foregoing evaluation that occurred during the third quarter of 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
The certifications of our CEO and CFO, incorporated herein as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2, respectively, should be read in conjunction with the foregoing information for a more complete understanding of the references in those Exhibits to disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting.

Implementation of Additional Procedures

In connection with the matters described in more detail under Part II, Item 1 (Legal Proceedings), we have adopted and implemented a series of remedial steps to improve and strengthen our disclosure and internal controls and procedures regarding travel, entertainment and related expenses. The remedial steps include:

•
Adoption and implementation of a new Private Aircraft Usage Policy and a new Travel & Entertainment Policy. Effective July 20, 2015, the Board and management determined that we would not permit the use of any private aircraft by our directors and officers.

54
Table of Contents

•
Quarterly review and reporting to our Audit Committee with respect to compliance by our executive officers with travel and expense reimbursement policies.
•
Implementation of new controls and approval procedures for our authorization of wire transfer payments.


55
Table of Contents

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.    Legal Proceedings
     
SEC Investigation
The Company’s operating entities are involved in legal proceedings of various types. While any litigation contains an element of uncertainty, the Company has no reason to believe that the outcome of such proceedings or claims will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations, except as set forth below and under “Item 1A Risk Factors” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q in connection with the SEC investigation and related litigation.
MDC Partners is committed to the highest standards of corporate governance and transparency in its reporting practices. Since October 5, 2014, the Company has been actively cooperating with the production of documents in response to a subpoena it received from the SEC. In a letter accompanying the subpoena, the SEC stated that it is conducting an investigation of the Company. The SEC's subpoena requests the production of documents and communications that, among other things, relate to: (i) reimbursement of expenses on behalf of the Company’s then-current CEO, Miles Nadal; (ii) the Company’s goodwill and certain other accounting practices; and (iii) information relating to trading in the Company’s securities. The investigation is ongoing and the Company is fully cooperating with the SEC.
In 2014, the Company formed a Special Committee of independent directors to review, among other things, certain matters relating to the reimbursement of expenses incurred by Mr. Nadal. The Special Committee is being advised by Bruch Hanna LLP, as special independent advisor, and by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, as legal counsel. The Special Committee, through its counsel, conducted an extensive review of perquisites and payments made by the Company on behalf of Mr. Nadal during the period 2009 through 2014. These payments included medical expenses, travel and commutation expenses, charitable donations and other expenses that lacked appropriate substantiation, over a six (6) year period. Following this review, through September 30, 2015, Mr. Nadal paid the Company for the expenses for which the Company sought reimbursement, in an aggregate amount of $9,538,500.
On July 20, 2015, Mr. Nadal resigned from his position as CEO and from his position as a member and Chairman of the Board of Directors. In addition, Mr. Nadal agreed to repay the Company $10,581,605 in connection with repayment obligations pursuant to prior cash bonus awards. Through September 30, 2015, Mr. Nadal has paid $1 million of this amount, and is obligated to repay the remaining balance in four installments, with the last to be paid on December 31, 2017. Michael Sabatino, the Company’s former Chief Accounting Officer (“CAO”), also resigned, effective on July 20, 2015.
Following Mr. Nadal’s resignation, and as part of the ongoing investigation, the Special Committee and management undertook to review third-party payments and identify assets purchased by the Company that were used exclusively by or may still have been in Mr. Nadal’s possession. In October 2015, Mr. Nadal repaid an additional $808,001 for, among other things, travel-related expenses that were paid on his behalf and for certain assets that the Company determined had no ongoing business purpose, including computer and IT equipment.
Class Action Litigation
On July 31, 2015, North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District Firefighter Pension Plan filed a putative class action suit in the Southern District of New York, naming as defendants the Company, CFO David Doft, Mr. Nadal, and Mr. Sabatino. The plaintiff alleges violations of § 10(b), Rule 10b-5, and § 20 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, based on allegedly materially false and misleading statements in the Company’s SEC filings and other public statements regarding executive compensation, goodwill accounting, and the Company’s internal controls. The Company intends to vigorously defend this suit.
On August 7, 2015, Roberto Paniccia issued a Statement of Claim in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in the City of Brantford, Ontario seeking to certify a class action suit naming as Defendants the Company, former CEO Miles S. Nadal, former CAO Michael C. Sabatino, CFO David Doft and BDO U.S.A. LLP. The Plaintiff alleges violations of section 138.1 of the Ontario Securities Act (and equivalent legislation in other Canadian provinces and territories) as well as common law misrepresentation based on allegedly materially false and misleading statements in the company’s public statements, as well as omitting to disclose material facts with respect to an SEC investigation. The Company also intends to vigorously defend this suit.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There are no material changes in the risk factors set forth in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, other than the following updated risk factor:

56
Table of Contents

The Company is the subject of an ongoing SEC investigation, which could divert management’s attention and result in substantial investigation expenses, monetary fines and other possible remedies.
On October 5, 2014, the Company received a subpoena from the SEC. In a letter accompanying the subpoena, the SEC stated that it is conducting an investigation of the Company. See “Item 1 - Legal Proceedings” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for more information about the subpoena and related matters. The SEC's subpoena requests the production of documents and communications that, among other things, relate to: (i) reimbursement of expenses on behalf of the Company’s then-current CEO, Miles Nadal; (ii) the Company’s goodwill and certain other accounting practices; and (iii) information relating to trading in the Company’s securities. The investigation is ongoing and the Company is fully cooperating with the SEC.
In connection with this production of documents, the Company formed a Special Committee of independent directors to review, among other things, certain matters relating to the reimbursement of expenses incurred by Mr. Nadal. The Special Committee conducted an extensive review of perquisites and payments made by the Company on behalf of Mr. Nadal during the period 2009 through 2014. These payments included medical expenses, travel and commutation expenses, charitable donations and other expenses which lacked appropriate substantiation, over a six (6) year period. Following this review, through September 30, 2015, Mr. Nadal paid the Company for the expenses for which the Company sought reimbursement, in an aggregate amount of $9,538,500.
On July 20, 2015, Mr. Nadal resigned from his position as CEO and from his position as a member and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Michael Sabatino, the Company’s former Chief Accounting Officer, also resigned, effective on July 20, 2015. Following Mr. Nadal’s resignation, and as part of the ongoing investigation, the Special Committee and management undertook to review third-party payments and identify assets purchased by the Company that were used exclusively by or may still have been in Mr. Nadal’s possession. In October 2015, Mr. Nadal repaid an additional $808,001 for, among other things, travel-related expenses that were paid on his behalf and for certain assets that the Company determined had no ongoing business purpose, including computer and IT equipment.
While the Company believes that these repayments and additional remedial actions implemented are an appropriate response to the findings identified by the Special Committee to date, the ultimate outcome of the SEC’s investigation and amount of resources needed to resolve regulatory actions and requests is unpredictable and may remain unknown for a long period of time. The SEC may choose to expand the scope of its investigation or initiate an enforcement action to bring charges against the Company or one or more members of the Company’s current or former management. In addition, the SEC, if an enforcement action is initiated, may impose substantial monetary sanctions. Our exposure under these matters will also include our indemnification obligations, to the extent we have any, to current and former officers and directors against losses incurred in connection with these matters, including reimbursement of legal fees.

Although we maintain insurance for claims and lawsuits of this nature, our insurance coverage does not apply in all circumstances and may be denied or insufficient to cover the costs related to the SEC investigation and the fees and potential damages and/or settlement costs relating to the recently filed class action lawsuits. Moreover, adverse publicity associated with regulatory actions and investigations could decrease client demand for our partner agencies' services. As a result, the SEC investigation and the recently filed securities class action lawsuits described in more detail under Part II, Item 1 (Legal Proceedings), and any future lawsuits or investigations involving the Company or our current or former officers or directors could have a material adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and the trading price of our Class A shares.

Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
None
 
Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities
 
None
 
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Not applicable
 
Item 5.    Other Information

Retirement of Stephen Pustil

57
Table of Contents

 
Effective October 31, 2015, Stephen Pustil retired from the Company as Vice Chairman. In connection with his retirement, Mr. Pustil entered into a Retirement and Separation Agreement with the Company, pursuant to which Mr. Pustil is entitled to an aggregate payment of CAD $1,270,000, payable in equal monthly installments during the twelve (12) month consulting period beginning effective November 1, 2015, and continuing through and until October 31, 2016.  During the consulting period, Mr. Pustil has agreed to assist the Company in connection with certain real estate transition matters. The foregoing summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Retirement and Separation Agreement, included as Exhibit 10.1 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
Item 6.     Exhibits
 
The exhibits required by this item are listed on the Exhibit Table.


58
Table of Contents

SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
MDC PARTNERS INC.
 
/s/ David Doft
David Doft
Chief Financial Officer and Authorized Signatory
 
November 3, 2015

59
Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX
 
Exhibit No.
 
Description
 
 
 
10.1
 
Employment Agreement between the Company and Scott Kauffman, dated as of August 6, 2015.*
 
 
 
10.2
 
Agreement of Retirement, Settlement and Release between the Company and Stephen Pustil, dated October 30, 2015.*
 
 
 
10.3
 
Separation Agreement between the Company and Michael Sabatino, dated as of July 29, 2015.*
 
 
 
10.4
 
Separation Agreement between the Company and Miles Nadal, dated as of July 20, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 20, 2015).
 
 
 
12
 
Statement of computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges.*
 
 
 
31.1
 
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rules 13a - 14(a) and 15d - 14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
 
 
 
31.2
 
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rules 13a - 14(a) and 15d - 14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
 
 
 
32.1
 
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 USC. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
 
 
 
32.2
 
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 USC. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
 
 
 
99.1
 
Schedule of Marketing Communications Companies.*
 
 
 
101
 
Interactive data file.*

* Filed electronically herewith.


60