================================================================================ UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, DC 20549 FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006 Commission File No. 000-19424 EZCORP, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) DELAWARE 74-2540145 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 1901 CAPITAL PARKWAY AUSTIN, TEXAS 78746 (Address of principal executive offices) Registrant's telephone number: (512) 314-3400 ---------- Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: NONE Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Title of Each Class Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered ------------------- ----------------------------------------- CLASS A NON-VOTING COMMON STOCK, THE NASDAQ STOCK MARKET $.01 PAR VALUE PER SHARE Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes [ ] No [X] Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes [ ] No [X] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No[ ] Indicate by check mark if disclosures of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [X] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "accelerated filer" and "large accelerated filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [X] Non-accelerated filer [ ] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [X] The only class of voting securities of the registrant issued and outstanding is the Class B Voting Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, all of which is owned by one record holder who is an affiliate of the registrant. There is no trading market for the Class B Voting Common Stock. The aggregate market value of the Class A Non-Voting Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $347 million, based on the closing price on the NASDAQ Stock Market on March 31, 2006. As of October 31, 2006, 37,554,180 shares of the registrant's Class A Non-voting Common Stock, par value $.01 per share and 2,970,171 shares of the registrant's Class B Voting Common Stock, par value $.01 per share were outstanding. These amounts have been adjusted to reflect the three-for-one common stock split for shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006. Documents incorporated by reference: None ================================================================================
EZCORP, INC. YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 INDEX TO FORM 10-K Item Page No. No. - ---- ---- INTRODUCTION PART I 1. Business 3 1A. Risk Factors 17 2. Properties 19 3. Legal Proceedings 22 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 22 PART II 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 23 6. Selected Financial Data 24 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 26 7A. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk 39 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 40 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 64 9A. Controls and Procedures 65 PART III 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 67 11. Executive Compensation 70 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 75 13. Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions 77 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services 77 PART IV 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 79 Signatures 82 Exhibit Index 83
PART I ITEM 1. BUSINESS The discussion in this section of the report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this report. GENERAL EZCORP, Inc. (the "Company") is a Delaware corporation with its principal executive offices located at 1901 Capital Parkway, Austin, Texas 78746. Its telephone number is (512) 314-3400. Interested parties may access the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission through a link in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.ezcorp.com. Also available on the Company's website is its Code of Conduct and Ethics. References to the Company include its subsidiaries listed in Exhibit 21.1. The Company is primarily a lender or provider of credit services to individuals who do not have cash resources or access to credit to meet their short-term cash needs. In 280 EZPAWN locations open September 30, 2006, the Company offers non-recourse loans collateralized by tangible personal property, commonly known as pawn loans. At these locations, the Company also sells merchandise, primarily collateral forfeited from its pawn lending operations, to consumers looking for good value. In 334 EZMONEY stores and 82 EZPAWN stores open September 30, 2006, the Company offers short-term non-collateralized loans, often called payday loans, or fee-based credit services to customers seeking loans (collectively, "signature loans"). The income earned on pawn lending is pawn service charge revenue. While allowable service charges vary by state and loan size, a majority of the Company's loans are in amounts that permit pawn service charges of 20% per month, or 240% annually. The Company's average pawn loan amount typically ranges between $80 and $85 but varies depending on the valuation of each item pawned. The total loan term, consisting of the primary term and grace period, ranges between 60 and 120 days. In the years ended September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006 ("Fiscal 2004", "Fiscal 2005" and "Fiscal 2006"), approximately 76%, 77% and 76% of the pawn loans made by the Company were redeemed in full or were renewed or extended through the payment of accrued pawn service charges. In its pawnshops, the Company acquires inventory for its retail sales through pawn loan forfeitures and, to a lesser extent, through purchases of customers' merchandise. The realization of gross profit on sales of inventory depends primarily on the Company's assessment of the resale value at the time the property is either accepted as loan collateral or purchased. Improper assessment of the resale value in the lending or purchasing process can result in the realization of a lower margin or reduced marketability of the property. The Company realized gross margins on sales of 39% in Fiscal 2004 and 2005, and 40% in Fiscal 2006. On July 15, 2005, the EZMONEY stores located in Texas ceased marketing payday loans and began providing fee-based credit services to consumers in obtaining loans from unaffiliated lenders. At September 30, 2006, 245 of the Company's 334 EZMONEY stores and 51 of the Company's 280 pawn stores offered credit services. The Company does not participate in the loans made by the lenders, but typically earns a fee of 20% of the loan amount for assisting the customer in obtaining credit and by enhancing the borrower's creditworthiness through the issuance of a letter of credit. The Company also offers an optional service at no charge to improve or establish customers' credit histories by reporting their payments to an external credit-reporting agency. The average loan obtained by the Company's credit service customers is approximately $470 and the term is generally less than 30 days, averaging about 17 days. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the Company pays the lender the principal and accrued interest due under the loan plus an insufficient funds fee. The Company then attempts to collect the unpaid principal, interest, and insufficient funds fee from the borrower. The Company considers as its bad debt the amount it pays the lender under letters of credit, less any amounts it collects from the borrowers. The profitability of the Company's credit services is highly dependent on the level of bad debt. 3
When measured as a percentage of credit service fee revenue, the Company experienced bad debt on credit services of 24% during Fiscal 2006. The Company earns payday loan service charge revenue on its payday loans. In 120 of its locations, the Company makes payday loans subject to state law. The average payday loan amount is approximately $385 and the term is generally less than 30 days, averaging about 21 days. The Company typically charges a fee of $15 to $22 per $100 loaned for a 7 to 27-day period. The profitability of payday loans is highly dependent on the level of bad debt. When measured as a percentage of payday loan revenues, the Company experienced bad debt on payday loans of 34%, 23% and 41% during Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. During Fiscal 2006, the Company opened 101 EZMONEY stores and closed one. Of the 334 total EZMONEY stores, 165 adjoin existing EZPAWN locations but have a different entrance, signage, decor, and staffing. Even though they adjoin an EZPAWN, the EZMONEY store is a separate business from the customers' point of view. The Company refers to these as "adjoined stores." The Company has experienced rapid signature loan growth in the past several years, and expects this growth to continue in the near term. Customers find signature loans a more attractive alternative than borrowing from friends and family or incurring insufficient fund fees, overdraft protection fees, utility reconnect fees and other charges imposed when they have insufficient cash. Signature loan customers exercise greater control of their personal finances without damaging the relationship they have with their merchants and service providers. Customers also value the excellent service and confidentiality provided to them. The following components comprised the Company's net revenues (total revenues less cost of goods sold): Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ---- ---- ---- Pawn service charges 42% 38% 31% Gross profit from merchandise sales 35% 31% 27% Gross profit from jewelry scrapping 5% 4% 7% Signature loan (payday loan and credit service) fees 17% 26% 34% Other fee revenue 1% 1% 1% --- --- --- Net revenues 100% 100% 100% PAWN LENDING ACTIVITIES The Company's pawnshops make pawn loans, which typically are small, non-recourse loans collateralized by tangible personal property. At September 30, 2006, the Company had approximately 585,000 loans outstanding, representing an aggregate principal balance of $50.3 million. A majority of the Company's pawn loans are in amounts that permit pawn service charges of 20% per month, or 240% annually. For Fiscal 2006, pawn service charges accounted for approximately 21% of the Company's total revenues and 31% of its net revenues. Collateral for the Company's pawn loans consists of tangible personal property, generally jewelry, consumer electronics, tools, sporting goods, and musical instruments. The Company does not evaluate the creditworthiness of a pawn customer, but relies on the estimated resale value of the collateral and the perceived probability of the loan's redemption. The Company generally lends from 25% to 65% of the pledged property's estimated resale value depending on an evaluation of these factors. The sources for the Company's determination of the resale value of collateral include the Company's computerized valuation software, recent and projected gold values, internet auction sites, catalogues, newspaper advertisements, and previous sales of similar merchandise. The collateral is held through the duration of the loan, which in most locations is a maximum of 60 days. The customer has the option of renewing or extending the loan. Through its lending guidelines, the 4
Company maintains a redemption rate (the percent of loans made that are redeemed, renewed, or extended) between 70% and 80%. In each of the Company's last three fiscal years, the redemption rate was within this range. If a borrower does not repay, extend, or renew a loan, the collateral is forfeited to the Company and becomes inventory available for sale. The Company does not record loan losses or charge-offs of pawn loans because the principal amount of an unpaid loan becomes the inventory carrying cost of the forfeited collateral. The Company provides an inventory valuation allowance to ensure that this forfeited collateral is valued at the lower of cost or market. The table below shows the dollar amount of pawn loan activity by the Company for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ------ ------ ------ (Dollars in millions) Loans made $170.0 $173.0 $191.8 Loans repaid (92.5) (93.3) (101.6) Loans forfeited (76.4) (75.9) (93.2) Loans acquired in business acquisitions -- -- 0.4 ------ ------ ------ Net increase (decrease) in pawn loans outstanding at the end of the year $ 1.1 $ 3.8 $ (2.6) ====== ====== ====== Loans renewed $ 23.9 $ 23.2 $ 30.2 Loans extended $141.2 $144.2 $183.3 The redemption rate of pawn loans and the gross profit realized on the sale of forfeited collateral are dependent on the appraisal of customer merchandise. Jewelry, which makes up approximately 60% of the value of collateral, can be appraised based on weight, gold content, style, and value of gemstones, if any. The other items pawned typically consist of consumer electronics, tools, sporting goods, and musical instruments. These are evaluated based on recent sales experience and the selling price of similar new merchandise, adjusted for age, wear, and obsolescence. During Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company realized gross margins on sales of 39%, 39% and 40%. At the time a pawn transaction is made, a pawn loan agreement is given to the borrower. It sets forth, among other things, the name and address of the pawnshop and the borrower, the borrower's identification information, the date of the loan, and a detailed description of the pledged goods (including applicable serial numbers), the amount financed, the pawn service charge, the maturity date of the loan, the total amount that must be paid to redeem the loan, and the annual percentage rate. Since a majority of the Company's pawn stores are located in Texas, Texas pawnshop laws and regulations govern most of the Company's pawn operations. The maximum allowable pawn service charges in Texas are set in accordance with the Texas Pawnshop Act and are based on the dollar amount of the loan. Historically, the maximum allowable pawn service charges under Texas law have not changed, but loan amounts have been increased annually in relation to the Consumer Price Index. 5
APPLICABLE PAWN LOAN SERVICE CHARGES FOR TEXAS Amount Financed per Pawn Loan - ------------------------------------- Maximum July 1, 2005 to July 1, 2006 to Allowable Annual June 30, 2006 June 30, 2007 Pawn Service Charge - ----------------- ----------------- ------------------- $1 to $162 $1 to $168 240% $163 to $1,080 $169 to $1,120 180% $1,081 to $1,620 $1,121 to $1,680 30% $1,621 to $13,500 $1,681 to $14,000 12% Under Texas law, there is a ceiling on the maximum allowable pawn loan. For the year ended June 30, 2006, the loan ceiling was $13,500. From July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007, the loan ceiling is $14,000. SIGNATURE LOANS In 334 EZMONEY and 82 EZPAWN locations, the Company offers signature loans, consisting of payday loans or fee-based credit services to customers seeking loans from independent lenders. The table below shows the dollar amount of signature loan activity by the Company for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. For purposes of this table, signature loan balances include the principal portion of payday loans (net of valuation allowance) recorded on the Company's balance sheet and the principal portion of active brokered loans outstanding from independent lenders, which is not included on the Company's balance sheet. Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------ 2004 2005 2006 ------ ------ ------ (Dollars in millions) Loans made $ 52.5 $ 87.9 $115.5 Loans repaid (41.1) (67.3) (93.7) Loans forfeited, net of collections on bad debt (7.7) (12.0) (17.0) ------ ------ ------ Net increase in signature loans outstanding at the end of the year $ 3.7 $ 8.6 $ 4.8 ====== ====== ====== Loans renewed $ 81.5 $144.0 $247.3 Signature loans are unsecured, and their profitability is highly dependent upon the Company's ability to manage the default rate and collect defaulted loan principal, interest and insufficient fund fees. In determining whether to lend or provide credit services, the Company performs a limited review of customer information, such as making a credit reporting agency inquiry, reviewing previous check writing experience, evaluating income levels, and verifying a telephone number where customers may be contacted. At the time a signature loan is made, a loan agreement is given to the borrower. It sets forth, among other things, the name and address of the lender, the borrower, and the credit services company when applicable, the borrower's identification information, the date of the loan, the amount financed, the interest or service charges due on maturity, the maturity date of the loan, the total amount that must be paid, and the annual percentage rate. CREDIT SERVICES The Company began offering credit services in its EZMONEY stores in Texas during the Fiscal 2005 fourth quarter, and now offers credit services in its Florida EZMONEY stores. These services consist of advice and assistance to consumers in obtaining loans from unaffiliated lenders. The Company does not make, fund or participate in the loans made by the lenders, but earns a fee of 20% of the loan amount for 6
assisting the customer in obtaining credit and by enhancing the borrowers' creditworthiness through the issuance of a letter of credit. If a borrower defaults on the loan, the Company pays the lender the principal and accrued interest due under the loan and an insufficient funds fee. The Company then attempts to collect the unpaid principal, interest, and insufficient funds fee from the borrower. The Company considers as its bad debt the amount it pays the lenders under letters of credit, less any amounts it collects from borrowers. Although amounts paid under letters of credit may be collected later, the Company charges those amounts to bad debt expense upon default. Subsequent recoveries under the letters of credit are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. The Company also records as bad debt expense an accrual of expected losses for principal, interest, and insufficient fund fees it expects to pay the lender on default of the lender's current loans under the terms of the letters of credit. This estimate is based on recent default and collection experience and the amount of loans the lender has outstanding. PAYDAY LENDING ACTIVITIES Payday loans made by the Company are governed by state law. The average payday loan amount is approximately $385 and the term is generally less than 30 days, averaging about 21 days. The Company typically charges a fee of $15 to $22 per $100 loaned for a 7 to 27-day period. The Company considers a loan defaulted if the loan has not been repaid or renewed by the maturity date. Although defaulted loans may be collected later, the Company charges the loan principal to bad debt upon default, leaving only active loans in the reported balance. Subsequent collections of principal are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. Accrued service charges related to defaulted loans are deducted from service charge revenue upon loan default, and increase service charge revenue upon subsequent collection. The Company provides for a valuation allowance on both the principal and service charges receivable based on recent default and collection experience. The Company's payday loan balance represents the principal amount of all active (non-defaulted) loans, net of this valuation allowance. RETAIL ACTIVITIES In its pawnshops, the Company acquires inventory for retail sales through pawn loan forfeitures and, to a lesser extent, through purchases of customers' merchandise. The realization of gross profit on sales of inventory depends primarily on the Company's assessment of the resale value at the time the property is either accepted as loan collateral or purchased. Improper assessment of the resale value in the lending or purchasing process can result in the realization of a lower margin or reduced marketability of the property. Jewelry sales represent approximately half of the Company's total sales with the remaining sales consisting primarily of consumer electronics, tools, sporting goods, and musical instruments. The Company believes its ability to offer quality used merchandise at prices significantly lower than original retail prices attracts value-conscious customers. During the three most recent fiscal years, sources of inventory additions were: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------ 2004 2005 2006 ---- ---- ---- Forfeited pawn loan collateral 86% 84% 83% Purchases from customers 14% 16% 16% Acquired in business acquisitions -- -- 1% For Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006, retail activities and jewelry scrapping (sales of precious metals and gemstones to refiners and gemstone wholesalers) accounted for approximately 63%, 58% and 56% of the Company's total revenues, or 40%, 35% and 34% of the Company's net revenues, after deducting the cost of goods sold. As a significant portion of the Company's inventory and sales involve gold jewelry, its results can be heavily influenced by the market price of gold. This is particularly true for gold scrapping, which comprised 19% of total sales in Fiscal 2004, 20% in Fiscal 2005 and 24% in Fiscal 2006. Analysis of the sales and inventory data provided by the Company's management information systems facilitates the design and development of marketing and merchandising programs and merchandise 7
pricing decisions. A director of merchandise planning and the Company's regional and area managers oversee these marketing and merchandising programs, review merchandise pricing decisions, and balance inventory levels within markets. The Company allows customers to return or exchange merchandise sold through its retail operations within seven days of purchase, but has experienced a very low rate of returns and exchanges as a percentage of sales. Customers may purchase an item on layaway, whereby a customer will typically pay a minimum layaway deposit of 20% of an item's sale price. The Company will hold the item for a 60 to 90-day period, during which the customer is required to pay for the item. The initial deposit and subsequent payments are recorded as customer layaway deposits. Layaways are recorded as sales when paid in full. As of September 30, 2006, the Company held $1.9 million in customer layaway deposits. The Company's overall inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market. The Company provides an inventory valuation allowance for shrinkage and cost in excess of market value. The Company estimates this valuation allowance through study and analysis of sales trends, inventory turnover, inventory aging, margins achieved on recent sales, and shrinkage. The valuation allowance amounted to $1.5 million, $1.9 million and $2.8 million as of September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006. At September 30, 2006, total inventory on hand was $35.6 million after deducting the inventory valuation allowance. SEASONALITY Historically, service charge revenues are highest in the Company's first fiscal quarter (October through December) due to improving loan redemption rates coupled with a higher average loan balance following the summer lending season. Sales generally are highest in the Company's first and second fiscal quarters (October through March) due to the holiday season and the impact of tax refunds. Sales volume can be heavily influenced by the timing of decisions to scrap excess jewelry inventory, which generally occurs during low jewelry sales periods (May through October). The net effect of these factors is that net revenues and net income typically are highest in the first and second fiscal quarters. The Company's cash flow is greatest in its second fiscal quarter primarily due to a high level of loan redemptions and sales in the income tax refund season. OPERATIONS A typical Company pawn store employs approximately six full-time equivalent employees ("FTEs") consisting of a manager, an assistant manager, and four sales and lending representatives. Each store manager is responsible for ensuring that the store is run in accordance with the Company's policies, procedures, and operating guidelines, and reports to an area manager. Area managers are responsible for the performance of all stores within their area and report to one of the Company's regional directors, who in turn report to the Vice President of EZPAWN Operations. Area managers, store managers, and assistant managers receive incentive compensation based on their area or store's performance in comparison to an operating budget. This incentive compensation typically ranges between 5% and 30% of their total compensation. Regional directors' compensation is also variable depending upon the performance of their region. Signature loan stores typically employ two to three FTEs per location, consisting of a manager and one to two customer service representatives. Each store manager is responsible for ensuring that the store is run in accordance with the Company's policies, procedures, and operating guidelines, and reports to an area manager, who is responsible for the stores within a specific operating area. Area managers report to one of the EZMONEY regional directors, who report to the Vice President of EZMONEY Operations. In some areas, area managers are also assisted by market managers, who manage a single store and supervise up to four other store managers. Managers receive incentive compensation based on their performance in comparison to an operating budget. In its stand-alone EZMONEY stores, store employees attempt to collect defaulted signature loans in the first 30 days after default. After the initial 30 days, the Company's centralized collection center assumes collection responsibility. The collection center also collects defaulted signature loans for all other 8
locations from the date of default. After attempting to collect for approximately 80 days, the Company then sells remaining defaulted signature loans to an outside collection agency. The Company has an internally developed store level point of sale ("POS") system that automates the recording of store-level pawn transactions. For its signature loan operations, the Company uses a separate POS specifically designed to handle signature loans. Financial data from all stores is processed at the corporate office each day and the preceding day's data are available for management review via the Company's internal network. The Company's communications network provides information access between the stores and the corporate office. The Company's internal audit staff monitors the Company's perpetual inventory system, lending practices, and regulatory compliance. In addition, they ensure consistent compliance with the Company's policies and procedures. As of September 30, 2006, the Company employed approximately 3,100 people. The Company believes that its success is dependent upon its employees' ability to provide prompt and courteous customer service and to execute the Company's operating procedures and standards. The Company seeks to hire people who will become long-term, career employees. To achieve the Company's long-range personnel goals, it strives to develop its employees through a combination of learner-controlled instruction, web-based classes, classroom training, and supervised on-the-job training for new employees. All store associates complete competency checks and all new employees complete a learner-controlled instruction program. Managers attend on-going management skills and operations performance training. The Company anticipates that store manager candidates will be promoted from the ranks of existing store employees and hired from outside the Company. The Company's career development plan develops and advances employees within the Company and provides training for the efficient integration of experienced managers and associates from outside the Company. At October 31, 2006, the Company operated its pawnshops under the name "EZPAWN", its payday loan stores under the name "EZMONEY Payday Loans" and its credit service stores under the name "EZMONEY Loan Services". The Company has registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office the names EZPAWN, EZMONEY, EZMONEY Center, and EZCORP, among others. Additionally, the Company operates under the trade names EZMONEY Payroll Advance, Payroll Advance Express, and EZCORP Collection Center. FUTURE EXPANSION The Company plans to expand the number of locations it operates through the development of new locations and through acquisitions. The Company believes that in the near term the largest growth opportunity is with the EZMONEY stores. The Company plans to open approximately 100 new EZMONEY stores in Fiscal 2007. The 101 new EZMONEY stores opened in Fiscal 2006 required an average property and equipment investment of approximately $58,000 each. Although it acquired three pawnshops in Fiscal 2006, it has not opened a new pawnshop location in the United States since Fiscal 2000. In November 2006, the Company opened its first pawnshop in Mexico, and plans to open several more locations in Fiscal 2007. The Company's ability to add new stores is dependent on several variables, such as the availability of acceptable sites or acquisition candidates, the regulatory environment, local zoning ordinances and the availability of qualified personnel. COMPETITION The Company encounters significant competition in connection with its lending operations. These competitive conditions may adversely affect the Company's revenues, profitability, and its ability to expand. In its lending business, the Company competes with other pawnshops, payday lenders, credit service organizations, and financial institutions, such as consumer finance companies. Other lenders may lend money on an unsecured basis, at interest rates that may be lower than the service charges of the Company, and on other terms that may be more favorable than those offered by the Company. The 9
Company believes that the primary elements of competition are the quality of customer service and relationship management, store location, and the ability to loan competitive amounts at competitive rates. In addition, the Company believes that the ability to compete effectively will be based increasingly on strong general management, regional market focus, automated management information systems, and access to capital. The Company's competitors for merchandise sales include numerous retail and wholesale stores, including jewelry stores, discount retail stores, consumer electronics stores, other pawnshops, other retailers of previously owned merchandise, electronic commerce retailers, and auction sites. Competitive factors in the Company's retail operations include the ability to provide the customer with a variety of merchandise at an exceptional value. The pawnshop industry in the United States is large and highly fragmented. The industry consists of approximately 12,000 pawnshops owned primarily by independent operators who own one to three locations, and the Company considers the industry mature. The Company, with 280 pawn locations, is the second largest operator of pawnshops in the United States. The three largest pawnshop operators, including the Company, account for less than ten percent of the total estimated pawnshops in the United States. The signature loan industry in the United States is larger and more concentrated than the pawn industry. The industry consists of approximately 23,000 locations that are generally mono-line stores that offer only signature loans, and other businesses offering signature loans in addition to other products and services, such as check cashing stores and pawnshops. The ten largest signature loan companies, which include the Company, comprise approximately 40% of the total number of locations. The signature loan industry remains in a growth stage. STRATEGIC INVESTMENT At June 30, 2006, the Company held approximately 28.5% of the outstanding shares of Albemarle & Bond Holdings plc ("A&B"). At June 30, 2006, A&B operated 75 locations in the United Kingdom that offer pawn loans, payday loans, installment loans, check cashing, and retail jewelry. For A&B's fiscal year ended June 30, 2006, A&B's turnover (gross revenues) increased 23% to L29.5 million ($52.5 million), and its profit after tax (net income) increased 18% over the prior year to approximately L4.8 million ($8.5 million). A&B is based in Bristol, England and publicly trades on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange. As its largest single shareholder, the Company and its affiliates hold three seats on A&B's board of directors. The Company accounts for its investment in A&B under the equity method. In Fiscal 2006, the Company's interest in A&B's income was $2,433,000 and the Company received dividends on its investment totaling $969,000. Based on the closing price and exchange rates on October 31, 2006, the market value of the Company's investment in A&B was approximately $58.6 million, compared to its book value of $19.3 million. 10
REGULATION PAWNSHOP OPERATIONS The Company's pawnshop operations are subject to extensive regulation, examination and licensing under various federal, state, and local statutes, ordinances, and regulations. The laws of Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Indiana, Florida, Alabama, and Nevada govern the majority of the Company's pawnshop operations. A summary of these states' applicable pawnshop statutes and regulations are discussed below. TEXAS REGULATIONS In Texas, pawnshops are regulated by the Office of the Consumer Credit Commissioner ("OCCC") in accordance with Chapter 371 of the Texas Finance Code, commonly known as the Texas Pawnshop Act (the "Pawnshop Act") and Rules of Operation for Pawnshops (the "Rules"). Pawnshops and pawnshop employees are licensed by the OCCC. To be eligible for a license to operate a pawnshop in Texas, an applicant must: (i) be of good moral character, which in the case of a business entity applies to each officer, director, and holder of five percent or more of the entity's outstanding shares; (ii) have net unencumbered assets (as defined in the Texas Pawnshop Act) of at least $150,000 readily available for use in conducting the business of each licensed pawnshop; (iii) demonstrate that the applicant has the financial responsibility, experience, character, and general fitness to command the confidence of the public in its operation; and (iv) demonstrate that the pawnshop will be operated lawfully and fairly. Additionally, each pawnshop employee must qualify for and maintain a separate pawnshop employee license. For a new license application in any Texas county, the OCCC provides notice of the application and the opportunity for a public hearing to the other licensed pawnshops in the county in which the applicant proposes to operate. In counties with 250,000 or more people, applications for new licenses are approved only at locations that are not less than two miles from another licensed pawnshop and applications to relocate a license are approved only for locations that are not less than one mile from another licensed pawnshop. Any existing store may relocate within one mile of its present location, regardless of the existence of other pawnshops. The Company's ability to open new stores or relocate existing stores may be adversely affected by these licensing provisions. The Texas Pawnshop Act also contains provisions related to the operation of pawnshops and authorizes the Rules. The Rules regulate the day-to-day operation of the Company's pawnshops including the maximum pawn service charge and principal loan amount. Pawn service charges vary based on loan amounts. Historically, the maximum allowable pawn service charge rates have not changed; however, the loan amounts are adjusted annually based on fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index. A table of the maximum allowable pawn service charges under the Texas Pawnshop Act for the various loan amounts is presented in "Lending Activities". Under Texas law, there is a ceiling on the maximum allowable pawn loan. For July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2006, the loan ceiling was $13,500. For July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007, the loan ceiling is $14,000. Texas requires pawn transactions to be reported to local law enforcement. Under the Texas Pawnshop Act and the Rules, a pawnbroker may not do any of the following: (i) accept a pledge from a person under the age of 18 years; (ii) make any agreement requiring the personal liability of the borrower; (iii) accept any waiver of any right or protection accorded to a pawn customer; (iv) fail to exercise reasonable care to protect pledged goods from loss or damage; (v) fail to return pledged goods to a pawn customer upon payment of the full amount due; (vi) make any charge for insurance in connection with a pawn transaction; (vii) enter into any pawn transaction that has a maturity date of more than one month; (viii) display pistols, swords, canes, blackjacks or similar weapons for sale in storefront windows or sidewalk display cases; (ix) purchase used or second hand personal property unless a record is established containing the name, address, and identification of the seller, a complete description of the property, including serial number and a signed statement that the seller has the right to sell the property; or, (x) accept into pawn or purchase stolen goods. 11
The OCCC may, after notice and hearing, suspend or revoke any license for a Texas pawnshop or employee upon finding that: (i) any fees or charges have not been paid; (ii) the licensee has violated (knowingly or unknowingly without due care) any provisions of the Texas Pawnshop Act or any regulation or order; or (iii) any fact or condition exists which, if it had existed at the time the original license application was filed would have justified the OCCC in refusing the license. The OCCC may also take other administrative action against a licensee including the assessment of fines and penalties. COLORADO REGULATIONS The Colorado Pawnbroker Act is limited in scope and primarily sets forth the terms and prohibitions of a pawn loan. In Colorado, local municipalities subject pawnshops to extensive and varied regulation, including licensing and bonding. Pawn transactions must be reported to local authorities and pawnbrokers must maintain certain bookkeeping records. Colorado law allows a maximum pawn service charge of 240% annually for all pawn loans regardless of the amount financed. OKLAHOMA REGULATIONS The Oklahoma Pawnshop Act follows a statutory scheme similar to the Texas Pawnshop Act, requires pawnbrokers to be licensed and bonded, and regulates the day-to-day operation of Oklahoma pawnshops. The Oklahoma Administrator of Consumer Credit administers the Oklahoma Pawnshop Act and has broad rule-making authority. Additionally, the Oklahoma Administrator of Consumer Credit is responsible for investigating the general fitness of pawnshop applicants. Each applicant is required to (i) be of good moral character; (ii) have net assets of at least $25,000; (iii) show that the pawnshop will be operated lawfully and fairly; and (iv) not have been convicted of any felony that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of pawnbrokering. Unlike Texas, Oklahoma pawnshop employees are not individually licensed. In general, the Oklahoma Pawnshop Act prescribes loan amounts and maximum rates of service charges that pawnbrokers may charge. The regulations provide for a graduated rate structure, similar to the structure used for federal income tax purposes. Under this rate structure, a $500 loan, for example, earns interest as follows: (i) the first $150 at 240% annually, (ii) the next $100 at 180% annually, and (iii) the remaining $250 at 120% annually. The maximum allowable pawn service charges for the various loan amounts in Oklahoma are as follows: Maximum Allowable Annual Amount Financed Percentage Per Pawn Loan Rate - ----------------- ---------- $1 to $150 240% $151 to $250 180% $251 to $500 120% $501 to $1,000 60% $1,001 to $25,000 35% The principal amount of an Oklahoma pawn loan may not exceed $25,000 per transaction. FLORIDA REGULATIONS Florida pawnshops are governed by the Florida Pawnbroking Act and accompanying regulations. The Division of Consumer Services of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services licenses and regulates pawnshops. The Florida Pawnbroking Act and regulations require that the pawnshop complete a Pawnbroker Transaction Form showing the customer name, type of item pawned, the amount of the pawn loan, and the applicable finance charges. A copy of each form must be delivered to local law enforcement officials at the end of each business day. 12
Pawn loans in Florida have a 30-day minimum term. The pawnbroker is entitled to charge two percent (2%) of the amount financed for each 30-day period as interest, and an additional amount as pawn service charges, provided the total amount of such charge, inclusive of interest, does not exceed 25% of the amount financed for each 30-day period. The pawnbroker may charge a minimum pawn service charge of $5.00 for each 30-day period. Pawn loans may be extended by agreement, with the charge being one-thirtieth of the original total pawn service charge for each day by which the loan is extended. For loans redeemed greater than 60 days after the date made, pawn service charges continue to accrue at the daily rate of one-thirtieth of the original total pawn service charge. The Pawnbroking Act prohibits pawnbrokers from: (i) falsifying or failing to make entries in pawn transaction forms; (ii) refusing to allow appropriate law enforcement officials to inspect their records; (iii) failing to retain records of pawn transactions for at least two years; (iv) making any agreement requiring the personal liability of a pawn customer; (v) failing to return pledged goods upon payment in full of the amount due (unless the pledged goods have been taken into custody by a court or law enforcement officer or otherwise lost or damaged); or (vi) engaging in title loan transactions. Pawnbrokers are also prohibited from entering into pawn transactions with a person who is under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances, a person who is under the age of eighteen, or a person using a name other than his own name or the registered name of his business. INDIANA REGULATIONS In Indiana, the Pawnbroking Law governs pawnshops. The Department of Financial Institutions (the "Department") regulates the Company's Indiana operations. The Department requires the licensing of all pawnshops and investigates the general fitness of pawn license applicants to determine whether the convenience and needs of the public will be served by granting a pawn license. The Department has broad investigatory and enforcement authority. It may grant, revoke, and suspend licenses. Pawnshops are required to keep books, accounts, and records to enable the Department to determine if the pawnshop is complying with the statute. Each pawnshop is required to give authorized agents of the Department free access to its books and accounts for these purposes. The Indiana Pawnbroking Law prescribes loan amounts and maximum interest rates that pawnbrokers in Indiana may charge for lending money. The regulations provide for a graduated rate structure similar to the structure used for federal income tax purposes. Under this rate structure, for July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2008, a $3,500 loan, for example, may earn interest as follows: (i) the first $1020 at 36% annually, (ii) the next $2,380 at 21% annually, and (iii) the remaining $100 at 15% annually. In addition to interest, the Company may also charge a service charge of 240% annually. The maximum combined allowable interest and service charges for the various loan amounts under the Indiana statute are as follows: Maximum Allowable Annual Amount Financed Percentage Per Pawn Loan Rate - ----------------- ---------- $1 to $1020 276% $1021 to $3,400 261% $3,401 and up 255% The Indiana Pawnbroking Law provides for a grace period of 60 days after the initial 30-day term of the loan. During the grace period, interest and service fees continue to accrue and are prorated to the date of loan redemption. ALABAMA REGULATIONS The Alabama Pawnshop Act regulates the licensing and operation of Alabama pawnshops. The Supervisor of the Bureau of Loans of the State Department of Banking is responsible for licensing and investigating the general fitness of pawnshop applicants. The Alabama Pawnshop Act requires that certain bookkeeping records be maintained and made available to the Supervisor and to local law 13
enforcement authorities. The Alabama Pawnshop Act establishes a maximum allowable pawn service charge of 300% annually. NEVADA REGULATIONS In Nevada, all pawn loans must be held for redemption for at least 120 days after the date the loan is made. A pawnbroker may charge interest at the rate of 10% per month for money loaned on personal property received. In addition, the pawnbroker may collect an initial set up fee of $5.00. Property received in pledge may not be removed from the pawnshop until after the receipt of the property is reported to the sheriff or chief of police, unless redeemed by the owner. LOCAL REGULATIONS At the local level, most of the pawnshops voluntarily or pursuant to state law or municipal ordinance, provide reports of pawn transactions and purchases from customers to local law enforcement on a regular basis. These reports are designed to provide local law enforcement with a detailed description of the goods involved, including serial numbers, if any, and the names and addresses of the customers. A record of each transaction is provided to local law enforcement agencies to aid in the investigation of property crimes. Goods held to secure pawn loans or goods purchased which are determined to belong to an individual other than the pawnshop customer are subject to recovery by the rightful owner. While a risk exists that pledged or purchased merchandise may be subject to claims of rightful owners, the Company's claims experience is historically less than 0.5% of pawn loans made. There can be no assurance that additional local, state, or federal legislation will not be enacted or that existing laws and regulations will not be amended which would materially, adversely impact the Company's operations, financial condition, and the ability to expand its operations. FIREARMS REGULATIONS With respect to firearm sales, each pawnshop must comply with the regulations issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (the "ATF"). ATF regulations require each pawnshop dealing in firearms to maintain a federal firearms license and a permanent written record of all transactions involving the receipt or disposition of firearms. The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (the "Brady Act") and the related ATF rules require all federal firearm licensees, in either selling firearms or releasing pawned firearms, to have the customer complete appropriate forms and pass a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System before the Company may transfer a firearm to any customer. The Company complies with the Brady Act and the ATF regulations. The Company does not believe that compliance with the Brady Act and the ATF regulations materially affects the Company's operations. There can be no assurance, however, that compliance with the Brady Act and the ATF regulations, or any future changes or amendments to such regulations will not adversely affect the Company's operations. CREDIT SERVICE ORGANIZATION REGULATIONS In July 2005, the Company registered as a Credit Service Organization ("CSO") in Texas and began doing business as EZMONEY Loan Services, providing customers fee based advice, assistance, and services in obtaining loans from unaffiliated lenders. CSOs in Texas are required to register with the Texas Office of the Secretary of State pursuant to Chapter 393 of the Texas Finance Code. In order to provide credit services in Texas, the Company registered each location where it offers credit services and posted a surety bond in the amount of $10,000 per location. The Company must renew its CSO registration annually. As a CSO, Texas law requires each location to provide customers a disclosure statement describing the services to be provided by the Company, the fees, explanation of the customer's rights, identification of the surety bond company, and other specified information. This disclosure must be delivered to the customer prior to the Company entering into any contract with the customer for credit services. The Company is also required to enter into a written contract with each customer fully describing the services, 14
the payment terms, the Company's principal place of business, and agent authorized to receive service. Customers have three days to cancel a CSO contract. The CSO statute also prohibits the Company from making false or misleading representations or statements, receiving compensation solely for referring a customer to a lender who will or may make the loan on substantially the same terms, and engaging in fraudulent or deceptive conduct. Violations of the CSO statute could subject the Company to criminal and civil liability. In Texas, the Company does business with two unaffiliated lenders. The maximum loan currently offered by the unaffiliated lenders is $1,500. The lenders are not required to be licensed and are not regulated by a state agency, provided the interest rate charged on their loans does not exceed 10% annually. The lenders are authorized to charge a late fee for loans past due more than 10 days and an insufficient funds fee; however, the lenders that the Company does business with do not assess late fees. The insufficient funds fee is $30. If a customer defaults on a loan, the letter of credit issued by the Company authorizes the unaffiliated lender to make demand on the Company for payment of the principal, interest, and insufficient funds fee, if any. The Company is obligated to pay the lender on any demand made on the letter of credit pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the letter of credit, then may recover those amounts from the borrower. The Company also offers credit services in ten EZMONEY stores in Florida under a credit services statute similar to Texas. The Florida CSO statute, however, does not require registration or bonds. The Company does business with one lender in Florida. Like Texas, the Florida lender is not required to be licensed or regulated provided the interest rate charged on its loans does not exceed eighteen percent (18%) annually. Currently, the Florida Office of Financial Regulation is reviewing the Company's and other CSO providers' credit service operations. PAYDAY LOAN REGULATIONS In Colorado, the Company makes payday loans to customers pursuant to state law and its own underwriting guidelines. Payday loans made by the Company in Colorado are regulated by the Department of Law, Office of the Attorney General, Uniform Consumer Credit Code Division (the "UCCC Division"). The Company's Colorado stores have and are required to maintain a supervised lender's license issued by the UCCC Division. The UCCC Division maintains regulatory and supervisory authority over the Company's payday loan activities. The Company is required to maintain certain records related to its payday loans and include specific information and disclosures in the loan agreement. The Colorado maximum payday loan amount is $500, exclusive of the service fee. Colorado law provides for a graduated service fee of 20% of the first $300 and 7.5% of the amount over $300. The loan term may not exceed 40 days, and customers have the right to rescind the loan within one business day after the date the loan was made. By law, the loan cannot be renewed more than once and if it is renewed prior to the maturity date, the Company must refund a prorated portion of the service fee. Payday loans made by the Company in Oklahoma are regulated by the Oklahoma Department of Consumer Credit (the "ODCC"). The Company's Oklahoma stores making payday loans are required to maintain a deferred deposit lender license issued by the ODCC. The ODCC maintains regulatory and supervisory authority over the Company's payday loan activities. The Company is required to maintain certain records related to its payday loans and include specific information and disclosures in the loan agreement. The Oklahoma maximum loan amount is $500, exclusive of the service fee. Oklahoma law provides for a service fee of 15% of the first $300 and 10% of the amount over $300. The loan term may not exceed 45 days, and customers have the right to rescind the loan within one business day after the date the loan was made. The loan cannot be renewed. The Company must deliver specific disclosures to the customer related to the customer's rights and responsibilities in the payday loan, as well as submit the customer's application and loan status to a state operated database in order to make certain determinations about outstanding or prior payday loans. 15
The Company is licensed as a Loan Company by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. The Company must provide the state with an annual report containing certain business information, and must maintain certain records related to its payday loans. Wisconsin does not specify the maximum loan amount, rate or duration. The Company typically makes loans up to $1,000 for a period of 7 to 23 days, and charges a 22% service fee in Wisconsin. State law requires specific notice to a customer's spouse for every loan made and explicit disclosure of loan terms. The Company does not allow a customer to renew a loan more than four times. In Utah, the Company's payday loan activities are regulated and supervised by the Department of Financial Institutions. The Company must have and maintain a Check Casher Doing Deferred Presentment Loan license. The Company is required to maintain certain records related to its payday loans and include specific information and disclosures in the loan agreement. Utah does not specify the maximum loan amount, rate or duration. The Company typically makes loans up to $1,000 for a period of 7 to 23 days, and charges a 20% service fee in Utah. Customers have the right to rescind a loan within one business day after the date the loan is made. No loans may be renewed beyond twelve weeks from the original date the loan was made. Prior to maturity, a customer may make partial payments of at least $5.00 without incurring additional charges. MISCELLANEOUS STATE AND FEDERAL LENDING STATUTES The Company's pawn, CSO and payday loan operations are subject to extensive state and federal statutes and regulations such as the federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and similar state laws. The Company complies with the requirements of these federal and state statutes and their regulations with respect to its business operations. 16
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS Important risk factors that could cause results or events to differ from current expectations are described below. These factors are not intended to be an all-encompassing list of risks and uncertainties that may affect the operations, performance, development and results of the Company's business. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this discussion, which speaks only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly the results of any revisions to these risk factors which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereon, including without limitation, changes in the Company's business strategy or planned capital expenditures, store growth plans, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. - - THE COMPANY'S EARNINGS AND FINANCIAL POSITION ARE AFFECTED BY CHANGES IN GOLD VALUES AND THE RESULTING IMPACT ON PAWN LENDING AND JEWELRY SALES; A SIGNIFICANT OR SUDDEN CHANGE IN GOLD VALUES MAY HAVE A MATERIAL IMPACT ON THE COMPANY'S EARNINGS. Pawn service charge, sales proceeds and the Company's ability to liquidate excess jewelry inventory at an acceptable margin are dependent upon gold values. The Company periodically changes its lending guidelines on jewelry in response to gold values and other market factors, such as competitor loan values. Gold scrapping revenues were $43.1 million and gross profit from gold scrapping was $14.7 million in Fiscal 2006. The impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations of a hypothetical change in gold values cannot be reasonably estimated because the market and competitive response to changes in gold values is not known; however, changes in gold values would lead to changes in sales, sales margins, and pawn service charge revenues. - - CHANGES IN LAWS, GOVERNMENTAL RULES OR REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO THE SPECIALTY FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY COULD HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON THE COMPANY'S LENDING ACTIVITIES. The Company's lending is subject to extensive regulation and licensing requirements under various federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations. Recent legislative action has concentrated on attempts to limit payday loans, including applicable rates, the ability for customers to renew their loans, and the ability to lend to military personnel. The passage of new laws and regulations or changes in existing laws and regulations could have a negative impact on the Company's lending activities, including its ability to provide credit services in Texas, where a majority of the Company's signature loans are made. THE COMPANY'S CSO REVENUES ARE DEPENDENT UPON UNAFFILIATED LENDERS' ABILITY AND WILLINGNESS TO MAKE LOANS TO THE COMPANY'S CUSTOMERS. The loss of the relationships with its unaffiliated lenders or a decrease in those lenders' ability to lend money could significantly decrease the Company's revenues and earnings. - - ACHIEVEMENT OF THE COMPANY'S GROWTH OBJECTIVES IS DEPENDENT UPON ITS ABILITY TO OPEN AND ACQUIRE NEW STORES. The Company's expansion program is subject to numerous factors that cannot be predicted or controlled, such as identifying acceptable locations or attractive acquisition targets and the Company's ability to attract, train and retain qualified associates. - - FLUCTUATIONS IN THE COMPANY'S SALES, PAWN LOAN BALANCES, SALES MARGINS, PAWN REDEMPTION RATES, AND SIGNATURE LOAN DEFAULT AND COLLECTION RATES COULD HAVE A MATERIAL ADVERSE IMPACT ON THE COMPANY'S OPERATING RESULTS. The Company regularly experiences fluctuations in these operating metrics. Changes in any of these factors, as might be caused by changes in the economic environment or a significant decrease in gold prices, could materially and adversely affect the Company's profitability and ability to achieve its planned results. - - CHANGES IN THE COMPANY'S LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS COULD LIMIT ITS ABILITY TO ACHIEVE ITS PLANS. The Company requires continued access to capital; a significant reduction in cash flows from operations or the availability of credit could materially and adversely affect the Company's ability to achieve its planned growth and operating results. Similarly, if actual costs to build new stores significantly exceed planned costs, this could materially restrict the Company's ability to build new stores or to operate new stores profitably. 17
- - CHANGES IN COMPETITION FROM VARIOUS SOURCES COULD HAVE A MATERIAL ADVERSE IMPACT ON THE COMPANY'S ABILITY TO ACHIEVE ITS PLANS. The Company encounters significant competition in connection with its lending and retail operations from other pawnshops, cash advance companies and other forms of financial institutions and other retailers, many of which have significantly greater financial resources than the Company. Significant increases in these competitive influences could adversely affect the Company's operations through a decrease in the number or quality of signature and pawn loans or the Company's ability to liquidate forfeited collateral at acceptable margins. - - ONE PERSON HOLDS VOTING CONTROL OF THE COMPANY AND CONTROLS THE OUTCOME OF ALL MATTERS REQUIRING A VOTE OF STOCKHOLDERS, WHICH MAY INFLUENCE THE VALUE OF OUR PUBLICLY TRADED STOCK. Mr. Phillip E. Cohen controls all of the Company's Class B Voting Common Stock. He controls the outcome of all issues requiring a vote of stockholders, including the election of the Company's directors. - - THE COMPANY FACES OTHER RISKS DISCUSSED UNDER QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK IN ITEM 7A OF THIS FORM 10-K. 18
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES The typical Company pawnshop is a freestanding building or part of a retail strip center with contiguous parking. Store interiors are designed to resemble small retail operations and attractively display merchandise by category. Distinctive exterior design and attractive in-store signage provide an appealing atmosphere to customers. The typical pawn store has approximately 1,800 square feet of retail space and approximately 3,200 square feet dedicated to collateral storage. An EZMONEY signature loan store is designed to resemble a bank interior and offers payday loans or credit services to help a customer obtain short-term signature loans. The typical EZMONEY store is approximately 1,000 to 1,500 square feet and is located in a retail strip center. In some of its pawnshop locations, the Company operates EZMONEY adjoined stores of approximately 300 to 500 square feet, which have a different entrance, signage, decor, and staffing. From the customers' perspective, these are viewed as a separate business. The Company maintains property and general liability insurance for each of its stores. The Company's stores are open six or seven days a week. As of October 31, 2006, the Company owned the real estate and building for one location containing an EZPAWN and an adjoining EZMONEY, leased 279 locations containing EZPAWNs and 165 adjoining EZMONEYs, and leased 169 EZMONEY locations. In one additional EZMONEY location, the Company leases the land, but owns the portable modular building housing the EZMONEY storefront. The Company also owns the real estate and building for one non-operating location. The Company generally leases facilities for a term of three to fifteen years with one or more options to renew. The Company's existing leases expire on dates ranging between December 14, 2006 and April 30, 2023, with a small number of leases on month-to-month terms. All leases provide for specified periodic rental payments at market rates. Most leases require the Company to maintain the property and pay the cost of insurance and taxes. The Company believes that the termination of any one of its leases would not have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations. The Company's strategy generally is to lease rather than acquire space for its stores unless the Company finds what it believes is a superior location at an attractive price. Below is a summary of changes in the number of store locations during Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ---- ---- ---- Store count at beginning of fiscal year 284 405 514 New stores opened 121 110 101 Acquired stores -- -- 3 Stores closed or consolidated -- (1) (4) --- --- --- Store count at end of fiscal year 405 514 614 === === === Included in the new stores opened in 2004, 2005 and 2006 are 93, 63 and 7 EZMONEY stores adjoining existing pawnshop locations. All other new stores are separate EZMONEY locations. The Company also acquired three pawn stores during Fiscal 2006. On an ongoing basis, the Company may close or consolidate under-performing store locations. In Fiscal 2005, the Company closed one EZMONEY store. In Fiscal 2006, the Company closed one EZMONEY store and one EZPAWN store, and consolidated two existing EZPAWN stores into two newly acquired stores. 19
The following table presents the number of locations serving each metropolitan area or region (as defined by the Company) as of October 31, 2006: EZPAWN EZMONEY Stores in Stores in Region/Area Each Area Each Area - ----------- --------- --------- Texas: Houston 60 84 Dallas / Ft. Worth 17 60 San Antonio 21 26 West and Southwest 19 16 Valley 20 8 Austin Area 7 21 Central 10 7 Panhandle 9 6 Corpus Christi 8 6 Laredo Area 11 2 --- --- Total Texas 182 236 Colorado: Denver Area 17 33 Colorado Springs Area 7 10 Other Areas -- 2 --- --- Total Colorado 24 45 Oklahoma: Tulsa Area 10 3 Oklahoma City Area 9 3 Other Areas 1 -- --- --- Total Oklahoma 20 6 Florida: Tampa 9 6 Orlando 8 2 Other Areas 1 2 --- --- Total Florida 18 10 Wisconsin: Madison -- 5 Milwaukee -- 5 Central -- 5 Other Areas -- 6 --- --- Total Wisconsin -- 21 Utah: Salt Lake City -- 11 Provo -- 5 Other Areas -- 1 --- --- Total Utah -- 17 20
EZPAWN EZMONEY Stores in Stores in Region/Area Each Area Each Area - ----------- --------- --------- Indiana: Indianapolis 15 -- --- --- Total Indiana 15 -- Alabama: Birmingham Area 5 -- Other Areas 2 1 --- --- Total Alabama 7 1 Nevada: Las Vegas 4 -- --- --- Total Nevada 4 -- Tennessee: Memphis 3 -- --- --- Total Tennessee 3 -- Louisiana: New Orleans Area 2 -- Other Areas 1 -- --- --- Total Louisiana 3 -- Mississippi: Jackson 2 -- Other Areas 1 -- --- --- Total Mississippi 3 -- Arkansas: West Helena 1 -- --- --- Total Arkansas 1 -- --- --- Total Company 280 336 === === In addition to its store locations, the Company leases its 27,400 square foot corporate office and 8,100 square foot facility for its jewelry processing center and payday loan collections center located in Austin, Texas. 21
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation and regulatory actions. Currently, the Company is a defendant in several actions. While the ultimate outcome of these actions cannot be determined, after consultation with counsel, the Company believes the resolution of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. There can be no assurance, however, as to the ultimate outcome of these actions. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS On November 9, 2006, the sole owner of the Company's Class B Voting Common Stock signed a unanimous written consent approving the Board of Directors' proposed three-for-one common stock split and the related amendment to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation increasing the Company's authorized common shares. The amendment increased the authorized Class A Non-voting Common Stock to fifty million shares, and the authorized Class B Voting Common Stock to three million shares. 22
PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS Since August 27, 1991, the Company's Class A Non-voting Common Stock ("Class A Common Stock") has traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol EZPW. As of October 31, 2006, there were 111 stockholders of record of the Company's Class A Common Stock. There is no trading market for the Company's Class B Voting Common Stock ("Class B Common Stock"), which was held by one stockholder as of October 31, 2006. On November 3, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-one stock split of the Company's two classes of common stock to shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006, to be distributed on December 11, 2006. All share and price per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the effect of this stock split throughout this annual report on Form 10-K. The high and low per share closing price for the Company's Class A Common Stock for the past two fiscal years, as reported by The NASDAQ Stock Market, were as follows: High Low ------ ------ Fiscal 2005: First quarter ended December 31, 2004 $ 5.14 $ 2.49 Second quarter ended March 31, 2005 7.23 4.22 Third quarter ended June 30, 2005 5.38 3.12 Fourth quarter ended September 30, 2005 6.38 3.62 Fiscal 2006: First quarter ended December 31, 2005 $ 5.63 $ 4.62 Second quarter ended March 31, 2006 9.84 5.24 Third quarter ended June 30, 2006 13.11 9.29 Fourth quarter ended September 30, 2006 14.52 11.66 On October 31, 2006, the Company's Class A Common Stock closed at $15.06 per share. During the past three fiscal years, no dividends have been declared or paid. Under the terms of the Company's amended and restated credit agreement, which matures October 1, 2009, payment of dividends is allowed but restricted. Should dividends be paid in the future, the Company's certificate of incorporation provides that cash dividends on common stock, when declared, must be declared and paid at the same per share amounts on the Class A Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock. Any interested party may request a copy of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or of the Company's Code of Conduct and Ethics free of charge by submitting a written request to EZCORP, Inc., Investor Relations, 1901 Capital Parkway, Austin, Texas 78746. The Code of Conduct and Ethics also may be obtained from the Company's website at www.ezcorp.com. 23
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA The following selected financial information should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the financial statements of the Company and accompanying notes included elsewhere in this Form 10-K: SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA Fiscal Years Ended September 30, ---------------------------------------------------- 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (Amounts in thousands, except per share and store figures) (a) Operating Data: Sales $131,046 $134,591 $143,472 $148,410 $177,424 Pawn service charges 56,676 58,175 59,090 62,274 65,325 Payday loan service charges 8,251 12,538 23,874 28,954 5,389 Credit service fees -- -- -- 13,246 66,451 Other 925 1,045 1,361 1,275 1,263 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Total revenues 196,898 206,349 227,797 254,159 315,852 Cost of goods sold 84,936 86,100 88,202 90,678 106,873 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Net revenues 111,962 120,249 139,595 163,481 208,979 Store operating expenses 74,325 80,688 86,862 95,876 111,110 Payday loan bad debt and other direct transaction expenses 3,940 4,685 9,103 7,808 2,525 Credit service bad debt and other direct transaction expenses -- -- -- 6,395 16,000 Corporate administrative expenses 15,619 17,008 21,845 23,067 27,749 Depreciation and amortization 10,087 8,775 7,512 8,104 8,610 Interest expense (income), net 4,770 2,006 1,528 1,275 (79) Equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliate (604) (1,412) (1,739) (2,173) (2,433) (Gain) loss on sale of assets 327 170 3 79 (7) Impairment of investment -- 1,100 -- -- -- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes and cumulative effect of adopting a new accounting principle 3,498 7,229 14,481 23,050 45,504 Income tax expense (benefit) 1,294 (1,170) 5,358 8,298 16,245 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Income before cumulative effect of adopting a new accounting principle 2,204 8,399 9,123 14,752 29,259 Cumulative effect of adopting a new accounting principle, net of tax -- (8,037) -- -- -- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Net income $ 2,204 $ 362 $ 9,123 $ 14,752 $ 29,259 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== Earnings per common share, diluted (b) $ 0.06 $ 0.01 $ 0.23 $ 0.36 $ 0.69 Cash dividends per common share $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- Weighted average common shares and share equivalents, diluted (b) 36,876 37,656 39,366 40,722 42,264 Stores operated at end of period 280 284 405 514 614 (a) Beginning in Fiscal 2003, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, which ceased amortization of certain indefinite lived intangible assets. Amortization expense and equity in net income of affiliate before Fiscal 2003 are stated on the historical accounting method, and are not directly comparable to Fiscal 2003 through Fiscal 2006 amounts. (b) On November 3, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-one stock split of the Company's two classes of common stock to shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006, to be distributed on December 11, 2006. All share and price per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the effect of this stock split. 24
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (CONTINUED) September 30, ---------------------------------------------------- 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (in thousands) BALANCE SHEET DATA: Pawn loans $ 49,248 $ 47,955 $ 49,078 $ 52,864 $ 50,304 Payday loans 2,326 3,630 7,292 1,634 2,443 Inventory 32,097 29,755 30,636 30,293 35,616 Working capital 86,425 90,885 93,062 92,954 117,539 Total assets 165,970 153,690 164,322 165,448 197,858 Long-term debt 42,245 31,000 25,000 7,000 -- Stockholders' equity 104,544 105,478 116,729 133,543 170,140 25
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This discussion and analysis compares the results of operations for the 12-month periods ended September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006 ("Fiscal 2004", "Fiscal 2005" and "Fiscal 2006"). The discussion should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. On November 3, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-one stock split of the Company's two classes of common stock to shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006, to be distributed on December 11, 2006. All share and price per share amounts have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the effect of this stock split throughout this annual report on Form 10-K. SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA Fiscal Years Ended September 30, -------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 -------- -------- --------- (Dollars in thousands, except as indicated) NET REVENUES: Sales $143,472 $148,410 $177,424 Pawn service charges 59,090 62,274 65,325 Payday loan service charges 23,874 28,954 5,389 Credit service fees -- 13,246 66,451 Other 1,361 1,275 1,263 -------- -------- -------- Total revenues 227,797 254,159 315,852 Cost of goods sold 88,202 90,678 106,873 -------- -------- -------- Net revenues $139,595 $163,481 $208,979 ======== ======== ======== NET INCOME $ 9,123 $ 14,752 $ 29,259 ======== ======== ======== OTHER DATA: Gross margin on sales 38.5% 38.9% 39.8% Average annual inventory turnover 2.8x 3.0x 3.2x Average inventory per pawn location at year end $ 109 $ 108 $ 127 Average pawn loan balance per pawn location at year end $ 175 $ 189 $ 180 Average pawn loan at year end (whole dollars) $ 70 $ 76 $ 86 Average yield on pawn loan portfolio 126% 133% 139% Pawn loan redemption rate 76% 77% 76% Signature loan bad debt as a percent of signature loan revenues (a) 34% 31% 25% (a) Signature loans include payday loans (included in the Company's balance sheet) and loans coordinated through the Company's credit services (excluded from the Company's balance sheet). 26
SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA (CONTINUED) Fiscal Years Ended September 30, -------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ---- ---- ---- EXPENSES AND INCOME AS A PERCENTAGE OF NET REVENUE (%): Store operating 62.2 58.6 53.2 Payday loan bad debt & other direct expenses 6.5 4.8 1.2 Credit service bad debt & other direct expenses -- 3.9 7.7 Administrative 15.6 14.1 13.3 Depreciation and amortization 5.4 5.0 4.1 Interest, net 1.1 0.8 0.0 Income before income taxes 10.4 14.1 21.8 Net income 6.5 9.0 14.0 STORES IN OPERATION: Beginning of year 284 405 514 New openings 121 110 101 Acquired -- -- 3 Sold, combined, or closed -- (1) (4) ---- ---- ---- End of year 405 514 614 ==== ==== ==== Average number of locations during the year 337 462 545 COMPOSITION OF ENDING STORES: EZPAWN locations 280 280 280 EZMONEY signature loan locations adjoining EZPAWNs 95 158 165 EZMONEY signature loan locations - free standing 30 76 169 ---- ---- ---- Total stores in operation 405 514 614 ==== ==== ==== EZPAWN locations offering signature loans 162 98 82 Total locations offering signature loans 287 332 416 27
EFFECT OF ADOPTING A NEW ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE FOR SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION Prior to October 1, 2005, the Company accounted for its share-based employee compensation plans under the recognition and measurement provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and related interpretations ("APB 25"), as permitted by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-based Compensation." For periods prior to October 1, 2005, share-based employee compensation cost was recognized in the Statement of Operations for only restricted stock grants and options granted at prices below market price on the date of grant. Effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), "Share-based Payment," using the modified prospective transition method, as more fully described in Note I of the financial statements included in this report. In accordance with the modified prospective transition provisions, results for prior periods have not been restated. The Company's net income includes the following compensation costs related to our share-based compensation arrangements: Years Ended September 30, ------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ----- ----- ------ (in thousands) Gross compensation costs Stock options $ -- $ -- $1,321 Restricted stock 538 588 76 ----- ----- ------ Total gross compensation costs 538 588 1,397 Income tax benefits Stock options -- -- (154) Restricted stock (188) (206) (26) ----- ----- ------ Total income tax benefits (188) (206) (180) ----- ----- ------ Net compensation expense $ 350 $ 382 $1,217 ===== ===== ====== At September 30, 2006, the unamortized fair value of share-based awards to be amortized over their remaining vesting periods was approximately $2.3 million. The weighted average period over which these costs will be amortized is 2 years. GENERAL The Company is primarily a lender or provider of credit services to individuals who do not have cash resources or access to credit to meet their short-term cash needs. In 280 EZPAWN locations open September 30, 2006, the Company offers non-recourse loans collateralized by tangible personal property, commonly known as pawn loans. At these locations, the Company also sells merchandise, primarily collateral forfeited from its pawn lending operations, to consumers looking for good value. In 334 EZMONEY stores and 82 EZPAWN locations open September 30, 2006, the Company offers short-term non-collateralized loans, often called payday loans, or fee based credit services to customers seeking loans (collectively, "signature loans"). The income earned on pawn lending is pawn service charge revenue. While allowable service charges vary by state and loan size, a majority of the Company's loans are in amounts that permit pawn service charges of 20% per month, or 240% annually. The Company's average pawn loan amount typically ranges between $80 and $85 but varies depending on the valuation of each item pawned. The total loan term, consisting of the primary term and grace period, ranges between 60 and 120 days. The Company began reducing the total loan term on pawn loans from 90 days to 60 days in 67 of its pawn locations in August 2005 and another 148 in November 2005. Forty-three locations had previously made the change. The Company believes this change reduced its pawn portfolio approximately 15% for 28
the loans in these stores that were between 60 and 90 days old, with very little or no impact on earned pawn service charge revenues. This change also created a one-time doubling of forfeitures as loans made 90 and 60 days earlier simultaneously forfeited for a 30-day period, resulting in a higher level of inventory available for sale (beginning inventory plus forfeitures and purchases). In the 67 stores converted in August 2005, the Company experienced this doubling of forfeitures as loans matured in the first quarter of Fiscal 2006. In the 148 stores converted in November 2005, the Company experienced this doubling of forfeitures as loans matured during the second quarter of Fiscal 2006. As a result, inventory available for sale increased over the prior year period 11% and 16% for the December and March quarters. In its pawnshops, the Company acquires inventory for its retail sales through pawn loan forfeitures and, to a lesser extent, through purchases of customers' merchandise. The realization of gross profit on sales of inventory depends primarily on the Company's assessment of the resale value at the time the property is either accepted as loan collateral or purchased. Improper assessment of the resale value in the lending or purchasing process can result in the realization of a lower margin or reduced marketability of the property. On July 15, 2005, the EZMONEY stores located in Texas ceased marketing payday loans and began providing fee-based credit services to consumers in obtaining loans from unaffiliated lenders. At September 30, 2006, 245 of the Company's 334 EZMONEY stores and 51 of its 280 pawn stores offered credit services. The Company does not participate in the loans made by the lenders, but typically earns a fee of 20% of the loan amount for assisting the customer in obtaining credit and by enhancing the borrower's creditworthiness through the issuance of a letter of credit. The average loan obtained by the Company's credit service customers is approximately $470 and the term is generally less than 30 days, averaging about 17 days. The Company earns payday loan service charge revenue on its payday loans. In 120 of its locations, the Company makes payday loans subject to state law. The average payday loan amount is approximately $385 and the term is generally less than 30 days, averaging about 21 days. The Company typically charges a fee of $15 to $22 per $100 loaned for a 7 to 27-day period. Through December 2005, the Company also marketed and serviced payday loans made by County Bank of Rehoboth Beach ("County Bank"), a federally insured Delaware bank in some of its locations. After origination of the loans, the Company could purchase a 90% participation in the loans made by County Bank and marketed by the Company. As of December 31, 2005, County Bank discontinued its payday loan program. Most of the locations previously marketing County Bank loans now provide credit services to consumers in obtaining loans from unaffiliated lenders. In Fiscal 2006, the Company's net income improved to $29.3 million compared to $14.8 million in Fiscal 2005. Contributing to the earnings growth was an improvement in the gross profit on sales, the significant growth in the Company's signature loan business, and the improvement in its pawn loan yield. Partially offsetting these factors was the incremental operating costs at the 101 new EZMONEY stores, a full year of expenses at the 110 EZMONEY stores opened in Fiscal 2005, and an increase in administrative expenses. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates and judgments, including those related to revenue recognition, inventory, allowance for losses on signature loans, long-lived and intangible assets, income taxes, contingencies and litigation. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, observable trends and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management uses this information to make judgments about the carrying values of 29
assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from the estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management believes the following critical accounting policies and estimates could have a significant impact on its results of operations. Readers should refer to Note A of the Company's consolidated financial statements for a more complete review of the Company's other accounting policies and estimates used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements. PAWN LOAN REVENUE RECOGNITION: Pawn service charges are recorded using the interest method for all pawn loans the Company deems to be collectible. The Company bases its estimate of uncollectible loans on several factors, including recent redemption rates, historical trends in redemption rates, and the amount of loans in its ending portfolio. Unexpected variations in any of these factors could change the Company's estimate of collectible loans, affecting the Company's earnings and financial condition. In Fiscal 2006, 101.9% ($66.6 million) of recorded pawn service charge revenue was collected in cash, offset by 1.9% ($1.3 million) from a decrease in accrued pawn service charges receivable. The decrease in ending accrued pawn service charges receivable was due primarily to the shorter loan term offered in 215 pawn stores, as discussed above. PAYDAY LOAN REVENUE RECOGNITION: Payday loans and related service charges reported in the Company's consolidated financial statements reflect only the Company's participation interest in these loans. The Company accrues service charges on the percentage of loans the Company deems to be collectible using the interest method. Accrued service charges related to defaulted loans are deducted from service charge revenue upon loan default and increase service charge revenue upon subsequent collection. In Fiscal 2006, 97.1% ($5.2 million) of recorded payday loan service charge revenue was collected in cash, and 2.9% ($0.2 million) resulted from an increase in accrued payday loan service charges receivable. PAYDAY LOAN BAD DEBT: The Company considers a loan defaulted if the loan has not been repaid or renewed by the maturity date. Although defaulted loans may be collected later, the Company charges the loan principal to bad debt upon default, leaving only active loans in the reported balance. Subsequent collections of principal are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. The Company's payday loan bad debt, included in payday loan bad debt and direct transaction expenses, was $6.6 million and $2.2 million in Fiscal 2005 and Fiscal 2006, representing 23% and 41% of payday loan service charges. Excluding the benefit of a $0.9 million sale of older bad debt in December 2004, bad debt for Fiscal 2005 was $7.5 million, or 26.0% of service charges in Fiscal 2005. PAYDAY LOAN ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES: The Company also provides an allowance for losses on active payday loans and related service charges receivable, based on recent loan default experience and expected seasonal variations. The accuracy of the Company's allowance estimate is dependent upon several factors, including its ability to predict future default rates based on historical trends and expected future events. Actual loan losses could vary from those estimated due to variance in any of these factors. Changes in the principal valuation allowance are charged to bad debt expense in the Company's statement of operations. Changes in the service charge receivable valuation allowance are charged to payday loan service charge revenue. Increased defaults and credit losses may occur during a national or regional economic downturn, or could occur for other reasons, resulting in the need to increase the allowance. The Company believes it effectively manages these risks through its underwriting criteria and closely monitoring the performance of the portfolio. At September 30, 2006, the allowance for losses on payday loans was $0.2 million, representing 42% of payday loan fees receivable. CREDIT SERVICE REVENUE RECOGNITION: The Company earns credit service fees when it assists customers in obtaining a loan from unaffiliated lenders. The Company accrues credit service fees on the percentage of fees the Company expects to collect. Accrued fees related to defaulted loans are deducted from credit service fee revenue upon loan default and increase credit service fee revenue upon subsequent collection. In Fiscal 2006, 98.6% ($65.5 million) of recorded credit service fee revenue was collected in cash, and 1.4% ($0.9 million) resulted from an increase in accrued credit service fees receivable. 30
CREDIT SERVICE BAD DEBT: As part of its credit services, the Company issues a letter of credit to enhance the creditworthiness of the Company's customers seeking loans from unaffiliated lenders. The letter of credit assures the lenders that if the borrower defaults on the loan, the Company will pay the lender the principal and accrued interest owed it by the borrower, plus any insufficient funds fee, all of which the Company records as bad debt and then attempts to collect from the borrower. Upon demand, the Company pays all amounts due under the related letter of credit if the loan has not been repaid or renewed by the maturity date. Although amounts paid under letters of credit may be collected later, the Company charges those amounts to bad debt upon default. Subsequent recoveries under the letters of credit are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. The Company's credit service bad debt, included in credit service bad debt and direct transaction expenses, was $6.4 million and $15.7 million in Fiscal 2005 and Fiscal 2006, representing 48% and 24% of credit service fee revenues. CREDIT SERVICE ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES: The Company also provides an allowance for losses it expects to incur under letters of credit for loans that are active at period-end but have not yet matured. Its allowance is based on recent loan default experience and expected seasonal variations, and includes all amounts it expects to pay to the unaffiliated lenders upon loan default, including loan principal, accrued interest, and insufficient funds fees, net of the amounts it expects to subsequently collect from borrowers ("Expected LOC Losses"). Changes in the valuation allowance are charged to credit service bad debt expense in the Company's statement of operations. At September 30, 2006, the allowance for Expected LOC Losses was $0.9 million, or 22% of gross credit service fees receivable. Based on the same expected loss and collection percentages, the Company also provides an allowance for its credit service fees it expects not to collect and charges changes in the credit service fee receivable valuation allowance to credit service fee revenue. At September 30, 2006, this reserve amounted to $0.2 million, or 5% of gross credit service fees receivable. INVENTORY: If a pawn loan is not repaid, the forfeited collateral (inventory) is recorded at cost (pawn loan principal). The Company does not record loan loss allowances or charge-offs on the principal portion of pawn loans. In order to state inventory at the lower of cost (specific identification) or market (net realizable value), the Company provides an allowance for shrinkage and excess, obsolete, or slow-moving inventory. The allowance is based on the type and age of merchandise as well as recent sales trends and margins. At September 30, 2006, the valuation allowance deducted from the carrying value of inventory was $2.8 million, or 7.3% of gross inventory. Changes in the inventory valuation allowance are recorded as cost of goods sold. The accuracy of the Company's inventory allowance is dependent on its ability to predict future events based on historical trends. Unexpected variations in sales margins, inventory turnover, or other factors, including fluctuations in gold values could increase or decrease the Company's inventory allowance. INCOME TAXES: As part of the process of preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Company estimates income taxes in each jurisdiction in which it operates. This process involves estimating the actual current tax liability together with assessing temporary differences in recognition of income for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Management must then assess the likelihood the deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income. At September 30, 2006, the Company determined it was unlikely to utilize a capital loss carry-forward scheduled to expire in 2009, and recorded a $0.4 million full valuation allowance against the related deferred tax asset. This was charged to the income tax provision in Fiscal 2006. In the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its remaining net deferred tax assets in the future, an increase to the valuation allowance would be charged to the income tax provision in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should the Company determine that it will be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of its net recorded amount, a decrease to the valuation allowance would increase income in the period such determination was made. The Company evaluates the realizability of its deferred tax assets quarterly by assessing the need for a valuation allowance, if any. At September 30, 2006, the Company's valuation allowance was $0.4 million. The Company had no deferred tax asset valuation allowance at September 30, 2005. 31
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION: Prior to October 1, 2005, the Company accounted for its share-based employee compensation plans under the recognition and measurement provisions of APB 25, as permitted by SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." For periods prior to October 1, 2005, share-based employee compensation cost was recognized in the Statement of Operations only for restricted stock grants and options granted at prices below market price on the date of grant. Effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), as described in Note I, "Common Stock, Warrants, Options, and Share-based Compensation." Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to the Fiscal 2006 presentation. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FISCAL 2006 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2005 The Company's Fiscal 2006 pawn service charge revenue increased 4.9%, or $3.1 million from Fiscal 2005 to $65.3 million. The growth was due to an improvement in loan yields to 139% from 133% in Fiscal 2005, and a 0.4% higher average outstanding pawn loan balance in Fiscal 2006. During the last eighteen months, the Company raised its loan values on gold jewelry in response to an increase in gold market values and similar changes by its competitors. This contributed approximately $2.2 million to the increase in pawn service charges in Fiscal 2006. Although the average pawn loan balance was higher, the ending pawn loan balance was 4.8% lower than at September 30, 2005. The lower ending pawn portfolio and accrued pawn service charges receivable resulted largely from the Fiscal 2006 conversion of 215 pawn stores from offering 90-day loan terms to offering 60-day loan terms, as discussed above. Fiscal 2006 sales increased $29.0 million from Fiscal 2005 to $177.4 million. The increase was due to a $14.7 million increase in same store merchandise sales and a $13.6 million increase in jewelry scrapping, driven by an increase in gold prices and in the amount of gold scrapped. The increase in merchandise sales is largely due to 18% higher levels of inventory available for sale (beginning inventory plus loan forfeitures and purchases) during Fiscal 2006 compared to Fiscal 2005. As described above, 215 stores shortened their pawn loan term from 90 days to 60 days in Fiscal 2006. This created a one-time doubling of pawn loan forfeitures for a thirty-day period in the affected stores. This doubling of loan forfeitures and a higher average pawn loan balance produced the higher levels of inventory available for sale. Below is a summary of Fiscal 2005 and 2006 sales and margins: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2005 2006 ------ ------ (Dollars in millions) Merchandise sales $119.0 $134.3 Jewelry scrapping sales 29.4 43.1 ------ ------ Total sales 148.4 177.4 Gross profit on merchandise sales $ 50.3 $ 55.9 Gross profit on jewelry scrapping sales 7.5 14.7 Gross margin on merchandise sales 42.3% 41.6% Gross margin on jewelry scrapping sales 25.3% 34.1% Overall gross margin 38.9% 39.8% Fiscal 2006 overall gross margins on sales improved 0.9 of a percentage point from Fiscal 2005 to 39.8%. This resulted primarily from an 8.8 percentage point improvement in margins on jewelry scrapping sales, offset by a 0.7 percentage point decrease in margins on merchandise sales. Included in the Fiscal 2006 cost of goods sold is a $1.0 million increase in the inventory valuation allowance, compared to a $0.3 million increase in Fiscal 2005. Absent this change, gross margins on merchandise sales decreased 0.2 of a percentage point from Fiscal 2005 to 42.1%. Inventory shrinkage, included in 32
cost of goods sold, improved to 1.3% of merchandise sales in Fiscal 2006 compared to 1.5% in Fiscal 2005. In Fiscal 2006, the Company raised its retail prices on gold jewelry in response to higher gold values. The Company also increased the amount paid to purchase jewelry from customers and loaned on jewelry, increasing the cost of these items. The net effect increased gross profit on merchandise sales approximately $0.9 million and jewelry scrapping sales approximately $8.0 million. The increase in gross profit from jewelry scrapping sales was further improved by scrapping 9% more volume in Fiscal 2006 compared to Fiscal 2005, partially offset by other increases in the cost of scrapped gold. Future fluctuations in gold prices would have an immediate and direct impact on the proceeds of scrapped jewelry. In response to these fluctuations, the Company may adjust the amount it lends on jewelry, as it did in Fiscal 2006, which would ultimately impact the cost of inventory sold and sales margins. Signature loan data (combined payday loan and credit service activities) are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2005 2006 -------- -------- (Dollars in millions) Service charge revenue $ 42.2 $ 71.8 Bad debt: Net defaults, including interest on brokered loans (12.6) (17.1) Change in valuation allowance (1.1) 0.5 Sale of older bad debt (c) 1.0 -- Other related costs, net of insufficient funds fees collected (0.3) (1.3) ------- -------- Net bad debt (13.0) (17.9) Direct transaction expenses (1.2) (0.6) Operating expenses at EZMONEY stores (15.6) (27.0) Depreciation and amortization at EZMONEY stores (0.6) (1.3) Collection and call center costs (included in administrative expense) (1.5) (1.5) ------- -------- Contribution to operating income $ 10.3 $ 23.5 ======= ======== Average signature loan balance outstanding during year (a) $ 10.1 $ $16.4 Signature loan balance at end of year (a) $ 15.9 20.7 Participating locations at end of year, including call center (whole numbers) 333 416 Signature loan bad debt, as a percent of service charge revenue 31% 25% Signature loan bad debt, excluding sale of older bad debt, as a percent of service charge revenue (c) 33% 25% Direct transaction expenses, as a percent of service charge revenue 3% 1% Net default rate (a) (b) 5.0% 4.7% Net default rate, excluding sale of older bad debt (a) (b) (c) 5.4% 4.7% (a) Signature loan balances include payday loans (net of valuation allowance) recorded on the Company's balance sheet and the principal portion of active brokered loans outstanding from independent lenders, the balance of which is not included on the Company's balance sheet. (b) Principal defaults net of collections, as a percentage of signature loans made and renewed. (c) Older bad debts were originated between fiscal 2001 and fiscal 2004. Signature loan service charge revenue increased 70% from Fiscal 2005 primarily due to higher average loan balances at existing stores and the addition of new EZMONEY stores. Signature loan bad debt has improved eight percentage points to 25% of related service charges, compared to Fiscal 2005 excluding the sale of older bad debt. In December 2004, the Company sold its older bad debt (originated between fiscal 2001 and fiscal 2004) to an outside agency for net proceeds of approximately $0.9 million. Including the benefit of this sale, signature loan bad debt was 31% of related revenues in Fiscal 2005. Generally on a weekly basis, the Company now sells bad debt as it ages beyond 80 days, except 33
defaulted loans on current payment plans. The Company believes that, in today's market, selling this debt is more efficient than other alternatives. As a percent of related service charges, the Company's bad debt on CSO activities improved to 24% of related service charges in Fiscal 2006 compared to 48% in Fiscal 2005. To transition customers from County Bank loans to credit services in the last quarter of Fiscal 2005, the Company relaxed its underwriting criteria during the transitional period. In doing so, the Company enjoyed a significant increase in credit services volume, but did experience an increase in the losses on its letters of credit obligations as compared to its bad debt on payday loans. The Fiscal 2006 improvement was a result of subsequent modifications the Company made to its underwriting for the credit services. Payday loan bad debt increased from 23% of related fees in Fiscal 2005 to 41% in Fiscal 2006. Excluding the benefit of the $0.9 million sale of older bad debt in December 2004, bad debt for Fiscal 2005 was 26% of services charges in Fiscal 2005. Many of the stores that converted to offering credit services in July 2005 had lower bad debt in relation to their fees than those that did not convert, increasing the bad debt ratio for the remaining stores offering payday loans. The Company's Fiscal 2006 payday loan growth was also primarily in states with lower fees than the average store offering payday loans in Fiscal 2005, which increased bad debt measured as a percent of fees. Signature loan direct transaction expenses improved to 1% of related revenues, from 3% in Fiscal 2005. The higher transaction expenses in Fiscal 2005 related primarily to loans offered by County Bank, which the Company no longer markets. The Company provides a valuation allowance for expected losses on signature loans and the related fees receivable. Due to the short-term nature of these loans, the Company uses recent net default rates and anticipated seasonal changes in the default rate as the basis for its valuation allowance. At September 30, 2006, the valuation allowance was 28% of signature loan gross fees receivable, (5.0% of signature loan principal and fees receivable), compared to 51% of signature loan fees receivable (9.4% of the outstanding signature loan principal and fees receivable) at September 30, 2005. Operations expense improved to 53.2% of net revenues ($111.1 million) in Fiscal 2006 from 58.6% of net revenue ($95.9 million) in Fiscal 2005. Of the total dollar increase of $15.2 million, $11.4 million related to the growth in EZMONEY stores. These increases were comprised mostly of additional labor, rent, and other increases from new stores. Included in the Fiscal 2005 amount is a one-time cost of $0.6 million related directly to the conversion of stores from offering payday loans to offering credit services. Pawn operating expenses also increased approximately $3.8 million, primarily from labor. Administrative expenses in Fiscal 2006 were $27.7 million compared to $23.1 million in Fiscal 2005, a decrease of 0.8 of a percentage point to 13.3% when measured as a percent of net revenue. The dollar increase was due primarily to a $2.0 million increase in administrative labor and benefits and a $1.4 million increase in stock compensation recognized as a result of adopting SFAS No. 123(R), as described above. Effective October 2, 2006, the Company granted a total of 1,757,250 restricted shares, vesting over the next ten years, to its Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and other employees. Related to this grant, the Company expects to recognize administrative expense of $1.9 million in the year ending September 30, 2007. Depreciation and amortization expense was $8.6 million in Fiscal 2006, compared to $8.1 million in Fiscal 2005. Depreciation on assets placed in service, primarily related to new EZMONEY stores, exceeded the reduction from assets that became fully depreciated or were retired in the period. The Company had net interest income of $0.1 million in Fiscal 2006, compared to net interest expense of $1.3 million in Fiscal 2005. The Company had an average outstanding debt balance of $1.6 million and an average cash balance of $17.5 million in Fiscal 2006, compared to an average debt balance of $17.0 million and an average cash balance of $2.9 million in the prior year period. The Company's earnings on its invested cash balance in Fiscal 2006 more than offset the interest and line of credit commitment fees 34
paid in the period. The liquidity changes were funded primarily by cash flow from operations after funding all investment activity. The Fiscal 2006 income tax expense was $16.2 million, or 35.7% of pre-tax income, compared to $8.3 million, or 36% of pre-tax income in Fiscal 2005. The decrease in the Fiscal 2006 effective tax rate is primarily due to a $0.7 million reduction in accrued state income taxes following a legislative change. Partially offsetting this was a $0.3 million tax increase related to non-deductible stock compensation and a $0.4 million valuation allowance placed on a capital loss carry-forward. Operating income for Fiscal 2006 improved $20.8 million over Fiscal 2005 to $43.0 million. The $12.8 million improvement in gross profit on sales, $13.2 million increased contribution from signature loans, and $3.1 million increase in pawn service charges account for most of the improvement. These improvements were partially offset by the $4.7 million increase in administrative expenses and $3.8 million increase in pawn operating expenses. After a $1.4 million improvement in net interest and other smaller items, income before income taxes grew to $45.5 million from $23.1 million in Fiscal 2005. After income taxes, net income improved from $14.8 million in Fiscal 2005 to $29.3 million in Fiscal 2006. FISCAL 2005 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2004 The Company's Fiscal 2005 pawn service charge revenue increased 5.4%, or $3.2 million from Fiscal 2004 to $62.3 million. The growth was due to an improvement in loan yields to 133% from 126% in Fiscal 2004. Slightly offsetting this was a 0.3% lower average outstanding pawn loan balance in Fiscal 2005. Fiscal 2005 sales increased $4.9 million from Fiscal 2004 to $148.4 million. The increase was due to a $2.8 million increase in jewelry scrapping and a $2.1 million increase in same store merchandise sales. Below is a summary of Fiscal 2004 and 2005 sales and margins: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2004 2005 ------ ------ (Dollars in millions) Merchandise sales $116.8 $119.0 Jewelry scrapping sales 26.7 29.4 ------ ------ Total sales 143.5 148.4 Gross profit on merchandise sales $ 49.1 $ 50.3 Gross profit on jewelry scrapping sales 6.1 7.5 Gross margin on merchandise sales 42.1% 42.3% Gross margin on jewelry scrapping sales 23.0% 25.3% Overall gross margin 38.5% 38.9% Fiscal 2005 overall gross margins on sales increased 0.4 of a percentage point from Fiscal 2004 to 38.9%. Margins on merchandise sales increased 0.2 of a percentage point as a result of less discounting and lower loan values on forfeited collateral. Jewelry scrapping margins improved 2.3 percentage points due largely to gold prices rising at a faster rate than the Company's increases in gold loan and purchase values. Inventory shrinkage, included in cost of goods sold, was 1.5% of merchandise sales in Fiscal 2005 compared to 1.7% in Fiscal 2004. At September 30, 2005, the Company offered signature loans in 332 locations and a call center, an increase from September 30, 2004, when the Company offered signature loans in 287 locations and a call center. Prior to July 15, 2005, the Company's signature loans consisted of only payday loans. Beginning July 15, 2005, most of its locations offering payday loans ceased marketing payday loans and began providing fee-based credit services to consumers in obtaining loans from an unaffiliated lender. 35
The Company opened 121 EZMONEY signature loan stores in Fiscal 2004, and another 110 in Fiscal 2005. One EZMONEY location was closed in Fiscal 2005. Signature loan data (combined payday loan and credit service activities) are as follows for Fiscal 2004 and 2005: Fiscal Year Ended September 30, ------------------------------- 2004 2005 ------- -------- (Dollars in millions) Service charge revenue $ 23.9 $ 42.2 Bad debt: Net defaults, including interest on brokered loans (8.0) (12.6) Change in valuation allowance (0.3) (1.1) Sale of older bad debt (c) -- 1.0 Other related costs, net of insufficient funds fees collected 0.2 (0.3) ------- -------- Net bad debt (8.1) (13.0) Direct transaction expenses (1.0) (1.2) Operating expenses at EZMONEY stores (4.3) (15.6) Depreciation and amortization at EZMONEY stores (0.2) (0.6) Collection and call center costs (included in administrative expense) (0.8) (1.5) ------- -------- Contribution to operating income $ 9.5 $ 10.3 ======= ======== Average signature loan balance outstanding during year (a) $ 5.6 $ 10.1 Signature loan balance at end of year (a) $ 7.3 $ 15.9 Participating locations at end of year, including call center (whole numbers) 288 333 Signature loan bad debt, as a percent of service charge revenue 34% 31% Signature loan bad debt, excluding sale of older bad debt, as a percent of service charge revenue (c) 34% 33% Direct transaction expenses, as a percent of service charge revenue 4% 3% Net default rate (a) (b) 5.9% 5.0% Net default rate, excluding sale of older bad debt (a) (b) (c) 5.9% 5.4% (a) Signature loan balances include payday loans (net of valuation allowance) recorded on the Company's balance sheet and the principal portion of active brokered loans outstanding from independent lenders, the balance of which is not included on the Company's balance sheet. (b) Principal defaults net of collections, as a percentage of signature loans made and renewed. (c) Older bad debts were originated between fiscal 2001 and fiscal 2004. Signature loan service charge revenue increased from Fiscal 2004 primarily due to higher average loan balances at existing stores and the addition of new EZMONEY stores. Although signature loan bad debt improved three percentage points as a percent of related service charges, it increased $4.9 million in Fiscal 2005 due to the increased volume of signature loans. As a percent of related service charges, the Company's bad debt on payday loans decreased from 34% in Fiscal 2004 to 23% in Fiscal 2005, but bad debt on CSO activities was 48% of related service charges. To transition customers from County Bank loans to credit services, the Company relaxed its underwriting criteria during the transitional period. In doing so, the Company enjoyed a significant increase in credit services volume, but did experience an increase in the losses on its letter of credit obligations as compared to its bad debt on payday loans. The Company provides a valuation allowance on payday loan principal and fees receivable. Due to the short-term nature of these loans, the Company used recent net default rates and anticipated seasonal changes in the default rate as the basis for its valuation allowance. At September 30, 2005, the valuation allowance was 55% of gross payday loan fees receivable, or 7.8% of gross payday loan principal and fees receivable. 36
Store operating expenses increased to $95.9 million in Fiscal 2005 from $86.9 million in Fiscal 2004. The increase was due to $11.3 million additional operating expenses at new EZMONEY stores opened in Fiscal 2005 or stores opened during Fiscal 2004 with a full year of expenses in Fiscal 2005. Included in this amount is a one-time cost of $0.6 million related directly to the conversion of stores from offering payday loans to offering credit services. Offsetting this was a $2.3 million reduction in same store pawn operating expenses. Although operating expenses increased in dollars, it represents a 3.6 percentage point decrease when measured as a percent of net revenue. Administrative expenses were $23.1 million (14.1% of net revenue) in Fiscal 2005 compared to $21.8 million (15.6% of net revenue) in Fiscal 2004. The $1.3 million increase is due primarily to a $1.9 million increase in labor and benefits, a $0.8 million increase in legal and professional fees, and a $0.3 million increase in travel expenses, offset by a $1.1 million reduction in restricted stock grants and related taxes. Also offsetting the increase was the absence of a $0.7 million impairment of a note receivable from a former Chief Executive Officer of the Company, as was seen in Fiscal 2004. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $0.6 million in Fiscal 2005 to $8.1 million, primarily due to the net effect of assets placed in service versus assets that became fully depreciated during the year. Of the total, $0.4 million related to new stores and $0.2 million related to same stores. In Fiscal 2005, interest expense decreased to $1.3 million from $1.5 million in Fiscal 2004. The improvement resulted primarily from lower average debt balances outstanding during the year. At September 30, 2005, the Company's total debt was $7.0 million compared to $25.0 million at September 30, 2004. Decreases in the debt balance were funded by cash flow from operations after funding all investment activity. The Fiscal 2005 income tax expense was $8.3 million, or 36% of pre-tax income, compared to $5.4 million, or 37% of pre-tax income in Fiscal 2004. The decrease in the Fiscal 2005 effective tax rate is primarily due to non-deductible executive compensation in Fiscal 2004 that did not recur in Fiscal 2005. Operating income for Fiscal 2005 improved $8.0 million over Fiscal 2004 to $22.2 million. The $3.2 million increase in same store pawn service charges, $2.5 million improvement in gross profit on sales, $2.3 million reduction in same store pawn operating expenses, and $0.8 million increased contribution from signature loans account for most of the improvement. These improvements were partially offset by the $1.3 million increase in administrative expenses. After a $0.3 million improvement in interest expense, the $0.4 million increased equity in Albemarle & Bond's earnings, and other smaller items, income before income taxes grew to $23.1 million from $14.5 million in Fiscal 2004. After income taxes, net income improved from $9.1 million in Fiscal 2004 to $14.8 million in Fiscal 2005. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES In Fiscal 2006, the Company's $43.2 million cash flow from operations consisted of (i) net income plus several non-cash items, aggregating to $42.7 million, and (ii) $0.5 million of changes in operating assets and liabilities, primarily accounts payable and accrued expenses. In Fiscal 2005, the Company's $31.7 million cash flow from operations consisted of (i) net income plus several non-cash items, aggregating to $28.1 million, and (ii) $3.6 million of changes in operating assets and liabilities, primarily accounts payable and accrued expenses. The primary differences between cash flow from operations for Fiscal 2005 and Fiscal 2006 are an increase in signature loan fees collected, gross profit on sales of inventory, and pawn service charges collected. In Fiscal 2006, the Company invested $11.1 million in property and equipment, $3.0 million in funding payday loans net of repayments, $2.2 million to acquire three stores, and $0.7 million in funding pawn loans, net of repayments and recoveries through the sale of forfeited collateral. These changes, a $7.0 million reduction in debt, and a $25.8 million increase in cash on hand were funded by the cash flow from 37
operations discussed above, the $5.4 million proceeds from the exercise of employee stock options and related excess tax benefit, and $1.0 million of dividends from Albemarle & Bond Holding, plc. Below is a summary of the Company's cash needs to meet its future aggregate contractual obligations in the full fiscal years ending September 30 (in thousands): Payments due by Period -------------------------------------------------------- Less than More than Contractual Obligations Total 1 year 1-3 years 3-5 years 5 years - ----------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Long-term debt obligations $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- Interest on long-term debt obligations 337 137 200 -- -- Capital lease obligations -- -- -- -- -- Operating lease obligations 113,552 16,784 29,102 22,839 44,827 Purchase obligations -- -- -- -- -- Other long-term liabilities -- -- -- -- -- -------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Total $113,889 $16,921 $29,302 $22,839 $44,827 ======== ======= ======= ======= ======= In addition to the contractual obligations in the table above, the Company is obligated by letters of credit issued to unaffiliated lenders as part of its credit service operations. At September 30, 2006, the Company's maximum exposure for losses on letters of credit, if all brokered loans defaulted and none was collected, was $19.4 million. This amount includes principal, interest, and insufficient funds fees. During the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, the Company plans to open approximately 100 new EZMONEY stores for an expected capital expenditure of approximately $6 million, plus the funding of working capital and start-up losses at these stores. The Company believes that these new stores will create a drag on earnings in their first six to nine months of operations before turning profitable. The Company had no debt outstanding at September 30, 2006. Effective October 13, 2006, the Company amended and restated its credit agreement. The amendment extended the maturity date to October 1, 2009, reduced applicable interest rates and commitment fees, and provided for a $40.0 million revolving credit facility secured by the Company's assets. Under the terms of the amended agreement, the Company had the ability to borrow $40 million at September 30, 2006. Terms of the agreement require, among other things, that the Company meet certain financial covenants. Payment of dividends and additional debt are allowed but restricted. The interest amount shown in the table above reflects the commitment fee the Company anticipates paying through maturity of the credit agreement, assuming it remains debt-free. The Company anticipates that cash flow from operations, cash on hand, and availability under its revolving credit facility will be adequate to fund its contractual obligations, planned store growth, capital expenditures, and working capital requirements during the coming year. SEASONALITY Historically, service charge revenues are highest in the Company's first fiscal quarter (October through December) due to improving loan redemption rates coupled with a higher average loan balance following the summer lending season. Sales generally are highest in the Company's first and second fiscal quarters (October through March) due to the holiday season and the impact of tax refunds. Sales volume can be heavily influenced by the timing of decisions to scrap excess jewelry inventory, which generally occurs during low jewelry sales periods (May through October). The net effect of these factors is that net revenues and net income typically are highest in the first and second fiscal quarters. The Company's cash flow is greatest in its second fiscal quarter primarily due to a high level of loan redemptions and sales in the income tax refund season. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS 38
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company intends that all forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created by these laws. All statements other than statements of historical information provided herein are forward-looking and may contain information about financial results, economic conditions, trends, and known uncertainties. All forward-looking statements are based on current expectations regarding important risk factors. Many of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, and, in many cases, the Company cannot predict all of the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, and readers should not regard those statements as a representation by the Company or any other person that the results expressed in the statements will be achieved. Important risk factors that could cause results or events to differ from current expectations are described in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These factors are not intended to be an all-encompassing list of risks and uncertainties that may affect the operations, performance, development and result of the Company's business. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereon, including without limitation, changes in the Company's business strategy or planned capital expenditures, store growth plans, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. ITEM 7A. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK MARKET RISK DISCLOSURES The following discussion about the Company's market risk disclosures involves forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is exposed to market risk related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and gold values. The Company also is exposed to regulatory risk in relation to its credit services and payday loans. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments. The Company's earnings and financial position may be affected by changes in gold values and the resulting impact on pawn lending and jewelry sales. The proceeds of scrap sales and the Company's ability to liquidate excess jewelry inventory at an acceptable margin are dependent upon gold values. The impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations of a hypothetical change in gold values cannot be reasonably estimated. For further discussion, readers should see "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 1A of this annual report on Form 10-K. The Company's earnings and financial position are affected by foreign exchange rate fluctuations related to its equity investment in A&B. A&B's functional currency is the U.K. pound. The U.K. pound exchange rate can directly and indirectly impact the Company's results of operations and financial position in several ways. For example, a devalued pound could result in an economic recession in the U.K., which in turn could impact A&B's and the Company's results of operations and financial position. The impact on the Company's results of operations and financial position of a hypothetical change in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the U.K. pound cannot be reasonably estimated due to the interrelationship of operating results and exchange rates. The translation adjustment representing the strengthening in the U.K. pound during the year ended June 30, 2006 (included in the Company's September 30, 2006 results on a three-month lag as described above) was approximately a $463,000 increase, net of tax effect, to shareholders' equity. On September 30, 2006, the U.K. pound strengthened to 1.00 to 1.8726 U.S. dollars from 1.8163 at June 30, 2006. No assurance can be given as to the future valuation of the U.K. pound and how further movements in the pound could affect future earnings or the financial position of the Company. 39
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Page ---- Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 41 Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2005 and 2006 42 Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the Three Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2006 43 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the Three Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2006 44 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the Three Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2006 45 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 46 40
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM Board of Directors and Stockholders EZCORP, Inc. Austin, Texas We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of EZCORP, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2006 and 2005 and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006. Our audits also include the financial statement schedule listed in the index at Item 15(a)(2). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and schedule are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements and schedule, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of EZCORP, Inc. at September 30, 2006 and 2005, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. As more fully described in Note I to the consolidated financial statements, effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), "Share-Based Payment." We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of EZCORP, Inc.'s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated November 3, 2006 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. /s/ BDO Seidman, LLP Dallas, Texas November 3, 2006 (except for Note R, which is as of December 11, 2006) 41
EZCORP, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS September 30, ------------------- 2005 2006 -------- -------- (In thousands) Assets: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,168 $ 29,939 Pawn loans 52,864 50,304 Payday loans, net 1,634 2,443 Pawn service charges receivable, net 9,492 8,234 Payday loan service charges receivable, net 272 426 Credit service fees receivable, net 3,007 3,954 Inventory, net 30,293 35,616 Deferred tax asset 10,534 7,150 Federal income tax receivable -- 35 Prepaid expenses and other assets 1,998 3,907 -------- -------- Total current assets 114,262 142,008 Investment in unconsolidated affiliate 17,348 19,275 Property and equipment, net 26,964 29,447 Deferred tax asset, non-current 4,012 3,749 Other assets, net 2,862 3,379 -------- -------- Total assets $165,448 $197,858 ======== ======== Liabilities and stockholders' equity: Current liabilities: Accounts payable and other accrued expenses $ 18,988 $ 22,579 Customer layaway deposits 1,672 1,890 Federal income taxes payable 648 -- -------- -------- Total current liabilities 21,308 24,469 Long-term debt 7,000 -- Deferred gains and other long-term liabilities 3,597 3,249 -------- -------- Total long-term liabilities 10,597 3,249 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity: Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share; Authorized 5,000,000 shares; none issued and outstanding -- -- Class A Non-voting Common Stock, par value $.01 per share; Authorized 50,000,000 shares; 35,635,374 issued and 35,608,275 outstanding in 2005; 37,542,240 issued and 37,515,141 outstanding in 2006 351 375 Class B Voting Common Stock, convertible, par value $.01 per share; Authorized 3,000,000 shares; Issued and Outstanding 2,970,171 30 30 Additional paid-in capital 117,965 124,572 Retained earnings 14,714 43,973 Deferred compensation expense (244) -- -------- -------- 132,816 168,950 Treasury stock, at cost (27,099 shares) (35) (35) Accumulated other comprehensive income 762 1,225 -------- -------- Total stockholders' equity 133,543 170,140 -------- -------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $165,448 $197,858 ======== ======== See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 42
EZCORP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Years Ended September 30, ------------------------------ 2004 2005 2006 -------- -------- -------- (In thousands, except per share amounts) Revenues: Sales $143,472 $148,410 $177,424 Pawn service charges 59,090 62,274 65,325 Payday loan service charges 23,874 28,954 5,389 Credit service fees -- 13,246 66,451 Other 1,361 1,275 1,263 -------- -------- -------- Total revenues 227,797 254,159 315,852 Cost of goods sold 88,202 90,678 106,873 -------- -------- -------- Net revenues 139,595 163,481 208,979 Operating expenses: Operations 86,862 95,876 111,110 Payday loan bad debt and direct transaction expenses 9,103 7,808 2,525 Credit service bad debt and direct transaction expenses -- 6,395 16,000 Administrative 21,845 23,067 27,749 Depreciation 7,435 8,036 8,543 Amortization 77 68 67 -------- -------- -------- Total operating expenses 125,322 141,250 165,994 -------- -------- -------- Operating income 14,273 22,231 42,985 Interest expense 1,567 1,520 441 Interest income (39) (245) (520) Equity in net income of unconsolidated affiliate (1,739) (2,173) (2,433) (Gain) loss on sale / disposal of assets 3 79 (7) -------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes 14,481 23,050 45,504 Income tax expense 5,358 8,298 16,245 -------- -------- -------- Net income $ 9,123 $ 14,752 $ 29,259 ======== ======== ======== Net income per common share: Basic $ 0.25 $ 0.40 $ 0.74 ======== ======== ======== Diluted $ 0.23 $ 0.36 $ 0.69 ======== ======== ======== Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 36,768 37,302 39,432 Diluted 39,366 40,722 42,264 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 43
EZCORP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Years Ended September 30, --------------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 --------- --------- --------- (In thousands) Operating Activities: Net income $ 9,123 $ 14,752 $ 29,259 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 7,512 8,104 8,610 Payday loan loss provision 8,225 6,627 2,221 Deferred taxes (2,103) 111 3,724 Net (gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets 3 79 (7) Impairment of receivable from stockholder 729 -- -- Share-based compensation 538 588 1,397 Income from investment in unconsolidated affiliate (1,739) (2,173) (2,433) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of business acquisitions: Service charges and fees receivable, net (428) (2,618) 213 Inventory, net 83 193 (772) Note receivable from related party -- 1,500 -- Prepaid expenses, other current assets, and other assets, net (545) 1,625 (1,675) Accounts payable and accrued expenses 3,964 4,107 3,524 Customer layaway deposits (147) 27 174 Deferred gains and other long-term liabilities (361) (361) (348) Federal income taxes 2,371 (837) (649) --------- --------- --------- Net cash provided by operating activities 27,225 31,724 43,238 Investing Activities: Pawn loans made (170,019) (172,991) (191,826) Pawn loans repaid 92,457 93,315 101,610 Recovery of pawn loan principal through sale of forfeited collateral 75,475 76,040 89,556 Payday loans made (52,501) (59,466) (24,368) Payday loans repaid 40,614 58,497 21,338 Additions to property and equipment (7,963) (9,227) (11,052) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired -- -- (2,194) Dividends from unconsolidated affiliate 680 861 969 Proceeds from sale of assets -- -- 66 --------- --------- --------- Net cash used in investing activities (21,257) (12,971) (15,901) Financing Activities: Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants 450 909 4,350 Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation -- -- 1,084 Debt issuance costs (408) -- -- Net payments on bank borrowings (6,000) (18,000) (7,000) --------- --------- --------- Net cash used in financing activities (5,958) (17,091) (1,566) --------- --------- --------- Change in cash and equivalents 10 1,662 25,771 Cash and equivalents at beginning of period 2,496 2,506 4,168 --------- --------- --------- Cash and equivalents at end of period $ 2,506 $ 4,168 $ 29,939 ========= ========= ========= Cash paid during the period for: Interest $ 1,746 $ 943 $ 380 Income taxes $ 5,286 $ 9,244 $ 12,163 Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities: Pawn loans forfeited and transferred to inventory $ 76,439 $ 75,890 $ 93,184 Issuance of common stock to 401(k) plan $ 69 $ 72 $ 45 Foreign currency translation adjustment $ (342) $ 65 $ (463) See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 44
EZCORP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Common Stock Retained Accumulated ------------- Additional Earnings Deferred Receivable Other Par Paid In (Accumulated Compensation Treasury From Comprehensive Shares Value Capital Deficit) Expense Stock Stockholder Income (Loss) Total ------ ----- ---------- ------------ ------------ -------- ----------- ------------- -------- (In thousands) Balances at Sept. 30, 2003 36,591 $366 $115,336 $(9,161) $(784) $(35) $(729) $ 485 $105,478 Issuance of Common Stock to 401(k) plan 27 -- 69 -- -- -- -- -- 69 Issuance of restricted shares to employee -- -- 586 -- (48) -- -- -- 538 Stock options exercised 495 4 446 -- -- -- -- -- 450 Receivable from stockholder written off -- -- -- -- -- -- 729 -- 729 Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 342 342 Net income -- -- -- 9,123 -- -- -- -- 9,123 -------- Total comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9,465 ------ ---- -------- ------- ----- ---- ----- ------ -------- Balances at Sept. 30, 2004 37,113 370 116,437 (38) (832) (35) -- 827 116,729 Issuance of Common Stock to 401(k) plan 12 -- 72 -- -- -- -- -- 72 Amortization of deferred compensation -- -- -- -- 588 -- -- -- 588 Vesting of restricted stock 375 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Stock options exercised 1,104 11 898 -- -- -- -- -- 909 Tax benefit from exercise of stock options -- -- 558 -- -- -- -- -- 558 Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- -- -- -- -- (65) (65) Net income -- -- -- 14,752 -- -- -- -- 14,752 -------- Total comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 14,687 ------ ---- -------- ------- ----- ---- ----- ------ -------- Balances at Sept. 30, 2005 38,604 381 117,965 14,714 (244) (35) -- 762 133,543 Issuance of Common Stock to 401(k) plan 3 -- 45 -- -- -- -- -- 45 Amortization of deferred compensation -- -- -- -- 75 -- -- -- 75 Reclass upon adoption of SFAS No. 123(R) -- -- (169) -- 169 -- -- -- -- Stock compensation 60 1 1,320 -- -- -- -- -- 1,321 Stock options exercised 1,845 23 4,327 -- -- -- -- -- 4,350 Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options -- -- 1,084 -- -- -- -- -- 1,084 Foreign currency translation adjustment -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 463 463 Net income -- -- -- 29,259 -- -- -- -- 29,259 -------- Total comprehensive income -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 29,722 ------ ---- -------- ------- ----- ---- ----- ------ -------- Balances at Sept. 30, 2006 40,512 $405 $124,572 $43,973 $ -- $(35) $ -- $1,225 $170,140 ====== ==== ======== ======= ===== ==== ===== ====== ======== See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 45
EZCORP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE A: ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES ORGANIZATION: EZCORP, Inc. (the "Company") is a lender or provider of credit services to individuals who do not have cash resources or access to credit to meet their short-term cash needs. In 280 EZPAWN locations open on September 30, 2006, the Company offers non-recourse loans collateralized by tangible personal property, commonly known as pawn loans. At these locations, the Company also sells merchandise, primarily collateral forfeited from its pawn lending operations, to consumers looking for good value. In 334 EZMONEY stores and 82 EZPAWN locations open on September 30, 2006, the Company offers short-term non-collateralized loans, often called payday loans, or fee-based credit services to customers seeking loans (collectively, "signature loans"). The Company commenced its fee based credit services July 15, 2005. CONSOLIDATION: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company accounts for its 28.5% interest in Albemarle & Bond Holdings, plc ("A&B") using the equity method. STOCK SPLIT: On November 3, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-one stock split of the Company's two classes of common stock to shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006, to be distributed on December 11, 2006. Shares outstanding and amounts per share in this report have been adjusted retroactively to reflect this split as it occurred prior to issuance of these consolidated financial statements. PAWN LOAN REVENUE RECOGNITION: Pawn service charges are recorded using the interest method for all pawn loans the Company deems to be collectible. The Company bases its estimate of collectible loans on several factors, including recent redemption rates, historical trends in redemption rates, and the amount of loans due in the following three months. Unexpected variations in any of these factors could change the Company's estimate of collectible loans, affecting the Company's earnings and financial condition. If the pawn loan is not repaid, the forfeited collateral (inventory) is valued at the lower of cost (pawn loan principal) or market (net realizable value) of the property. Sales revenue and the related cost are recorded when this inventory is sold. PAYDAY LOAN REVENUE RECOGNITION: The Company accrues service charges on the percentage of loans it deems to be collectible using the interest method. Accrued service charges related to defaulted loans are deducted from service charge revenue upon loan default, and increase service charge revenue upon subsequent collection. PAYDAY LOAN BAD DEBT AND DIRECT TRANSACTION EXPENSES: The Company considers a loan defaulted if the loan has not been repaid or renewed by the maturity date. Although defaulted loans may be collected later, the Company charges the loan principal to bad debt upon default, leaving only active loans in the reported balance. Subsequent collections of principal are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. The Company's payday loan bad debt, included in payday loan bad debt and direct transaction expenses, was $8.0 million, $6.6 million and $2.2 million, representing 34%, 23% and 41% of payday loan service charges for the years ended September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006, ("Fiscal 2004," "Fiscal 2005" and "Fiscal 2006"). Excluding the benefit of a $0.9 million sale of older bad debt in December 2004, bad debt for Fiscal 2005 was $7.5 million, or 26.0% of service charges. The Company includes direct transaction expenses in this financial statement line item. These include Tele-Track charges, electronic debit fees, and other bank fees amounting to 4.3%, 4.1% and 5.6% of service charges in Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. PAYDAY LOAN ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES: The Company also provides an allowance for losses on active payday loans and related service charges receivable, based on recent loan default experience and expected seasonal variations. Changes in the principal valuation allowance are charged to bad debt 46
expense in the Company's statement of operations. Changes in the service charge receivable valuation allowance are charged to payday loan service charge revenue. At September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the allowance for losses on payday loans was $0.6 million, $0.2 million and $0.2 million, representing 37%, 55% and 42% of gross payday loan fees receivable. CREDIT SERVICE REVENUE RECOGNITION: The Company earns credit service fees when it assists customers in obtaining a loan from unaffiliated lenders. The Company accrues credit service fees on the percentage of fees the Company expects to collect. Accrued fees related to defaulted loans are deducted from credit service fee revenue upon loan default and increase credit service fee revenue upon subsequent collection. CREDIT SERVICE BAD DEBT AND DIRECT TRANSACTION EXPENSES: As part of its credit services, the Company issues a letter of credit to enhance the creditworthiness of the Company's customers seeking loans from an unaffiliated lender. The letter of credit assures the lender that if the borrower defaults on the loan, the Company will pay the lender the principal and accrued interest owed it by the borrower, plus any insufficient funds fee, all of which the Company records as bad debt and then attempts to collect from the borrower. Upon demand, the Company pays all amounts due under the related letter of credit if the loan has not been repaid or renewed by the maturity date. Although amounts paid under letters of credit may be collected later, the Company charges those amounts to bad debt upon default. Subsequent recoveries under the letters of credit are recorded as a reduction of bad debt at the time of collection. The Company's credit service bad debt, included in credit service bad debt and direct transaction expenses, was $6.4 million and $15.7 million in Fiscal 2005 and 2006, representing 48% and 24% of credit service fee revenues. The Company did not offer credit services in Fiscal 2004. The Company includes direct transaction expenses in this financial statement line item. These include Tele-Track charges, electronic debit fees, and other bank fees amounting to 0.1% and 0.5% of credit service fee revenue for Fiscal 2005 and 2006. CREDIT SERVICE ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES: The Company also provides an allowance for losses it expects to incur under letters of credit for loans that are active at period-end but have not yet matured. Its allowance is based on recent loan default experience and expected seasonal variations, and includes all amounts it expects to pay to the unaffiliated lenders upon loan default, including loan principal, accrued interest, and insufficient funds fees, net of the amounts it expects to subsequently collect from borrowers ("Expected LOC Losses"). Changes in the valuation allowance are charged to credit service bad debt expense in the Company's statement of operations. At September 30, 2005 and 2006, the allowance for Expected LOC Losses was $1.4 million and $0.9 million, representing 46% and 23% of credit service fees receivable. The Company's maximum exposure for losses on letters of credit, if all loans defaulted and none was collected, was $19.4 million at September 30, 2006. This amount includes principal, interest, and insufficient funds fees. Based on the expected loss and collection percentages, the Company also provides an allowance for the credit service fees it expects not to collect, and charges changes in the credit service fee receivable valuation allowance to credit service fee revenue. At September 30, 2005 and 2006, this reserve amounted to $0.3 million and $0.2 million, representing 9.0% and 4.6% of credit service fees receivable. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS: The Company considers investments with maturities of 90 days or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. INVENTORY: If a pawn loan is not repaid, the forfeited collateral (inventory) is recorded at cost (pawn loan principal). The Company does not record loan loss allowances or charge-offs on the principal portion of pawn loans. In order to state inventory at the lower of cost (specific identification) or market (net realizable value), the Company provides an allowance for shrinkage and excess, obsolete or slow-moving inventory. The allowance is based on the type and age of merchandise as well as recent sales trends and margins. At September 30, 2005 and 2006, the valuation allowance deducted from the carrying value 47
of inventory amounted to $1,860,000 and $2,823,000 (5.8% and 7.3% of gross inventory). Changes in the inventory valuation allowance are recorded as cost of goods sold. SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT COSTS: The Company accounts for internal software development costs in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' ("AICPA") Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 98-1, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed for or Obtained for Internal Use," which requires the capitalization of certain costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining software for internal use. During 2004, 2005 and 2006 approximately $134,000, $196,000 and $288,000 was capitalized in connection with the development and acquisition of internal software systems. No interest was capitalized in 2004, 2005 or 2006. Capitalized costs are amortized by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of each system, ranging from five to eight years. CUSTOMER LAYAWAY DEPOSITS: Customer layaway deposits are recorded as deferred revenue until the entire related sales price has been collected and the related merchandise has been delivered to the customer. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT: Property and equipment are stated at cost. Provisions for depreciation are computed on a straight-line basis using estimated useful lives of 30 years for buildings and 2 to 8 years for furniture, equipment, and software development costs. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful life - typically 10 years - or the reasonably assured lease term at the inception of the lease. Property and equipment is shown net of accumulated depreciation of $67.2 million and $75.5 million at September 30, 2005 and 2006. INTANGIBLE ASSETS: The Company accounts for intangible assets in accordance with SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets." Under the provisions of SFAS No. 142, goodwill and other intangible assets having an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization but are tested for impairment at least annually on July 1, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. The Company recognized no impairment of its intangible assets in Fiscal 2004, 2005 or 2006. Intangible assets with definite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. VALUATION OF TANGIBLE LONG-LIVED ASSETS: The Company assesses the impairment of tangible long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors which could trigger an impairment review include the following: significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future cash flows; significant changes in the manner of use of the assets or the strategy for the overall business; and significant negative industry trends. When management determines that the carrying value of tangible long-lived assets may not be recoverable, impairment is measured based on the excess of the assets' carrying value over the estimated fair value. No impairment of tangible long-lived assets has been recognized in Fiscal 2004, 2005 or 2006. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS: The fair value of financial instruments is determined by reference to various market data and other valuation techniques, as appropriate. Unless otherwise disclosed, the fair values of financial instruments approximate their recorded values, due primarily to their short-term nature. The Company considers investments with maturities of 90 days or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION: The Company's equity investment in A&B is translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate as of A&B's balance sheet date of June 30. The related interest in A&B's net income is translated at the average exchange rate for each six-month period reported by A&B. Resulting translation adjustments are reflected as a separate component of stockholders' equity. COST OF GOODS SOLD: Included in cost of goods sold is the historical cost of inventory sold, inventory shrinkage and any change in the Company's allowance for inventory shrinkage and valuation. Also included is the cost of operating the Company's central jewelry processing unit, as it relates directly to sales of precious metals to refiners. 48
OPERATIONS EXPENSE: Included in operations expense are costs related to operating the Company's stores. These costs include labor, other direct expenses such as utilities, supplies and banking fees, and indirect expenses such as store rent, building repairs and maintenance, advertising and store property taxes and insurance. ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE: Included in administrative expense are costs related to the Company's executive and administrative offices. This includes executive, administrative and regional salaries, wages and incentive compensation, professional fees, license fees and costs related to the operation of the Company's administrative offices such as rent, property taxes, insurance, and information technology. Also included in administrative expense are costs of the Company's payday loan call center and bad debt collection center. ADVERTISING: Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was approximately $1,202,000, $1,440,000 and $1,041,000 for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. INCOME TAXES: The provision for federal income taxes has been calculated based on the Company's estimate of its effective tax rate for the full fiscal year. As part of the process of preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Company estimates income taxes in each jurisdiction in which it operates. This process involves estimating the actual current tax liability together with assessing temporary differences in recognition of income for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Management must then assess the likelihood the deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income. At September 30, 2006, the Company decreased its estimate of the effective tax rate for its fiscal year then ending from 36.4% to 35.7% primarily due to a $0.7 million decrease in accrued state income taxes, as more fully discussed in Note J, "Income Taxes." At September 30, 2006, the Company also determined it was unlikely to utilize a capital loss carry-forward scheduled to expire in 2009, and recorded a $0.4 million full valuation allowance against the related deferred tax asset. This was charged to the income tax provision in Fiscal 2006. In the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its remaining net deferred tax assets in the future, an increase to the valuation allowance would be charged to the income tax provision in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should the Company determine that it will be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of its net recorded amount, a decrease to the valuation allowance would decrease the tax provision in the period such determination was made. The Company evaluates its deferred tax assets quarterly by assessing the need for a valuation allowance, if any. At September 30, 2006, the Company's valuation allowance was $0.4 million. The Company had no deferred tax asset valuation allowance at September 30, 2005. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION: Prior to October 1, 2005, the Company accounted for its share-based employee compensation plans under the recognition and measurement provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and related interpretations ("APB 25"), as permitted by SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." For periods prior to October 1, 2005, share-based employee compensation cost was recognized in the Statement of Operations only for restricted stock grants and options granted at prices below market price on the date of grant. Effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), as described in Note I, "Common Stock, Warrants, Options, and Share-based Compensation." SEGMENTS: The Company accounts for its operations in accordance with SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information." No segment disclosures have been made as the Company considers its business activities as a single segment. USE OF ESTIMATES: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates and such difference may be material. 49
RECLASSIFICATIONS: Certain prior year financial statement balances have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS: In May 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No. 154, "Accounting Changes and Error Corrections - a replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3." SFAS No. 154 changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. This statement applies to all voluntary changes in accounting principle and changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. When a pronouncement includes specific transition provisions, those provisions should be followed. SFAS No. 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2005. The Company does not believe the adoption of SFAS No. 154 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes" ("FIN 48"). To be recognized in the financial statements, FIN 48 requires that a tax position is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination, based on the technical merits of the position. In making the determination of sustainability, companies must presume tax positions will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority with full knowledge of all relevant information. FIN 48 also prescribes how such benefit should be measured, including the consideration of any penalties and interest. It requires that the new standard be applied to the balances of tax assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the period of adoption and that a corresponding adjustment be made to the opening balance of retained earnings. FIN 48 will be effective for the Company in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008. The Company is evaluating the potential effect of FIN 48, but does not expect it to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements." Among other requirements, SFAS No. 157 defines fair value and establishes a framework for measuring fair value and also expands disclosure about the use of fair value to measure assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 157 will be effective for the Company's fiscal year ending September 30, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 157 on its financial position and results of operations. In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 108, "Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements When Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements," which provides interpretive guidance on how the effects of the carryover or reversal of prior year misstatements should be considered in quantifying a current year misstatement. The guidance will be applicable for the Company's fiscal year ending September 30, 2007. The Company does not believe SAB 108 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. NOTE B: ACQUISITIONS In Fiscal 2006, the Company acquired three pawnshops for total consideration of $2.2 million. Of the total purchase price, $0.9 million was allocated to inventory, $0.4 million was allocated to pawn loans, $0.1 million was allocated to other identified assets and liabilities, and the remaining $0.8 million was allocated to goodwill. The results of the acquired stores have been consolidated with that of the Company since their acquisition dates. Pro forma results of operations have not been presented because the effects of the acquisitions were not material to the Company. NOTE C: EARNINGS PER SHARE The Company has two classes of common stock and computes earnings per share using the two-class method in accordance with SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share." As discussed in Note I, the holders of the Company's Class A and Class B common stock have similar rights with the exception of voting rights. Accordingly, earnings per common share for the two classes of common stock are the same. 50
Basic earnings per share are computed on the basis of the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share are computed on the basis of the weighted average number of shares of common stock plus the effect of dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Dilutive potential common shares include outstanding stock options, warrants and restricted stock awards. Components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Years Ended September 30, --------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ------- ------- ------- Net income (A) $ 9,123 $14,752 $29,259 ======= ======= ======= Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock (B) 36,768 37,302 39,432 Dilutive effect of stock options, warrants, and restricted stock 2,598 3,420 2,832 ------- ------- ------- Weighted average common stock and common stock equivalents (C) 39,366 40,722 42,264 ======= ======= ======= Basic earnings per share (A/B) $ 0.25 $ 0.40 $ 0.74 ======= ======= ======= Diluted earnings per share (A/C) $ 0.23 $ 0.36 $ 0.69 ======= ======= ======= Anti-dilutive options, warrants and restricted stock grants have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares so the effect would be anti-dilutive. During Fiscal 2004, there were 128,361 of weighted average shares of restricted stock outstanding that were anti-dilutive. None were anti-dilutive in Fiscal 2005 or Fiscal 2006. NOTE D: INVESTMENT The Company owns 13,276,666 common shares of Albemarle & Bond Holdings, plc ("A&B"), or approximately 28.5% of A&B's total outstanding shares. The shares were acquired in 1998 at a total cost of $12.8 million. A&B is primarily engaged in pawnbroking, retail jewelry sales, check cashing and lending in the United Kingdom. The investment is accounted for using the equity method. Since A&B's fiscal year end is June 30, the income reported by the Company for its investment in A&B is on a three-month lag. In accordance with United Kingdom securities regulations, A&B files only semi-annual financial reports, for its fiscal periods ending December 31 and June 30. The income reported for the Company's fiscal year end of September 30 represents its percentage interest in the results of A&B's operations from July 1 to June 30. In Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company received dividends from A&B of $680,000, $861,000 and $969,000. The undistributed earnings included in the Company's consolidated retained earnings were $5.3 million at September 30, 2006. A&B's shares are listed on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange and at October 31, 2006, the market value of this investment was approximately $58.6 million, based on the closing market price and currency exchange rate on that date. Conversion of A&B's financial statements into US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP") resulted in no material differences from those reported by A&B following United Kingdom GAAP. 51
Below is summarized financial information for A&B's most recently reported results (using the exchange rate as of June 30 of each year for balance sheet items and average exchange rates for income statement items for the periods indicated): As of June 30, -------------------- 2005 2006 ---------- ------- (restated) (In thousands) Current assets $51,451 $62,564 Non-current assets 9,475 14,058 ------- ------- Total assets $60,926 $76,622 ======= ======= Current liabilities $ 5,416 $ 5,094 Non-current liabilities 18,836 28,843 Equity shareholders' funds 36,674 42,685 ------- ------- Total liabilities and equity shareholders' funds $60,926 $76,622 ======= ======= The restatement of A&B's fiscal 2005 results affected only its balance sheet presentation, and had no effect on its current or prior year earnings. Years ended June 30, --------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ------- ------- ------- (In thousands) Turnover (gross revenues) $38,891 $44,620 $52,461 Gross profit 27,613 32,555 38,574 Profit after tax (net income) 6,024 7,539 8,484 At September 30, 2006, the recorded balance of the Company's investment in A&B, accounted for on the equity method, was $19.3 million. The Company's equity in net assets of A&B was $12.2 million. The difference between the recorded balance and the Company's equity in A&B's net assets represents the $7.1 million of unamortized goodwill which resulted from the initial purchase, plus the cumulative difference resulting from A&B's earnings, dividend payments and translation gain since the date of investment. NOTE E: PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Major classifications of property and equipment were as follows: September 30, ------------------- 2005 2006 -------- -------- (In thousands) Land $ 44 $ 44 Buildings and improvements 38,527 43,143 Furniture and equipment 33,296 38,839 Software 21,407 21,696 Construction in progress 934 1,185 -------- -------- Total 94,208 104,907 Less accumulated depreciation (67,244) (75,460) -------- -------- $ 26,964 $ 29,447 ======== ======== 52
NOTE F: GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS The following table presents the balance of each major class of indefinite-lived intangible asset at the specified dates: September 30, --------------- 2005 2006 ------ ------ (In thousands) Pawn licenses $1,549 $1,549 Goodwill -- 768 ------ ------ Total $1,549 $2,317 ====== ====== The following table presents the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization for each major class of definite-lived intangible asset at the specified dates: September 30, 2005 September 30, 2006 ----------------------- ----------------------- Carrying Accumulated Carrying Accumulated Amount Amortization Amount Amortization -------- ------------ -------- ------------ (In thousands) License application fees $ 345 $(226) $ 345 $(257) Real estate finders' fees 554 (294) 556 (311) Non-compete agreements 388 (258) 398 (277) ------ ----- ------ ----- Total $1,287 $(778) $1,299 $(845) ====== ===== ====== ===== Total amortization expense from definite-lived intangible assets was approximately $77,000, $68,000 and $67,000 for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006. The following table presents the Company's estimate of amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets for each of the five succeeding fiscal years as of September 30, 2006 (in thousands): Fiscal Year Amortization Expense - ----------- -------------------- 2007 $69 2008 $68 2009 $59 2010 $44 2011 $38 As acquisitions and dispositions occur in the future, amortization expense may vary from these estimates. 53
NOTE G: ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND OTHER ACCRUED EXPENSES Accounts payable and other accrued expenses consisted of the following: September 30, ----------------- 2005 2006 ------- ------- (In thousands) Trade accounts payable $ 3,760 $ 6,014 Accrued payroll and related expenses 6,398 8,123 Accrued interest 145 37 Accrued rent and property taxes 3,099 3,993 Accrual for expected losses on CSO letters of credit 1,391 898 Collected funds payable to independent lenders under CSO program 566 1,026 Other accrued expenses 3,629 2,488 ------- ------- $18,988 $22,579 ======= ======= NOTE H: LONG-TERM DEBT At September 30, 2006, the Company had no debt. At September 30, 2005, the Company had $7.0 million payable to a bank syndicate under a revolving credit facility, none of which was a current liability at that date. Effective October 13, 2006, the Company amended and restated its credit agreement. The amendment extended the maturity date to October 1, 2009 and provided for a $40.0 million revolving credit facility secured by the Company's assets. For any borrowed funds, the Company may choose a Eurodollar rate plus 100 to 200 basis points (depending on the leverage ratio) or the agent bank's base rate. On the unused amount of its revolving facility, the Company also pays a commitment fee of 25 to 30 basis points depending on the leverage ratio calculated as of the end of each quarter. Terms of the agreement require, among other things, that the Company meet certain financial covenants. Payment of dividends and additional debt are allowed but restricted. NOTE I: COMMON STOCK, WARRANTS, OPTIONS, AND SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION The capital stock of the Company consists of two classes of common stock designated as Class A Non-voting Common Stock ("Class A Common Stock") and Class B Voting Common Stock ("Class B Common Stock"). The rights, preferences and privileges of the Class A and Class B Common Stock are similar except that each share of Class B Common Stock has one vote and each share of Class A Common Stock has no voting privileges. All Class A Common Stock is publicly held. Holders of Class B Common Stock may, individually or as a class, convert some or all of their shares into Class A Common Stock. Class A Common Stock becomes voting common stock upon the conversion of all Class B Common Stock to Class A Common Stock. The Company is required to reserve such number of authorized but unissued shares of Class A Common Stock as would be issuable upon conversion of all outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock. Prior to October 1, 2005, the Company accounted for its share-based employee compensation plans under the recognition and measurement provisions of APB 25, as permitted by SFAS No. 123. For periods prior to October 1, 2005, share-based employee compensation cost was recognized in the Statement of Operations for only restricted stock grants and options granted at prices below market price on the date of grant. Effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), "Share-based Payment," using the modified prospective transition method. Under that transition method, compensation cost recognized in all periods subsequent to September 30, 2005 includes (a) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested as of October 1, 2005, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, and (b) compensation cost for all share-based payments granted on or after October 1, 2005, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). The fair value of grants is amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line 54
basis over the vesting period for both cliff vesting and graded vesting grants. The grant-date fair value of options is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model ("Black-Scholes") and is amortized to expense over the options' vesting periods. In accordance with the modified prospective transition provisions, results for prior periods have not been restated, and pro forma results are disclosed below for the pre-adoption period. The Company's net income includes the following compensation costs related to our share-based compensation arrangements: Years Ended September 30, --------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ----- ----- ------ (In thousands) Gross compensation costs Stock options $ -- $ -- $1,321 Restricted stock 538 588 76 ----- ----- ------ Total gross compensation costs 538 588 1,397 Income tax benefits Stock options -- -- (154) Restricted stock (188) (206) (26) ----- ----- ------ Total income tax benefits (188) (206) (180) ----- ----- ------ Net compensation expense $ 350 $ 382 $1,217 ===== ===== ====== All options and restricted stock relate to the Company's Class A Non-voting Common Stock. Our independent directors have been granted non-qualified stock options that vest one year from grant and expire in ten years. Non-qualified, incentive stock options and restricted stock awards have been granted to our officers and employees under our 1991, 1998, 2003 and 2006 Incentive Plans. Most options have a contractual life of ten years and provide for graded vesting over five years, but some provide for cliff vesting. Certain of the options granted to officers also provide for accelerated vesting upon a change in control or upon the achievement of certain performance targets. Outstanding options have been granted with strike prices ranging from $0.67 per share to $12.60 per share. These were granted at or above the market price at the time of grant, and had no intrinsic value on the grant date. On September 21, 2006, the Board of Directors approved the adoption of the EZCORP, Inc. 2006 Incentive Plan (the "2006 Plan"). The 2006 Plan permits grants of up to 2,250,000 options, restricted stock awards ("RSAs") and stock appreciation rights ("SARs") of the Company's Class A Common Stock. In approving this plan, the Board of Directors resolved that no further options, RSAs or SARs would be granted under any previous plan. Awards that expire or are canceled without delivery of shares under the 2006 Incentive Plan generally become available for issuance in new grants. The Company issues new shares to satisfy stock option exercises. At September 30, 2006, 2,205,000 shares were available for grant under the 2006 Plan. Following a subsequent grant of 1,757,250 shares effective October 2, 2006, as discussed below, 447,750 shares of the 2006 Plan remained available for grant. On September 21, 2006, the Board of Directors approved a 15,000 share non-qualified stock option grant to each of the Company's three independent directors. The total grant of 45,000 shares vests in one year and has a strike price of $12.60 per share. On January 15, 2004, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved an award of 180,000 shares of restricted stock to the Company's Chief Executive Officer. The shares will vest on January 1, 2009, provided he remains continuously employed by the Company through the vesting date. The shares were subject to earlier vesting based on the occurrence of certain objectives. The market value of the restricted stock on the award date was $0.6 million, which was being amortized over a three- 55
year period based on the Company's initial expectation that earlier vesting objectives would be met. One-third of the shares vested January 15, 2005 based on the attainment of the goals for accelerated vesting. Effective October 1, 2005, the Company determined it no longer believed the requirements would be met for accelerated vesting of the remaining unvested shares. Accordingly, the remaining unamortized deferred compensation of $0.2 million is being amortized ratably over the vesting period ending January 1, 2009. During Fiscal 2005 and 2006, $195,000 and $75,000 was amortized to expense for this grant. On September 17, 2003, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved an award of 375,000 shares of restricted stock to the Chairman of the Board. The market value of the restricted stock on the award date was $0.8 million, which was amortized over the two-year restriction period that expired September 17, 2005. During Fiscal 2005, $0.4 million of this cost was amortized to expense, and no expense was recognized for this grant in Fiscal 2006. We measure the fair value of RSAs based upon the market price of the underlying common stock as of the grant date. Throughout Fiscal 2006, the Company had 120,000 shares of non-vested RSAs outstanding, with a weighted average grant-date fair value of $3.26 per share. No restricted shares have been granted, vested or forfeited during the year. At September 30, 2006, there was $0.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to RSAs. The Company expects to recognize this cost over a weighted average period of 2.3 years. The following table summarizes the impact of adopting SFAS No. 123(R) on the noted items: Year Ended September 30, 2006 ------------------- Intrinsic Fair Value Value Method Method --------- ------- (In thousands) Income before income taxes $46,826 $45,504 Net income $30,427 $29,259 Earnings per share: Basic $ 0.77 $ 0.74 Diluted $ 0.72 $ 0.69 Cash flow provided by operating activities $44,322 $43,238 Cash flow used in financing activities $(2,650) $(1,566) Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123(R), the Company presented all tax benefits of deductions resulting from the exercise of stock options as operating cash flows in the Statement of Cash Flows. SFAS No. 123(R) requires the cash flows resulting from excess tax benefits (the tax benefits resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized for those options) to be classified as financing cash flows. 56
A summary of the option plans' activity for the most recently reported period follows: Weighted Weighted Average Aggregate Average Remaining Intrinsic Exercise Contractual Value Shares Price Term (years) (thousands) ---------- -------- ------------ ----------- Outstanding at September 30, 2005 5,399,700 $ 2.60 Granted 45,000 12.60 Forfeited (231,900) 3.10 Expired (2,580) 2.79 Exercised (1,835,550) 2.36 ---------- ------ Outstanding at September 30, 2006 3,374,670 $ 2.83 4.9 $33,975 Vested and Expected to Vest 3,098,619 $ 2.80 4.8 $31,263 Vested at September 30, 2006 1,020,270 $ 1.78 6.4 $11,339 The Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options, which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, this option valuation model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. In applying Black-Scholes, the Company used the following weighted average assumptions for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006: Year Ended September 30, ------------------------ 2004 2005 2006 ------ ------ ------ Risk-free interest rate 3.22% 3.24% 4.71% Dividend yield 0% 0% 0% Volatility factor of the expected market price of the Company's common stock 38.00% 41.00% 61.96% Expected life of the options (years) 10 10 2 Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted $ 1.73 $ 2.04 $ 4.66 The Company considered the contractual life of the options and the past behavior of employees in estimating the expected life of options granted. The estimated expected life cannot exceed the contractual term, and cannot be less than the vesting term. The volatility factor was estimated using the actual volatility of the Company's stock over the most recently completed time period equal to the estimated life of each option grant. Although no adjustment was made in the period presented above, the Company considers excluding from its volatility factor discrete events which have had a significant effect on its historical volatility but have a remote chance of recurring. As of September 30, 2006, the unamortized fair value of share-based awards to be amortized over their remaining vesting periods was approximately $2.3 million. The weighted average period over which these costs will be amortized is 2 years. Stock option and warrant exercises resulted in the issuance of 1,104,219 shares of Class A Common Stock in Fiscal 2005 for total proceeds of $909,000. Stock option and warrant exercises resulted in the issuance of 1,842,669 shares of Class A Common Stock in Fiscal 2006 for total proceeds of $4.4 million. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $5.7 million in Fiscal 2005, and $14.2 million in Fiscal 2006. The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 to options granted under the Company's 57
stock option plans in periods prior to adoption of SFAS No. 123(R). For purposes of this pro forma disclosure, the value of the options is estimated using Black-Scholes and is amortized to expense over the options' vesting periods. Year ended September 30, ------------------------ 2004 2005 ------ ------- (In thousands, except per share amounts) Net income, as reported $9,123 $14,752 Add: stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects 350 376 Deduct: total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects (879) (1,048) ------ ------- Pro forma net income $8,594 $14,080 Earnings per share, basic: As reported $ 0.25 $ 0.40 Pro forma $ 0.23 $ 0.38 Earnings per share, diluted: As reported $ 0.23 $ 0.36 Pro forma $ 0.22 $ 0.35 At September 30, 2006, warrants to purchase 60,069 shares of Class A Common Stock and 12,222 shares of Class B Common Stock at $2.06 per share were outstanding. The warrants are not mandatorily redeemable, and are exercisable at the option of the holder through July 25, 2009. Effective October 2, 2006, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved an award of 675,000 shares of restricted stock to the Chairman of the Board, and 945,000 shares of restricted stock to the Company's Chief Executive Officer. The cumulative market value of the two grants on the award date was $21 million, and 20% of the shares will vest every two years for a ten-year period if certain company performance requirements are achieved. If the bi-annual performance requirements are not met, the unvested shares will be added to subsequent vesting dates. In the event that the performance requirements for vesting are not achieved for any applicable vesting date by the end of the Company's fiscal year ending September 30, 2016, all unvested shares will be forfeited and cancelled. As these shares were granted subsequent to the end of Fiscal 2006, Fiscal 2006 results include no expense related to these grants. The Company expects to recognize $1.6 million of expense related to these grants in Fiscal 2007, partially offset by a related tax benefit of $0.6 million. Effective October 2, 2006, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved an award of 137,250 shares of restricted stock to key individuals. The shares will vest October 2, 2010, and the market value of the restricted stock on the award date was $1.8 million. As these shares were granted subsequent to the end of Fiscal 2006, Fiscal 2006 results include no expense related to this grant. The Company expects to recognize $0.3 million of expense related to this grant in Fiscal 2007, partially offset by a related tax benefit of $0.1 million. 58
NOTE J: INCOME TAXES The income tax provision is attributable only to continuing operations, and is as follows: Years Ended September 30, -------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ------- ------ ------- (In thousands) Current Federal $ 7,400 $8,121 $13,040 State 61 67 (519) ------- ------ ------- 7,461 8,188 12,521 Deferred Federal (2,103) 110 3,647 State -- -- 77 ------- ------ ------- (2,103) 110 3,724 ------- ------ ------- $ 5,358 $8,298 $16,245 ======= ====== ======= A reconciliation of income taxes calculated at the statutory rate and the provision for income taxes attributable to continuing operations is as follows: Years Ended September 30, ------------------------- 2004 2005 2006 ------ ------ ------- (In thousands) Income taxes at the federal statutory rate $5,068 $8,068 $15,926 Non-deductible expense related to incentive stock options -- -- 297 State income tax, net of federal benefit 61 93 280 Removal of state tax exposure, net of federal benefit -- -- (722) Change in valuation allowance -- -- 392 Other 229 137 72 ------ ------ ------- $5,358 $8,298 $16,245 ====== ====== ======= The Company's effective tax rate was 35.7% in Fiscal 2006. The Company's Fiscal 2006 adoption of SFAS No. 123R caused it to begin recognizing expense related to incentive stock options, creating the non-deductible expense shown above. For tax purposes, most of the Company's earnings are subject to the Texas Franchise Tax. Due to its limited partnership structure in Texas, 99% of those earnings were exempt from the Texas Franchise Tax. Over the past several legislative sessions, the Texas Legislature has proposed numerous bills to amend the Texas Franchise Tax to remove the preferable treatment of limited partnerships, including possible same-year application. As a result, the Company had accrued an additional $722,000 in previous periods for its exposure to a possible change in this state tax. In the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2006, the Texas Legislature abandoned its attempts to amend the franchise tax, and instead passed legislation replacing the franchise tax with a margin tax that will function similarly to an income tax, but with no preferable treatment for limited partnerships. The Texas margin tax will apply to the Company beginning in Fiscal 2007. As a result, the Company no longer believes it is exposed to challenges to its preferable limited partnership treatment for Fiscal 2006 or earlier years, and has removed its accrued exposure of $722,000 in the current period. 59
Significant components of the Company's deferred tax liabilities and assets as of September 30 are as follows: 2005 2006 ------- ------- (In thousands) Deferred tax liabilities: Tax over book amortization $ 3,764 $ 3,634 Foreign income and dividends 1,309 1,837 Prepaid expenses 321 1,077 ------- ------- Total deferred tax liabilities 5,394 6,548 Deferred tax assets: Book over tax depreciation 8,347 8,865 Tax over book inventory 6,266 4,880 Accrued liabilities 1,901 2,038 Pawn service charges receivable 2,694 1,664 Tax carry-forwards 389 392 Impairment of receivable from stockholder 343 -- ------- ------- Total deferred tax assets 19,940 17,839 ------- ------- Net deferred tax asset 14,546 11,291 Valuation allowance -- (392) ------- ------- Net deferred tax asset $14,546 $10,899 ======= ======= In Fiscal 2004, the Company incurred a $1.1 million capital loss on an equity investment in a Company that discontinued operations. The tax benefit related to the loss will expire in Fiscal 2009 unless an offsetting capital gain is generated before its expiration. Until September 30, 2006, the Company believed it would generate sufficient capital gains to utilize the capital loss carry-forward. Based on recent events, the Company determined at September 30, 2006 it is unlikely to generate the necessary capital gain prior to the expiration of its capital loss carry-forward, and has placed a full valuation allowance of $392,000 on the tax benefit. The valuation allowance will be adjusted or removed in future periods if the Company believes it is more likely than not to be able to generate other capital gains to offset the capital loss prior to its expiration. Substantially all of the Company's operating income was generated from domestic operations during 2005 and 2006. At September 30, 2005 and 2006, the Company has provided deferred income taxes on all undistributed earnings from A&B. Such earnings have been reinvested in foreign operations except for dividends at September 30, 2005 and 2006 of approximately $861,000 and $969,000. Any taxes paid to foreign governments on those earnings may be used in whole or in part as credits against the U.S. tax on any dividends distributed from such earnings. The Company has no net operating loss carry-forward or alternative minimum tax credit carry-forward at September 30, 2006. NOTE K: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS As of October 1, 2004, the Company entered into a financial advisory services agreement with Madison Park, L.L.C. ("Madison Park"), an affiliate of the controlling stockholder. The agreement requires Madison Park to provide ongoing advice and consultation with respect to mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, strategic planning, corporate development, investor relations, treasury and other advisory services for a monthly fee of $100,000, inclusive of most expenses. The Madison Park agreement has a three-year term and the Company has the right to terminate the agreement at any time. Madison Park can terminate only at the end of any one of the Company's fiscal years. In Fiscal 2005 and 2006, total payments to Madison Park amounted to $1,200,000 annually. Pursuant to the terms of a financial advisory services agreement, Morgan Schiff & Co., Inc. ("Morgan Schiff"), an affiliate of the general partner of the controlling stockholder, provided financial advisory services similar to those now provided by Madison Park through October 1, 2004. In Fiscal 2004, the Company paid $802,000 to Morgan Schiff. As a result of entering the agreement with Madison Park, the Company elected 60
not to renew its financial advisory services agreement with Morgan Schiff at October 1, 2004. Philip E. Cohen is a principal in Morgan Schiff, Madison Park and the general partner of the controlling stockholder. In 1994, the Company loaned a former chief executive ("CEO") $729,113 to purchase 150,000 shares of Class A Common Stock. In connection with his separation from the Company in 2000, the maturity date of the loan was extended to the earlier of (a) ten business days following the first day that the closing price for the Company's stock equals or exceeds $3.33 per share, or (b) August 1, 2005. On January 16, 2004 the Company's stock closed at $3.45 thereby accelerating the due date of the note. The former CEO defaulted in the payment of the note after it became due. On September 22, 2004, the Company obtained a judgment confirming an arbitration award on the note in the amount of $969,399 (principal of $729,113 and accrued interest of $240,286) plus post-judgment interest. On October 19, 2004, the former CEO filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy seeking to discharge all of his debts including the debt represented by the judgment. A full valuation allowance has been recorded for the note, as its collection is doubtful. In October 1994, the Board of Directors approved an agreement that provided incentive compensation to the Chairman, Sterling Brinkley, based on growth in the share price of the Company's Class A Common Stock. Mr. Brinkley was advanced $1.5 million evidenced by a recourse promissory note, due in 2005 and bearing interest at the minimum rate allowable for federal income tax purposes (2.33% for Fiscal 2005). Accrued interest was forgiven based upon continued employment, and the Company was required to reimburse Mr. Brinkley for the income tax consequences of the interest forgiveness. Charges to operations consist of forgiveness of interest and related income tax costs and totaled approximately $41,000 and $60,000 for the years ended September 30, 2004 and 2005. Mr. Brinkley repaid his note in full in September 2005. NOTE L: LEASES The Company leases various facilities and certain equipment under operating leases. Future minimum rentals due under non-cancelable leases are as follows for each of the years ending September 30: (In thousands) -------------- 2007 $ 16,784 2008 15,420 2009 13,682 2010 12,024 2011 10,815 Thereafter 44,827 -------- $113,552 ======== The Company subleases some of the above facilities. Future minimum rentals expected under these subleases amount to $9,600 in each of the fiscal years ending between 2007 and 2011, and $27,200 thereafter. After an initial lease term of generally 3 to 10 years, the Company's lease agreements typically allow renewals in three to five-year increments. The Company's lease agreements generally include rent escalations throughout the initial lease term. Such rent escalations are included in the above numbers. For financial reporting purposes, the aggregate rentals over the lease term, including lease renewal options that are reasonably assured, are expensed on a straight-line basis. Net rent expense for the years ending September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006 was $15.5 million, $16.7 million and $17.4 million. Net rent expense includes the collection of sublease rent revenue of approximately $55,000, $47,000 and $60,000 for years ending September 30, 2004, 2005 and 2006. Prior to Fiscal 2004, the Company completed several sale-leaseback transactions of previously owned facilities. Losses on sales were recognized immediately, and gains were deferred and are being amortized 61
as a reduction of lease expense over the terms of the related leases. The remaining unamortized long-term portion of these deferred gains, amounting to $3.2 million at September 30, 2006, is included in "Deferred gains and other long-term liabilities" in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The short-term portion, included in "Accounts payable and other accrued expenses" was $0.4 million at September 30, 2006. Future rentals on these sale-leasebacks are included in the above schedule of future minimum rentals. Terms of these leases are consistent with the terms on the Company's other lease agreements. NOTE M: EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS As President and Chief Executive Officer, Joseph L. Rotunda's annual compensation includes an annual bonus ranging from 50% to 150% of his base salary dependent upon the attainment of Board approved operating goals. In the event of a change of control, Mr. Rotunda is entitled to receive a bonus payment equivalent to 200% of his annual compensation, as well as immediate vesting of all stock options and a portion of his restricted stock. If Mr. Rotunda's employment is terminated, other than for cause, he is entitled to receive a severance payment equal to his annual compensation. NOTE N: 401(K) PLAN The Company sponsors a 401(k) Plan under which eligible employees of the Company may contribute up to a maximum percentage allowable not to exceed the limits of Code Sections 401(k), 402(g), 404 and 415. The Company, in its sole discretion, may match in the form of the Company's Class A Common Stock. Contribution expense related to the plan for 2004, 2005 and 2006 was approximately $61,000, $72,000 and $54,000. NOTE O: CONTINGENCIES From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation and regulatory actions. Currently, the Company is a defendant in several actions. While the ultimate outcome of these actions cannot be ascertained, after consultation with counsel, the Company believes the resolution of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. There can be no assurance, however, as to the ultimate outcome of these actions. NOTE P: QUARTERLY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- (In thousands, except per share amounts) YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 Total revenues $75,770 $78,941 $73,786 $87,355 Net revenues 50,109 50,604 50,088 58,178 Net income 6,756 7,727 5,608 9,168 Earnings per common share: Basic $ 0.17 $ 0.20 $ 0.14 $ 0.23 Diluted $ 0.17 $ 0.19 $ 0.13 $ 0.21 YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2005 Total revenues $61,628 $63,098 $56,250 $73,183 Net revenues 39,715 39,197 37,829 46,740 Net income 4,949 3,969 2,129 3,705 Earnings per common share: Basic $ 0.13 $ 0.11 $ 0.06 $ 0.10 Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.10 $ 0.05 $ 0.09 As described in Note I, the Company adopted SFAS No. 123(R) effective October 1, 2005 using the modified prospective method. This method required fair value expense recognition of share-based 62
payments in Fiscal 2006, but share-based payments in Fiscal 2005 were accounted for under the intrinsic value method of APB No. 25. In the quarter ended September 30, 2006, the Company decreased its estimate of the effective tax rate for its fiscal year ending September 30, 2006 from 36.4% to 35.7%. The decrease was primarily due to the reduction of expected state income taxes following legislative changes in Texas, partially offset by a valuation allowance placed on a capital loss carry-forward the Company believes is unlikely of realization. The decrease in the effective income tax rate increased net income in the quarter ended September 30, 2006 by $319,000, or $0.01 per share (basic and diluted). NOTE Q: COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Comprehensive income includes net income and other revenues, expenses, gains and losses that are excluded from net income but are included as a component of total stockholders' equity. Comprehensive income for Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006 was $9.5 million, $14.7 million and $29.7 million. The difference between comprehensive income and net income results primarily from the effect of foreign currency translation adjustments determined in accordance with SFAS No. 52, "Foreign Currency Translation." The accumulated balance of foreign currency activity excluded from net income of $1.9 million is presented, net of tax of $0.7 million, in the consolidated balance sheets as "Accumulated other comprehensive income." NOTE R: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Effective October 2, 2006, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors awarded 1,757,250 shares of restricted stock to several executive and management level employees. Of the total, 1,620,000 vest over a ten-year period, and 137,250 vest on October 2, 2010. These are described more fully in Note I, "Common Stock, Warrants, Options, and Share-based Compensation." Effective October 13, 2006, the Company amended and restated its credit agreement. As more fully described in Note H, "Long-Term Debt," the amendment extended the maturity date to October 1, 2009, reduced applicable interest rates and commitment fees, and provided for a $40.0 million revolving credit facility secured by the Company's assets. On November 3, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a three-for-one stock split of the Company's two classes of common stock to shareholders of record as of November 27, 2006, to be distributed on December 11, 2006. Shares outstanding and amounts per share in this report have been adjusted retroactively to reflect this split as it occurred prior to issuance of these consolidated financial statements. 63
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE The Company had no change in its independent certified public accountants, and no disagreements on accounting or financial disclosure matters with its independent certified public accountants to report under this Item 9. 64
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES The Company carried out an evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this report, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, which are defined under SEC rules as controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within required time periods. Based upon that evaluation, the Company's CEO and CFO concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective. There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2006 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Notwithstanding the foregoing, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of a simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control. Moreover, the design of any system of controls is also based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting and for the assessment of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. This internal control system has been designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of the Company's published consolidated financial statements. Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006. To make this assessment, management utilized the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in "Internal Control - Integrated Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of September 30, 2006, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria. Management's assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006 has been audited by BDO Seidman, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, and their report follows immediately in this Form 10-K. /s/ Joseph L. Rotunda /s/ Dan N. Tonissen - ------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- Joseph L. Rotunda Dan N. Tonissen President, Chief Executive Officer Senior Vice President, & Director Chief Financial Officer & October 31, 2006 Director October 31, 2006 65
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM The Board of Directors and Stockholders EZCorp, Inc. We have audited management's assessment, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and Scope of Management's Report, that EZCORP, Inc. maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control--Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Management of EZCORP, Inc. is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management's assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management's assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. In our opinion, management's assessment that EZCORP, Inc. maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, EZCORP, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2006, based on the COSO criteria. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2006 and 2005 and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006 of EZCORP, Inc. and our report dated November 3, 2006 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. /s/ BDO Seidman, LLP Dallas, Texas November 3, 2006 66
PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT The executive officers and directors of the Company as of October 31, 2006 were as follows: Name Age Title - ---- --- ----- Sterling B. Brinkley (1) 54 Chairman of the Board of Directors Joseph L. Rotunda (1) (3) 59 President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director Dan N. Tonissen (1) (3) 56 Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Secretary, and Director Gary C. Matzner (4) 58 Director Thomas C. Roberts (2) (4) 64 Director Richard D. Sage (2) (4) 66 Director Robert A. Kasenter 60 Senior Vice President of Administration Eric Fosse 43 Vice President of EZMONEY Operations Robert Jackson 51 Vice President and Chief Information Officer John R. Kissick 64 Vice President of Strategic Development Connie L. Kondik 42 Vice President, Secretary, and General Counsel Michael Volpe 42 Vice President of EZPAWN Operations Daniel M. Chism 38 Controller and Assistant Secretary (1) Member of Executive Committee (2) Member of Compensation Committee (3) Member of Section 401(k) Plan Committee (4) Member of Audit Committee Mr. Brinkley has served as either Chairman of the Board or Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company since 1989. Mr. Brinkley serves as a Director of Albemarle & Bond Holdings plc, which the Company owns approximately 29%. In addition, Mr. Brinkley was President and Chairman of the Board of MS Pawn Corporation, the general partner of MS Pawn Limited Partnership until 2004. Mr. Brinkley also served as Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Executive Committee, or Chief Executive Officer of Crescent Jewelers, Inc., an affiliate of the Company from 1988 to March 2006. Crescent Jewelers, Inc., a private company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in August 2004. From 1990 to December 2003, he served as Chairman of the Board or Chairman of the Executive Committee of Friedman's, Inc., a publicly traded affiliate of the Company. In January 2005, Friedman's, Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. From 1986 to 1990, Mr. Brinkley served as a Managing Director of Morgan Schiff & Co., Inc., an affiliate of the Company. See "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management." Mr. Rotunda joined the Company as director, President and Chief Operating Officer in February 2000 and assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Company in August 2000. From 1998 to 2000, he was Chief Operating Officer of G&K Services, Inc., a $500 million provider of uniform and textile products. From 1991 to 1998 he progressed through several officer positions to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Thorn Americas, Inc. Mr. Rotunda also currently serves as a Director of Easyhome, Ltd., Toronto, Canada. Mr. Tonissen has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company since August 1994. Mr. Tonissen has also been a member of the Company's Board of Directors since August 1994. Mr. Matzner has served as director of the Company since July 2002. He has been Senior Counsel with the law firm of McDermott, Will & Emery since August 2002, and has been the Mayor of the Village of Pinecrest, Florida since November 2004. From 1997 to July 2002, Mr. Matzner was President of Nobel 67
Health Services, Inc., a provider of health care consulting services. From 1999 to May 2001, Mr. Matzner was also President of Oakridge Outpatient Center, Inc. Mr. Roberts has served as a director and as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Company's Board of Directors since January 2005. From 1970 to 1985, Mr. Roberts was with Schlumberger, Ltd., where he was an Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 1977 to 1979 and President of Schlumberger's worldwide electronics operations from 1979 until 1985. From 1985 until 1989, he was President of Control Data Computer Systems and Services and a member of the Control Data Board of Directors. Since 1990, Mr. Roberts has been a private investor and is currently Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Trust Committee of Pensco, Inc., a financial services company. Mr. Sage has served as director of the Company since July 1995. He was a co-founder of AmeriHealth, Inc., which owned and managed hospitals. He served as Treasurer of AmeriHealth, Inc. from April 1983 to October 1995 and was a member of the board of directors of AmeriHealth, Inc. from April 1983 to December 1994. Mr. Sage was a Director of Champion Healthcare Corporation from January 1995 to August 1996. Since June 1993, he has been associated with Sage Law Offices in Miami, Florida. Mr. Kasenter joined the Company in August 2003 as Vice President of Human Resources and in October 2004 was promoted to Senior Vice President of Administration. He was a director of the Donnkenny Apparel Board from 2001 until April 2005, at which time Donnkenny filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and was sold. Mr. Kasenter was the President & Chief Executive Officer of Strategic Executive Actions, a Chicago-based management consulting firm specializing in human resource crisis issues from 1999 to 2003. From 1968 to 1999, Mr. Kasenter was employed in various operating and administrative positions and ultimately served as the Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Corporate Communications for Montgomery Ward. Mr. Fosse joined the Company in September 2004 as Vice President of EZMONEY Operations. From 1991 to 2004, Mr. Fosse was employed in various operating positions and ultimately served as a Regional Vice President of G&K Services, a $500 million provider of uniform and textile products. Mr. Jackson joined the Company in May 2004 as Vice President & Chief Information Officer. He was Chief Information Officer at DuPont Photomasks, Inc. from 1997 to 2004 where he also served as Controller from 1995 to 1996. Mr. Kissick has served as Vice President of Strategic Development since August 2001. From 1998 to 2001, Mr. Kissick was Managing Director of Strategic Development Partners, a strategy and business development consulting firm located in Wichita, Kansas. From 1991 to 1998 he served as Vice President of Strategic Planning for Thorn Americas, Inc. Ms. Kondik has served as General Counsel since June 2000, Secretary since January 2001 and Vice President since January 2003. From June 1995 to June 2000, Ms. Kondik served as Sr. Associate General Counsel, Vice-President and Assistant Secretary of Empire Funding Corp. and TMI Financial, Inc., a national sub-prime mortgage lender and servicer. Mr. Volpe joined the Company in October 2003 as Vice President of EZPAWN Operations. From 2001 to 2003, he was a multi-unit manager for Toys "R" Us in the Chicago Area. Prior to 2001, Mr. Volpe spent ten years in several positions with Montgomery Ward, including the National Director of Hardlines. Mr. Chism has served as Controller and Assistant Secretary of the Company since August 1999. From 1996 to 1999, Mr. Chism served as Audit Manager for Ernst & Young LLP, where he also served as an audit senior and audit staff member from 1991 to 1995. 68
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD The Board of Directors held five meetings during the year ended September 30, 2006. The Board of Directors has appointed four committees: an Executive Committee, an Audit Committee, a Compensation Committee and a Section 401(k) Plan Committee. The members of the Executive Committee for Fiscal 2006 were Mr. Brinkley, Mr. Rotunda and Mr. Tonissen. The Executive Committee held several informal meetings during Fiscal 2006, and all members attended. The Audit Committee, comprised of Messrs. Roberts, Sage and Matzner, held five meetings in Fiscal 2006. Messrs. Roberts and Sage attended all Audit Committee meetings, and Mr. Matzner attended four of the five meetings. All audit committee members are independent directors and are financially literate. Mr. Roberts is the committee's chairman and is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. The Compensation Committee, comprised of Mr. Sage and Mr. Roberts, held two formal meetings and several informal meetings during Fiscal 2006. All actions taken by the committee during the year were by Written Unanimous Consent. The committee that administers the Section 401(k) Plan consists of Mr. Rotunda and Mr. Tonissen. Both members attended the one informal meeting held by the 401(k) Committee during Fiscal 2006. All Fiscal 2006 actions of this committee were by Written Unanimous Consents or by board resolutions. All directors attended at least 75% of the total number of meetings of the Board and of the committees on which they serve. The NASDAQ stock market, on which the Company's stock is traded, typically requires registrants' boards to utilize a nominating committee to nominate prospective members of the board. EZCORP is a controlled company, with all its voting stock controlled by one individual. Accordingly, the Company is exempt from the requirement to have a nominating committee, and its directors are elected by its voting shareholder. CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS The Company has in place a Code of Conduct and Ethics applicable to all employees, as well as the Board of Directors and executive officers. Copies of the Company's Code of Conduct and Ethics are available, free of charge by submitting a written request to EZCORP, Inc., Investor Relations, 1901 Capital Parkway, Austin, Texas 78746 or may be obtained from the Company's website at www.ezcorp.com. SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE Based primarily on statements received from officers and directors and a review of the relevant Forms 3, 4 and 5, all officers, directors and beneficial owners of more than ten percent of any class of equity securities were timely throughout the fiscal year in filing all reports required by Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act. 69
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION COMPENSATION SUMMARY The following table presents compensation earned for services during Fiscal 2004, 2005 and 2006 by the Company's Chief Executive Officer and each of the Company's four most highly compensated executive officers whose total annual compensation exceeded $100,000 (collectively, the "Named Executive Officers"). Long Term Compensation Annual Compensation Restricted ---------------------------------- Stock All other Salary Bonus Other Awards Compensation Name and Principal Position Year ($) ($) ($) ($) ($)(1) - --------------------------- ---- ------- ------- ------- ------------ ------------ Sterling B. Brinkley 2004 473,077 22,650 759,847 -- 3,238 Chairman of the Board (5) 2005 497,650 -- -- -- 1,625 2006 581,915 -- -- -- 3,720 Joseph L. Rotunda 2004 522,885 787,500 414,298 586,200 3,378 President, Chief Executive Officer and 2005 575,481 721,875 -- -- 1,912 Director (2) (3) 2006 630,590 952,500 -- -- 3,720 Dan N. Tonissen 2004 272,500 170,898 -- -- 2,327 Senior Vice President, Chief Financial 2005 289,346 165,300 -- -- 1,086 Officer, Assistant Secretary and Director 2006 304,423 198,250 -- -- 3,404 Robert A. Kasenter 2004 160,000 78,000 -- -- 1,364 Senior Vice President of 2005 188,846 100,244 -- -- 722 Administration 2006 223,654 146,250 -- -- 2,511 Eric Fosse 2004 -- -- -- -- -- Vice President of EZMONEY 2005 168,269 78,313 150,437 -- 665 Operations (4) 2006 194,231 92,869 -- -- 2,176 Michael Volpe 2004 152,615 77,040 97,858 -- 1,353 Vice President of EZPAWN Operations (4) 2005 166,250 57,276 41,458 -- 633 2006 169,865 79,688 -- -- 1,897 (1) This category includes the value of any life insurance and disability premiums paid on behalf of the named executive. (2) On January 15, 2004, Mr. Rotunda was awarded 180,000 shares of restricted Class A Common Stock with a fair value of $0.6 million on that date. The Company also agreed to reimburse Mr. Rotunda for the income tax consequences of the award. The restriction requires Mr. Rotunda to remain employed by the Company until January 1, 2009 at which time any unvested shares will vest. The shares are subject to earlier vesting based on the occurrence of certain objectives. 60,000 shares vested on January 15, 2005 based on the achievement of certain of those objectives. As of September 30, 2006, the market value of the 180,000 shares was $2.3 million. (3) Mr. Rotunda's Other Annual Compensation in 2004 includes $336,223 for payment of taxes related to the restricted stock award, $51,272 expenses related to a country club membership plus taxes, and $26,803 for auto allowance plus taxes. (4) Mr. Fosse's and Mr. Volpe's Other Annual Compensation is for relocation to Austin, Texas. (5) Mr. Brinkley's 2004 Other Annual Compensation includes $746,163 for payment of taxes related to the restricted stock award on September 17, 2003 and the 2004 forgiveness of interest pursuant to a note receivable from Mr. Brinkley. EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS As President and Chief Executive Officer, Joseph L. Rotunda's annual compensation includes an annual bonus ranging from 50% to 150% of his base salary dependent upon the attainment of Board approved operating goals. In the event of a change of control, Mr. Rotunda is entitled to receive a bonus payment equivalent to 200% of his annual compensation, as well as immediate vesting of all stock options. If Mr. 70
Rotunda's employment is terminated, other than for cause, he is entitled to receive a severance payment equal to his annual compensation. INSIDER NOTES In 1994, the Company loaned a former chief executive ("CEO") $729,113 to purchase 150,000 shares of Class A Common Stock. The loan was shown as a reduction of stockholders' equity. In connection with his separation from the Company in 2000, the maturity date of the loan was extended to the earlier of (a) ten business days following the first day that the closing price for the Company's stock equals or exceeds $3.33 per share, or (b) August 1, 2005. On January 16, 2004 the Company's stock closed at $3.45 thereby accelerating the due date of the note. The former CEO defaulted in the payment of the note after it became due. On September 22, 2004, the Company obtained a judgment confirming an arbitration award on the note in the amount of $969,399 (principal of $729,113 and accrued interest of $240,286) plus post-judgment interest. On October 19, 2004, the former CEO filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy seeking to discharge all of his debts including the debt represented by the judgment. A full valuation allowance has been recorded for the note, as its collection is doubtful. In October 1994, the Board of Directors approved an agreement that provided incentive compensation to the Chairman, Sterling Brinkley, based on growth in the share price of the Company's Class A Common Stock. Mr. Brinkley was advanced $1.5 million evidenced by a recourse promissory note, due in 2005 and bearing interest at the minimum rate allowable for federal income tax purposes (2.33% for Fiscal 2005). Under the terms of Mr. Brinkley's $1.5 million loan, as amended, the loan principal would have been forgiven if, prior to its October 1, 2005 maturity date, a stock price target of $9.42 had been attained. Mr. Brinkley repaid his note in full in September 2005. Accrued interest was forgiven based upon continued employment, and the Company was required to reimburse Mr. Brinkley for the income tax consequences of the interest forgiveness. Charges to operations consist of forgiveness of interest and related income tax costs and totaled approximately $41,000 and $60,000 in Fiscal 2004 and 2005. DIRECTOR COMPENSATION The table below summarizes payments made to outside directors during Fiscal 2006: Compensation Audit Committee Committee Name Board Service Chair Chair Total ---- ------------- ------------ --------- -------- Gary C. Matzner $ 56,000 $ -- $ -- $ 56,000 Thomas C. Roberts (a) 56,000 -- 8,000 64,000 Richard D. Sage 56,000 5,000 -- 61,000 -------- ------ ------ -------- $168,000 $5,000 $8,000 $181,000 ======== ====== ====== ======== (a) Excludes a $4,500 reimbursement from Mr. Roberts for an over payment in Fiscal 2005. The Company had no other outside directors during Fiscal 2006. STOCK OPTIONS On November 5, 1998, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved the grant of 1,050,000 options to Mr. Brinkley and 300,000 options to Mr. Tonissen that remain outstanding. The options are exercisable at $3.33 per share, vest on October 6, 2008 and have a contractual life of ten years. If any of these options fail to qualify as incentive options under the Internal Revenue Code, the Company has agreed to pay a bonus to each optionee at the time and in the amount of any resulting tax savings realized by the Company. On October 30, 2002, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved a grant of 1,710,000 options to executive officers, exercisable at $0.86 per share, and, except as discussed below, vesting on October 20, 2008. As of September 30, 2006, 405,000 of these options remained outstanding, 405,000 options have been canceled due to employee termination and 900,000 options have been 71
exercised. The terms of this grant provide for accelerated vesting upon achievement of certain income levels for years ending September 30, 2003, 2004 and 2005. As of September 30, 2006, 405,000 options are exercisable. On September 17, 2003, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved a grant of 300,000 options to Mr. Brinkley, exercisable at $2.09 per share. Forty percent of these options vested on September 15, 2004, and the remaining 60% vested on September 15, 2005. On January 15, 2004, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved a grant of 972,000 options to key individuals exercisable at $3.26 per share, and except as discussed below, vesting on January 1, 2009. An additional grant under the same conditions was granted on April 19, 2004 at an exercise price of $3.53 per share. As of September 30, 2006, 591,000 of these options remained outstanding, 172,500 options have been canceled due to employee termination and 261,000 options have been exercised. As of September 30, 2006, 63,000 options are exercisable. The terms of the grant provide for accelerated vesting upon achievement of certain objectives. OPTION/SAR GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR The Named Executive Officers received no option or SAR grants in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006. 72
AGGREGATE OPTIONS/SAR EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION/SAR VALUES The following table sets forth certain information concerning the exercise of stock options (or tandem SARs) and freestanding SARs in Fiscal 2006 and the value of unexercised options and SARs held by each of the Named Executive Officers at the end of the Company's last fiscal year. Shares Number of Securities Value of Unexercised Acquired Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money On Value Options/SARs at Options/SARs at Exercise Realized FY-End (#) FY-End ($)(1) Name (#) ($) Exercisable/Unexercisable Exercisable/Unexercisable - ---- -------- ---------- ------------------------- ------------------------- Sterling B. Brinkley Chairman of the Board -- $ -- 300,000 / 1,050,000 $3,241,000 / $10,038,000 Joseph L. Rotunda President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 870,000 $6,546,875 0 / 0 $0 / $0 Dan N. Tonissen Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Secretary and Director 183,000 $1,933,335 255,000 / 432,000 $3,069,350 / $4,171,120 Robert A. Kasenter Senior Vice President of Administration 105,000 $ 534,533 0 / 150,000 $0 / $1,500,800 Eric Fosse Vice President of EZMONEY Operations 24,000 $ 167,152 0 / 36,000 $0 / $360,000 Michael Volpe Vice President of EZPAWN Operations 84,000 $ 839,400 0 / 156,000 $0 / $1,549,520 (1) Values stated are based upon the closing price of $12.89 per share of the Company's Class A Common Stock on The NASDAQ Stock Market on September 29, 2006, the last trading day of the fiscal year. COMPENSATION PURSUANT TO PLANS STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN On November 5, 1998, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved the adoption of the EZCORP, Inc. 1998 Incentive Plan (the "1998 Plan"). The 1998 Plan provided for (i) the granting of incentive stock options to purchase Class A Common Stock, (ii) the granting of nonqualified stock options to purchase Class A Common Stock, (iii) the granting of stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), and (iv) the granting of limited stock appreciation rights ("LSARs"). Currently, no more options, SARs or LSARs may be granted under the 1998 Plan. The 1998 Plan provided for the issuance of shares for stock option awards of up to 3,825,000 of the Company's Class A Common Stock. As of September 30, 2006, the Company had 1,905,000 active options outstanding to executive officers under the 1998 Plan at prices ranging from $0.67 to $3.33. Of these options, 484,200 are vested. As of Fiscal 2006, 1,953,000 options have been exercised. On October 30, 2002, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved a grant of 1,710,000 options to executive officers, exercisable at $0.86 per share and, except as discussed below, 73
vesting on October 20, 2008. As of September 30, 2006, 405,000 of these options remained outstanding, 405,000 options have been canceled due to employee termination and 900,000 options have been exercised. The terms of this grant provides for accelerated vesting upon achievement of certain income levels for years ending September 30, 2003, 2004 and 2005. As of September 30, 2006, 405,000 options are exercisable. On September 17, 2003, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors approved the adoption of the EZCORP, Inc. 2003 Incentive Plan (the "2003 Plan"). The 2003 Plan permitted grants of the same types of options, SARs and LSARs as the 1998 Plan and provided for stock option awards of up to 2,700,000 of the Company's Class A Common Stock. Currently, no more options, SARs or LSARs may be granted under the 2003 Plan. As of September 30, 2006, the Company had 903,000 active options outstanding to executive officers under the 2003 Plan at prices ranging from $1.97 to $4.05. Of these options, 324,600 are vested. As of Fiscal 2006, 279,000 options have been exercised. Also, on September 17, 2003, the Board of Directors approved an award of 375,000 shares of restricted stock to the Chairman of the Board. The closing price of the Company's stock on September 17, 2003 was $2.09. The restriction required that Mr. Brinkley remain employed with the Company through September 17, 2005. The Company also agreed to reimburse Mr. Brinkley for the income tax consequences that resulted from the award. On January 15, 2004, the Board of Directors approved an award of 180,000 shares of restricted stock to the Company's Chief Executive Officer valued at $0.6 million. The shares will vest on January 1, 2009, provided he remains continuously employed by the Company through the vesting date. The shares are subject to earlier vesting based on the occurrence of certain objectives. The Company also agreed to reimburse him for the income tax consequences resulting from the award. The options, SARs, and LSARs from all plans are not transferable except by will and by the laws of descent and distribution, and under other limited circumstances. The plans intended to be qualified under Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 16b-3 which generally exempts certain option grants and certain stock or cash awards from the provisions of Section 16(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 401(K) PLAN On June 6, 1991, the Company adopted the EZCORP, Inc. 401(k) Plan (the "401(k) Plan"), a savings and profit sharing plan intended to qualify under Section 401(k) of the Code. Under the 401(k) Plan, employees of the Company may contribute to the plan up to a maximum percentage allowable not to exceed the limits of Code Sections 401(k), 402(g), 404 and 415. The Company may match 25% of an employee's contributions up to 6% of his compensation. Employer contributions may be made in the form of Class A Common Stock. Contribution expense related to the 401(k) Plan for 2006 was approximately $54,000. COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION The Board of Directors has appointed a Compensation Committee currently comprised of Mr. Sage and Mr. Roberts. Mr. Sage serves as a director and is also a member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Mr. Roberts serves as a director and is the Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. 74
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT AND PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS Phillip Ean Cohen indirectly controls the Company through his ownership of all of the issued and outstanding stock of MS Pawn Corporation, the sole general partner of MS Pawn Limited Partnership ("MS Pawn"), which owns 100% of the Class B Voting Common Stock of the Company. The table below sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of the Company's Common Stock as of October 31, 2006 for (i) each of the Company's current directors, (ii) each of the Named Executive Officers, (iii) beneficial owners known to the registrant to own more than five percent of any class of the Company's voting securities, and (iv) all current officers and directors as a group. Class A Non-Voting Class B Voting Common Stock Common Stock Name and Address of the --------------------- ------------------- Voting Beneficial Owners(a) Number Percent Number Percent Percent ----------------------- --------- ------- --------- ------- ------- MS Pawn Limited Partnership (b) (g) 2,998,548(h) 7.39%(h) 2,982,393 100% 100% MS Pawn Corporation Phillip Ean Cohen 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 Sterling B. Brinkley (c) 671,520 1.77% -- -- -- 9 Morgan Lane Locust Valley, New York 11560 Joseph L. Rotunda (d) 615,552 1.64% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, TX 78746 Dan N. Tonissen (e) 387,000 1.02% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 Gary C. Matzner (l) 22,200 0.06% -- -- -- 2601 S. Bayshore Dr. Miami, Florida 33133 Thomas C. Roberts (n) 30,000 0.08% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 Richard D. Sage (m) 18,693 0.05% -- -- -- 13636 Deering Bay Drive Coral Gables, Florida 33158 Robert A. Kasenter (i) 15,159 0.04% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 Eric Fosse (j) 96 0.00% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 Michael Volpe (k) 12,000 0.03% -- -- -- 1901 Capital Parkway Austin, Texas 78746 All officers and directors as a group (b) (f) 2,110,494 5.48% -- -- -- 75
(a) Except as indicated in the footnotes to this table, the persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares of Class B Common Stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to community property laws where applicable. (b) MS Pawn Corporation is the general partner of MS Pawn and has the sole right to vote its shares of Class B Common Stock and to direct their disposition. Mr. Cohen is the sole stockholder of MS Pawn Corporation. See "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions." (c) Includes options to acquire 300,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $2.09 per share and warrants to acquire 3,573 shares of Class A Common Stock at $2.06 per share. Does not include options to acquire 1,050,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.33 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. Does not include 675,000 shares of restricted stock. (d) Does not include 1,065,000 shares of restricted stock. (e) Includes options to acquire 12,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.67 per share and 255,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.86 per share. Does not include options to acquire 300,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.33 per share and 120,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.26 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. Does not include 30,000 shares of restricted stock. (f) Includes 13 persons' options to acquire 928,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at prices ranging from $0.67 to $5.35 per share and warrants to acquire 3,666 shares of Class A Common Stock at $2.06 per share. (g) Includes warrants for 12,279 shares of Class A Common Stock, warrants for 12,222 shares of Class B Common Stock held by MS Pawn, and warrants for 3,876 shares of Class A Common Stock held by Mr. Cohen. (h) The number of shares and percentage reflect Class A Common Stock and warrants, together with Class B Common Stock and warrants, which are convertible to Class A Common Stock. (i) Does not include options to acquire 30,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $1.41 per share or 120,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.26 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. Does not include 30,000 shares of restricted stock. (j) Does not include options to acquire 36,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $2.89 per share that are not currently exercisable. Does not include 12,000 shares of restricted stock. (k) Includes options to acquire 12,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $1.97 per share. Does not include options to acquire 24,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $1.97 per share, or 120,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.26 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. (l) Includes options to acquire 1,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.86 per share and 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $5.35 per share. Does not include options to acquire 1,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.86 per share or 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $12.60 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. (m) Includes options to acquire 1,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.67 per share, 1,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.86 per share, 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $5.35 per share and warrants to acquire 93 shares of Class A Common Stock at $2.06 per share. Does not include options to acquire 1,800 shares of Class A Common Stock at $0.86 per share or 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $12.60 per share, none of which are currently exercisable. (n) Includes options to acquire 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $4.76 per share and 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $5.35 per share. Does not include options to acquire 15,000 shares of Class A Common Stock at $12.60 per share, which are currently not exercisable. 76
Securities authorized under equity compensation plans as of September 30, 2006, were as follows: Number of Securities Remaining Number of Securities Weighted Average Available for Future Issuance to be Issued Exercise Price of Under Equity Compensation Plans Upon Exercise of Outstanding (Excluding Securities Reflected Outstanding Options Option in Column (a)) Plan Category (a) (b) (c) ------------- -------------------- ----------------- ------------------------------- Equity compensation plans approved by security holders 3,374,670 $2.83 2,205,000 Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders -- -- -- --------- ----- --------- Total 3,374,670 $2.83 2,205,000 ========= ===== ========= ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS As of October 1, 2004, the Company entered into a financial advisory services agreement with Madison Park, L.L.C. ("Madison Park"), an affiliate of the controlling stockholder. The agreement requires Madison Park to provide ongoing advice and consultation with respect to mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, strategic planning, corporate development, investor relations, treasury and other advisory services for a monthly fee of $100,000, inclusive of most expenses. The Madison Park agreement has a three-year term and the Company has the right to terminate the agreement at any time. Madison Park can terminate only at the end of any one of the Company's fiscal years. In Fiscal 2005 and 2006, total payments to Madison Park amounted to $1,200,000 annually. Pursuant to the terms of a financial advisory services agreement, Morgan Schiff & Co., Inc. ("Morgan Schiff"), an affiliate of the general partner of the controlling stockholder, provided financial advisory services similar to those now provided by Madison Park through October 1, 2004. In Fiscal 2004, the Company paid $802,000 to Morgan Schiff. As a result of entering the agreement with Madison Park, the Company elected not to renew its financial advisory services agreement with Morgan Schiff at October 1, 2004. Philip E. Cohen is a principal in Morgan Schiff, Madison Park and the general partner of the controlling stockholder. ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES Fees for professional services provided by BDO Seidman, LLP during the years ended September 30, 2005 and 2006 are: Years Ended September 30, ------------------------- 2005 2006 -------- -------- Audit fees: Audit of financial statements $246,145 $207,356 Audit pursuant to section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 200,000 259,831 Quarterly reviews and other audit fees 69,453 68,522 -------- -------- Total audit fees 515,598 535,709 Audit related fees 16,033 15,862 Tax fees -- -- All other fees 6,440 -- -------- -------- Total fees for services $538,071 $551,571 ======== ======== 77
At September 30, 2005, the Company estimated the total costs it expected for its financial statement audit and its section 404 audit for the above disclosure, as total billings had not yet been received by the time it filed its 2005 annual report. Included in the 2006 figures above is $12,956 related to the 2005 audit of financial statements and $70,831 related to the 2005 section 404 audit. Also included in the 2006 figures is the Company's estimated total cost for the 2006 audits, as final billings have not yet been received for those audits. The Audit Committee of the Company's Board of Directors has adopted a policy of pre-approving all fees to be paid to the Company's independent audit firm, regardless of the type of service. All non-audit services were reviewed with the Audit Committee, which concluded that the provision of such services by BDO Seidman, LLP, as appropriate, was compatible with the maintenance of that firm's independence in the conduct of its auditing functions. 78
PART IV ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES (a)(1) The following consolidated financial statements of EZCORP, Inc. and subsidiaries are included in Item 8: Consolidated Financial Statements Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2005 and 2006 Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2006 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. (2) The following Financial Statement Schedule is included herein: Schedule II-Valuation Accounts All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore, have been omitted. (3) Listing of Exhibits (included herein) (b) Through the fourth quarter ended September 30, 2006, the Company filed the following Current Reports on Form 8-K: Four dated November 10, 2005, January 24, 2006, April 25, 2006, and July 25, 2006 reporting the issuance of a press release regarding its results of operations for the fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2005, December 31, 2005, March 31, 2006, and June 30, 2006; One dated October 1, 2005 describing the Senior Management Incentive Compensation Program; One dated December 1, 2005 announcing the formation of a supplemental executive retirement plan; Once dated March 6, 2006 announcing the termination of relationship with an independent lender related to the Company's credit services; One dated April 11, 2006 announcing the execution of credit service agreements with independent lenders; One dated April 17, 2006 to report the issuance of a press release increasing expected quarterly earnings; And one dated September 21, 2006 (amended September 29, 2006) announcing the adoption of a new stock compensation plan and a grant of restricted shares under that plan. 79
EZCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES SCHEDULE II - VALUATION ACCOUNTS (In millions) ADDITIONS Balance at ------------------------ Balance Beginning Charged to Charged to at End Description of Period Expense Other Accts Deductions of Period - ----------- ---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- --------- Allowance for valuation of inventory: Year ended September 30, 2004 ............ $1.8 $(0.3) $-- $ -- $1.5 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2005 ............ $1.5 $ 0.4 $-- $ -- $1.9 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2006 ............ $1.9 $ 0.9 $-- $ -- $2.8 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Allowance for uncollectible pawn service charges receivable: Year ended September 30, 2004 ............ $6.3 $ 0.7 $-- $ -- $7.0 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2005 ............ $7.0 $ 0.6 $-- $ -- $7.6 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2006 ............ $7.6 $ -- $-- $2.9 $4.7 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Allowance for losses on payday loans: Year ended September 30, 2004 ............ $0.2 $ 8.1 $-- $7.8 $0.5 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2005 ............ $0.5 $ 6.6 $-- $7.0 $0.1 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2006 ............ $0.1 $ 2.3 $-- $2.2 $0.2 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Allowance for valuation of deferred tax assets: Year ended September 30, 2004 ............ $ -- $ -- $-- $ -- $ -- ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2005 ............ $ -- $ -- $-- $ -- $ -- ---- ----- --- ---- ---- Year ended September 30, 2006 ............ $ -- $ 0.4 $-- $ -- $0.4 ---- ----- --- ---- ---- 80
LISTING OF EXHIBITS See Exhibit Index immediately following signature page. 81
SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. EZCORP, Inc. December 13, 2006 By: /s/ Joseph L. Rotunda --------------------------------- (Joseph L. Rotunda) (President, Chief Executive Officer & Director) Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Signature Title Date --------- ----- ---- /s/ Sterling B. Brinkley Chairman of the Board December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Sterling B. Brinkley /s/ Joseph L. Rotunda President, Chief Executive December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Officer & Director Joseph L. Rotunda (Principal Executive Officer) /s/ Dan N. Tonissen Senior Vice President, Chief December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Financial Officer, Assistant Secretary Dan N. Tonissen & Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) /s/ Gary C. Matzner Director December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Gary C. Matzner /s/ Richard D. Sage Director December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Richard D. Sage /s/ Thomas C. Roberts Director December 13, 2006 - ------------------------------------- Thomas Roberts 82
EXHIBIT INDEX Page Number if Number Description Filed herein Incorporated by Reference to - ------ ----------- -------------- ---------------------------- 3.1 Amended and Restated Certificate of Exhibit 3.1 to the Registration Statement Incorporation of the Company on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 3.1A Certificate of Amendment to Certificate of Exhibit 3.1A to the Registration Statement Incorporation of the Company on Form S-1 effective July 15, 1996 (File No. 33-41317) 3.1B Amended Certificate of Incorporation of the N/A Company * 3.2 Bylaws of the Company. Exhibit 3.2 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 3.3 Amendment to the Bylaws. Exhibit 3.3 to Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1994 (File No. 0-19424) 3.4 Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Exhibit 3.4 to Registrant's Annual Report the Company. on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1994 (File No. 0-19424) 3.5 Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Exhibit 3.5 to Registrant's Annual Report the Company on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1997 3.6 Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Exhibit 3.6 to Registrant's Quarterly the Company Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 4.1 Specimen of Class A Non-voting Common Stock Exhibit 4.1 to the Registration Statement certificate of the Company. on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 10.2 Omitted N/A 10.3 Omitted N/A 10.4 Omitted N/A 83
10.5 Security Agreement executed by EZPAWN Texas, Exhibit 10.5 to Registrant's Annual Report Inc. (substantially the same agreement also was on Form 10-K for the year ended September executed by EZPAWN Oklahoma, Inc.; EZPAWN 30, 1992 Mississippi, Inc.; EZPAWN Arkansas, Inc.; EZPAWN (File No. 0-19424) Colorado, Inc.; EZPAWN Alabama, Inc.; EZPAWN Tennessee, Inc.; and Houston Financial Corporation). 10.6 Guaranty Agreement executed by EZPAWN Texas, Exhibit 10.6 to Registrant's Annual Report Inc. (substantially the same agreement also was on Form 10-K for the year ended September executed by EZPAWN Oklahoma, Inc.; EZPAWN 30, 1992 Mississippi, Inc.; EZPAWN Arkansas, Inc.; EZPAWN (File No. 0-19424) Colorado, Inc.; EZPAWN Alabama, Inc.; EZPAWN Tennessee, Inc.; and Houston Financial Corporation). 10.7 Omitted N/A 10.8 Omitted N/A 10.9 Omitted N/A 10.10 Letter agreement executed December 20, 1990 Exhibit 10.10 to the Registration Statement between Morgan Schiff & Co., Inc. ("Morgan on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Schiff") and the Company. (File No. 33-41317) 10.11 Stock Purchase Agreement between the Company, Exhibit 10.11 to the Registration Statement Courtland L. Logue, Jr., Courtland L. Logue, on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Sr., James D. McGee, M. Frances Spears, Porter (File No. 33-41317) A. Stratton and Steve A. Stratton dated as of May 18, 1989. 10.12 Capitalization and Subscription Agreement Exhibit 10.12 to the Registration Statement between MS Pawn Limited Partnership ("MS Pawn") on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 and the Company, dated as of July 25, 1989. (File No. 33-41317) 10.13 Omitted N/A 10.14 Omitted N/A 84
10.15 Omitted N/A 10.16 Omitted N/A 10.17 Omitted N/A 10.18 Warrant Certificate issued by the Company to MS Exhibit 10.18 to the Registration Statement Pawn on July 25, 1989. on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 10.19 Amendment to the Stock Purchase Agreement dated Exhibit 10.19 to the Registration Statement as of June 19, 1989 Between the Company and the on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Stockholders of the Predecessor Company. (File No. 33-41317) 10.20 Second Amendment to Stock Pur- chase Agreement Exhibit 10.20 to the Registration Statement dated as of April 20, 1990 between the Company on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 and the Stockholders of the Predecessor Company. (File No. 33-41317) 10.21 Omitted N/A 10.22 Omitted N/A 10.23 Omitted N/A 10.24 Omitted N/A 10.25 Omitted N/A 10.27 Omitted N/A 10.28 Omitted N/A 10.29 Omitted N/A 10.30 Omitted N/A 10.31 Omitted N/A 10.32 Omitted N/A 10.33 Omitted N/A 10.34 Omitted N/A 10.35 Stockholders' Agreement dated as of July 25, Exhibit 10.35 to the Registration Statement 1989 between the Com- pany, MS Pawn and on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Courtland L. Logue, Jr. (File No. 33-41317) 85
10.36 Joinder Agreement to the Stock- Holders' Exhibit 10.36 to the Registration Statement Agreement dated as of May 1, 1991 between the on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Company MS Pawn, Mr. Kofnovec, Mr. Gary, Mr. (File No. 33-41317) Ross and Ms. Berger. 10.37 Incentive Stock Option Plan. Exhibit 10.37 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 10.38 401(k) Plan. Exhibit 10.38 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 10.39 Section 125 Cafeteria Plan. Exhibit 10.39 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 (File No. 33-41317) 10.40 Omitted N/A 10.41 Omitted N/A 10.42 Omitted N/A 10.43 Omitted N/A 10.44 Omitted N/A 10.45 Lease between Logue, Inc. and E-Z Corporation Exhibit 10.45 to the Registration Statement for real estate located at 1166 Airport on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Boulevard, Austin, Texas, dated July 25, 1989. (File No. 33-41317) 10.46 Lease between Logue, Inc. and E-Z Corporation Exhibit 10.46 to the Registration Statement for real estate located at 5415 North Lamar on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 Boulevard, Austin, Texas, dated July 25, 1989 (File No. 33-41317) 10.47 Agreement of Lease between LDL Partnership and Exhibit 10.47 to the Registration Statement Logue-Drouin Industries, Inc. for real property on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 at 8540 Broadway Blvd., Houston, Texas, dated (File No. 33-41317) May 3, 1988 and related Assignment of Lease. 10.48 Lease Agreement between C Minus Corporation and Exhibit 10.48 to the Registration Statement Logue-Drouin Industries, Inc. DBA E-Z Pawn #5 on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 for real property located at 5209 Cameron Road, (File No. 33-41317) Austin, Texas, dated December 28, 1987. 86
10.49 Lease Agreement between Logue, Inc. and E-Z Exhibit 10.49 to the Registration Statement Corporation for real Property located at 901 E. on Form S-1 effective August 23, 1991 1st St., Austin, Texas, dated July 25, 1989. (File No. 33-41317) 10.50 Agreements between the Company and MS Pawn dated Exhibit 10.50 to the Registration Statement February 18, 1992 for the payment of $1.377 on Form S-1 effective March 16, 1992 million of Series A Increasing Rate Senior (File No. 33-45807) Subordinated Notes held by MS Pawn. 10.51 Agreement Regarding Reservation of Shares. Exhibit 10.51 to Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1993 (File No. 0-19424) 10.52 Omitted N/A 10.53 Omitted N/A 10.54 Omitted N/A 10.55 Omitted N/A 10.56 Omitted N/A 10.57 Omitted N/A 10.58 Omitted N/A 10.59 Omitted N/A 10.60 Loan Agreement between Sterling B. Brinkley and Exhibit 10.60 to Registrant's Annual the Company dated October 7, 1994 (an identical Report on Form 10-K for the year ended document exists with respect to Vincent A. September 30, 1995 Lambiase). (File No. 0-19424) 10.61 Promissory Note between Sterling B. Brinkley and Exhibit 10.61 to Registrant's Annual the Company in the original principal amount of Report on Form 10-K for the year ended $1,500,000 attached thereto (an identical September 30, 1995 document exists with respect to Vincent A. (File No. 0-19424) Lambiase). 10.62 July 1, 1994 Employment Agreement between the Exhibit 10.62 to Registrant's Annual Report Company and Vincent A. Lambiase and Promissory on Form 10-K for the year ended September Note in the amount of $729,112.50 in connection 30, 1995 therewith. (File No. 0-19424) 10.63 EZCORP, Inc. Incentive Stock Option Award Exhibit 10.63 to Registrant's Annual Report Agreement, Employee Form on Form 10-K For the year ended September 30,1998 (File No.0-19424) 87
10.64 EZCORP, Inc. Incentive Stock Option Award Exhibit 10.64 to Registrant's Annual Report Agreement, Executive Form on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1998 (File No. 0-19424) 10.71 Omitted N/A 10.72 Omitted N/A 10.73 Omitted N/A 10.74 Omitted N/A 10.75 Omitted N/A 10.76 Omitted N/A 10.77 Credit Agreement between the Company and Wells Exhibit 10.77 to Registrant's Annual Report Fargo Bank (Texas), N.A., as Agent and Issuing on Form 10-K for the year ended September Bank, re: $110 million Revolving Credit Loan 30, 1998 (File No. 0-19424) 10.78 First Amendment to Credit Agreement Between the Exhibit 10.78 to Registrant's Annual Report Company and Wells Fargo Bank (Texas), N.A., as on Form 10-K for the year Ended September Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $110 million 30, 1999 Revolving Credit Loan. (File No. 0-19424) 10.79 Second Amendment to Credit Agreement and Waiver Exhibit 10.79 to Registrant's Quarterly between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended (Texas), N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: March 31, 2000 $85 million Revolving Credit Loan. (File No. 0-19424) 10.80 Limited Waiver between the Company and Wells Exhibit 10.80 to Registrant's Quarterly Fargo Bank Texas, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended Bank, re: $85 million Revolving Credit Loan. June 30, 2000 (File No. 0-19424) 10.81 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement between Exhibit 10.81 to Registrant's Annual Report the Company and Wells Fargo Bank Texas, N.A., as on Form 10-K for the year ended September Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 million Credit 30, 2000 Facility. (File No. 0-19424) 10.82 Waivers of Selected Sections of Credit Agreement Exhibit 10.82 to Registrant's Quarterly between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 million June 30, 2001 Credit Facility. (File No. 0-19424) 88
10.83 First Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Exhibit 10.83 to Registrant's Quarterly Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 June 30, 2001 million Credit Facility. (File No. 0-19424) 10.84 Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Exhibit 10.84 to Registrant's Annual Report Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo on Form 10-K for the year ended September Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 30, 2001 million Credit Facility. (File No. 0-19424) 10.85 Third Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Exhibit 10.85 to Registrant's Annual Report Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo on Form 10-K for the year ended September Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 30, 2001 million Credit Facility. (File No. 0-19424) 10.86 Fourth Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Exhibit 10.86 to Registrant's Current Agreement between the Company and Wells Fargo Report on Form 8-K dated September 30, 2002 Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $85 (File No. 0-19424) million Credit Facility. 10.87 Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Exhibit 10.87 to Registrant's Current between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank Texas, Report on Form 8-K dated October 30, 2002 N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: (File No. 0-19424) re-syndication of Credit Facility, with a maturity date of March 31, 2005. 10.88 EZCORP, Inc. 2003 Incentive Plan. Exhibit 10.88 to Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2003 (File No. 0-19424) 10.89 Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Exhibit 10.89 to Registrant's Quarterly between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank Texas, Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $40 million March 30, 2004 Credit Facility (File No. 0-19424) 10.90 Amended Charter of the Audit Committee of the Exhibit 10.90 to Registrant's Annual Report Board of Directors of EZCORP, Inc. dated October on Form 10-K for the year ended September 26, 2004 30, 2004 (File No. 0-19424) 10.91 Advisory Services Agreement between EZCORP, Inc. Exhibit 10.91 to Registrant's Annual Report and Madison Park LLC effective October 1, 2004 on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2004 (File No. 0-19424) 89
10.92 First Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Exhibit 10.92 to Registrant's Quarterly Credit Agreement between the Company and Wells Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended Fargo Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: June 30, 2005 $40 million Credit Facility (File No. 0-19424) 10.93 Second Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Exhibit 10.93 to Registrant's Annual Report Credit Agreement between the Company and Wells on Form 10-K for the year ended September Fargo Bank, N.A., as Agent and Issuing Bank, re: 30, 2005 $40 million Credit Facility (File No. 0-19424) 10.94 EZCORP Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Exhibit 10.94 to Registrant's Current effective December 1, 2005 Report on Form 8-K dated November 28, 2005 (File No. 0-19424) 10.95 Charter of the Audit Committee of the Board of Exhibit 10.95 to Registrant's Annual Report Directors of EZCORP, Inc. dated November 8, 2005 on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2005 (File No. 0-19424) 10.96 EZCORP Fiscal Year 2006 Incentive Compensation Exhibit 10.96 to Registrant's Annual Report Plan on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2005 (File No. 0-19424) 10.97 Credit Services and Loan Administration Exhibit 10.97 to Registrant's Quarterly Agreement dated April 11, 2006 between Texas Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended EZPAWN, L.P. and NCP Finance Limited Partnership March 31, 2006 (File No. 0-19424) 10.98 Guaranty dated April 11, 2006 from EZCORP, Inc Exhibit 10.98 to Registrant's Quarterly to NCP Finance Limited Partnership Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2006 (File No. 0-19424) 10.99 Credit Services Organization and Lender Exhibit 10.99 to Registrant's Quarterly Agreement dated April 12, 2006 between Texas Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended EZMONEY, L.P. and Integrity Texas Funding, L.P. March 31, 2006 (File No. 0-19424) 10.100 Credit Services Organization and Lender Exhibit 10.100 to Registrant's Quarterly Agreement dated November 9, 2005 between Texas Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended EZPAWN, L.P. and Integrity Texas Funding, L.P. March 31, 2006 (File No. 0-19424) 10.101 Credit Services Organization and Lender Exhibit 10.101 to Registrant's Quarterly Agreement dated November 30, 2005 between Texas Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended EZPAWN Florida, L.P. and Integrity Florida March 31, 2006 Funding, L.P. (File No. 0-19424) 10.102 Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Exhibit 10.102 to Registrant's Current between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank Texas, Report on Form 8-K dated October 13, 2006 N.A., as the Agent and Issuing Bank, re: $40 (File No. 0-19424) million credit facility 90
10.103 EZCORP Fiscal Year 2007 Incentive Compensation N/A Plan * + 10.104 EZCORP, Inc. 2006 Incentive Plan. * N/A 16.1 Omitted N/A 20.1 Omitted N/A 21.1 Subsidiaries of Registrant.* N/A 23.1 Consent of Independent Registered Public N/A Accounting Firm.* 31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer N/A Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. * 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer N/A Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. * 32.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer N/A Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. * 32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer N/A Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. * - ---------- * Filed herewith. + Portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment. 91
EXHIBIT 3.1B CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF EZCORP, Inc. ("Conformed") (Original Certificate of Incorporation filed May 18, 1989, as last amended November 9, 2006) FIRST: The name of the Corporation is EZCORP, Inc. SECOND: The registered office of the Corporation in this State of Delaware is located at The Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle. The name of the registered agent of the Corporation at such address is The Corporation Trust Company. THIRD: The purpose for which the Corporation is organized is to engage in any and all lawful acts and activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of Delaware. The Corporation will have perpetual existence. FOURTH: The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is {fifty-eight million (58,000,000)} shares of capital stock, classified as (i) five million (5,000,000) shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Preferred Stock), (ii) {fifty million (50,000,000)} shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Class A Non-Voting Common Stock), and (iii) three million (3,000,000) shares of Class B Voting Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share ("Class B Voting Common Stock). The designations and the powers, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations, and restrictions of the Preferred Stock, Class A Non-Voting Common Stock, and Class B Voting Common Stock are as follows: 1. Provisions Relating to the Preferred Stock. (a) The Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more classes or series, the shares of each class or series to have such designations and powers, preferences, and rights, and qualifications, limitations, and restrictions thereof, as are stated and expressed herein and in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of such class or series adopted by the board of directors of the Corporation as hereafter prescribed. (b) Authority is hereby expressly granted to and vested in the board of directors of the Corporation to authorize the issuance of the Preferred Stock from time to time in one or more classes or series, and with respect to each class or series of the Preferred Stock, to fix and state by the resolution or resolutions from time to time adopted providing for the issuance therefore the following: (i) whether or not the class or series is to have voting rights, full, special, or limited, or is to be without voting rights, and whether or not such class or series is to be entitled to vote as a separate class either alone or together with the holders of one or more other classes or series of stock; (ii) the number of shares to constitute the class or series and the designations thereof; (iii) the preferences, and relative, participating, optional, or other
special rights, if any, and the qualifications, limitations, or restrictions thereof, if any, with respect to any class or series; (iv) whether or not the shares of any class or series shall be redeemable at the option of the Corporation or the holders thereof or upon the happening of any specified event, and, if redeemable, the redemption price or prices (which may be payable in the form of cash, notes, securities, or other property), and the time or times at which, and the terms and conditions upon which, such shares shall be redeemable and the manner of redemption; (v) whether or not the shares of a class or series shall be subject to the operation of retirement or sinking funds to be applied to the purchase or redemption of such shares for retirement, and, if such retirement or sinking fund or funds are to be established, the annual amount thereof, and the terms and provisions relative to the operation thereof; (vi) the dividend rate, whether dividends are payable in cash, stock of the Corporation, or other property, the conditions upon which and the times when such dividends are payable, the preference to or the relation to the payment of dividends payable on any other class or classes or series of stock, whether or not such dividends shall be cumulative or noncumulative, and if cumulative, the date or dates from which such dividends shall accumulate; (vii) the preferences, if any, and the amounts thereof which the holders of any class or series thereof shall be entitled to receive upon the voluntary or involuntary dissolution of, or upon any distribution of the assets of, the Corporation; (viii) whether or not the shares of any class or series, at the option of the Corporation or the holder thereof or upon the happening of any specified event, shall be convertible into or exchangeable for, the shares of any other class or classes or of any other series of the same or any other class or classes of stock, securities, or other property of the Corporation and the conversion price or prices or ratio or ratios or the rate or rates at which such exchange may be made, with such adjustments, if any, as shall be stated and expressed or provided for in such resolution or resolutions; and (ix) such other special rights and protective provisions with respect to any class or series as may to the board of directors of the Corporation seem advisable. (c) The shares of each class or series of the Preferred Stock may vary from the shares of any other class or series thereof in any or all of the foregoing respects. The board of directors of the Corporation may increase the number of shares of the Preferred Stock designated for any existing class or series by a resolution adding to such class or series authorized and unissued shares of the Preferred Stock not designated for any other class or series. The board of directors of the Corporation may decrease the number of shares of the Preferred Stock designated for any existing class or series by a resolution subtracting from such class or series authorized and unissued shares of the Preferred Stock designated for such existing class or series, and the shares so subtracted shall become authorized, unissued, and undesignated shares of the Preferred Stock. 2. Provisions Relating to the Class A Non-Voting Common Stock and the Class B Voting Common Stock. (a) Shares of class A Non-Voting Common Stock and Class B Voting Common Stock (collectively, "Common Stock") shall have identical rights and privileges in every respect, except as set forth herein. (b) Except as required by law and except as set forth herein, the holders of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock shall not be entitled to vote upon matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders of the Corporation.
(c) The holders of shares of Class B Voting Common Stock shall be entitled to vote upon all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders of the Corporation and shall be entitled to one vote for each share of Class B Voting Common Stock held. (d) Subject to the prior rights and preferences, if any, applicable to shares of the Preferred Stock or any series thereof, the holders of shares of Common Stock shall be entitled to receive such dividends (payable in cash, stock, or otherwise) as may be declared thereon by the board of directors at any time and from time to time out of any funds of the Corporation legally available therefor; provided, however, that any dividend upon the Common Stock that is payable in Common Stock shall be paid only in Class A Non-Voting Common Stock to the holders of class A Non-Voting Common Stock and only in Class B Voting common Stock to the holders of Class B Voting Common Stock. (e) In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up of that Corporation, after distribution in full of the preferential amounts, if any, to be distributed to the holders of shares of the Preferred Stock or any series thereof, the holders of shares of Common Stock shall be entitled to receive all of the remaining assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, ratably in proportion to the number of shares of Common Stock held by them, regardless of whether such shares are shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock or Class B Voting Common Stock. A liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up of the Corporation, as such terms are used in this Paragraph (e), shall not be deemed to be occasioned by or to include any consolidation or merger of the Corporation with or into any other corporation or corporations or other entity or a sale, lease, exchange, or conveyance of all or a part of the assets of the Corporation. (f) The holders of Class B Voting Common Stock shall be entitled to vote, as a single, separate class, at any annual meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation, or at a special meeting called for such purpose, with respect to a resolution providing that a pro rata percentage (as specified in such resolution) of shares of Class B Voting Common Stock of each holder of record of such shares shall be automatically converted into, and for all purposes shall be deemed to be (including for purposes of section 2(d) above), the same number of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock. Upon approval of such resolution by a majority of the outstanding shares of Class B Voting Common Stock, the rights of each holder of Class B Voting Common Stock to such percentage of shares of Class B Voting Common Stock shall cease automatically, and the holders thereof as to such shares shall be entitled to all rights attendant to holders of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock. (g) Each holder of record of Class B Voting Common Stock may, at any time, at such holder's option, convert any or all of the shares of Class B Voting Common Stock held by such holder into the same number of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock; provided, however, before any holder of shares of Class B Voting Common Stock shall be entitled to convert the same into shares of Class A Non-Voting common Stock in accordance with this Section 2(g), such holder shall surrender the certificate(s) therefor, duly endorsed, at the office of the Corporation where the stock transfer books are maintained, accompanied by a notice stating the number of shares of Class B Voting Common Stock which such holder desires to convert into Class A Non-Voting Common Stock. Thereupon, the Corporation shall promptly issue and deliver to such holder a certificate or certificates of the number of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock to which such holder is entitled, registered in the name of such holder or a designee of such holder. Such conversion shall be deemed to have been made immediately prior to the close of business on the date of such surrender of the shares of Class B Voting Common Stock to be converted, and the person entitled to receive the shares of class A Non-Voting Common Stock issue able upon such conversion shall be treated for all purposes as the record holder of such shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock on such date of surrender.
(h) The Corporation shall not be required to issue any fractional shares upon conversion of Class B Voting Common Stock in accordance with Sections 2(f) and 2(g) above, but in lieu thereof, the Corporation may make such equitable provisions as the board of directors may determine. In the event of the conversion of less than all of the Class B Voting Common Stock evidenced by the certificate(s) surrendered in accordance with Sections 2(f) and 2(g) above, the Corporation shall execute and deliver, without charge to the holder thereof, or at such holder's written direction, to his designee, a new certificate evidencing the shares of Class B Voting Common Stock not converted. All costs of issuing certificates for shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock upon conversion of the Class B Voting Common Stock in accordance with Sections 2(f) and 2(g) above incurred by the Corporation, including any issuance tax, shall be paid by the Corporation. (i) The Corporation shall at all times reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock, solely for the purpose of issue upon conversion of outstanding shares of Class B Voting Common Stock, such number of shares of Class A Non-Voting Stock as shall then be issuable upon a conversion of all of the outstanding shares of Class B Voting Common Stock. The shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock so issuable shall, when so issued, be duly and validly issued, fully paid, and non-assessable. (j) In the event that all of the outstanding shares of Class B Voting Common Stock shall be converted into Class A Non-Voting Common Stock, and at any time thereafter, the holders of shares of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock shall be entitled to vote upon all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders of the Corporation and shall be entitled to one vote for each share of Class A Non-Voting Common Stock held. 3. General. (a) Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation, the Corporation may issue shares of its Preferred Stock, Class A Non-Voting Common Stock, and Class B Voting Common Stock from time to time for such consideration (not less than the par value thereof) as may be fixed by the board of directors of the Corporation, which is expressly authorized to fix the same in its absolute and uncontrolled discretion subject to the foregoing conditions. Shares so issued for which the consideration shall have been paid or delivered to the Corporation shall be deemed fully paid stock and shall not be liable to any further call or assessment thereon, and the holders of such shares shall not be liable for any further payments in respect of such shares. (b) The Corporation shall have authority to create and issue rights and options entitling their holders to purchase shares of the Corporation's capital stock of any class or series or other securities of the Corporation, and such rights and options shall be evidenced by instrument(s) approved by the board of directors of the Corporation. The board of directors of the Corporation shall be empowered to set the exercise price, duration, times for exercise, and other terms of such options or rights; provided, however, that the consideration to be received for any shares of capital stock subject thereto shall not be less than the par value thereof. FIFTH: Directors of the Corporation need not be elected by written ballot unless the bylaws of the Corporation otherwise provide. SIXTH: The directors of the Corporation shall have the power to adopt, amend, and repeal the bylaws of the Corporation. SEVENTH: No contract or transaction between the Corporation and one or more of its directors, officers, or stockholders or between the Corporation and any person (as used herein "person" means other corporation, partnership, association, firm, trust, joint venture, political subdivision, or instrumentality) or other organization in which one or more of its directors, officers, or stockholders are directors, officers, or stockholders, or have a financial interest, shall be void or
voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the board or committee which authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because his, her, or their votes are counted for such purpose, if: (i) the material facts as to his or her relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the board of directors or the committee, and the board of directors or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative votes of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum; or (ii) the material facts as to his or her relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the stockholders; or (iii) the contract or transaction is fair as to the Corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved, or ratified by the board of directors, a committee thereof, or the stockholders. Common or interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the board of directors or of a committee, which authorizes the contract or transaction. EIGHTH: The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was, is, or is threatened to be made a party to a proceeding (as hereinafter defined) by reason of the fact that he or she (i) is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or (ii) while a director or officer of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, partner, venturer, proprietor, trustee, employee, agent, or similar functionary of another foreign or domestic corporation, partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship, trust, employee benefit plan, or other enterprise, to the fullest extent permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law, as the same exists or may here after be amended. Such right shall be a contract right and as such shall run to the benefit of any director or officer who is elected and accepts the position of director or officer of the Corporation or elects to continue to serve as a director or officer of the Corporation while this Article Eighth is in effect. Any repeal or amendment of, this Article Eighth shall be prospective only and shall not limit the rights of any such director or officer or the obligations of the Corporation with respect to any claim arising from or related to the services of such director or officer in any of the foregoing capacities prior to any such repeal or amendment to this Article Eighth. Such right shall include the right to be paid by the Corporation expenses, including attorneys' fees, incurred in defending any such proceeding in advance of its final disposition to the maximum extent permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended. If a claim for indemnification or advancement of expenses hereunder is not paid in full by the Corporation within sixty (60) days after a written claim has been received by the Corporation, the claimant may at any time thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim, and if successful in whole or in part, the claimant shall also be entitled to be paid the expenses of prosecuting such claims. It shall be a defense to any such action that such indemnification or advancement of costs of defense are not permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law, but the burden of proving such defense shall be on the Corporation. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its board of directors or any committee thereof, independent legal counsel, or stockholders) to have made its determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of, or advancement of costs of defense to, the claimant is permissible in the circumstances nor an actual determination by the Corporation (including its board of directors or any committee thereof, independent legal counsel, or stockholders) that such indemnification or advancement is not permissible shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that such indemnification or advancement is not permissible. In the event of the death of any person having a right of indemnification under the foregoing provisions, such right shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs, executors, administrators, and personal representatives. The rights conferred above shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, bylaw, resolution of stockholders or directors, agreement, or otherwise. The Corporation may additionally indemnify any employee or agent of the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law. As used herein, the term "proceeding" means any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, arbitrative, or investigative, any appeal in such an action, suit, or proceeding, and any inquiry or investigation that could lead to such an action, suit, or proceeding. NINTH; A director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for liability (i) for
any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. Any repeal or amendment of this Article Ninth by the stockholders of the Corporation shall be prospective only, and shall not adversely affect any limitation on the personal liability of a director of the Corporation arising from an act or omission occurring prior to the time of such repeal or amendment. In addition to the circumstances in which a director of the Corporation is not personally liable as set forth in the foregoing provisions of this Article Ninth, a director shall not be liable to the corporation or its stockholders to such further extent as permitted by any law hereafter enacted, including without limitation any subsequent amendment to the Delaware General Corporation Law. TENTH: The Corporation expressly elects not to be governed by Section 203 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware.
EXHIBIT 10.103 EZCORP, INC. 2007 INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN PORTIONS OF THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN OMITTED AND ARE BEING FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IN A CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUEST UNDER RULE 24B-2 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS AMENDED. THE SYMBOL "[***] IN THIS EXHIBIT INDICATES THAT INFORMATION HAS BEEN OMITTED. EZCORP FY 2007 Incentive Compensation Program POLICY It is a policy of EZCORP, Inc. and its wholly owned affiliates (also referred to as "the Company") to offer a total compensation package which is commensurate with the job assigned, competitive within the affiliated industry, and reflective of the value of each individual's performance and overall contribution towards the short and long term success of the Company. As a supplement to the base compensation paid and stock option awards granted by EZCORP, the Company offers the FY2007 Incentive Compensation Program (the "Program") to reward the accomplishment of corporate, business unit, and personal objectives for select key associates. This Program is designed to motivate selected associates to strive for excellence in both Company and specific personal objectives and provides incentive compensation awards for their achievement. OBJECTIVES The primary objectives of the EZCORP Incentive Compensation Program are: 1. To provide an incentive for individuals to drive their performance to achieve strategic Company and personal objectives. 2. To attract, retain and motivate top-quality associates who are able to add significant value to the Company's performance. 3. To provide incentive compensation opportunities which are competitive for the associate levels and the affiliated industry. ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION The Compensation Advisory Group (President & CEO, SVP Administration and the SVP & CFO) will determine which positions participate in the Program. Participants are generally selected from positions that typically have incentive-based compensation components in the industry and from individuals who make meaningful and substantial contributions to the business. Participation in the Program will be determined prior to the beginning of the fiscal year. Eligible associates will usually be drawn from:
1. Officers and Executives of the Company. 2. Regional and Corporate Director Level Management 3. Key Management individuals as determined by the Compensation Advisory Group SETTING OF FINANCIAL MEASUREMENTS AND INDIVIDUAL OBJECTIVES COMPANY OBJECTIVE: The Chief Executive Officer, with the concurrence of the Board of Directors will identify specific financial measures and set Company Objectives that will be used to determine the incentive awards for the year. INDIVIDUAL OBJECTIVES: The Executive Committee will determine overall departmental objectives and assign some or all of those objectives as Personal Objectives to specific individual participants. The 2007 ICP DEPARTMENT OBJECTIVES are attached. Awards will be based on the level of attainment of both the Company Objectives and the Personal Objectives of each participant. HOWEVER, THE COMPANY WILL SET A MINIMUM FINANCIAL THRESHOLD THAT MUST BE ATTAINED FOR ANY INCENTIVE COMPENSATION TO BE PAID. Periodic progress reviews will be conducted with participants during the year in the monthly Key Performance Review (KPR) meetings to monitor progress and ensure on-going focus and alignment. FY 2007 COMPANY OBJECTIVES AND INCENTIVE TARGETS Net Income will be used to determine actual financial award payouts for FY2007. For purposes of this Program, "Net Income" is defined as the net income shown on the audited financial statements, adjusted for any special items, charges and credits, which the Board Compensation Committee, in its sole discretion, determines are unusual or infrequently occurring events or situations and that generally do not provide or require cash, and also are not subject to the direct control of management. The Company's net income goal for Incentive Compensation is [***]. The minimum threshold for payout is reached at [***] and the maximum payout is achieved at [***]. The payout for financial participation can be read from the following matrix based on FY2007 "Net Income": Net Income [***] [***] [***] %>FY2006 [***] [***] [***] Bonus Payout [***] [***] [***] FY 2007 PERSONAL OBJECTIVES AND INCENTIVE TARGETS 1. The Executive Committee has established Departmental Objectives for FY2007. Based upon those Departmental Objectives, participants have been assigned Personal Objectives for the FY2007 Incentive Compensation Program that is attached. These Personal Objectives are subject to revisions based upon changing circumstances as deemed appropriate by the President & CEO throughout the year.
2. The quality of the output of specific Personal Objectives will be a substantial portion of the payout rating. To ensure consistency in the scoring of the performance in achieving Personal Objectives by individual participants, the following definitions and payout structure are provided: * Achieved or exceeds the target goal Payout 100% * Slight miss of the target goal Payout 50% to 75% * Miss minimum target goal Payout zero 3. The Personal Objectives portion of the incentive award is maximized at 100% of the allocated percentage. The Executive Committee will determine scores to be given. 4. The relative weighting of Company and Personal Objectives will be determined based upon the individual position and the amount of control they have on the achievement of the Objectives. Therefore, individual participants will have different weighting between Company and Personal Objectives, as shown in Schedule "A". CALCULATION OF INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PAYOUT THE COMPANY OBJECTIVES AND THE PERSONAL OBJECTIVES WILL BE SCORED BASED UPON THE ACTUAL RESULTS ACHIEVED FOR THE PROGRAM YEAR. EACH PARTICIPANT'S ACTUAL PAYOUT WILL BE DETERMINED USING THE FORMULA BELOW: A. % Company Objective Participation ____% (A1) (assigned, see personal documentation) Matrix Rating ____% (A2) (Company financial goal; percent achievement) (A1 x A2) = ____% (A3) (Company Objective Factor) B. % Personal Objectives Participation ____% (B1) (assigned, see personal documentation) Weighted Rating for (sum of all personal Personal Objectives ____% (B2) objective ratings divided by the number of assigned objectives) (B1 x B2) = ____% (B3) (Personal Objective Factor) C. Base Salary as of October 1, 2005 $____ (C1) Participation Factor ____% (C2) (Sum of A3 + B3) (C1 x C2) = $____ (C3) Incentive Payout CALCULATION EXAMPLE: [***]
A. Company Obj. Potential [***] (A1) (assigned, see personal documentation) Company Matrix Rating [***] (A2) (A1 x A2) = [***] (A3) (Company Factor) B. Personal Obj. Potential [***] (B1) (assigned, see personal documentation) Weighted Rating [***] (B2) (sum of all personal objective ratings divided by the number of assigned objectives) (B1 x B2) = [***] (B3) (Objective Factor) C. Base Salary as of 10/1/05 [***] (C1) Participation Factor (A3 + B3) [***] (C2) (Sum of Company Factor and Personal Factor) (C1 x C2) = [***] (C3) Incentive Payout INCENTIVE PROGRAM FUNDING Funding for the Incentive Compensation Program will be based on the number of participants selected for the individual Program year and their individual level of participation. At the beginning of each fiscal year, a budget will be established based on participant information and on economic, operational and financial profitability. The full amount of the Program payouts will be included in the administrative expense of the Company prior to the determination of the Company's final results for ICP purposes. Therefore, the funding of the ICP payouts is a part of the financial results of the Company for incentive calculations. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PROGRAM AMENDMENTS TO OR TERMINATION OF THE PROGRAM While it is the intention of the Company to provide an incentive compensation plan annually, the company reserves the right to: - Amend or modify the incentive plan in its entirety; - Suspend or terminate the Program at any time. PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT 1. The Executive Committee, at its sole discretion, will score each departmental objective and the individual performance of each ICP participant as it relates to that specific Objective. Participants who share a common Personal Objective may be rated differently based upon their contribution to the achievement or lack of achievement of that specific objective. 2. The fact that an associate is initially selected as eligible to participate in the ICP does not mean that he or she is entitled to or guaranteed receipt of an incentive compensation award. 3. Actions taken by a Participant in the Program to enhance his or her incentive pay at the expense of the long-term benefit of the Company will result in the Participant being disqualified as a Program Participant, at the sole discretion of the Company.
4. If it can be determined by the Company, at its sole discretion, that a Participant's actions throughout the ICP year did not support or actually worked against their team's ability to meet its objective, the Participant will not receive any incentive compensation award even if all of the objectives are obtained. 5. The Compensation Advisory Group reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to establish the measurement systems associated with this Program and to approve in advance, departmental and Personal Objectives. 6. Any participant who receives an "UNSATISFACTORY" appraisal rating as determined by the Company in its sole discretion, for the incentive period will not be eligible for an incentive award for that period. NO IMPLIED CONTRACT The information presented in this Program shall not in any way be construed to constitute a binding employment or compensation contract between the Company and its associates, nor shall it in any way affect the "employment-at-will relationship" between associates and the Company. RULES CONCERNING AWARDS PAYMENTS AND PARTICIPATION 1. Participants must be employed with the Company at the time incentive payments are made to be eligible to receive an award 2. Participants who voluntarily or involuntarily leave the service of the Company shall not be entitled to receive an award at the end of the Program year. 3. Recommendations to include a new hire or a promoted associate into the Program at any time during the Program year must be approved by the Chief Executive Officer. This action is mandatory before informing any associate of their participation in the Program. Partial year participant awards, if any, will be prorated based upon full months of the associate's inclusion into the Program and their achievement of Program year objectives. 4. Associates hired after the second fiscal quarter (March 31, 2007) will not normally be eligible for participation until the following Program year. The Chief Executive Officer must approve any exceptions to the above in advance. This action is mandatory before informing any associate of their participation in the Program. DISCRETIONARY AWARDS The CEO will have the authority to award "discretionary bonuses" at year-end. These awards will be granted to individuals based upon the associate's contribution toward either the achievement of the Company's strategic objectives or the FY2007 financial plan. Individual awards will not exceed [***]; aggregate of awards will not exceed [***] annually. EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE PROGRAM: This Program shall be in effect for the fiscal year 2007.
APPROVALS: Date: 10-1-06 - ------------------------------------- JOE ROTUNDA Chief Executive Officer Date: 10-1-06 - ------------------------------------- ROBERT KASENTER Sr. Vice President, Administration Date: 10-1-06 - ------------------------------------- CONNIE KONDIK VP & General Counsel, Secretary to the Board Confirming Compensation Committee Approval FY 2007 ICP OBJECTIVES [***] EXHIBIT A FY2007 ICP PARTICIPANTS [***]
EXHIBIT 10.104 EZCORP, INC. 2006 INCENTIVE PLAN 104
. . . TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1. DEFINITIONS .................................................. 109 Section 2. SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO THE PLAN .......................... 114 2.1 Maximum Number of Shares ..................................... 114 2.2 Limitation of Shares ......................................... 114 2.3 Description of Shares ........................................ 115 2.4 Registration and Listing of Shares ........................... 115 Section 3. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN ................................... 115 3.1 Committee .................................................... 115 3.2 Duration, Removal, Etc. ...................................... 115 3.3 Meetings and Actions of Committee ............................ 115 3.4 Committee's Powers ........................................... 116 Section 4. ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION ................................ 116 4.1 Eligible Individuals ......................................... 116 4.2 Grant of Awards .............................................. 116 4.3 Date of Grant ................................................ 116 4.4 Award Agreements ............................................. 117 4.5 Limitation for Incentive Options ............................. 117 4.6 No Right to Award ............................................ 117 Section 5. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS .............................. 117 5.1 Number of Shares ............................................. 117 5.2 Vesting....................................................... 117 5.3 Expiration of Options......................................... 117 5.4 Exercise Price................................................ 117 5.5 Method of Exercise............................................ 118 5.6 Incentive Option Exercises ................................... 118 5.7 Medium and Time of Payment ................................... 118 5.8 Payment with Sale Proceeds ................................... 118 5.9 Payment of Taxes ............................................. 118 5.10 Limitation on Aggregate Value of Shares That May Become First Exercisable During Any Calendar Year Under an Incentive Option ....................................................... 119 5.11 No Fractional Shares ......................................... 119 5.12 Modification, Extension, and Renewal of Options .............. 119 5.13 Other Agreement Provisions ................................... 119 Section 6. STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS .................................... 120 6.1 Form of Right ................................................ 120 6.2 Rights Related to Options .................................... 120 (a) Exercise and Transfer .................................... 120 (b) Value of Right ........................................... 120 6.3 Right Without Option ......................................... 120 (a) Number of Shares ......................................... 120 (b) Vesting .................................................. 120 105
(c) Expiration of Rights ..................................... 120 (d) Value of Right ........................................... 120 6.4 Limitations on Rights ........................................ 121 6.5 Payment of Rights ............................................ 121 6.6 Payment of Taxes ............................................. 121 6.7 Other Agreement Provisions ................................... 121 Section 7. RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS ...................................... 121 7.1 Restrictions ................................................. 121 (a) Transferability .......................................... 121 (b) Conditions to Removal of Restrictions .................... 122 (c) Legend ................................................... 122 (d) Possession ............................................... 122 (e) Other Conditions ......................................... 122 7.2 Expiration of Restrictions ................................... 122 7.3 Rights as Shareholder ........................................ 122 7.4 Payment of Taxes ............................................. 122 7.5 Other Agreement Provisions ................................... 124 Section 8. AWARDS TO NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS ............................. 124 8.1 Awards to Committee Members .................................. 124 8.2 Eligibility for Awards ....................................... 124 Section 9. ADJUSTMENT PROVISIONS ........................................ 124 9.1 Adjustment of Awards and Authorized Stock .................... 124 9.2 Changes in Control ........................................... 125 9.3 Restructuring Without Change in Control ...................... 125 9.4 Notice of Restructuring ...................................... 126 Section 10. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS ........................................ 127 10.1 Termination of Employment .................................... 127 10.2 Other Loss of Eligibility - Non-Employees .................... 127 10.3 Death ........................................................ 127 10.4 Disability ................................................... 127 10.5 Leave of Absence ............................................. 127 10.6 Transferability of Awards .................................... 127 10.7 Forfeiture and Restrictions on Transfer ...................... 127 10.8 Delivery of Certificates of Stock ............................ 128 106
10.9 Conditions to Delivery of Stock .............................. 128 10.10 Certain Directors and Officers ............................... 129 10.11 Securities Act Legend ........................................ 129 10.12 Legend for Restrictions on Transfer .......................... 129 10.13 Rights as a Shareholder ...................................... 129 10.14 Furnish Information .......................................... 130 10.15 Obligation to Exercise. The granting of an Award hereunder shall impose no obligation upon the Holder to exercise the same or any part thereof ..................................... 130 10.16 Adjustments to Awards ........................................ 130 10.17 Remedies ..................................................... 130 10.18 Information Confidential ..................................... 130 10.19 Consideration ................................................ 130 Section 11. DURATION AND AMENDMENT OF PLAN ............................... 130 11.1 Duration ..................................................... 130 11.2 Amendment .................................................... 130 Section 12. GENERAL ...................................................... 131 12.1 Application of Funds ......................................... 131 12.2 Right of the Corporation and Subsidiaries to Terminate Employment ................................................... 131 12.3 No Liability for Good Faith Determinations ................... 131 12.4 Other Benefits ............................................... 131 12.5 Exclusion From Pension and Profit-Sharing Compensation ....... 131 12.6 Execution of Receipts and Releases ........................... 131 12.7 Unfunded Plan ................................................ 131 12.8 No Guarantee of Interests .................................... 132 12.9 Payment of Expenses .......................................... 132 12.10 Corporation Records .......................................... 132 12.11 Information .................................................. 132 12.12 No Liability of Corporation .................................. 132 12.13 Corporation Action ........................................... 132 12.14 Severability ................................................. 132 12.15 Notices ...................................................... 133 12.16 Successors ................................................... 133 12.17 Headings ..................................................... 133 107
12.18 Governing Law ................................................ 133 12.19 Word Usage ................................................... 133 108
EZCORP, INC. 2006 INCENTIVE PLAN SCOPE AND PURPOSE OF PLAN EZCORP, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Corporation"), has adopted this 2006 Incentive Plan (the "Plan") to provide for the granting of: (a) Incentive Options (hereafter defined) to certain Key Employees (hereafter defined); (b) Nonstatutory Options (hereafter defined) to certain Key Employees, Non-Employee Directors (hereafter defined) and other Persons; (c) Restricted Stock Awards (hereafter defined) to certain Key Employees and other Persons; and (d) Stock Appreciation Rights (hereafter defined) to certain Key Employees and other Persons. The purpose of the Plan is to provide an incentive for Key Employees and directors of the Corporation or its Subsidiaries (hereafter defined) to aid the Corporation in attracting able Persons to enter the service of the Corporation and its Subsidiaries, to extend to them the opportunity to acquire a proprietary interest in the Corporation so that they will apply their best efforts for the benefit of the Corporation, and to remain in the service of the Corporation or its Subsidiaries. This Plan has been adopted by the Board of Directors and shareholders of the Corporation prior to the registration of any securities of the Corporation under the Exchange Act (hereafter defined) and accordingly amounts paid under the Plan are exempt from the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Code (hereafter defined). DEFINITIONS "Acquiring Person" means any Person other than the Corporation, any Subsidiary of the Corporation, any employee benefit plan of the Corporation or of a Subsidiary of the Corporation or of a corporation owned directly or indirectly by the shareholders of the Corporation in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of Stock of the Corporation, or any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Corporation or of a Subsidiary of the Corporation or of a corporation owned directly or indirectly by the shareholders of the Corporation in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of Stock of the Corporation. "Affiliate" means (a) any Person who is directly or indirectly the beneficial owner of at least 10% of the voting power of the Voting Securities or (b) any Person controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the Company or any Person contemplated in clause (a) of this Section 1.2. "Award" means the grant of any form of Option, Restricted Stock Award, or Stock Appreciation Right under the Plan, whether granted individually, in combination, or in tandem, to a Holder pursuant to the terms, conditions, and limitations that the Committee may establish in order to fulfill the objectives of the Plan. "Award Agreement" means the written agreement between the Corporation and a Holder evidencing the terms, conditions, and limitations of the Award granted to that Holder. "Board of Directors" means the board of directors of the Corporation. 109
"Business Day" means any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, or a day on which banking institutions in the State of Texas are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close. "Change in Control" means the event that is deemed to have occurred if: ANY ACQUIRING PERSON IS OR BECOMES THE "BENEFICIAL OWNER" (AS DEFINED IN RULE 13D-3 UNDER THE EXCHANGE ACT), DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, OF SECURITIES OF THE CORPORATION REPRESENTING FIFTY PERCENT OR MORE OF THE COMBINED VOTING POWER OF THE THEN OUTSTANDING VOTING SECURITIES OF THE CORPORATION; OR MEMBERS OF THE INCUMBENT BOARD CEASE FOR ANY REASON TO CONSTITUTE AT LEAST A MAJORITY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS; OR A PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT IS MADE OF A TENDER OR EXCHANGE OFFER BY ANY ACQUIRING PERSON FOR FIFTY PERCENT OR MORE OF THE OUTSTANDING VOTING SECURITIES OF THE CORPORATION, AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVES OR FAILS TO OPPOSE THAT TENDER OR EXCHANGE OFFER IN ITS STATEMENTS IN SCHEDULE 14D-9 UNDER THE EXCHANGE ACT; OR THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE CORPORATION APPROVE A MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OF THE CORPORATION WITH ANY OTHER CORPORATION OR PARTNERSHIP (OR, IF NO SUCH APPROVAL IS REQUIRED, THE CONSUMMATION OF SUCH A MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OF THE CORPORATION), OTHER THAN A MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION THAT WOULD RESULT IN THE VOTING SECURITIES OF THE CORPORATION OUTSTANDING IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE CONSUMMATION THEREOF CONTINUING TO REPRESENT (EITHER BY REMAINING OUTSTANDING OR BY BEING CONVERTED INTO VOTING SECURITIES OF THE SURVIVING ENTITY OR OF A PARENT OF THE SURVIVING ENTITY) A MAJORITY OF THE COMBINED VOTING POWER OF THE VOTING SECURITIES OF THE SURVIVING ENTITY (OR ITS PARENT) OUTSTANDING IMMEDIATELY AFTER THAT MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION; OR THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE CORPORATION APPROVE A PLAN OF COMPLETE LIQUIDATION OF THE CORPORATION OR AN AGREEMENT FOR THE SALE OR DISPOSITION BY THE CORPORATION OF ALL OR SUBSTANTIALLY ALL THE CORPORATION'S ASSETS (OR, IF NO SUCH APPROVAL IS REQUIRED, THE CONSUMMATION OF SUCH A LIQUIDATION, SALE, OR DISPOSITION IN ONE TRANSACTION OR SERIES OF RELATED TRANSACTIONS) OTHER THAN A LIQUIDATION, SALE, OR DISPOSITION OF ALL OR SUBSTANTIALLY ALL THE CORPORATION'S ASSETS IN ONE TRANSACTION OR A SERIES OF RELATED TRANSACTIONS TO A CORPORATION OWNED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY THE SHAREHOLDERS OF THE CORPORATION IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME PROPORTIONS AS THEIR OWNERSHIP OF STOCK OF THE CORPORATION. "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. "Committee" means the Committee, which Committee shall administer this Plan and is further described under Section 3. "Convertible Securities" means evidences of indebtedness, shares of capital stock, or other securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for shares of Stock, either immediately or upon the arrival of a specified date or the happening of a specified event. "Corporation" has the meaning given to it in the first paragraph under "Scope and Purpose of Plan." "Date of Grant" has the meaning given it in Section 4.3. "Disability" has the meaning given it in Section 10.4. "Effective Date" means September 21, 2006. "Eligible Individuals" means (a) Key Employees, (b) Non-Employee Directors only for purposes of Nonstatutory Options pursuant to Section 8, (c) any other Person that the Committee designates as 110
eligible for an Award (other than for Incentive Options) because the Person performs, or has performed, valuable services for the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries (other than services in connection with the offer or sale of securities in a capital-raising transaction) and the Committee determines that the Person has a direct and significant effect on the financial development of the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries, and (d) any transferee of an Award if the Award Agreement provides for transfer of the Award and the Award is transferred in accordance with the terms of the Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 1.15, to ensure that the requirements of the fourth sentence of Section 3.1 are satisfied, the Board of Directors may from time to time specify individuals who shall not be eligible for the grant of Awards or equity securities under any plan of the Corporation or its Affiliates. Nevertheless, the Board of Directors may at any time determine that an individual who has been so excluded from eligibility shall become eligible for grants of Awards and grants of such other equity securities under any plans of the Corporation or its Affiliates so long as that eligibility will not impair the Plan's satisfaction of the conditions of Rule 16b-3. "Employee" means any employee of the Corporation or of any of its Subsidiaries, including officers and directors of the Corporation who are also employees of the Corporation or of any of its Subsidiaries. "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any successor law, as it may be amended from time to time. "Exercise Notice" has the meaning given it in Section 5.5. "Exercise Price" has the meaning given it in Section 5.4. "Fair Market Value" means, for a particular day: IF SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES ON ANY NATIONAL OR REGIONAL SECURITIES EXCHANGE AT THE DATE OF DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE, THEN THE LAST REPORTED SALE PRICE, REGULAR WAY, ON THE COMPOSITE TAPE OF THAT EXCHANGE ON THE LAST BUSINESS DAY BEFORE THE DATE IN QUESTION OR, IF NO SUCH SALE TAKES PLACE ON THAT BUSINESS DAY, THE AVERAGE OF THE CLOSING BID AND ASKED PRICES, REGULAR WAY, IN EITHER CASE AS REPORTED IN THE PRINCIPAL CONSOLIDATED TRANSACTION REPORTING SYSTEM WITH RESPECT TO SECURITIES LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES ON THAT SECURITIES EXCHANGE; OR IF SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE NOT LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(A) AND SALES PRICES FOR SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS IN THE OVER-THE-COUNTER MARKET ARE REPORTED BY THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECURITIES DEALERS, INC. AUTOMATED QUOTATIONS, INC. ("NASDAQ") NATIONAL MARKET SYSTEM (OR SUCH OTHER SYSTEM THEN IN USE) AT THE DATE OF DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE, THEN THE LAST REPORTED SALES PRICE SO REPORTED ON THE LAST BUSINESS DAY BEFORE THE DATE IN QUESTION OR, IF NO SUCH SALE TAKES PLACE ON THAT BUSINESS DAY, THE AVERAGE OF THE HIGH BID AND LOW ASKED PRICES SO REPORTED; OR IF SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE NOT LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(A) AND SALES PRICES FOR SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE NOT REPORTED BY THE NASDAQ NATIONAL MARKET SYSTEM (OR A SIMILAR SYSTEM THEN IN USE) AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(B), AND IF BID AND ASKED PRICES FOR SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS IN THE OVER-THE-COUNTER MARKET ARE REPORTED BY NASDAQ (OR, IF NOT SO REPORTED, BY THE NATIONAL QUOTATION BUREAU INCORPORATED) AT THE DATE OF DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE, THEN THE AVERAGE OF THE HIGH BID AND LOW ASKED PRICES ON THE LAST BUSINESS DAY BEFORE THE DATE IN QUESTION; OR 111
IF SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE NOT LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(A) AND SALES PRICES OR BID AND ASKED PRICES THEREFOR ARE NOT REPORTED BY NASDAQ (OR THE NATIONAL QUOTATION BUREAU INCORPORATED) AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(B) OR SECTION 1.20(C) AT THE DATE OF DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE, THEN THE VALUE DETERMINED IN GOOD FAITH BY THE COMMITTEE, WHICH DETERMINATION SHALL BE CONCLUSIVE FOR ALL PURPOSES; OR IF SHARES OF STOCK OF THE SAME CLASS ARE LISTED OR ADMITTED TO UNLISTED TRADING PRIVILEGES AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(A) OR SALES PRICES OR BID AND ASKED PRICES THEREFOR ARE REPORTED BY NASDAQ (OR THE NATIONAL QUOTATION BUREAU INCORPORATED) AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1.20(B) OR SECTION 1.20(C) AT THE DATE OF DETERMINING THE FAIR MARKET VALUE, BUT THE VOLUME OF TRADING IS SO LOW THAT THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DETERMINES IN GOOD FAITH THAT SUCH PRICES ARE NOT INDICATIVE OF THE FAIR VALUE OF THE STOCK, THEN THE VALUE DETERMINED IN GOOD FAITH BY THE COMMITTEE, WHICH DETERMINATION SHALL BE CONCLUSIVE FOR ALL PURPOSES NOTWITHSTANDING THE PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 1.20(A), (B), OR (C). For purposes of valuing Incentive Options, the Fair Market Value of Stock shall be determined without regard to any restriction other than one that, by its terms, will never lapse. For purposes of the redemption provided for in Section 9.3(d)(v), Fair Market Value shall have the meaning and shall be determined as set forth above; provided, however, that the Committee, with respect to any such redemption, shall have the right to determine that the Fair Market Value for purposes of the redemption should be an amount measured by the value of the shares of Stock, other securities, cash, or property otherwise being received by holders of shares of Stock in connection with the Restructuring and upon that determination the Committee shall have the power and authority to determine Fair Market Value for purposes of the redemption based upon the value of such shares of stock, other securities, cash, or property. Any such determination by the Committee, as evidenced by a resolution of the Committee, shall be conclusive for all purposes. "Fiscal Year" means the fiscal year of the Corporation ending on September 30 of each year. "Holder" means an Eligible Individual to whom an outstanding Award has been granted, or, pursuant to the terms of the Award Agreement, the permitted transferee of a Holder. "Incumbent Board" means the individuals who, as of the Effective Date, constitute the Board of Directors and any other individual who becomes a director of the Corporation after that date and whose election or appointment by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Corporation's shareholders was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board. "Incentive Option" means an incentive stock option as defined under Section 422 of the Code and regulations thereunder. "Key Employee" means any Employee whom the Committee identifies as having a direct and significant effect on the performance of the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries. "Non-Employee Director" means a director of the Corporation who while a director is not an Employee. "Nonstatutory Option" means a stock option that does not satisfy the requirements of Section 422 of the Code or that is designated at the Date of Grant or in the applicable Award Agreement to be an option other than an Incentive Option. "Non-Surviving Event" means an event of Restructuring as described in either Section 1.35(b) or Section 1.35(c). "Normal Retirement" means the separation of the Holder from employment with the Corporation and its Subsidiaries with the right to receive an immediate benefit under a retirement plan approved by the 112
Corporation. If no such plan exists, Normal Retirement shall mean separation of the Holder from employment with the Corporation and its Subsidiaries at age 62 or later. "Option" means either an Incentive Option or a Nonstatutory Option, or both. "Person" means any person or entity of any nature whatsoever, specifically including (but not limited to) an individual, a firm, a company, a corporation, a partnership, a trust, or other entity. A Person, together with that Person's affiliates and associates (as "affiliate" and "associate" are defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act for purposes of this definition only), and any Persons acting as a partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, association, syndicate, or other group (whether or not formally organized), or otherwise acting jointly or in concert or in a coordinated or consciously parallel manner (whether or not pursuant to any express agreement), for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting, or disposing of securities of the Corporation with that Person, shall be deemed a single "Person." "Plan" means the Corporation's 2006 Incentive Plan, as it may be amended or restated from time to time. "Restricted Stock" means Stock that is nontransferable or subject to substantial risk of forfeiture until specific conditions are met. "Restricted Stock Award" means the grant or purchase, on the terms and conditions of Section 7 or that the Committee otherwise determines, of Restricted Stock. "Restructuring" means the occurrence of any one or more of the following: THE MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OF THE CORPORATION WITH ANY PERSON, WHETHER EFFECTED AS A SINGLE TRANSACTION OR A SERIES OF RELATED TRANSACTIONS, WITH THE CORPORATION REMAINING THE CONTINUING OR SURVIVING ENTITY OF THAT MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION AND THE STOCK REMAINING OUTSTANDING AND NOT CHANGED INTO OR EXCHANGED FOR STOCK OR OTHER SECURITIES OF ANY OTHER PERSON OR OF THE CORPORATION, CASH, OR OTHER PROPERTY; THE MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OF THE CORPORATION WITH ANY PERSON, WHETHER EFFECTED AS A SINGLE TRANSACTION OR A SERIES OF RELATED TRANSACTIONS, WITH (I) THE CORPORATION NOT BEING THE CONTINUING OR SURVIVING ENTITY OF THAT MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OR (II) THE CORPORATION REMAINING THE CONTINUING OR SURVIVING ENTITY OF THAT MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION BUT ALL OR A PART OF THE OUTSTANDING SHARES OF STOCK ARE CHANGED INTO OR EXCHANGED FOR STOCK OR OTHER SECURITIES OF ANY OTHER PERSON OR THE CORPORATION, CASH, OR OTHER PROPERTY; OR THE TRANSFER, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, OF ALL OR SUBSTANTIALLY ALL OF THE ASSETS OF THE CORPORATION (WHETHER BY SALE, MERGER, CONSOLIDATION, LIQUIDATION, OR OTHERWISE) TO ANY PERSON, WHETHER EFFECTED AS A SINGLE TRANSACTION OR A SERIES OF RELATED TRANSACTIONS. "Rule 16b-3" means Rule 16b-3 under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act as in effect on the Effective Date, or any successor rule, as it may be amended from time to time. "Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, or any successor law, as it may be amended from time to time. "Stock" means the Class A Non-voting common stock, $0.01 par value per share, of the Corporation, or any other securities that are substituted for the Stock as provided in Section 9. "Stock Appreciation Right" means the right to receive an amount equal to the excess of the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock (as determined on the date of exercise) over, as appropriate, the Exercise Price of a related Option or the Fair Market Value of the Stock on the Date of Grant of the Stock Appreciation Right. 113
"Subsidiary" means, with respect to any Person, any corporation, or other entity of which a majority of the Voting Securities is owned, directly or indirectly, by that Person. "Total Shares" has the meaning given it in Section 9.2. "Voting Securities" means the Class B Voting common stock, $0.01 par value per share, of the Corporation, together with any other securities that are entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, in the admission of general partners or in the selection of any other similar governing body. SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO THE PLAN Maximum Number of Shares. Subject to the provisions of Section 2.2 and Section 9, the aggregate number of shares of Stock that may be issued or transferred pursuant to Awards under the Plan shall be 750,000. Limit per Eligible Individual. Subject to the provisions of Section 9, no Eligible Individual may be granted Awards during any one fiscal year of more than 350,000 shares of Common Stock. Limitation of Shares. For purposes of the limitations specified in Section 2.1, the following principles shall apply: THE FOLLOWING SHALL COUNT AGAINST AND DECREASE THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 2.1: (I) SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO OUTSTANDING OPTIONS, OUTSTANDING SHARES OF RESTRICTED STOCK, AND SHARES SUBJECT TO OUTSTANDING STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS GRANTED INDEPENDENT OF OPTIONS (BASED ON A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE BY THE CORPORATION OR THE COMMITTEE OF THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SHARES FOR WHICH THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT MAY BE SETTLED (ASSUMING PAYMENT IN FULL IN SHARES OF STOCK)), AND (II) IN THE CASE OF OPTIONS GRANTED IN TANDEM WITH STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS, THE GREATER OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT WOULD BE COUNTED IF ONE OR THE OTHER ALONE WAS OUTSTANDING (DETERMINED AS DESCRIBED IN CLAUSE (I) ABOVE); THE FOLLOWING SHALL BE ADDED BACK TO THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 2.1: (I) SHARES OF STOCK WITH RESPECT TO WHICH OPTIONS, STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS GRANTED INDEPENDENT OF OPTIONS, OR RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS EXPIRE, ARE CANCELLED, OR OTHERWISE TERMINATE WITHOUT BEING EXERCISED, CONVERTED, OR VESTED, AS APPLICABLE, AND (II) IN THE CASE OF OPTIONS GRANTED IN TANDEM WITH STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS, SHARES OF STOCK AS TO WHICH AN OPTION HAS BEEN SURRENDERED IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXERCISE OF A RELATED ("TANDEM") STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT, TO THE EXTENT THE NUMBER SURRENDERED EXCEEDS THE NUMBER ISSUED UPON EXERCISE OF THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT; PROVIDED THAT, IN ANY CASE, THE HOLDER OF SUCH AWARDS DID NOT RECEIVE ANY DIVIDENDS OR OTHER BENEFITS OF OWNERSHIP WITH RESPECT TO THE UNDERLYING SHARES BEING ADDED BACK, OTHER THAN VOTING RIGHTS AND THE ACCUMULATION (BUT NOT PAYMENT) OF DIVIDENDS OF STOCK; SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS GRANTED INDEPENDENT OF OPTIONS (CALCULATED AS PROVIDED IN CLAUSE (A) ABOVE) THAT ARE EXERCISED AND PAID IN CASH SHALL BE ADDED BACK TO THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 2.1, PROVIDED THAT THE HOLDER OF SUCH STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT DID NOT RECEIVE ANY DIVIDENDS OR OTHER BENEFITS OF OWNERSHIP, OTHER THAN VOTING RIGHTS AND THE ACCUMULATION (BUT NOT PAYMENT) OF DIVIDENDS, OF THE SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT; SHARES OF STOCK THAT ARE TRANSFERRED BY A HOLDER OF AN AWARD (OR WITHHELD BY THE CORPORATION) AS FULL OR PARTIAL PAYMENT TO THE CORPORATION OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO AN OPTION OR THE CORPORATION'S OR ANY SUBSIDIARY'S TAX WITHHOLDING OBLIGATIONS SHALL NOT BE ADDED BACK TO THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 2.1 AND SHALL NOT AGAIN BE SUBJECT TO AWARDS; AND 114
IF THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK COUNTED AGAINST THE NUMBER OF SHARES THAT MAY BE ISSUED FOR PURPOSES OF SECTION 2.1 IS BASED UPON AN ESTIMATE MADE BY THE CORPORATION OR THE COMMITTEE AS PROVIDED IN CLAUSE (A) ABOVE AND THE ACTUAL NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK ISSUED PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE AWARD IS GREATER OR LESS THAN THE ESTIMATED NUMBER, THEN, UPON SUCH ISSUANCE, THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THAT MAY BE ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 2.1 SHALL BE FURTHER REDUCED BY THE EXCESS ISSUANCE OR INCREASED BY THE SHORTFALL, AS APPLICABLE. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 2.2, no Stock shall be treated as issuable under the Plan to Eligible Individuals subject to Section 16 of the Exchange Act unless such issuance is exempt from Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act pursuant to Rule 16b-3 or other applicable rules. Description of Shares. The shares to be delivered under the Plan shall be made available from (a) authorized but unissued shares of Stock, (b) Stock held in the treasury of the Corporation, or (c) previously issued shares of Stock reacquired by the Corporation, including shares purchased on the open market, in each situation as the Board of Directors or the Committee may determine from time to time at its sole option. Registration and Listing of Shares. From time to time, the Board of Directors and appropriate officers of the Corporation shall and are authorized to take whatever actions are necessary to file required documents with governmental authorities, stock exchanges, and other appropriate Persons to make shares of Stock available for issuance pursuant to the exercise of Awards. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN Committee. The Committee shall administer the Plan with respect to all Eligible Individuals who are subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act (other than members of the Committee), but shall not have the power to appoint members of the Committee or to terminate, modify, or amend the Plan. The full Board of Directors shall administer the Plan with respect to all members of the Committee. Except for references in Sections 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3, and unless the context otherwise requires, references herein to the Committee shall also refer to the Board of Directors as administrator of the Plan for members of the Committee. The Committee shall be constituted so that, as long as Stock is registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, each member of the Committee shall be a Non-Employee Director and so that the Plan in all other applicable respects will qualify transactions related to the Plan for the exemptions from Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act provided by Rule 16b-3, to the extent exemptions thereunder may be available. The number of Persons that shall constitute the Committee shall be determined from time to time by a majority of all the members of the Board of Directors and, unless that majority of the Board of Directors determines otherwise or Rule 16b-3 is amended to require otherwise, the Committee shall be composed solely of two or more Non-Employee Directors (as defined in Rule 16b-3). The Board of Directors may designate the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors to serve as the Committee hereunder. To the extent that Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act requires a system of administration that is different from this Section 3.1, this Section 3.1 shall automatically be deemed amended to the extent necessary to cause it to be in compliance with Rule 16b-3. Duration, Removal, Etc. The members of the Committee shall serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors, which shall have the power, at any time and from time to time, to remove members from or add members to the Committee. Removal from the Committee may be with or without cause. Any individual serving as a member of the Committee shall have the right to resign from membership in the Committee by at least three days' written notice to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors, and not the remaining members of the Committee, shall have the power and authority to fill all vacancies on the Committee. The Board of Directors shall promptly fill any vacancy that causes the number of members of the Committee to be below two or any other number that Rule 16b-3 may require from time to time. Meetings and Actions of Committee. The Board of Directors shall designate which Committee member shall be the chairman of the Committee. If the Board of Directors fails to designate a Committee chairman, the members of the Committee shall elect one of the Committee members as chairman, who 115
shall act as chairman until he ceases to be a member of the Committee or until the Board of Directors elects a new chairman. The Committee shall hold its meetings at those times and places as the chairman of the Committee may determine. At all meetings of the Committee, a quorum for the transaction of business shall be required and a quorum shall be deemed present if at least a majority of the members of the Committee are present. At any meeting of the Committee, each member shall have one vote. All decisions and determinations of the Committee shall be made by the majority vote or majority decision of all of its members present at a meeting at which a quorum is present; provided, however, that any decision or determination reduced to writing and signed by all of the members of the Committee shall be as fully effective as if it had been made at a meeting that was duly called and held. The Committee may make any rules and regulations for the conduct of its business that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, the Articles or Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, the bylaws of the Corporation, and Rule 16b-3 so long as it is applicable, as the Committee may deem advisable. Committee's Powers. Subject to the express provisions of the Plan and Rule 16b-3, the Committee shall have the authority, in its sole and absolute discretion, to (a) adopt, amend, and rescind administrative and interpretive rules and regulations relating to the Plan; (b) determine the Eligible Individuals to whom, and the time or times at which, Awards shall be granted; (c) determine the amount of cash and the number of shares of Stock, Stock Appreciation Rights, or Restricted Stock Awards, or any combination thereof, that shall be the subject of each Award; (d) determine the terms and provisions of each Award Agreement (which need not be identical), including provisions defining or otherwise relating to (i) the term and the period or periods and extent of exercisability of the Options, (ii) the extent to which the transferability of shares of Stock issued or transferred pursuant to any Award is restricted, (iii) the effect of termination of employment of the Holder on the Award, and (iv) the effect of approved leaves of absence (consistent with any applicable regulations of the Internal Revenue Service); (e) accelerate, pursuant to Section 9, the time of exercisability of any Option that has been granted; (f) construe the respective Award Agreements and the Plan; (g) make determinations of the Fair Market Value of the Stock pursuant to the Plan; (h) delegate its duties under the Plan to such agents as it may appoint from time to time, provided that the Committee may not delegate its duties with respect to making Awards to, or otherwise with respect to Awards granted to, Eligible Individuals who are subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act; and (i) make all other determinations, perform all other acts, and exercise all other powers and authority necessary or advisable for administering the Plan, including the delegation of those ministerial acts and responsibilities as the Committee deems appropriate. Subject to Rule 16b-3, the Committee may correct any defect, supply any omission, or reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan, in any Award, or in any Award Agreement in the manner and to the extent it deems necessary or desirable to carry the Plan into effect, and the Committee shall be the sole and final judge of that necessity or desirability. The determinations of the Committee on the matters referred to in this Section 3.4 shall be final and conclusive. ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION Eligible Individuals. Awards may be granted pursuant to the Plan only to Persons who are Eligible Individuals at the time of the grant thereof. Grant of Awards. Subject to the express provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall determine which Eligible Individuals shall be granted Awards from time to time. In making grants, the Committee shall take into consideration the contribution the potential Holder has made or may make to the success of the Corporation or its Subsidiaries and such other considerations as the Board of Directors may from time to time specify. The Committee shall also determine the number of shares subject to each of the Awards and shall authorize and cause the Corporation to grant Awards in accordance with those determinations. Date of Grant. The date on which the Committee completes all action resolving to offer an Award to an individual, including the specification of the number of shares of Stock to be subject to the Award, shall be the date on which the Award covered by an Award Agreement is granted (the "Date of Grant"), even though certain terms of the Award Agreement may not be determined at that time and even though the Award Agreement may not be executed until a later time. In no event shall a Holder gain any rights in 116
addition to those specified by the Committee in its grant, regardless of the time that may pass between the grant of the Award and the actual execution of the Award Agreement by the Corporation and the Holder. Award Agreements. Each Award granted under the Plan shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that is executed by the Corporation and the Eligible Individual to whom the Award is granted and incorporating those terms that the Committee shall deem necessary or desirable. More than one Award may be granted under the Plan to the same Eligible Individual and be outstanding concurrently. In the event an Eligible Individual is granted both one or more Incentive Options and one or more Nonstatutory Options, those grants shall be evidenced by separate Award Agreements, one for each of the Incentive Option grants and one for each of the Nonstatutory Option grants. Limitation for Incentive Options. Notwithstanding any provision contained herein to the contrary, (a) a Person shall not be eligible to receive an Incentive Option unless he is an Employee of the Corporation or a corporate Subsidiary or, to the extent permitted by law, a partnership Subsidiary, and (b) a Person shall not be eligible to receive an Incentive Option if, immediately before the time the Option is granted, that Person owns (within the meaning of Sections 422 and 424(d) of the Code) stock possessing more than ten percent of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of outstanding stock of the Corporation or a Subsidiary. Nevertheless, Section 4.5(b) shall not apply if, at the time the Incentive Option is granted, the Exercise Price of the Incentive Option is at least one hundred ten percent of Fair Market Value and the Incentive Option is not, by its terms, exercisable after the expiration of five years from the Date of Grant. No Right to Award. The adoption of the Plan shall not be deemed to give any Person a right to be granted an Award. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS All Options granted under the Plan shall comply with, and the related Award Agreements shall be deemed to include and be subject to, the terms and conditions set forth in this Section 5 (to the extent each term and condition applies to the form of Option) and also to the terms and conditions set forth in Sections 9 and 10; provided, however, that the Committee may authorize an Award Agreement that expressly contains terms and provisions that differ from the terms and provisions set forth in Sections 9.2, 9.3, and 9.4 and any of the terms and provisions of Section 10 (other than Sections 10.9 and 10.10). Number of Shares. Each Award Agreement shall state the total number of shares of Stock to which it relates. Vesting. Each Award Agreement shall state the time or periods in which, or the conditions upon satisfaction of which, the right to exercise the Option or a portion thereof shall vest and the number of shares of Stock for which the right to exercise the Option shall vest at each such time, period, or fulfillment of condition. Expiration of Options. No Option shall be exercised after the expiration of a period of ten years commencing on the Date of Grant of the Option; provided, however, that any portion of a Nonstatutory Option that pursuant to the terms of the Award Agreement under which such Nonstatutory Option is granted shall not become exercisable until the date which is the tenth anniversary of the Date of Grant of such Nonstatutory Option may be exercisable for a period of 30 days following the date on which such portion becomes exercisable. Exercise Price. Each Award Agreement shall state the exercise price per share of Stock (the "Exercise Price"); provided, however, that the exercise price per share of Stock subject to an Incentive Option shall not be less than the greater of (a) the par value per share of the Stock or (b) 100% of the Fair Market Value per share of the Stock on the Date of Grant of the Option. 117
Method of Exercise. The Option shall be exercisable only by written notice of exercise (the "Exercise Notice") delivered to the Corporation during the term of the Option, which notice shall (a) state the number of shares of Stock with respect to which the Option is being exercised, (b) be signed by the Holder of the Option or, if the Holder is dead or becomes affected by a Disability, by the Person authorized to exercise the Option pursuant to Sections 10.3 and 10.4, (c) be accompanied by the Exercise Price for all shares of Stock for which the Option is being exercised, and (d) include such other information, instruments, and documents as may be required to satisfy any other condition to exercise contained in the Award Agreement. The Option shall not be deemed to have been exercised unless all of the requirements of the preceding provisions of this Section 5.5 have been satisfied. Incentive Option Exercises. Except as otherwise provided in the Award Agreement, during the Holder's lifetime, only the Holder may exercise an Incentive Option. Medium and Time of Payment. The Exercise Price of an Option shall be payable in full upon the exercise of the Option (a) in cash or by an equivalent means acceptable to the Committee, (b) on the Committee's prior consent, with shares of Stock owned by the Holder (including Stock to be issued upon exercise of the Option, or restricted shares of Stock already held by the Holder) and having a Fair Market Value at least equal to the aggregate Exercise Price payable in connection with such exercise, or (c) by any combination of clauses (a) and (b). If the Committee elects to accept shares of Stock in payment of all or any portion of the Exercise Price, then (for purposes of payment of the Exercise Price) those shares of Stock shall be deemed to have a cash value equal to their aggregate Fair Market Value determined as of the date the certificate for such shares is delivered to the Corporation. If the Committee elects to accept shares of restricted Stock in payment of all or any portion of the Exercise Price, then an equal number of shares issued pursuant to the exercise shall be restricted on the same terms and for the restriction period remaining on the shares used for payment. Payment with Sale Proceeds. In addition, at the request of the Holder and to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Committee may (but shall not be required to) approve arrangements with a brokerage firm under which that brokerage firm, on behalf of the Holder, shall pay to the Corporation the Exercise Price of the Option being exercised and the Corporation shall promptly deliver the exercised shares of Stock to the brokerage firm. To accomplish this transaction, the Holder must deliver to the Corporation an Exercise Notice containing irrevocable instructions from the Holder to the Corporation to deliver the Stock certificates representing the shares of Stock directly to the broker. Upon receiving a copy of the Exercise Notice acknowledged by the Corporation, the broker shall sell that number of shares of Stock or loan the Holder an amount sufficient to pay the Exercise Price and any withholding obligations due. The broker then shall deliver to the Corporation that portion of the sale or loan proceeds necessary to cover the Exercise Price and any withholding obligations due. The Committee shall not approve any transaction of this nature if the Committee believes that the transaction would give rise to the Holder's liability for short-swing profits under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. Payment of Taxes. The Committee may, in its discretion, require a Holder to pay to the Corporation (or the Corporation's Subsidiary if the Holder is an employee of a Subsidiary of the Corporation), at the time of the exercise of an Option or thereafter, the amount that the Committee deems necessary to satisfy the Corporation's or its Subsidiary's current or future obligation to withhold federal, state, or local income or other taxes that the Holder incurs by exercising an Option. In connection with the exercise of an Option requiring tax withholding, a Holder may (a) direct the Corporation to withhold from the shares of Stock to be issued to the Holder the number of shares necessary to satisfy the Corporation's obligation to withhold taxes, that determination to be based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the date of exercise; (b) deliver to the Corporation sufficient shares of Stock (based upon the Fair Market Value as of the date of such delivery) to satisfy the Corporation's tax withholding obligations, which tax withholding obligation is based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the later of the date of exercise or the date as of which the shares of Stock issued in connection with such exercise become includible in the income of the Holder; or (c) deliver sufficient cash to the Corporation to satisfy its tax withholding obligations. Holders who elect to use such a Stock withholding feature must make the election at the time and in the manner that the Committee prescribes. The Committee may, at its sole option, deny any Holder's request to satisfy 118
withholding obligations through Stock instead of cash. In the event the Committee subsequently determines that the aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined above) of any shares of Stock withheld or delivered as payment of any tax withholding obligation is insufficient to discharge that tax withholding obligation, then the Holder shall pay to the Corporation, immediately upon the Committee's request, the amount of that deficiency in the form of payment requested by the Committee. Limitation on Aggregate Value of Shares That May Become First Exercisable During Any Calendar Year Under an Incentive Option. Except as is otherwise provided in Section 9.3, with respect to any Incentive Option granted under this Plan, the aggregate Fair Market Value of shares of Stock subject to an Incentive Option and the aggregate Fair Market Value of shares of Stock or stock of any Subsidiary (or a predecessor of the Corporation or a Subsidiary) subject to any other incentive stock option (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code) of the Corporation or its Subsidiaries (or a predecessor corporation of any such corporation) that first become purchasable by a Holder in any calendar year may not (with respect to that Holder) exceed $100,000, or such other amount as may be prescribed under Section 422 of the Code or applicable regulations or rulings from time to time. As used in the previous sentence, Fair Market Value shall be determined as of the Date of Grant of the Incentive Option. For purposes of this Section 5.10, "predecessor corporation" means (a) a corporation that was a party to a transaction described in Section 424(a) of the Code (or which would be so described if a substitution or assumption under that Section had been effected) with the Corporation, (b) a corporation which, at the time the new incentive stock option (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code) is granted, is a Subsidiary of the Corporation or a predecessor corporation of any such corporations, or (c) a predecessor corporation of any such corporations. Failure to comply with this provision shall not impair the enforceability or exercisability of any Option, but shall cause the excess amount of shares to be reclassified in accordance with the Code. No Fractional Shares. The Corporation shall not in any case be required to sell, issue, or deliver a fractional share with respect to any Option. In lieu of the issuance of any fractional share of Stock, the Corporation shall pay to the Holder an amount in cash equal to the same fraction (as the fractional Stock) of the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock determined as of the date of the applicable Exercise Notice. Modification, Extension, and Renewal of Options. Subject to the terms and conditions of and within the limitations of the Plan, Rule 16b-3, and any consent required by the last sentence of this Section 5.12, the Committee may (a) modify, extend, or renew outstanding Options granted under the Plan, (b) accept the surrender of Options outstanding hereunder (to the extent not previously exercised) and authorize the granting of new Options in substitution for outstanding Options (to the extent not previously exercised), and (c) amend the terms of an Incentive Option at any time to include provisions that have the effect of changing the Incentive Option to a Nonstatutory Option. Nevertheless, without the consent of the Holder, the Committee may not modify any outstanding Options so as to specify a higher or lower Exercise Price or accept the surrender of outstanding Incentive Options and authorize the granting of new Options in substitution therefor specifying a higher or lower Exercise Price. In addition, no modification of an Option granted hereunder shall, without the consent of the Holder, alter or impair any rights or obligations under any Option theretofore granted to such Holder under the Plan except, with respect to Incentive Options, as may be necessary to satisfy the requirements of Section 422 of the Code or as permitted in clause (c) of this Section 5.12. Other Agreement Provisions. The Award Agreements relating to Options shall contain such provisions in addition to those required by the Plan (including without limitation restrictions or the removal of restrictions upon the exercise of the Option and the retention or transfer of shares thereby acquired) as the Committee may deem advisable. Each Award Agreement shall identify the Option evidenced thereby as an Incentive Option or Nonstatutory Option, as the case may be, and no Award Agreement shall cover both an Incentive Option and a Nonstatutory Option. Each Award Agreement relating to an Incentive Option granted hereunder shall contain such limitations and restrictions upon the exercise of the Incentive Option to which it relates as shall be necessary for the Incentive Option to which such Award Agreement relates to constitute an incentive stock option, as defined in Section 422 of the Code. 119
STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS All Stock Appreciation Rights granted under the Plan shall comply with, and the related Award Agreements shall be deemed to include and be subject to, the terms and conditions set forth in this Section 6 (to the extent each term and condition applies to the form of Stock Appreciation Right) and also the terms and conditions set forth in Sections 9 and 10; provided, however, that the Committee may authorize an Award Agreement related to a Stock Appreciation Right that expressly contains terms and provisions that differ from the terms and provisions set forth in Sections 9.2, 9.3, and 9.4 and any of the terms and provisions of Section 10 (other than Sections 10.9 and 10.10). Form of Right. A Stock Appreciation Right may be granted to an Eligible Individual (a) in connection with an Option, either at the time of grant or at any time during the term of the Option, or (b) independent of an Option. Rights Related to Options. A Stock Appreciation Right granted pursuant to an Option shall entitle the Holder, upon exercise, to surrender that Option or any portion thereof, to the extent unexercised, and to receive payment of an amount computed pursuant to Section 6.2(b). That Option shall then cease to be exercisable to the extent surrendered. Stock Appreciation Rights granted in connection with an Option shall be subject to the terms of the Award Agreement governing the Option, which shall comply with the following provisions in addition to those applicable to Options: EXERCISE AND TRANSFER. SUBJECT TO SECTION 10.9, A STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT GRANTED IN CONNECTION WITH AN OPTION SHALL BE EXERCISABLE ONLY AT SUCH TIME OR TIMES AND ONLY TO THE EXTENT THAT THE RELATED OPTION IS EXERCISABLE AND SHALL NOT BE TRANSFERABLE EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE RELATED OPTION IS TRANSFERABLE. VALUE OF RIGHT. UPON THE EXERCISE OF A STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT RELATED TO AN OPTION, THE HOLDER SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECEIVE PAYMENT FROM THE CORPORATION OF AN AMOUNT DETERMINED BY MULTIPLYING: The difference obtained by subtracting the Exercise Price of a share of Stock specified in the related Option from the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right, by The number of shares as to which that Stock Appreciation Right has been exercised. Right Without Option. A Stock Appreciation Right granted independent of an Option shall be exercisable as determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award Agreement governing the Stock Appreciation Right, which Award Agreement shall comply with the following provisions: NUMBER OF SHARES. EACH AWARD AGREEMENT SHALL STATE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK TO WHICH THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT RELATES. VESTING. EACH AWARD AGREEMENT SHALL STATE THE TIME OR PERIODS IN WHICH THE RIGHT TO EXERCISE THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT OR A PORTION THEREOF SHALL VEST AND THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK FOR WHICH THE RIGHT TO EXERCISE THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT SHALL VEST AT EACH SUCH TIME OR PERIOD. EXPIRATION OF RIGHTS. EACH AWARD AGREEMENT SHALL STATE THE DATE AT WHICH THE STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS SHALL EXPIRE IF NOT PREVIOUSLY EXERCISED. VALUE OF RIGHT. EACH STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT SHALL ENTITLE THE HOLDER, UPON EXERCISE THEREOF, TO RECEIVE PAYMENT OF AN AMOUNT DETERMINED BY MULTIPLYING: The difference obtained by subtracting the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the Date of Grant of the Stock Appreciation Right from the Fair Market Value of a share of Stock on the date of exercise of that Stock Appreciation Right, by 120
The number of shares as to which the Stock Appreciation Right has been exercised. Limitations on Rights. Notwithstanding Sections 6.2(b) and 6.3(d), the Committee may limit the amount payable upon exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right. Any such limitation must be determined as of the Date of Grant and be noted on the Award Agreement evidencing the Holder's Stock Appreciation Right. Payment of Rights. Payment of the amount determined under Section 6.2(b) or 6.3(d) and Section 6.4 may be made, in the sole discretion of the Committee unless specifically provided otherwise in the Award Agreement, solely in whole shares of Stock valued at Fair Market Value on the date of exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right, solely in cash, or in a combination of cash and whole shares of Stock. If the Committee decides to make full payment in shares of Stock and the amount payable results in a fractional share, payment for the fractional share shall be made in cash. Payment of Taxes. The Committee may, in its discretion, require a Holder to pay to the Corporation (or the Corporation's Subsidiary if the Holder is an employee of a Subsidiary of the Corporation), at the time of the exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right or thereafter, the amount that the Committee deems necessary to satisfy the Corporation's or its Subsidiary's current or future obligation to withhold federal, state, or local income or other taxes that the Holder incurs by exercising a Stock Appreciation Right. In connection with the exercise of a Stock Appreciation Right requiring tax withholding, a Holder may (a) direct the Corporation to withhold from the shares of Stock to be issued to the Holder the number of shares necessary to satisfy the Corporation's obligation to withhold taxes, that determination to be based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the date of exercise; (b) deliver to the Corporation sufficient shares of Stock (based upon the Fair Market Value as of the date of such delivery) to satisfy the Corporation's tax withholding obligations, which tax withholding obligation is based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the later of the date of exercise or the date as of which the shares of Stock issued in connection with such exercise become includible in the income of the Holder; or (c) deliver sufficient cash to the Corporation to satisfy its tax withholding obligations. Holders who elect to have Stock withheld pursuant to (a) or (b) above must make the election at the time and in the manner that the Committee prescribes. The Committee may, in its sole discretion, deny any Holder's request to satisfy withholding obligations through Stock instead of cash. In the event the Committee subsequently determines that the aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined above) of any shares of Stock withheld or delivered as payment of any tax withholding obligation is insufficient to discharge that tax withholding obligation, then the Holder shall pay to the Corporation, immediately upon the Committee's request, the amount of that deficiency in the form of payment requested by the Commission. Other Agreement Provisions. The Award Agreements relating to Stock Appreciation Rights shall contain such provisions in addition to those required by the Plan (including without limitation restrictions or the removal of restrictions upon the exercise of the Stock Appreciation Right and the retention or transfer of shares thereby acquired) as the Committee may deem advisable. RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS All Restricted Stock Awards granted under the Plan shall comply with and be subject to, and the related Award Agreements shall be deemed to include, the terms and conditions set forth in this Section 7 and also to the terms and conditions set forth in Sections 9 and 10; provided, however, that the Committee may authorize an Award Agreement related to a Restricted Stock Award that expressly contains terms and provisions that differ from the terms and provisions set forth in Sections 9.2, 9.3, and 9.4 and the terms and provisions set forth in Section 10 (other than Sections 10.9 and 10.10). Restrictions. All shares of Restricted Stock Awards granted or sold pursuant to the Plan shall be subject to the following conditions: TRANSFERABILITY. THE SHARES MAY NOT BE SOLD, TRANSFERRED, OR OTHERWISE ALIENATED OR HYPOTHECATED UNTIL THE RESTRICTIONS ARE REMOVED OR EXPIRE. 121
CONDITIONS TO REMOVAL OF RESTRICTIONS. CONDITIONS TO REMOVAL OR EXPIRATION OF THE RESTRICTIONS MAY INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT REQUIRED TO BE LIMITED TO, CONTINUING EMPLOYMENT OR SERVICE AS A DIRECTOR, OFFICER, OR KEY EMPLOYEE OR ACHIEVEMENT OF PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES DESCRIBED IN THE AWARD AGREEMENT. LEGEND. EACH CERTIFICATE REPRESENTING RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS GRANTED PURSUANT TO THE PLAN SHALL BEAR A LEGEND MAKING APPROPRIATE REFERENCE TO THE RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED. POSSESSION. THE COMMITTEE MAY REQUIRE THE CORPORATION TO RETAIN PHYSICAL CUSTODY OF THE CERTIFICATES REPRESENTING RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS DURING THE RESTRICTION PERIOD AND MAY REQUIRE THE HOLDER OF THE AWARD TO EXECUTE STOCK POWERS IN BLANK FOR THOSE CERTIFICATES AND DELIVER THOSE STOCK POWERS TO THE CORPORATION, OR THE COMMITTEE MAY REQUIRE THE HOLDER TO ENTER INTO AN ESCROW AGREEMENT PROVIDING THAT THE CERTIFICATES REPRESENTING RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS GRANTED OR SOLD PURSUANT TO THE PLAN SHALL REMAIN IN THE PHYSICAL CUSTODY OF AN ESCROW HOLDER UNTIL ALL RESTRICTIONS ARE REMOVED OR EXPIRE. OTHER CONDITIONS. THE COMMITTEE MAY IMPOSE OTHER CONDITIONS ON ANY SHARES GRANTED OR SOLD AS RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS PURSUANT TO THE PLAN AS IT MAY DEEM ADVISABLE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION (I) RESTRICTIONS UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OR EXCHANGE ACT, (II) THE REQUIREMENTS OF ANY SECURITIES EXCHANGE UPON WHICH THE SHARES OR SHARES OF THE SAME CLASS ARE THEN LISTED, AND (III) ANY STATE SECURITIES LAW APPLICABLE TO THE SHARES. Expiration of Restrictions. The restrictions imposed in Section 7.1 on Restricted Stock Awards shall lapse as determined by the Committee and set forth in the applicable Award Agreement, and the Corporation shall promptly deliver to the Holder of the Restricted Stock Award a certificate representing the number of shares for which restrictions have lapsed, free of any restrictive legend relating to the lapsed restrictions. Each Restricted Stock Award may have a different restriction period as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. The Committee may, in its discretion, prospectively reduce the restriction period applicable to a particular Restricted Stock Award. Rights as Shareholder. Subject to the provisions of Sections 7.1 and 10.10, the Committee may, in its discretion, determine what rights, if any, the Holder shall have with respect to the Restricted Stock Awards granted or sold, including the right to vote the shares and receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect thereto. Payment of Taxes. The Committee may, in its discretion, require a Holder to pay to the Corporation (or the Corporation's Subsidiary if the Holder is an employee of a Subsidiary of the Corporation) the amount that the Committee deems necessary to satisfy the Corporation's or its Subsidiary's current or future obligation to withhold federal, state, or local income or other taxes that the Holder incurs by reason of the Restricted Stock Award. The Holder may (a) direct the Corporation to withhold from the shares of Stock to be issued to the Holder the number of shares necessary to satisfy the Corporation's obligation to withhold taxes, that determination to be based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the date on which tax withholding is to be made; (b) deliver to the Corporation sufficient shares of Stock (based upon the Fair Market Value as of the date of such delivery) to satisfy the Corporation's tax withholding obligations, which tax withholding obligation is based on the shares' Fair Market Value as of the later of the date of issuance or the date as of which the shares of Stock issued become includible in the income of the Holder; or (c) deliver sufficient cash to the Corporation to satisfy its tax withholding obligations. Holders who elect to have Stock withheld pursuant to (a) or (b) above must make the election at the time and in the manner that the Committee prescribes. The Committee may, in its sole discretion, deny any Holder's request to satisfy withholding obligations through Stock instead of cash. In the event the Committee subsequently determines that the aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined above) of any shares of Stock withheld or delivered as payment of any tax withholding obligation is insufficient to discharge that tax withholding obligation, then the Holder shall pay to the Corporation, immediately upon the Committee's request, the amount of that deficiency. 122
Performance Objectives. UNLESS AND UNTIL THE COMMITTEE PROPOSES FOR SHAREHOLDER VOTE AND THE SHAREHOLDERS APPROVE A CHANGE IN THE GENERAL PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES SET FORTH IN THIS SECTION 0, THE PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES UPON WHICH THE PAYMENT OR VESTING OF AN AWARD TO ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS THAT IS INTENDED TO QUALIFY AS PERFORMANCE-BASED COMPENSATION UNDER SECTION 162(M) OF THE CODE SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES: - Net earnings or net income (before or after taxes); - Earnings per share; - Net sales growth; - Net operating profit; - Return measures (including, but not limited to, return on assets, capital, equity, or sales); - Cash flow (including, but not limited to, operating cash flow, free cash flow, and cash flow return on capital); - Earnings before or after taxes, interest, depreciation, and/or amortization; - Gross or operating margins; - Productivity ratios; - Share price (including, but not limited to, growth measures and total shareholder return); - Expense targets; - Margins; and - Operating efficiency or efficiency ratios. ANY PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE(S) MAY BE USED TO MEASURE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE CORPORATION, SUBSIDIARY, AND/OR AFFILIATE AS A WHOLE OR ANY BUSINESS UNIT OF THE CORPORATION, SUBSIDIARY, AND/OR AFFILIATE OR ANY COMBINATION THEREOF, AS THE COMMITTEE MAY DEEM APPROPRIATE, OR ANY OF THE ABOVE PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AS COMPARED TO THE PERFORMANCE OF A GROUP OF COMPARATOR COMPANIES, OR PUBLISHED OR SPECIAL INDEX THAT THE COMMITTEE, IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION, DEEMS APPROPRIATE, OR THE CORPORATION MAY SELECT PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE 0 ABOVE AS COMPARED TO VARIOUS STOCK MARKET INDICES. THE COMMITTEE ALSO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE FOR ACCELERATED VESTING OF ANY AWARD BASED ON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF PERFORMANCE GOALS PURSUANT TO THE PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES SPECIFIED IN THIS SECTION 0. EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE. THE COMMITTEE MAY PROVIDE IN ANY SUCH AWARD THAT ANY EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE MAY INCLUDE OR EXCLUDE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING EVENTS THAT OCCURS DURING A PERFORMANCE PERIOD: (A) ASSET WRITE-DOWNS, (B) LITIGATION OR CLAIM JUDGMENTS OR SETTLEMENTS, (C) THE EFFECT OF CHANGES IN TAX LAWS, ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES, OR OTHER LAWS OR PROVISIONS AFFECTING REPORTED RESULTS, (D) ANY REORGANIZATION AND RESTRUCTURING PROGRAMS, (E) EXTRAORDINARY NONRECURRING ITEMS AS DESCRIBED IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES BOARD OPINION NO. 30 AND/OR IN MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS APPEARING IN THE CORPORATION'S ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR THE APPLICABLE YEAR, (F) ACQUISITIONS OR DIVESTITURES, AND (G) FOREIGN EXCHANGE GAINS AND LOSSES. TO THE EXTENT SUCH INCLUSIONS OR EXCLUSIONS AFFECT AWARDS TO ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS, THEY SHALL BE PRESCRIBED IN A FORM THAT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF CODE SECTION 162(M) FOR DEDUCTIBILITY. ADJUSTMENT OF PERFORMANCE-BASED COMPENSATION. AWARDS THAT ARE DESIGNED TO QUALIFY AS PERFORMANCE-BASED COMPENSATION, AND THAT ARE HELD BY ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS, MAY NOT BE ADJUSTED UPWARD. THE COMMITTEE SHALL RETAIN THE DISCRETION TO ADJUST SUCH AWARDS DOWNWARD, EITHER ON A FORMULA OR DISCRETIONARY BASIS OR ANY COMBINATION, AS THE COMMITTEE DETERMINES. COMMITTEE DISCRETION. IN THE EVENT THAT APPLICABLE TAX AND/OR SECURITIES LAWS CHANGE TO PERMIT COMMITTEE DISCRETION TO ALTER THE GOVERNING PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES WITHOUT OBTAINING SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL OF SUCH CHANGES, THE COMMITTEE SHALL HAVE SOLE DISCRETION TO MAKE SUCH CHANGES WITHOUT OBTAINING SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. IN ADDITION, IN THE EVENT THAT THE COMMITTEE DETERMINES THAT IT IS ADVISABLE TO GRANT AWARDS THAT SHALL NOT QUALIFY AS PERFORMANCE-BASED 123
COMPENSATION, THE COMMITTEE MAY MAKE SUCH GRANTS WITHOUT SATISFYING THE REQUIREMENTS OF CODE SECTION 162(M) AND MAY BASE VESTING ON PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES OTHER THAN THOSE SET FORTH IN SECTION 0. Other Agreement Provisions. The Award Agreements relating to Restricted Stock Awards shall contain such provisions in addition to those required by the Plan as the Committee may deem advisable. AWARDS TO NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS Awards to Committee Members. The full Board of Directors shall determine the number of Awards to be granted to members of the Committee, the Exercise Price and the vesting schedule thereof. Eligibility for Awards. Non-Employee Directors shall be eligible to receive any Awards under the Plan other than an Award of an Incentive Option. ADJUSTMENT PROVISIONS Adjustment of Awards and Authorized Stock. The terms of an Award and the number of shares of Stock authorized pursuant to Section 2.1 and Section 8 for issuance under the Plan shall be subject to adjustment from time to time, in accordance with the following provisions: IF AT ANY TIME, OR FROM TIME TO TIME, THE CORPORATION SHALL SUBDIVIDE AS A WHOLE (BY RECLASSIFICATION, BY A STOCK SPLIT, BY THE ISSUANCE OF A DISTRIBUTION ON STOCK PAYABLE IN STOCK, OR OTHERWISE) THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THEN OUTSTANDING INTO A GREATER NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK, THEN (I) THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK AVAILABLE FOR THE PLAN AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 2.1 SHALL BE INCREASED PROPORTIONATELY, AND THE KIND OF SHARES OR OTHER SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR THE PLAN SHALL BE APPROPRIATELY ADJUSTED, (II) THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK (OR OTHER KIND OF SHARES OR SECURITIES) THAT MAY BE ACQUIRED UNDER ANY AWARD SHALL BE INCREASED PROPORTIONATELY, AND (III) THE PRICE (INCLUDING EXERCISE PRICE) FOR EACH SHARE OF STOCK (OR OTHER KIND OF SHARES OR SECURITIES) SUBJECT TO THEN OUTSTANDING AWARDS SHALL BE REDUCED PROPORTIONATELY, WITHOUT CHANGING THE AGGREGATE PURCHASE PRICE OR VALUE AS TO WHICH OUTSTANDING AWARDS REMAIN EXERCISABLE OR SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS. IF AT ANY TIME, OR FROM TIME TO TIME, THE CORPORATION SHALL CONSOLIDATE AS A WHOLE (BY RECLASSIFICATION, REVERSE STOCK SPLIT, OR OTHERWISE) THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK THEN OUTSTANDING INTO A LESSER NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK, THEN (I) THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK AVAILABLE FOR THE PLAN AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 2.1 SHALL BE DECREASED PROPORTIONATELY, AND THE KIND OF SHARES OR OTHER SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR THE PLAN SHALL BE APPROPRIATELY ADJUSTED, (II) THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK (OR OTHER KIND OF SHARES OR SECURITIES) THAT MAY BE ACQUIRED UNDER ANY AWARD SHALL BE DECREASED PROPORTIONATELY, AND (III) THE PRICE (INCLUDING EXERCISE PRICE) FOR EACH SHARE OF STOCK (OR OTHER KIND OF SHARES OR SECURITIES) SUBJECT TO THEN OUTSTANDING AWARDS SHALL BE INCREASED PROPORTIONATELY, WITHOUT CHANGING THE AGGREGATE PURCHASE PRICE OR VALUE AS TO WHICH OUTSTANDING AWARDS REMAIN EXERCISABLE OR SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS. WHENEVER THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK SUBJECT TO OUTSTANDING AWARDS AND THE PRICE FOR EACH SHARE OF STOCK SUBJECT TO OUTSTANDING AWARDS ARE REQUIRED TO BE ADJUSTED AS PROVIDED IN THIS SECTION 9.1, THE COMMITTEE SHALL PROMPTLY PREPARE A NOTICE SETTING FORTH, IN REASONABLE DETAIL, THE EVENT REQUIRING ADJUSTMENT, THE AMOUNT OF THE ADJUSTMENT, THE METHOD BY WHICH SUCH ADJUSTMENT WAS CALCULATED, AND THE CHANGE IN PRICE AND THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF STOCK, OTHER SECURITIES, CASH, OR PROPERTY PURCHASABLE SUBJECT TO EACH AWARD AFTER GIVING EFFECT TO THE ADJUSTMENTS. THE COMMITTEE SHALL PROMPTLY GIVE EACH HOLDER SUCH A NOTICE. ADJUSTMENTS UNDER SECTIONS 9(A) AND (B) SHALL BE MADE BY THE COMMITTEE, AND ITS DETERMINATION AS TO WHAT ADJUSTMENTS SHALL BE MADE AND THE EXTENT THEREOF SHALL BE FINAL, BINDING, AND CONCLUSIVE. NO FRACTIONAL INTEREST SHALL BE ISSUED UNDER THE PLAN ON ACCOUNT OF ANY SUCH ADJUSTMENTS. 124
Changes in Control. Any Award Agreement may provide that, upon the occurrence of a Change in Control, one or more of the following apply: (a) each Holder of an Option shall immediately be granted corresponding Stock Appreciation Rights; (b) all outstanding Stock Appreciation Rights and Options shall immediately become fully vested and exercisable in full, including that portion of any Stock Appreciation Right or Option that pursuant to the terms and provisions of the applicable Award Agreement had not yet become exercisable (the total number of shares of Stock as to which a Stock Appreciation Right or Option is exercisable upon the occurrence of a Change in Control is referred to herein as the "Total Shares"); and (c) the restriction period of any Restricted Stock Award shall immediately be accelerated and the restrictions shall expire. An Award Agreement does not have to provide for any of the foregoing. If a Change in Control involves a Restructuring or occurs in connection with a series of related transactions involving a Restructuring and if such Restructuring is in the form of a Non-Surviving Event and as a part of such Restructuring shares of stock, other securities, cash, or property shall be issuable or deliverable in exchange for Stock, then the Holder of an Award shall be entitled to purchase or receive (in lieu of the Total Shares that the Holder would otherwise be entitled to purchase or receive), as appropriate for the form of Award, the number of shares of Stock, other securities, cash, or property to which that number of Total Shares would have been entitled in connection with such Restructuring (and, for Options, at an aggregate exercise price equal to the Exercise Price that would have been payable if that number of Total Shares had been purchased on the exercise of the Option immediately before the consummation of the Restructuring). Nothing in this Section 9.2 shall impose on a Holder the obligation to exercise any Award immediately before or upon the Change in Control, or cause a Holder to forfeit the right to exercise the Award during the remainder of the original term of the Award because of a Change in Control; provided, however, in connection with any Non-Surviving Event, the relevant merger agreement, purchase agreement or similar agreement pursuant to which such transaction occurs may contain provisions by which all outstanding Awards may, without the consent of the Holders thereof, be converted into the right to receive, in cash, an amount that would fairly reflect the value of such Award giving due consideration to (i) the Exercise Price of any Award in the form of an Option or the value to be given by the Holder with respect to any other Award and (ii) the consideration payable pursuant to the transaction with respect to a share of outstanding Stock. Restructuring Without Change in Control. In the event a Restructuring shall occur at any time while there is any outstanding Award hereunder and the Restructuring does not occur in connection with a Change in Control or a series of related transactions involving a Change in Control, then: NO OUTSTANDING OPTION OR STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHT SHALL IMMEDIATELY BECOME FULLY VESTED AND EXERCISABLE IN FULL MERELY BECAUSE OF THE OCCURRENCE OF THE RESTRUCTURING; NO HOLDER OF AN OPTION SHALL AUTOMATICALLY BE GRANTED CORRESPONDING STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS; THE RESTRICTION PERIOD OF ANY RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD SHALL NOT IMMEDIATELY BE ACCELERATED AND THE RESTRICTIONS EXPIRE MERELY BECAUSE OF THE OCCURRENCE OF THE RESTRUCTURING; AND AT THE OPTION OF THE COMMITTEE, THE COMMITTEE MAY (BUT SHALL NOT BE REQUIRED TO) CAUSE THE CORPORATION TO TAKE ANY ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS: - accelerate in whole or in part the time of the vesting and exercisability of any one or more of the outstanding Stock Appreciation Rights and Options so as to provide that those Stock Appreciation Rights and Options shall be exercisable before, upon, or after the consummation of the Restructuring; - grant each Holder of an Option corresponding Stock Appreciation Rights; - accelerate in whole or in part the expiration of some or all of the restrictions on any Restricted Stock Award; 125
- if the Restructuring is in the form of a Non-Surviving Event, cause the surviving entity to assume in whole or in part any one or more of the outstanding Awards upon such terms and provisions as the Committee deems desirable; or - redeem in whole or in part any one or more of the outstanding Awards (whether or not then exercisable) in consideration of a cash payment, as such payment may be reduced for tax withholding obligations as contemplated in Sections 5.9, 6.6, or 7.4, as applicable, in an amount equal to: - for Options and Stock Appreciation Rights granted in connection with Options, the excess of (1) the Fair Market Value, determined as of the date immediately preceding the consummation of the Restructuring, of the aggregate number of shares of Stock subject to the Award and as to which the Award is being redeemed over (2) the Exercise Price for that number of shares of Stock; - for Stock Appreciation Rights not granted in connection with an Option, the excess of (1) the Fair Market Value, determined as of the date immediately preceding the consummation of the Restructuring, of the aggregate number of shares of Stock subject to the Award and as to which the Award is being redeemed over (2) the Fair Market Value of that number of shares of Stock on the Date of Grant; and - for Restricted Stock Awards, the Fair Market Value, determined as of the date immediately preceding the consummation of the Restructuring, of the aggregate number of shares of Stock subject to the Award and as to which the Award is being redeemed. The Corporation shall promptly notify each Holder of any election or action taken by the Corporation under this Section 9.3. In the event of any election or action taken by the Corporation pursuant to this Section 9.3 that requires the amendment or cancellation of any Award Agreement as may be specified in any notice to the Holder thereof, that Holder shall promptly deliver that Award Agreement to the Corporation in order for that amendment or cancellation to be implemented by the Corporation and the Committee. The failure of the Holder to deliver any such Award Agreement to the Corporation as provided in the preceding sentence shall not in any manner affect the validity or enforceability of any action taken by the Corporation and the Committee under this Section 9.3, including without limitation any redemption of an Award as of the consummation of a Restructuring. Any cash payment to be made by the Corporation pursuant to this Section 9.3 in connection with the redemption of any outstanding Awards shall be paid to the Holder thereof currently with the delivery to the Corporation of the Award Agreement evidencing that Award; provided, however, that any such redemption shall be effective upon the consummation of the Restructuring notwithstanding that the payment of the redemption price may occur subsequent to the consummation. If all or any portion of an outstanding Award is to be exercised or accelerated upon or after the consummation of a Restructuring that does not occur in connection with a Change in Control and is in the form of a Non-Surviving Event, and as a part of that Restructuring shares of stock, other securities, cash, or property shall be issuable or deliverable in exchange for Stock, then the Holder of the Award shall thereafter be entitled to purchase or receive (in lieu of the number of shares of Stock that the Holder would otherwise be entitled to purchase or receive) the number of shares of Stock, other securities, cash, or property to which such number of shares of Stock would have been entitled in connection with the Restructuring (and, for Options, upon payment of the aggregate exercise price equal to the Exercise Price that would have been payable if that number of Total Shares had been purchased on the exercise of the Option immediately before the consummation of the Restructuring) and such Award shall be subject to adjustments that shall be as nearly equivalent as may be practical to the adjustments provided for in this Section 9. Notice of Restructuring. The Corporation shall attempt to keep all Holders informed with respect to any Restructuring or of any potential Restructuring to the same extent that the Corporation's shareholders are informed by the Corporation of any such event or potential event. 126
ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS Termination of Employment. If a Holder is an Eligible Individual because the Holder is an Employee and if that employment relationship is terminated for any reason other than (a) that Holder's death or (b) that Holder's Disability (hereafter defined), then any and all Awards held by such Holder in such Holder's capacity as an Employee as of the date of the termination that are not yet exercisable (or for which restrictions have not lapsed) shall become null and void as of the date of such termination; provided, however, that the portion, if any, of such Awards that are exercisable as of the date of termination shall be exercisable for a period of the lesser of (a) the remainder of the term of the Award or (b) the date which is 30 days following the date of termination. Any portion of an Award not exercised upon the expiration of the lesser of the periods specified above shall be null and void unless the Holder dies during such period, in which case the provisions of Section 10.3 shall govern. Other Loss of Eligibility - Non-Employees. If a Holder is an Eligible Individual because the Holder is serving in a capacity other than as an Employee and if that capacity is terminated for any reason other than the Holder's death or Disability, then that portion, if any, of any and all Awards held by the Holder that were granted because of that capacity which are not yet exercisable (or for which restrictions have not lapsed) as of the date of the termination shall become null and void as of the date of the termination; provided, however, that the portion, if any, of any and all Awards held by the Holder that are then exercisable as of the date of the termination shall be exercisable for a period of the lesser of (a) the remainder of the term of the Award or (b) 30 days following the date such capacity is terminated. If a Holder is an Eligible Individual because the Holder is serving in a capacity other than as an Employee and if that capacity is terminated by reason of the Holder's death or Disability, then the portion, if any, of any and all Awards held by the Holder that are not yet exercisable (or for which restrictions have not lapsed) as of the date of termination for death or Disability shall become exercisable (and the restrictions thereon, if any, shall lapse) and all such Awards held by that Holder as of the date of termination that are exercisable (either as a result of this sentence or otherwise) shall be exercisable for a period of the lesser of (a) the remainder of the term of the Award or (b) the date which is 30 days following the date of termination. Any portion of an Award not exercised upon the expiration of the periods specified in (a) or (b) of the preceding two sentences shall be null and void upon the expiration of such period, as applicable. Death. Upon the death of a Holder, the vesting of any and all Awards held by the Holder that are not then exercisable (or for which restrictions have not lapsed) shall vest pursuant to the terms of Award Agreement.. Disability. Upon the Disability of a Holder, the vesting of any and all Awards held by the Holder that are not then exercisable (or for which restrictions have not lapsed) shall vest pursuant to the terms of Award Agreement Leave of Absence. With respect to an Award, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, determine that any Holder who is on leave of absence for any reason will be considered to still be in the employ of the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries, as applicable, for any or all purposes of the Plan and the Award Agreement of such Holder. Transferability of Awards. In addition to such other terms and conditions as may be included in a particular Award Agreement, an Award requiring exercise shall be exercisable during a Holder's lifetime only by that Holder or by that Holder's guardian or legal representative. An Award requiring exercise shall not be transferable other than (i) by will or the laws of descent and distribution; or (ii) in accordance with the terms of the Award Agreement. Forfeiture and Restrictions on Transfer. Each Award Agreement may contain or otherwise provide for conditions giving rise to the forfeiture of the Stock acquired pursuant to an Award or otherwise and may also provide for those restrictions on the transferability of shares of the Stock acquired pursuant to an Award or otherwise that the Committee in its sole and absolute discretion may deem proper or advisable. 127
The conditions giving rise to forfeiture may include, but need not be limited to, the requirement that the Holder render substantial services to the Corporation or its Subsidiaries for a specified period of time. The restrictions on transferability may include, but need not be limited to, options and rights of first refusal in favor of the Corporation and shareholders of the Corporation other than the Holder of such shares of Stock who is a party to the particular Award Agreement or a subsequent Holder of the shares of Stock who is bound by that Award Agreement. Delivery of Certificates of Stock. Subject to Section 10.9, the Corporation shall promptly issue and deliver a certificate representing the number of shares of Stock as to which (a) an Option has been exercised after the Corporation receives an Exercise Notice and upon receipt by the Corporation of the Exercise Price and any tax withholding as may be requested, (b) a Stock Appreciation Right has been exercised (to the extent the Committee determines to pay such Stock Appreciation Right in shares of Stock pursuant to Section 6.5) and upon receipt by the Corporation of any tax withholding as may be requested, and (c) restrictions have lapsed with respect to a Restricted Stock Award and upon receipt by the Corporation of any tax withholding as may be requested. The value of the shares of Stock or cash transferable because of an Award under the Plan shall not bear any interest owing to the passage of time, except as may be otherwise provided in an Award Agreement. If a Holder is entitled to receive certificates representing Stock received for more than one form of Award under the Plan, separate Stock certificates shall be issued with respect to Incentive Options and Nonstatutory Options. Conditions to Delivery of Stock. Nothing herein or in any Award granted hereunder or any Award Agreement shall require the Corporation to issue any shares with respect to any Award if that issuance would, in the opinion of counsel for the Corporation, constitute a violation of the Securities Act or any similar or superseding statute or statutes, any other applicable statute or regulation, or the rules of any applicable securities exchange or securities association, as then in effect. At the time of any exercise of an Option or Stock Appreciation Right, or at the time of any grant of a Restricted Stock Award, the Corporation may, as a condition precedent to the exercise of such Option or Stock Appreciation Right or vesting of any Restricted Stock Award, require from the Holder of the Award (or in the event of his death, his legal representatives, heirs, legatees, or distributees) such written representations, if any, concerning the Holder's intentions with regard to the retention or disposition of the shares of Stock being acquired pursuant to the Award and such written covenants and agreements, if any, as to the manner of disposal of such shares as, in the opinion of counsel to the Corporation, may be necessary to ensure that any disposition by that Holder (or in the event of the Holder's death, his legal representatives, heirs, legatees, or distributees) will not involve a violation of the Securities Act or any similar or superseding statute or statutes, any other applicable state or federal statute or regulation, or any rule of any applicable securities exchange or securities association, as then in effect. 128
Certain Directors and Officers. With respect to Holders who are directors or officers of the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries and who are subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, Awards and all rights under the Plan shall be exercisable during the Holder's lifetime only by the Holder or the Holder's guardian or legal representative, but not for at least six months after grant, unless (a) the Board of Directors expressly authorizes that an Award shall be exercisable before the expiration of the six-month period or (b) the death or Disability of the Holder occurs before the expiration of the six-month period. In addition, no such officer or director shall exercise any Stock Appreciation Right or have shares of Stock withheld to pay tax withholding obligations within the first six months of the term of an Award. Any election by any such officer or director to have tax withholding obligations satisfied by the withholding of shares of Stock shall be irrevocable and shall be communicated to the Committee during the period beginning on the third day following the date of release of quarterly or annual summary statements of sales and earnings and ending on the twelfth business day following such date (the "Window Period") or by an irrevocable election communicated to the Committee at least six months before the date of exercise of the Award for which such withholding is desired. Any election by an officer or director to receive cash in full or partial settlement of a Stock Appreciation Right, as well as any exercise by such individual of a Stock Appreciation Right for cash, in either case to the extent permitted under the applicable Award Agreement or otherwise permitted by the Committee, shall be made during the Window Period or within any other periods that the Committee shall specify from time to time. Securities Act Legend. Certificates for shares of Stock, when issued, may have the following legend, or statements of other applicable restrictions (including, without limitation, restrictions required under any federal, state or foreign law), endorsed thereon and may not be immediately transferable: THE SHARES OF STOCK REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS. THE SHARES MAY NOT BE OFFERED FOR SALE, SOLD, PLEDGED, TRANSFERRED, OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF UNTIL THE HOLDER HEREOF PROVIDES EVIDENCE SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER (WHICH, IN THE DISCRETION OF THE ISSUER, MAY INCLUDE AN OPINION OF COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE ISSUER) THAT SUCH OFFER, SALE, PLEDGE, TRANSFER, OR OTHER DISPOSITION WILL NOT VIOLATE APPLICABLE FEDERAL OR STATE LAWS. This legend shall not be required for shares of Stock issued pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act. Legend for Restrictions on Transfer. Each certificate representing shares issued to a Holder pursuant to an Award granted under the Plan shall, if such shares are subject to any transfer restriction, including a right of first refusal, provided for under this Plan or an Award Agreement, bear a legend that complies with applicable law with respect to the restrictions on transferability contained in this Section 10.12, such as: THE SHARES OF STOCK REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFERABILITY IMPOSED BY THAT CERTAIN INSTRUMENT ENTITLED "EZCORP, INC. 2006 INCENTIVE PLAN" AS ADOPTED BY THE CORPORATION, AND AN AGREEMENT THEREUNDER BETWEEN THE CORPORATION AND THE INITIAL HOLDER THEREOF DATED _________________ AND MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED, SOLD, OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF EXCEPT AS THEREIN PROVIDED. THE CORPORATION WILL FURNISH A COPY OF SUCH INSTRUMENT AND AGREEMENT TO THE RECORD HOLDER OF THIS CERTIFICATE WITHOUT CHARGE ON REQUEST TO THE CORPORATION AT ITS PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS OR REGISTERED OFFICE. Rights as a Shareholder. A Holder shall have no right as a shareholder with respect to any shares covered by his Award until a certificate representing those shares is issued in his name. No adjustment shall be made for dividends (ordinary or extraordinary, whether in cash or other property) or distributions or other rights for which the record date is before the date that certificate is issued, except as contemplated by Section 9 hereof. Nevertheless, dividends, dividend equivalent rights and voting rights 129
may be extended to and made part of any Award denominated in Stock or units of Stock, subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as the Committee may establish. The Committee may also establish rules and procedures for the crediting of interest on deferred cash payments and dividend equivalents for deferred payment denominated in Stock or units of Stock. Furnish Information. Each Holder shall furnish to the Corporation all information requested by the Corporation to enable it to comply with any reporting or other requirement imposed upon the Corporation by or under any applicable statute or regulation. Obligation to Exercise. The granting of an Award hereunder shall impose no obligation upon the Holder to exercise the same or any part thereof. Adjustments to Awards. Subject to the general limitations set forth in Sections 5, 6, and 9, the Committee may make any adjustment in the Exercise Price of, the number of shares subject to, or the terms of a Nonstatutory Option or Stock Appreciation Right by canceling an outstanding Nonstatutory Option or Stock Appreciation Right and regranting a Nonstatutory Option or Stock Appreciation Right. Such adjustment shall be made by amending, substituting, or regranting an outstanding Nonstatutory Option or Stock Appreciation Right. Such amendment, substitution, or regrant may result in terms and conditions that differ from the terms and conditions of the original Nonstatutory Option or Stock Appreciation Right. The Committee may not, however, impair the rights of any Holder of previously granted Nonstatutory Options or Stock Appreciation Rights without that Holder's consent. If such action is effected by amendment, such amendment shall be deemed effective as of the Date of Grant of the amended Award. Remedies. The Corporation shall be entitled to recover from a Holder reasonable attorneys' fees incurred in connection with the enforcement of the terms and provisions of the Plan and any Award Agreement whether by an action to enforce specific performance or for damages for its breach or otherwise. Information Confidential. As partial consideration for the granting of each Award hereunder, the Holder shall agree with the Corporation that he will keep confidential all information and knowledge that he has relating to the manner and amount of his participation in the Plan; provided, however, that such information may be disclosed as required by law and may be given in confidence to the Holder's spouse, tax or financial advisors, or to a financial institution to the extent that such information is necessary to secure a loan. In the event any breach of this promise comes to the attention of the Committee, it shall take into consideration that breach in determining whether to recommend the grant of any future Award to that Holder, as a factor mitigating against the advisability of granting any such future Award to that Person. Consideration. No Option or Stock Appreciation Right shall be exercisable and no restriction on any Restricted Stock Award shall lapse with respect to a Holder unless and until the Holder thereof shall have paid cash or property to, or performed services for, the Corporation or any of its Subsidiaries that the Committee believes is equal to or greater in value than the par value of the Stock subject to such Award. DURATION AND AMENDMENT OF PLAN Duration. No Awards may be granted hereunder after the date that is ten years from the earlier of (a) the date the Plan is adopted by the Board of Directors or (b) the date the Plan is approved by the shareholders of the Corporation. Amendment. The Board of Directors may amend, modify, suspend, or terminate the Plan for the purpose of meeting or addressing any changes in legal requirements applicable to the Corporation or the Plan. Otherwise, the Plan may not be amended without the consent of the holders of a majority of the shares of Voting Securities then outstanding. In connection with any amendment of the Plan, the Board of Directors shall be authorized to incorporate such provisions as shall be necessary for amounts paid under the Plan to be exempt from Section 162(m) of the Code. 130
GENERAL Application of Funds. The proceeds received by the Corporation from the sale of shares pursuant to Awards may be used for any general corporate purpose. Right of the Corporation and Subsidiaries to Terminate Employment. Nothing contained in the Plan or in any Award Agreement shall confer upon any Holder the right to continue in the employ of the Corporation or any Subsidiary or interfere in any way with the rights of the Corporation or any Subsidiary to terminate the Holder's employment at any time. No Liability for Good Faith Determinations. Neither the members of the Board of Directors nor any member of the Committee shall be liable for any act, omission or determination taken or made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Award granted under it; and members of the Board of Directors and the Committee shall be entitled to indemnification and reimbursement by the Corporation in respect of any claim, loss, damage, or expense (including attorneys' fees, the costs of settling any suit, provided such settlement is approved by independent legal counsel selected by the Corporation, and amounts paid in satisfaction of a judgment, except a judgment based on a finding of bad faith) arising therefrom to the full extent permitted by law and under any directors' and officers' liability or similar insurance coverage that may from time to time be in effect. This right to indemnification shall be in addition to, and not a limitation on, any other indemnification rights any member of the Board of Directors or the Committee may have. Other Benefits. Participation in the Plan shall not preclude the Holder from eligibility in any other stock or stock option plan of the Corporation or any Subsidiary or any old age benefit, insurance, pension, profit sharing retirement, bonus, or other extra compensation plans that the Corporation or any Subsidiary has adopted, or may, at any time, adopt for the benefit of its Employees. Neither the adoption of the Plan by the Board of Directors nor the submission of the Plan to the shareholders of the Corporation for approval shall be construed as creating any limitations on the power of the Board of Directors to adopt such other incentive arrangements as it may deem desirable, including, without limitation, the granting of stock options and the awarding of Stock and cash otherwise than under the Plan and such arrangements may be either generally applicable or applicable only in specific cases. Exclusion From Pension and Profit-Sharing Compensation. By acceptance of an Award (regardless of form), as applicable, each Holder shall be deemed to have agreed that the Award is special incentive compensation that will not be taken into account in any manner as salary, compensation, or bonus in determining the amount of any payment under any pension, retirement, or other employee benefit plan of the Corporation or any Subsidiary, unless any pension, retirement, or other employee benefit plan of the Corporation or Subsidiary expressly provides that such Award shall be so considered for purposes of determining the amount of any payment under any such plan. In addition, each beneficiary of a deceased Holder shall be deemed to have agreed that the Award will not affect the amount of any life insurance coverage, if any, provided by the Corporation or a Subsidiary on the life of the Holder that is payable to the beneficiary under any life insurance plan covering Employees of the Corporation or any Subsidiary. Execution of Receipts and Releases. Any payment of cash or any issuance or transfer of shares of Stock to the Holder, or to his legal representative, heir, legatee, or distributee, in accordance with the provisions hereof, shall, to the extent thereof, be in full satisfaction of all claims of such Persons hereunder. The Committee may require any Holder, legal representative, heir, legatee, or distributee, as a condition precedent to such payment, to execute a release and receipt therefor in such form as it shall determine. Unfunded Plan. Insofar as it provides for Awards of cash and Stock, the Plan shall be unfunded. Although bookkeeping accounts may be established with respect to Holders who are entitled to cash, Stock, or rights thereto under the Plan, any such accounts shall be used merely as a bookkeeping convenience. The Corporation shall not be required to segregate any assets that may at any time be represented by cash, Stock, or rights thereto, nor shall the Plan be construed as providing for such segregation, nor shall the Corporation nor the Board of Directors nor the Committee be deemed to be a 131
trustee of any cash, Stock, or rights thereto to be granted under the Plan. Any liability of the Corporation to any Holder with respect to a grant of cash, Stock, or rights thereto under the Plan shall be based solely upon any contractual obligations that may be created by the Plan and any Award Agreement; no such obligation of the Corporation shall be deemed to be secured by any pledge or other encumbrance on any property of the Corporation. Neither the Corporation nor the Board of Directors nor the Committee shall be required to give any security or bond for the performance of any obligation that may be created by the Plan. No Guarantee of Interests. Neither the Committee nor the Corporation guarantees the Stock of the Corporation from loss or depreciation. Payment of Expenses. All expenses incident to the administration, termination, or protection of the Plan, including, but not limited to, legal and accounting fees, shall be paid by the Corporation or its Subsidiaries; provided, however, the Corporation or a Subsidiary may recover any and all damages, fees, expenses, and costs arising out of any actions taken by the Corporation to enforce its right to purchase Stock under this Plan. Corporation Records. Records of the Corporation or its Subsidiaries regarding the Holder's period of employment, termination of employment and the reason therefor, leaves of absence, re-employment, and other matters shall be conclusive for all purposes hereunder, unless determined by the Committee to be incorrect. Information. The Corporation and its Subsidiaries shall, upon request or as may be specifically required hereunder, furnish or cause to be furnished all of the information or documentation which is necessary or required by the Committee to perform its duties and functions under the Plan. No Liability of Corporation. The Corporation assumes no obligation or responsibility to the Holder or his legal representatives, heirs, legatees, or distributees for any act of, or failure to act on the part of, the Committee. Corporation Action. Any action required of the Corporation shall be by resolution of its Board of Directors or by a Person authorized to act by resolution of the Board of Directors. Severability. In the event that any provision of this Plan, or the application hereof to any Person or circumstance, is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect under present or future laws effective during the effective term of any such provision, such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision shall be fully severable; and this Plan shall then be construed and enforced as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had not been contained in this Plan; and the remaining provisions of this Plan shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Plan. Furthermore, in lieu of each such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision, there shall be added automatically as part of this Plan a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable. If any of the terms or provisions of this Plan conflict with the requirements of Rule 16b-3 (as those terms or provisions are applied to Eligible Individuals who are subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act), then those conflicting terms or provisions shall be deemed inoperative to the extent they so conflict with the requirements of Rule 16b-3 and, in lieu of such conflicting provision, there shall be added automatically as part of this Plan a provision as similar in terms to such conflicting provision as may be possible and not conflict with the requirements of Rule 16b-3. If any of the terms or provisions of this Plan conflict with the requirements of Section 422 of the Code (with respect to Incentive Options), then those conflicting terms or provisions shall be deemed inoperative to the extent they so conflict with the requirements of Section 422 of the Code and, in lieu of such conflicting provision, there shall be added automatically as part of this Plan a provision as similar in terms to such conflicting provision as may be possible and not conflict with the requirements of Section 422 of the Code. With respect to Incentive Options, if this Plan does not contain any provision required to be included herein under Section 422 of the Code, that provision shall be deemed to be incorporated herein with the same 132
force and effect as if that provision had been set out at length herein; provided, however, that, to the extent any Option that is intended to qualify as an Incentive Option cannot so qualify, that Option (to that extent) shall be deemed a Nonstatutory Option for all purposes of the Plan. Notices. Whenever any notice is required or permitted hereunder, such notice must be in writing and personally delivered or sent by mail. Any notice required or permitted to be delivered hereunder shall be deemed to be delivered on the date on which it is actually received by the Corporation addressed to the attention of the Corporate Secretary at the Corporation's office as specified in the applicable Award Agreement. The Corporation or a Holder may change, at any time and from time to time, by written notice to the other, the address which it or he had previously specified for receiving notices. Until changed in accordance herewith, the Corporation and each Holder shall specify as its and his address for receiving notices the address set forth in the Award Agreement pertaining to the shares to which such notice relates. Any Person entitled to notice hereunder may waive such notice. Successors. The Plan shall be binding upon the Holder, his legal representatives, heirs, legatees, and distributees, upon the Corporation, its successors and assigns and upon the Committee and its successors. Headings. The titles and headings of Sections are included for convenience of reference only and are not to be considered in construction of the provisions hereof. Governing Law. All questions arising with respect to the provisions of the Plan shall be determined by application of the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any conflict of law provisions thereof, except to the extent Texas law is preempted by federal law. Questions arising with respect to the provisions of an Award Agreement that are matters of contract law shall be governed by the laws of the state specified in the Award Agreement, except to the extent that Texas corporate law subconflicts with the contract law of such state, in which event Texas corporate law shall govern irrespective of any conflict of law laws. The obligation of the Corporation to sell and deliver Stock hereunder is subject to applicable federal, state and foreign laws and to the approval of any governmental authority required in connection with the authorization, issuance, sale, or delivery of such Stock. Word Usage. Words used in the masculine shall apply to the feminine where applicable, and wherever the context of this Plan dictates, the plural shall be read as the singular and the singular as the plural. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation, acting by and through its officers hereunto duly authorized, has executed this 2006 Incentive Plan, to be effective as of September 21, 2006. EZCORP, INC., a Delaware corporation By: ------------------------------------ Joseph L. Rotunda, President and Chief Executive Officer 133
EXHIBIT 21.1 FORM 10-K FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 SUBSIDIARIES OF EZCORP, INC. 1. EZPAWN Colorado, Inc. 2. EZPAWN Arkansas, Inc. 3. EZPAWN Oklahoma, Inc. 4. EZPAWN Tennessee, Inc. 5. EZPAWN Alabama, Inc. 6. EZMONEY Management, Inc. (2) (4) 7. EZPAWN Florida, Inc. 8. EZPAWN Indiana, Inc. 9. EZMONEY Holdings, Inc. (3) (4) (5) 10. EZPAWN Nevada, Inc. 11. EZPAWN Louisiana, Inc. 12. EZPAWN Holdings, Inc. (1) 13. Texas EZPAWN Management, Inc. (1) 14. EZCORP International, Inc. 15. Payday Loan Management, Inc. (5) 16. EZMONEY Colorado, Inc. 17. EZMONEY Wisconsin, Inc. 18. EZMONEY Utah, Inc. 19. EZMONEY Idaho, Inc. 20. EZMONEY Nebraska, Inc. 21. EZPAWN Mexico Ltd., Inc. 22. EZPAWN Mexico Holdings, Inc. 23. EZPAWN Management Mexico, SRL de CV (Ltd., Inc) 24. EZPAWN Services Mexico, SRL de CV (Holdings) (1) EZPAWN Texas, Inc. transferred all its assets to Texas EZPAWN, L.P., a Texas limited partnership, of which EZPAWN Holdings, Inc., formerly EZPAWN Texas, Inc. is the limited partner, and Texas EZPAWN Management, Inc. is the sole general partner and holds a certificate of authority to conduct business in Texas. (2) EZMONEY Management, Inc. formerly known as EZPAWN Kansas, Inc. (3) EZMONEY Holdings, Inc. formerly known as EZPAWN South Carolina, Inc. (4) EZMONEY Management, Inc. is the general partner of Texas PRA Management, L.P. and EZMONEY Holdings, Inc. is the limited partner of Texas PRA Management, L.P. (5) Payday Loan Management, Inc. is the general partner of Texas EZMONEY, L.P. and EZMONEY Holdings, Inc. is the limited partner of Texas EZMONEY, L.P.
EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 33-63082) pertaining to the 1991 EZCORP, Inc. Stock Incentive Plan, the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 33-63078) pertaining to the EZCORP, Inc. 401(k) Plan, the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-108847) pertaining to the 1998 EZCORP, Inc. Stock Incentive Plan, and the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-122116) pertaining to the EZCORP, Inc. 2003 Incentive Plan of our reports dated November 3, 2006 (except for Note R, which is dated December 11, 2006) relating to the consolidated financial statements, the financial statement schedule, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of EZCORP, Inc. and subsidiaries included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended September 30, 2006. /s/ BDO Seidman, LLP Dallas, Texas December 13, 2006
EXHIBIT 31.1 CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 I, Joseph L. Rotunda, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of EZCORP, Inc. (the "registrant"); 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. Date: December 13, 2006 /s/ Joseph L. Rotunda ---------------------------------------- Joseph L. Rotunda President, Chief Executive Officer & Director
EXHIBIT 31.2 CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 I, Dan N. Tonissen, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of EZCORP, Inc. (the "registrant"); 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. Date: December 13, 2006 /s/ Dan N. Tonissen ---------------------------------------- Dan N. Tonissen Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Director
EXHIBIT 32.1 CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 In connection with the filing of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Period Ended September 30, 2006 (the "Report") by EZCORP, Inc. ("Registrant"), the undersigned hereby certifies that: 1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and 2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Registrant. Date: December 13, 2006 /s/ Joseph L. Rotunda ---------------------------------------- Joseph L. Rotunda President, Chief Executive Officer & Director
EXHIBIT 32.2 CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 In connection with the filing of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Period Ended September 30, 2006 (the "Report") by EZCORP, Inc. ("Registrant"), the undersigned hereby certifies that: 1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and 2. The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Registrant. Date: December 13, 2006 /s/ Dan N. Tonissen ---------------------------------------- Dan N. Tonissen Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Director