Table of Contents            

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
__________________________________________________   
FORM 10-Q
__________________________________________________   
        þ
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended December 31, 2017
OR
o
 
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________ to ________

Commission File Number: 001-36347
  
image0a01a27.jpg
A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
__________________________________________________
Delaware
(State of Incorporation)
 
11-2464169
(IRS Employer I.D. No.)
2121 Rosecrans Ave. Suite 6300
El Segundo, CA 90245
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
(310) 587-1477
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
__________________________________________________            
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
Title of each class
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
NASDAQ Global Select Market
Securities registered under Section 12 (g) of the Exchange Act: None
__________________________________________    
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. þ   No. ¨
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
 
Yes. þ   No. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ¨
Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company þ
Emerging growth company ¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
  ¨
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
 
Yes. ¨   No. þ
 
 
 
As of February 5, 2018, the registrant had 7,031,450 shares of common stock outstanding, par value $0.01 per share.
 
 
 



A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
For the Quarter Ended December 31, 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
Page
PART I
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
 
 
 
 
PART II
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
 
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
Item 3.
Defaults upon Senior Securities
 
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
 
Item 5.
Other Information
 
Item 6.
Exhibits
Signatures
 
 


2

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PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Index to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
Page
 
 

3

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A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(amounts in thousands, except for share data) (unaudited)
 
December 31,
2017
 
June 30,
2017
 
 
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash
$
12,011

 
$
13,059

Receivables, net
39,418

 
39,295

Derivative assets
1,399

 
17,587

Secured loans receivable
96,971

 
91,238

 
 
 
 
Inventories:
 
 
 
   Inventories
215,074

 
149,316

   Restricted inventories
120,161

 
135,343

 
335,235

 
284,659

 
 
 
 
Income taxes receivable
663

 

Prepaid expenses and other assets
2,233

 
1,183

Total current assets
487,930

 
447,021

 
 
 
 
Plant, property and equipment, net
7,890

 
6,607

Goodwill
10,331

 
8,881

Intangibles, net
8,656

 
4,065

Long-term investments
8,146

 
7,967

Deferred tax assets - non-current
4,170

 
3,959

Total assets
$
527,123

 
$
478,500

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Lines of credit
$
214,000

 
$
180,000

Liability on borrowed metals
19,526

 
5,625

Product financing arrangements
120,161

 
135,343

Accounts payable
59,754

 
41,947

Derivative liabilities
27,420

 
34,582

Note payable (related party)

 
500

Accrued liabilities
5,263

 
4,945

Income taxes payable

 
1,418

Total current liabilities
446,124

 
404,360

Debt obligation (related party)
6,873

 

Other long-term liabilities (related party)
1,103

 
1,117

Total liabilities
454,100

 
405,477

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies

 

 
 
 
 
Stockholders’ equity:
 
 
 
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding: none as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017

 

Common Stock, par value $0.01; 40,000,000 shares authorized; 7,031,450 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017
71

 
71

Additional paid-in capital
24,264

 
23,526

Retained earnings
45,143

 
45,994

Total A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc. stockholders’ equity
69,478

 
69,591

Non-controlling interest
3,545

 
3,432

Total stockholders’ equity
73,023

 
73,023

Total liabilities, non-controlling interest and stockholders’ equity
$
527,123

 
$
478,500

See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

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A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in thousands, except for share and per share data)
(unaudited)



 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Revenues
 
$
1,680,738

 
$
2,126,361

 
$
3,844,528

 
$
3,932,014

 
Cost of sales
 
1,671,822

 
2,116,502

 
3,828,306

 
3,914,091

 
Gross profit
 
8,916

 
9,859

 
16,222

 
17,923

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
(9,349
)
 
(6,131
)
 
(16,325
)
 
(11,795
)
 
Interest income
 
3,268

 
2,959

 
6,429

 
5,818

 
Interest expense
 
(3,359
)
 
(2,447
)
 
(6,092
)
 
(4,688
)
 
Other income
 
651

 
93

 
712

 
79

 
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange
 
139

 
(3
)
 
38

 
(9
)
 
Net income before provision for income taxes
 
266

 
4,330

 
984

 
7,328

 
Provision for income taxes
 
(324
)
 
(1,590
)
 
(598
)
 
(2,649
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
(58
)
 
2,740

 
386

 
4,679

 
Add:
 Net gain (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
 
147

 
(10
)
 
113

 
(21
)
 
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
 
$
(205
)
 
$
2,750

 
$
273

 
$
4,700

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted income per share attributable to A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc.:
 
Basic
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.39

 
$
0.04

 
$
0.67

 
Diluted
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.39

 
$
0.04

 
$
0.66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends per share
 
$
0.08

 
$
0.07

 
$
0.16

 
$
0.14

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
7,031,400

 
7,023,300

 
7,031,400

 
7,027,400

 
Diluted
 
7,031,400

 
7,108,900

 
7,113,000

 
7,112,800

 

See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

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A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands, except for share data)

(unaudited)

 
 
Common Stock
(Shares)
 
Common Stock
 
Additional Paid-in Capital
 
Retained Earnings
 
Total A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc.
Stockholders' Equity
 
Non-Controlling Interest
 
Total Stockholders’ Equity
 
Balance, June 30, 2017
 
7,031,450

 
$
71

 
$
23,526

 
$
45,994

 
$
69,591

 
$
3,432

 
$
73,023

 
Net income
 

 

 

 
273

 
273

 
113

 
386

 
Share-based compensation
 

 

 
738

 

 
738

 

 
738

 
Dividends declared
 

 

 

 
(1,124
)
 
(1,124
)
 

 
(1,124
)
 
Balance, December 31, 2017
 
7,031,450

 
$
71

 
$
24,264

 
$
45,143

 
$
69,478

 
$
3,545

 
$
73,023

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements



6

Table of Contents A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(amounts in thousands)
(unaudited)




Six Months Ended
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
386

 
$
4,679

 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
 

 

 
Depreciation and amortization
 
1,312

 
707

 
Amortization of loan cost
 
595

 
378

 
Deferred income taxes
 
(211
)
 
(3,341
)
 
Interest added to principal of secured loans
 
(29
)
 
(34
)
 
Change in accrued earn-out (non-cash)
 
(529
)
 

 
Share-based compensation
 
738

 
420

 
Earnings from equity method investment
 
(179
)
 
(79
)
 
Changes in assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Receivables
 
923

 
(38,643
)
 
Secured loans
 
(289
)
 
8,442

 
Secured loans to Former Parent
 
(1,502
)
 
(1,453
)
 
Derivative assets
 
17,013

 
(5,845
)
 
Income tax receivable
 
(663
)
 
5,889

 
Inventories
 
(38,035
)
 
(45,866
)
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
(714
)
 
(147
)
 
Accounts payable
 
15,511

 
19,076

 
Derivative liabilities
 
(7,162
)
 
37,904

 
Liabilities on borrowed metals
 
4,952

 
(881
)
 
Accrued liabilities
 
(2,376
)
 
(3,567
)
 
Receivable from/payables to Former Parent
 

 
203

 
Income taxes payable
 
(1,418
)
 
5,745

 
Net cash used in operating activities
 
(11,677
)
 
(16,413
)
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures for property and equipment
 
(417
)
 
(944
)
 
Secured loans, net
 
(3,913
)
 
(17,390
)
 
Acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash
 
(9,548
)
 
(3,421
)
 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
(13,878
)
 
(21,755
)
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Product financing arrangements, net
 
(15,182
)
 
62,108

 
Dividends
 
(1,124
)
 
(984
)
 
Borrowings (repayments) under lines of credit, net
 
34,000

 
(27,000
)
 
Proceeds from issuance of debt obligation payable to related party
 
7,500

 

 
Repayments on notes payable to related party
 
(500
)
 

 
Stock award grant
 

 
172

 
Debt funding fees
 
(187
)
 

 
Net cash provided by financing activities
 
24,507

 
34,296

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
 
(1,048
)
 
(3,872
)
 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, beginning of period
 
13,059

 
17,142

 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period
 
$
12,011

 
$
13,270

 

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Table of Contents A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(amounts in thousands)
(unaudited)




Six Months Ended
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
   ( - Continued from preceding page - )
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
$
4,775

 
$
3,968

 
Income taxes
 
$
2,908

 
$
365

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Non-cash investing and financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest added to principal of secured loans
 
$
29

 
$
34

 
Debt funding fee
 
$
534

 
$

 
Contribution of assets from minority interest
 
$

 
$
3,454

 
Payable to minority interest partner for acquired business
 
$

 
$
500

 
Earn out obligation payable to minority interest partner
 
$

 
$
1,523

 
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

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A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Basis of Presentation
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc. and its wholly- and majority-owned subsidiaries ("A-Mark" or the "Company"). Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Business Segments
The Company conducts its operations in two reportable segments: (1) Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services, and (2) Direct Sales. Each of these reportable segments represents an aggregation of operating segments that meet the aggregation criteria set forth in the Segment Reporting Topic 280 of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) (See Note 18).
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
The Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment operates as a full-service precious metals trading company. Its products include gold, silver, platinum and palladium for storage and delivery primarily in the form of coins, bars, wafers and grain. The Company's trading-related services include financing, consignment, logistics, hedging and various customized financial programs.
Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Collateral Finance Corporation (“CFC”), a licensed California Finance Lender, the Company offers loans on precious metals, rare coins and other collectibles to coin dealers, collectors and investors. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, A-Mark Trading AG (“AMTAG”), the Company promotes A-Mark bullion products throughout the European continent. Transcontinental Depository Services (“TDS”), also a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, offers worldwide storage solutions to institutions, dealers and consumers.
The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, A-M Global Logistics, LLC ("Logistics"), operates the Company's logistics fulfillment center based in Las Vegas, Nevada. Logistics provides customers an array of complementary services, including packaging, shipping, handling, receiving, processing, and inventorying of precious metals and custom coins on a secure basis.
In August 2016, the Company formed AM&ST Associates, LLC ("AMST"), a joint venture with SilverTowne, L.P., referred to as SilverTowne, an Indiana-based producer of minted silver. The Company and SilverTowne, L.P. own 55% and 45%, respectively, of AMST. AMST acquired the entire minting operations (referred to as SilverTowne Mint) of SilverTowne, L.P., with the goal of providing greater product selection to our customers and greater pricing stability within the supply chain, as well as to gain increased access to silver during volatile market environments.
Direct Sales (Recent Acquisition)
The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, Goldline, Inc. ("Goldline"), is a direct retailer of precious metals to the investor community. Goldline markets its precious metal products primarily on radio, the internet and television. Goldline sells gold and silver bullion in the form of coins, and bars, as well as numismatic coins.
The Company entered into the Direct Sales segment through its acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Goldline, LLC ("Goldline, LLC" or the "Seller"), pursuant to the terms of an Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated August 14, 2017, between Goldline (then known as Goldline Acquisition Corp.) and the Seller. The transaction closed on August 28, 2017 (the "Closing Date"). On the Closing Date, the estimated purchase price for the net assets was approximately $10.0 million (the “Initial Provisional Purchase Price”), which was based on the Seller’s preliminary balance sheet dated as of July 31, 2017. The net assets acquired consisted of both intangible assets, which the parties agreed had an aggregate fair value of $6.4 million, and specified net tangible assets of the Seller, which the parties initially agreed had an estimated aggregate fair value of $3.6 million, subject to post-closing adjustment as described below. In connection with the closing, Goldline paid to the Seller an amount equal to the Initial Provisional Purchase Price less $1.5 million (the "Holdback Amount"), which amount was held back and deposited into escrow to serve as security for the Seller’s indemnification obligations under the Purchase Agreement. As of December 31, 2017, none of the Holdback Amount had been released.
Based on the post-Closing Date net tangible asset value adjustment procedures conducted to date pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Company has adjusted the estimated total purchase price for the net assets from $10.0 million to $9.5 million (the “Revised Provisional Purchase Price”). The fair value of the acquired net tangible assets as of the Closing Date is still being reviewed by the Company and the Seller and therefore the total purchase price is subject to further adjustment. Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, any amounts due back to the Company from the Seller as a result of the final determination of the fair value of the acquired net tangible assets is to be paid within three business days following such determination.

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The difference between the Initial Provisional Purchase Price and the Revised Provisional Purchase Price of $0.5 million ($10.0 million less $9.5 million) has been recorded in receivables in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2017.
Acquisition costs of $0.8 million were expensed as incurred as selling, general and administrative expenses, of which $0.6 million was recorded by the Company during the six months ended December 31, 2017.
Purchase Price Allocation
The Revised Provisional Purchase Price of $9.5 million has been allocated to the acquired net assets purchased based on their fair values as follows (shown in thousands, and liability balances shown as negative amounts):
Working capital net assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Receivables, net
 
$
1,046

 
 
 
Derivative assets
 
825

 
 
 
Inventory
 
12,541

 
 
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
856

 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
 
(2,616
)
 
 
 
Liability on borrowed metals
 
(8,949
)
 
 
 
Deferred income
 
(2,374
)
 
 
 
Subtotal
 
 
 
$
1,329

 
Property and equipment
 
 
 
1,769

 
Intangible assets (identifiable):
 
 
 
 
 
     Trade names
 
$
2,200

 
 
 
     Existing customer relationships
 
1,300

 
 
 
     Customer lead list
 
1,100

 
 
 
     Other
 
400

 
 
 
Subtotal
 
 
 
5,000

 
Goodwill:
 
 
 
 
 
Excess of cost over fair value of assets acquired
 
 
 
1,450

 
 
 
 
 
$
9,548

 
The purchase price allocation is subject to completion of the Company's analysis of the fair value of the assets acquired. The final valuation is expected to be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the closing date of the transaction. The estimates of the fair value of the contingent consideration, and the allocation of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets requires extensive use of accounting estimates and management judgment. These estimates could be material. The fair values assigned to the assets acquired are based on estimates and assumption from data currently available.
Pro Forma Information
The following unaudited pro forma information for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 assumes the acquisition of the net assets of Goldline, LLC occurred on July 1, 2016, that is, the first day of fiscal year 2017:
in thousands, except for EPS
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Pro forma revenue
 
$
1,680,735

 
$
2,156,420

 
$
3,845,686

 
$
3,998,948

 
Pro forma net (loss) income
 
$
(205
)
 
$
3,587

 
$
325

 
$
5,877

 
Pro forma basic earnings per share
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.51

 
$
0.05

 
$
0.84

 
Pro forma dilutive earnings per share
 
$
(0.03
)
 
$
0.50

 
$
0.05

 
$
0.83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The above pro forma supplemental information does not purport to be indicative of what the Company's operations would have been had these transactions occurred on July 1, 2016 and should not be considered indicative of future operating results. The Company believes the assumptions used provide a reasonable basis for reflecting the significant pro forma effects directly attributable to the acquisition of Goldline. The unaudited pro forma information accounts for amortization of acquired intangible assets (based on the preliminary purchase price allocation and an estimate of their useful lives), incremental financing costs resulting from the acquisition, elimination of prior sales and purchases between the entities, elimination of acquisition costs and an application

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of the Company's tax rate. For each of the presented periods shown above, the Company used the tax rate of 37.5% as an approximation of our historical statutory tax rate, which excludes the effects of the recently enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act legislation (see Note 12). The unaudited pro forma results do not include any anticipated cost savings or other effects of the planned integration of Goldline.
Related Agreements
In connection with the closing of the acquisition, Goldline entered into a privately placed credit facility in the amount of $7.5 million (the “Goldline Credit Facility”) with various lenders (the "Goldline Lenders"), which include some directors from the Company's Board, effective August 28, 2017 (see Note 14). Borrowings under the Goldline Credit Facility were used to finance a portion of the consideration payable under the Purchase Agreement.
On the Closing Date, the Seller and Goldline entered into a transition services agreement, pursuant to which Goldline will provide reasonable assistance to the Seller (including access to records and services of transferring employees) for a period of two years following the closing date in connection with assisting the Seller with its continuing obligations for its retained liabilities that were not assumed by Goldline.
Also on the Closing Date, the Seller and the former CEO of the Seller also agreed that, for the period commencing on the closing date until the third anniversary thereof, neither they nor any of their affiliates will, directly or indirectly own, manage, operate, join, control, participate in, invest in or otherwise provide assistance to, in any manner, any “competing business” (as defined in the Purchase Agreement).
Spinoff from Spectrum Group International, Inc.
On March 14, 2014, the Company's former parent, Spectrum Group International, Inc. ("SGI" or the "Former Parent"), effected a spinoff (the "spinoff" or the "Distribution") of the Company from SGI. As a result of the Distribution, the Company became a publicly traded company independent from SGI. On March 17, 2014, A-Mark’s shares of common stock commenced trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "AMRK."
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the financial condition, results of operations, statement of stockholder equity and cash flows of the Company, and were prepared using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of A-Mark, and its wholly owned subsidiaries, CFC, AMTAG, TDS, Logistics, Goldline and its majority owned affiliate AMST (collectively the “Company”). All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. For the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 net income (loss) equaled comprehensive income (loss) as there were no items of comprehensive income (loss).
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals) necessary to present fairly the condensed consolidated balance sheets, condensed consolidated statements of income, condensed consolidated statement of stockholders’ equity, and condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the periods presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Operating results for the six months ended December 31, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending June 30, 2018 or for any other interim period during such fiscal year. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017 (the “2017 Annual Report”), as filed with the SEC. Amounts related to disclosure of June 30, 2017 balances within these interim condensed consolidated financial statements were derived from the aforementioned audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the 2017 Annual Report.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. These estimates include, among others, determination of fair value, allowances for doubtful accounts, impairment assessments of plant, property and equipment and intangible assets, valuation allowance determination on deferred

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tax assets, contingent earn-out liabilities, and revenue recognition judgments. Significant estimates also include the Company's fair value determination with respect to its financial instruments and precious metals inventory. Actual results could materially differ from these estimates.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Cash is maintained at financial institutions and, at times, balances may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses related to these balances.
Assets that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of receivables, loans of inventory to customers, and inventory hedging transactions. Concentration of credit risk with respect to receivables is limited due to the large number of customers composing the Company's customer base, the geographic dispersion of the customers, and the collateralization of substantially all receivable balances. Based on an assessment of credit risk, the Company typically grants collateralized credit to its customers. The Company enters into inventory hedging transactions, principally utilizing metals commodity futures contracts traded on national futures exchanges or forward contracts with credit worthy financial institutions. Credit risk with respect to loans of inventory to customers is minimal. All of our commodity derivative contracts are under master netting arrangements and include both asset and liability positions. Substantially all of these transactions are secured by the underlying metals positions.
Foreign Currency
The functional currency of the Company is the United States dollar ("USD"). Also, the functional currency of the Company's wholly-owned foreign subsidiary, AMTAG, is USD, but it maintains its books of record in Euros. The Company remeasures the financial statements of AMTAG into USD. The remeasurement of local currency amounts into USD creates remeasurement gains and losses, which are included in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
To manage the effect of foreign currency exchange fluctuations, the Company utilizes foreign currency forward contracts. These derivatives generate gains and losses when they are settled and/or when they are marked to market. The change in the value in the derivative instruments is shown on the face of the condensed consolidated statements of income as unrealized net gains (losses) on foreign exchange.
Business Combinations
The Company accounts for business combinations by applying the acquisition method in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, Business Combinations. The Company evaluates each purchase transaction to determine whether the acquired assets meet the definition of a business. Transaction costs related to the acquisition of a business are expensed as incurred and excluded from the fair value of consideration transferred. The identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and non-controlling interests, if any, in an acquired entity are recognized and measured at their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of consideration transferred over the fair values of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and non-controlling interests, if any, in an acquired entity, net of fair value of any previously held interest in the acquired entity, is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets and liabilities.
Contingent consideration is classified as a liability or equity, as applicable. Contingent consideration in connection with the acquisition of a business is measured at fair value on the acquisition date, and unless classified as equity, is remeasured at fair value each reporting period thereafter until the consideration is settled, with changes in fair value included in net income.
Net cash paid to acquire a business is classified as investing activities on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flow.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, when purchased, to be cash equivalents. The Company does not have any cash equivalents as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017.
As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company has $0.5 million and $0.0 million, respectively, in a bank account that is restricted and serves as collateral against a standby letter of credit issued by the bank in favor of the landlord for our office space in Los Angeles, California (see Note 15).
Inventories
Inventories principally include bullion and bullion coins that are acquired and initially recorded at fair market value. The fair market value of the bullion and bullion coins is comprised of two components: (1) published market values attributable to the costs of the raw precious metal, and (2) a published premium paid at acquisition of the metal. The premium is attributable to the additional value of the product in its finished goods form and the market value attributable solely to the premium may be readily determined, as it is published by multiple reputable sources.

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The Company’s inventories, except for certain lower of cost or market basis products (as discussed below), are subsequently recorded at their fair market values, that is, "marked-to-market". The daily changes in the fair market value of our inventory are offset by daily changes in the fair market value of hedging derivatives that are taken with respect to our inventory positions; both the change in the fair market value of the inventory and the change in the fair market value of these derivative instruments are recorded in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
While the premium component included in inventories is marked-to-market, our commemorative coin inventory, including its premium component, is held at the lower of cost or market, because the value of commemorative coins is influenced more by supply and demand determinants than on the underlying spot price of the precious metal content of the commemorative coins. Unlike our bullion coins, the value of commemorative coins is not subject to the same level of volatility as bullion coins because our commemorative coins typically carry a substantially higher premium over the spot metal price than bullion coins. Neither the commemorative coin inventory nor the premium component of our inventory is hedged (see Note 6.)
Plant, Property and Equipment
Plant, property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using a straight line method based on the estimated useful lives of the related assets, ranging from three years to twenty-five years. Depreciation commences when the related assets are placed into service. Internal-use software development costs are capitalized during the application development stage. Internal-use software costs incurred during the preliminary project stage are expensed as incurred. Land is recorded at historical cost, and is not depreciated. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. We have no major planned maintenance activities related to our plant assets associated with our minting operations.
The Company reviews the carrying value of these assets for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. In evaluating for impairment, the carrying value of each asset is compared to the undiscounted estimated future cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. An impairment loss is recognized for the difference when the carrying value exceeds the undiscounted estimated future cash flows. The factors considered by the Company in performing this assessment include current and projected operating results, trends and prospects, the manner in which the these assets are used, and the effects of obsolescence, demand and competition, as well as other economic factors.
Definite-lived Intangible Assets
Definite-lived intangible assets consist primarily of customer relationships, non-compete agreements and employment contracts which are amortized on a straight-line basis over their economic useful lives ranging from three years to fifteen years. We review our definite-lived intangible assets for impairment under the same policy described above for plant, property, and equipment; that is, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill is recorded when the purchase price paid for an acquisition exceeds the estimated fair value of the net identified tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles (such as trade names) are not subject to amortization, but are evaluated for impairment at least annually. However, for tax purposes, goodwill acquired in connection with a taxable asset acquisition is generally deductible.
The Company evaluates its goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year (or more frequently if indicators of potential impairment exist) in accordance with the Intangibles - Goodwill and Other Topic 350 of the ASC. The Company may first qualitatively assess whether relevant events and circumstances make it more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is less than its carrying value. A qualitative assessment includes analyzing current economic indicators associated with a particular reporting unit such as changes in economic, market and industry conditions, business strategy, cost factors, and financial performance, among others, to determine if there would be a significant decline to the fair value of a particular reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment indicates a stable or improved fair value, no further testing is required.
If, based on this qualitative assessment, management determines that goodwill is more likely than not to be impaired, a two-step impairment test is performed. The first step in this test includes comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step in the test is performed, which is measurement of the impairment loss. The impairment loss is calculated by comparing the implied fair value of goodwill, as if the reporting unit has been acquired in a business combination, to its carrying amount.

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Long-Term Investments
Investments in privately-held entities that are at least 20% but less than 50% owned by the Company are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, the carrying value of the investment is adjusted for the Company’s proportionate share of the investee’s earnings or losses, with the corresponding share of earnings or losses reported in other income (expense). The carrying value of the investment is reduced by the amount of the dividends received from the equity-method investee, as they are considered a return of capital.
Investments in privately-held entities that are less than 20% owned by the Company are accounted for using the cost method, unless the Company can exercise significant influence or the investee is economically dependent upon the Company, in which case the equity method is used. Under the cost method, investments are carried at cost and other income is recorded when dividends are received from the cost-method investee.
We evaluate our long-term investments for impairment quarterly or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company did not identify any impairments.
Fair Value Measurement
The Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic 820 of the ASC ("ASC 820"), creates a single definition of fair value for financial reporting. The rules associated with ASC 820 state that valuation techniques consistent with the market approach, income approach and/or cost approach should be used to estimate fair value. Selection of a valuation technique, or multiple valuation techniques, depends on the nature of the asset or liability being valued, as well as the availability of data (see Note 3.)
Contingent Earn-out Liability
We record an estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration related to the earn-out obligation to SilverTowne LP related to the SilverTowne Mint acquisition. On a quarterly basis, we revalue the liability and record increases or decreases in the fair value as an adjustment to earnings. Changes to the contingent consideration liability can result from adjustments to the discount rate, or from changes to the estimates of future throughput activity of AMST, which are considered Level 3 inputs (see Note 3). Consequentially, the assumptions used in estimating fair value require significant judgment. The use of different assumptions and judgments could result in a materially different estimate of fair value. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 the balance of contingent liability was $0.6 million and $1.3 million respectively, and the current portion of this liability is shown as a component of accrued liabilities and the non-current portion is shown in other long-term liabilities. Below is a reconciliation of the contingent earn out liability for the six months ended December 31, 2017.
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent
 
Liabilities at fair value, based on Level 3 inputs:
 
Consideration
 
Balance at June 30, 2017
 
$
1,325

 
Revaluation adjustment
 
(529
)
 
Amount paid to SilverTowne
 
(208
)
 
Balance at December 31, 2017
 
$
588

 
 
 
 
 
Revenue Recognition
Settlement Date Accounting
Substantially all of the Company’s sales of precious metals are conducted using sales contracts that meet the definition of derivative instruments in accordance with the Derivatives and Hedging Topic 815 of the ASC ("ASC 815"). The contract underlying A-Mark’s commitment to deliver precious metals is referred to as a “fixed-price forward commodity contract” because the price of the commodity is fixed at the time the order is placed. Revenue is recognized on the settlement date, which is defined as the date on which: (1) the quantity, price and specific items being purchased have been established, (2) metals have been delivered to the customer, and (3) payment has been received or is covered by the customer’s established credit limit with the Company.
All derivative instruments are marked to market during the interval between the trade date and the settlement date, with the changes in the fair value charged to cost of sales. The Company’s hedging strategy to mitigate the market risk associated with its sales commitments is described separately below under the caption “Hedging Activities.”

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Trades Types which Products are Physically Delivered
The Company’s contracts to sell precious metals to customers are usually settled with the physical delivery of metals to the customer, although net settlement (i.e., settlement at an amount equal to the difference between the contract value and the market price of the metal on the settlement date) is permitted. Below is a summary of the Company’s major trade order types and the key factors that determine when settlement occurs and when revenue is recognized for each type:
Traditional physical trade orders -- The quantity, specific product and price are determined on the trade date. Payment or sufficient credit is verified prior to delivery of the metals on the settlement date.
Consignment trade orders -- The Company delivers the items requested by the customer prior to establishing a firm trade order with a price. Settlement occurs and revenue is recognized once the customer confirms its order (quantity, specific product and price) and remits full payment for the sale.
Provisional trade orders -- The quantity and type of metal is established at the trade date, but the price is not set. The customer commits to purchasing the metals within a specified time period, usually within one year, at the then-current market price. The Company delivers the metal to the customer after receiving the customer’s deposit, which is typically based on 110% of the prevailing current spot price. The unpriced metal is subject to a margin call if the deposit falls below 105% of the value of the unpriced metal. The purchase price is established and revenue is recognized at the time the customer notifies the Company that it desires to purchase the metal.
Margin trade orders -- The quantity, specific product and price are determined at trade date; however, the customer is allowed to finance the transaction through the Company and to defer delivery by committing to remit a partial payment (approximately 20%) of the total order price. With the remittance of the partial payment, the customer locks in the purchase price for a specified time period (usually up to two years from the trade date). Revenue on margin trade orders is recognized when the order is paid in full and delivered to the customer.
Borrowed precious metals trade orders -- The quantity and type of metal is established at the trade date, but the specific product is not yet determined. Revenue is not recognized until the customer selects the specific precious metal product it wishes to purchase, full payment is received, and the product is delivered to the customer.
Hedging Activities
The value of our inventory and our purchase and sale commitments are linked to the prevailing price of the underlying precious metal commodity. The Company seeks to minimize the effect of price changes of the underlying commodity and enters into inventory hedging transactions, principally utilizing metals commodity futures contracts traded on national futures exchanges or forward contracts with credit worthy financial institutions. The Company hedges by each commodity type (gold, silver, platinum, and palladium). All of our commodity derivative contracts are under master netting arrangements and include both asset and liability positions. Substantially all of these transactions are secured by the underlying metals positions.
Commodity forward, futures and option contracts entered into for hedging purposes are recorded at fair value on the trade date and are marked to market each period. The difference between the original contract values and the market values of these contracts are reflected as derivative assets or derivative liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets at fair value, with the corresponding unrealized gain or losses included as a component of cost of sales. When these contracts are net settled, the unrealized gains and losses are reversed and the realized gains and losses for forward contracts are recorded in revenue and cost of sales and the net realized gains and losses for futures and option contracts are recorded in cost of sales.
The Company enters into futures, forward and option contracts solely for the purpose of hedging our inventory holding risk and our liability on price protection programs, and not for speculative market purposes. The Company’s gains (losses) on derivative instruments are substantially offset by the changes in the fair market value of the underlying precious metals inventory, which is also recorded in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income (see Note 11.)
Other Sources of Revenue
In accordance with the Revenue Recognition Topic 605 of the ASC ("ASC 605") storage and logistics services revenues are recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price is fixed or determinable, no obligations remain and collection is probable.
Interest Income
In accordance with the Interest Topic 835 of the ASC ("ASC 835") following are interest income generating activities of the Company:
Secured Loans -- The Company uses the effective interest method to recognize interest income on its secured loans transactions.  The Company maintains a security interest in the precious metals and records interest income over the terms of the secured loan receivable. Recognition of interest income is suspended and the loan is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future interest income is not probable. The interest income accrual is

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resumed, and previously suspended interest income is recognized, when the loan becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are resolved. Cash receipts on impaired loans are recorded first against the principal and then to any unrecognized interest income (see Note 5.)
Margin accounts -- The Company earns a fee (interest income) under financing arrangements related to margin trade orders over the period during which customers have opted to defer making full payment on the purchase of metals.
Repurchase agreements -- Repurchase agreements represent a form of secured financing whereby the Company sets aside specific metals for a customer and charges a fee on the outstanding value of these metals. The customer is granted the option (but not the obligation) to repurchase these metals at any time during the open reacquisition period. This fee is earned over the duration of the open reacquisition period and is classified as interest income.
Spot deferred trade orders -- Spot deferred trade orders are a special type of forward delivery trade that enable customers to purchase or sell certain precious metals from/to the Company at an agreed upon price but, are allowed to delay remitting or taking delivery up to a maximum of two years from the date of trade. Even though the contact allows for physical delivery, it rarely occurs for this type trade. As a result, revenue is not recorded from these transactions, because no product is delivered to the customer. Spot deferred trades are considered a type of financing transactions, where the Company earns a fee (interest income) under spot deferred arrangements over the period in which trade is open.
Interest Expense
The Company accounts for interest expense on the following arrangements in accordance with Interest Topic 835 of the ASC ("ASC 835"):
Borrowings -- The Company incurs interest expense from its lines of credit and its debt obligations (related party) using the effective interest method (see Note 14.) Additionally, the Company amortizes capitalized loan fee costs to interest expense over the period of the loan agreement.
Loan servicing fees -- When the Company purchases loan portfolios, the Company may have the seller service the loans that were purchased. The Company incurs a fee based on total interest charged to borrowers over the period the loans are outstanding. The servicing fee incurred by the Company is charged to interest expense.
Product financing arrangements -- The Company incurs financing fees (classified as interest expense) from its product financing arrangements (also referred to as reverse-repurchase arrangements) with third party finance companies for the transfer and subsequent option to reacquire its precious metal inventory at a later date. These arrangements are accounted for as secured borrowings. During the term of this type of agreement, the third party charges a monthly fee as a percentage of the market value of the designated inventory, which the Company intends to reacquire in the future.  No revenue is generated from these trades. The Company enters this type of transaction for additional liquidity.
Other Income    
The Company's other income is derived from the Company's proportional interest in the investee's reported net income or net loss for its equity method investment and the gains or losses associated with revaluation adjustments to the contingent earn-out liability.
For the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company's proportional interest in the investee's reported net income from its equity method investment was $122,000 and $93,000, respectively; and for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $179,000 and $79,000, respectively.
For the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the net gains associated with revaluation adjustments to the contingent earn-out liability was $529,000 and zero, respectively; and for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $529,000 and zero, respectively.
Advertising
Advertising expense was $1,059,000 and $199,000, respectively, for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Advertising expense was $1,576,000 and $366,000, respectively, for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Shipping and Handling Costs
Shipping and handling costs represent costs associated with shipping product to customers, and receiving product from vendors and are included in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Shipping and handling costs incurred totaled $1,099,000 and $1,177,000, respectively, for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Shipping and handling costs incurred totaled $2,183,000 and $2,297,000, respectively, for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.

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Share-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for equity awards under the provisions of the Compensation - Stock Compensation Topic 718 of the ASC ("ASC 718"), which establishes fair value-based accounting requirements for share-based compensation to employees. ASC 718 requires the Company to recognize the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity-based compensation issued to employees as expense over the service period in the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements. The expense is adjusted for actual forfeitures of unvested awards as they occur.
Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing its condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company is required to estimate its provision for income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which it conducts business, in accordance with the Income Taxes Topic 740 of the ASC ("ASC 740"). The Company computes its annual tax rate based on the statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to it in the various jurisdictions in which it earns income. Significant judgment is required in determining the Company's annual tax rate and in evaluating uncertainty in its tax positions. The Company recognizes a benefit for tax positions that it believes will more likely than not be sustained upon examination. The amount of benefit recognized is the largest amount of benefit that the Company believes has more than a 50% probability of being realized upon settlement. The Company regularly monitors its tax positions and adjusts the amount of recognized tax benefit based on its evaluation of information that has become available since the end of its last financial reporting period. The annual tax rate includes the impact of these changes in recognized tax benefits. When adjusting the amount of recognized tax benefits, the Company does not consider information that has become available after the balance sheet date, but does disclose the effects of new information whenever those effects would be material to the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements. The difference between the amount of benefit taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting represents unrecognized tax benefits. These unrecognized tax benefits are presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheets principally within accrued liabilities.
The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes under the provisions of ASC 740. These provisions clarify the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise's financial statements, and prescribe a recognition threshold and measurement criteria for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The provisions also provide guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest, and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. The potential interest and/or penalties associated with an uncertain tax position are recorded in provision for income taxes on the condensed consolidated statements of income. Please refer to Note 12 for further discussion regarding these provisions.
Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements.  Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization include the Company's forecast of the reversal of temporary differences, future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. Failure to achieve forecasted taxable income in applicable tax jurisdictions could affect the ultimate realization of deferred tax assets and could result in an increase in the Company's effective tax rate on future earnings.
The Company records valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. Significant judgment is applied when assessing the need for valuation allowances. Areas of estimation include the Company's consideration of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Should a change in circumstances lead to a change in judgment about the utilization of deferred tax assets in future years, the Company would adjust related valuation allowances in the period that the change in circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding increase or charge to income. Changes in recognized tax benefits and changes in valuation allowances could be material to the Company's results of operations for any period, but is not expected to be material to the Company's condensed consolidated financial position.
Based on our assessment it appears more likely than not that most of the net deferred tax assets will be realized through future taxable income. Management has established a valuation allowance against the deferred taxes related to certain state net operating loss carryovers. Management believes the utilization of these losses may be limited. We will continue to assess the need for a valuation allowance for our remaining deferred tax assets in the future.
The Company's condensed consolidated financial statements recognized the current and deferred income tax consequences that result from the Company's activities during the current and preceding periods, as if the Company were a separate taxpayer prior to the date of the Distribution of the company when it was a member of the consolidated income tax return group of its Former Parent, Spectrum Group International, Inc. Following its spin-off, the Company files federal and state income tax filings that are

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separate from the Former Parent's tax filings. The Company recognizes current and deferred income taxes as a separate taxpayer for periods ending after the date of Distribution.
Earnings per Share ("EPS")
The Company computes and reports both basic EPS and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net earnings by the sum of the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive common stock equivalents outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS reflects the total potential dilution that could occur from outstanding equity awards, including unexercised stock options, utilizing the treasury stock method.
A reconciliation of shares used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per common shares for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, is presented below.
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
7,031

 
7,023

 
7,031

 
7,027

 
Effect of common stock equivalents — stock issuable under outstanding equity awards

 
86

 
82

 
86

 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
7,031

 
7,109

 
7,113

 
7,113

 
 
 
Since the Company incurred a net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2017, basic and diluted EPS were the same, as the inclusion of 856,582 potential common shares, related to outstanding stock options, in the computation of net loss per share would have been anti-dilutive.
Dividends
Dividends are recorded if and when declared by the Board of Directors. During the three months ended December 31, 2017, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.08 per share, totaling $0.16 of dividends per share for the six months ended December 31, 2017. For the three months ended December 31, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.07 per share, totaling $0.14 of dividends per share for the six months ended December 31, 2016 (see Note 16).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") or other standards setting bodies issue new accounting pronouncements. Updates to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) are communicated through issuance of an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”).
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment, (“ASU 2017-04”). The amendments of this ASU eliminate step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. The annual, or interim test is performed by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. The amendments of this ASU also eliminate the requirements for any reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to perform a qualitative assessment and, if it fails that qualitative test, to perform step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. This update is effective for the Company, on July 1, 2020 (for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years). Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment test performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. We continue to evaluate the impact of our upcoming adoption of ASU 2017-04 and do not believe that its adoption will have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows and related disclosures.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, (“ASU 2017-01”). The objective of ASU 2017-01 is to clarify the definition of a business in order to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The definition of a business affects many areas of accounting including acquisitions, disposals, goodwill and consolidation. ASU 2017-01 is effective for the Company for annual and interim reporting periods beginning July 1, 2018. We continue to evaluate the impact of our upcoming adoption of ASU 2017-01 and do not believe that its adoption will have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows and related disclosures.
In August 2016 the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments ("ASU 2016-15"). This new standard will make eight targeted changes to how cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. This update is effective for the Company on July 1, 2018 (for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years). The new standard will require adoption on a retrospective basis unless it is impracticable to apply, in which case we would be required to apply the amendments

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prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. We are currently evaluating the impact of our upcoming adoption of ASU 2016-15 on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows and related disclosures.
In February 2016, FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, (“ASU 2016-02”), Leases (Topic 842). The amendments in this update require lessees to recognize a lease liability measured on a discounted basis and a right-of-use asset for all leases at the commencement date. This update is effective for the Company, on July 1, 2019 (for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years), and is to be applied using a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. We are evaluating the new guidelines, but believe that adoption will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows and related disclosures, as the Company has minimal lease commitments.
    In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ("ASU 2014-09"), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The core principle of ASU No. 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled for those goods or services. ASU No. 2014-09 defines a five step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) (“ASU 2016-08”). The amendments in ASU 2016-08 clarify the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing (“ASU 2016-10”). The amendments in ASU 2016-10 clarify aspects relating to the identification of performance obligations and improve the operability and understandability of the licensing implementation guidance. In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12("ASU 2016-12"), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients. The amendments in ASU 2016-12 address certain issues identified on assessing collectability, presentation of sales taxes, non-cash consideration, and completed contracts and contract modifications at transition. For all of the ASUs noted above ("ASC 606"), the effective date for the Company is July 1, 2018 (for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years). Either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method is permitted.  The Company has been evaluating the impact of this new pronouncement and does not believe the implementation of ASC 606 will have a significant effect on the financial results of the Company for fiscal years beginning on and after July 1, 2018. This is because the major portion of the Company's revenues fall under the authoritative guidance of ASC 815, which are outside the scope of ASC 606.



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3. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES, AT FAIR VALUE
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017.
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair value
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair value
 
 
 
 
 
Financial assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
$
12,011

 
$
12,011

 
$
13,059

 
$
13,059

Receivables, net
 
39,418

 
39,418

 
39,295

 
39,295

Secured loans receivable
 
96,971

 
96,971

 
91,238

 
91,238

Derivative asset on open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
1,009

 
1,009

 
931

 
931

Derivative asset on option contracts
 
158

 
158

 

 

Derivative asset on futures contracts
 
179

 
179

 
1,273

 
1,273

Derivative asset on forward contracts
 
53

 
53

 
15,383

 
15,383

Income taxes receivable
 
663

 
663

 

 

Financial liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lines of credit
 
$
214,000

 
$
214,000

 
$
180,000

 
$
180,000

Debt obligation (related party)
 
6,873

 
6,873

 

 

Liability on borrowed metals
 
19,526

 
19,526

 
5,625

 
5,625

Product financing arrangements
 
120,161

 
120,161

 
135,343

 
135,343

Derivative liability on margin accounts
 
4,252

 
4,252

 
4,797

 
4,797

Derivative liability on price protection programs
 
84

 
84

 

 

Derivative liability on open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
2,561

 
2,561

 
29,785

 
29,785

Derivative liability on futures contracts
 
4,167

 
4,167

 

 

Derivative liability on forward contracts
 
16,356

 
16,356

 

 

Accounts payable
 
59,754

 
59,754

 
41,947

 
41,947

Accrued liabilities
 
5,263

 
5,263

 
4,945

 
4,945

Other long-term liabilities (related party) (1)
 
1,103

 
1,103

 
1,117

 
1,117

Income taxes payable
 

 

 
1,418

 
1,418

Note payable - related party
 

 

 
500

 
500

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1) Includes estimated contingent amounts due to SilverTowne and Goldline Lenders.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fair values of the financial instruments shown in the above table as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 represent the amounts that would be received to sell those assets or that would be paid to transfer those liabilities in an orderly transaction between market participants at that date. Those fair value measurements maximize the use of observable inputs. However, in situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date, the fair value measurement reflects the Company’s own judgments about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Those judgments are developed by the Company based on the best information available in the circumstances, including expected cash flows and appropriately risk adjusted discount rates, and available observable and unobservable inputs.
The carrying amounts of cash, secured loans receivable, receivables, income taxes receivable, accounts payable, income taxes payable, note payable, and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. The carrying amounts of derivative assets and derivative liabilities, liability on borrowed metals and product financing arrangements are marked-to-market on a daily basis to fair value. The carrying amounts of lines of credit and debt obligation approximate fair value based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities. The carrying value of other long-term liabilities represents the long-term portion of a contingent earn-out liability that is remeasured on a quarterly basis.

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Valuation Hierarchy
Topic 820 of the ASC established a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows:
Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2 - inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.
Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.
The significant assumptions used to determine the carrying value and the related fair value of the financial instruments are described below:
Inventory. Inventories, principally include bullion and bullion coins, are acquired and initially recorded at fair market value. The fair market value of the bullion and bullion coins are comprised of two components: 1) published market values attributable to the costs of the raw precious metal, and 2) a published premium paid at acquisition of the metal. The premium is attributable to the additional value of the product in its finished goods form and the market value attributable solely to the premium is readily determined, as it is published by multiple reputable sources. Except for commemorative coin inventory, which are included in inventory at the lower of cost or market, the Company’s inventories are subsequently recorded at their fair market values on a daily basis. The fair value for commodities inventory (i.e., inventory excluding commemorative coins) is determined using pricing data derived from the markets on which the underlying commodities are traded. Precious metals commodities inventory are classified in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Derivatives. Futures contracts, forward contracts, option contracts and open sale and purchase commitments are valued at their fair values, based on the difference between the quoted market price and the contractual price (i.e., intrinsic value,) and are included within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Margin and Borrowed Metals Liabilities. Margin and borrowed metals liabilities consist of the Company's commodity obligations to margin customers and suppliers, respectively. Margin liabilities and borrowed metals liabilities are carried at fair value, which is determined using quoted market pricing and data derived from the markets on which the underlying commodities are traded. Margin and borrowed metals liabilities are classified in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Product Financing Arrangements. Product financing arrangements consist of financing agreements for the transfer and subsequent re-acquisition of the sale of gold and silver at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price with a third party. Such transactions allow the Company to repurchase this inventory on the termination (repurchase) date. The third party charges monthly interest as a percentage of the market value of the outstanding obligation, which is carried at fair value. The obligation is stated at the amount required to repurchase the outstanding inventory. Fair value is determined using quoted market pricing and data derived from the markets on which the underlying commodities are traded. Product financing arrangements are classified in Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Liability on Price Protection Programs. The Company records an estimate of the fair value of the liability on price protection programs based on the difference between the contractual price at trade date and the retail price at the remeasurement date (i.e., quarter-end) based on the expected redemption rate of each program. As of December 31, 2017, the Company used the quoted market price based on the current spot rate and used an expected redemption rate of 100% for the price shield program, the most significant of the price protection programs. The use of a throughput rate of each program ignores the future price volatility that would affect the timing and rate of redemption under these programs, and, as a result, the liability on price protection programs is classified in Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.
Contingent Earn-out Liability. The Company records an estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration related to the earn-out obligation to SilverTowne LP related to the SilverTowne Mint transaction. On a quarterly basis, the liability is remeasured and increases or decreases in the fair value are recorded as an adjustment to other income on the condensed consolidated statements of income. Changes to the contingent consideration liability can result from adjustments to the discount rate, or from changes to the estimates of future throughput activity of AMST. The assumptions used in estimating fair value require significant judgment. The use of different assumptions and judgments could result in a materially different estimate of fair value. The key inputs in determining fair value of our contingent consideration obligations include the changes in the assumed timing and amounts of future throughputs (i.e., operating income, operating cost per unit, and production volume) which affects the timing and amount of future earn-out payments. Contingent earn-out liability is classified in Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.
The Company values the contingent obligation by determining the likelihood that the company has achieved the following targeted amount of performance thresholds for each annual earn-out period. Such thresholds include (1) Producing a targeted amount of silver ounces, (2) Earning a targeted amount of operating income, and (3) Generating an operating cost per ounce that

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is less than a targeted level. Each category triggers a different annual payout obligation if achieved over a 3 year period. The company re-assesses this contingent obligation each quarter based on the most current facts and market conditions. The obligation continues to remain as a liability at its original recorded value unless, based on each quarterly evaluation, it becomes evident the Company will not achieve all or part of the threshold performance targets. In such case, the obligation is adjusted to its more current estimated value.
The following tables present information about the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the measurements fall:
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
Quoted Price in
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Active Markets
 
Significant Other
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
for Identical
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
 
 
 
Instruments
 
Inputs
 
Inputs
 
 
in thousands
 
(Level 1)
 
(Level 2)
 
(Level 3)
 
Total
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventory (1)
 
$
335,106

 
$

 
$

 
$
335,106

Derivative assets — open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
1,009

 

 

 
1,009

Derivative assets — option contracts
 
158

 

 

 
158

Derivative assets — futures contracts
 
179

 

 

 
179

Derivative assets — forward contracts
 
53

 

 

 
53

Total assets, valued at fair value
 
$
336,505

 
$

 
$

 
$
336,505

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability on borrowed metals
 
$
19,526

 
$

 
$

 
$
19,526

Product financing arrangements
 
120,161

 

 

 
120,161

Derivative liabilities — price protection programs
 

 

 
84

 
84

Derivative liabilities — liability on margin accounts
 
4,252

 

 

 
4,252

Derivative liabilities — open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
2,561

 

 

 
2,561

Derivative liabilities — future contracts
 
4,167

 

 

 
4,167

Derivative liabilities — forward contracts
 
16,356

 

 

 
16,356

Contingent earn-out liability
 
$

 
$

 
$
588

 
$
588

Total liabilities, valued at fair value
 
$
167,023

 
$

 
$
672

 
$
167,695

____________________
(1) Commemorative coin inventory totaling $129,000 is held at lower of cost or market and is thus excluded from this table.

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June 30, 2017
 
 
Quoted Price in
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Active Markets
 
Significant Other
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
for Identical
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
 
 
 
Instruments
 
Inputs
 
Inputs
 
 
in thousands
 
(Level 1)
 
(Level 2)
 
(Level 3)
 
Total
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventory (1)
 
$
284,619

 
$

 
$

 
$
284,619

Derivative assets — open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
931

 

 

 
931

Derivative assets — futures contracts
 
1,273

 

 

 
1,273

Derivative assets — forward contracts
 
15,383

 

 

 
15,383

Total assets, valued at fair value
 
$
302,206

 
$

 
$

 
$
302,206

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability on borrowed metals
 
$
5,625

 
$

 
$

 
$
5,625

Product financing arrangements
 
135,343

 

 

 
135,343

Derivative liabilities — liability on margin accounts
 
4,797

 

 

 
4,797

Derivative liabilities — open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
29,785

 

 

 
29,785

Contingent earn-out liability
 

 

 
1,325

 
1,325

Total liabilities, valued at fair value
 
$
175,550

 
$

 
$
1,325

 
$
176,875

____________________
(1) Commemorative coin inventory totaling $40,000 is held at lower of cost or market and is thus excluded from this table.
There were no transfers in or out of Level 2 or 3 from other levels within the fair value hierarchy during the reported periods.
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. These assets are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments only under certain circumstances. These include cost method and equity method investments that are written down to fair value when a decline in the fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, and plant, property and equipment or goodwill that are written down to fair value when they are held for sale or determined to be impaired.
The Company uses Level 3 inputs to measure the fair value of its investments on a non-recurring basis. The Company's two investments in noncontrolled entities do not have readily determinable fair values. Quoted prices of the investments are not available, and the cost of obtaining an independent valuation appears excessive considering the carrying value of the instruments to the Company. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the carrying value of the Company's investments totaled $8.1 million and $8.0 million, respectively. During the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not record any impairments related to these investments.
The Company also uses Level 3 inputs to measure the fair value of goodwill and other intangibles on a non-recurring basis. These assets are measured at cost and are written down to fair value on the annual measurement dates or on the date of a triggering event, if impaired. As of December 31, 2017, there were no indications present that the Company's goodwill or other purchased intangibles were impaired, and therefore were not remeasured.

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4.
RECEIVABLES
Receivables consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customer trade receivables
 
$
15,638

 
$
31,949

 
Wholesale trade advances
 
13,445

 
2,457

 
Due from brokers
 
10,365

 
4,919

 
Subtotal
 
39,448

 
39,325

 
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts
 
(30
)
 
(30
)
 
Receivables, net
 
$
39,418

 
$
39,295

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customer Trade Receivables. Customer trade receivables represent short-term, non-interest bearing amounts due from precious metal sales, advances related to financing products, and other secured interests in assets of the customer. Also, the balance as of December 31, 2017 includes an estimate of the amount due from the seller of Goldline for $0.5 million for the difference between the initial provisional purchase price and the revised provisional purchase price (See Note 1).
Wholesale Trade Advances. Wholesale trade advances represent advances of various bullion products and cash advances for purchase commitments of precious metal inventory. Typically, these advances are unsecured, short-term, and non-interest bearing, and are made to wholesale metals dealers and government mints.
Due from Brokers. Due from brokers principally consists of the margin requirements held at brokers related to open futures contracts (see Note 11).
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
An allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded based on specifically identified receivables, which the Company has identified as potentially uncollectible. A summary of the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts is as follows:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Period ended:
 
Beginning Balance
 
Provision
 
Charge-off
 
Ending Balance
 
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017
 
$
30

 
$

 
$

 
$
30

 
Year Ended June 30, 2017
 
$
30

 
$

 
$

 
$
30

 
5.
SECURED LOANS RECEIVABLE
Below is a summary of the carrying value of our secured loans as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured loans originated
 
$
27,070

 
$
30,864

 
Secured loans originated - with a related party
 
1,502

 

 
 
 
28,572

 
30,864

 
Secured loans acquired
 
68,399

(1) 
60,374

(2) 
Secured loans (current and long-term)
 
$
96,971

 
$
91,238

 
_________________________________
(1)    Includes $65,000 of loan premium as of December 31, 2017.
(2)    Includes $72,000 of loan premium as of June 30, 2017.    
Secured Loans - Originated: Secured loans include short-term loans, which include a combination of on-demand lines and short term facilities, and long-term loans that are made to our customers. These loans are fully secured by the customers' assets that include bullion, numismatic and semi-numismatic material, which are typically held in safekeeping by the Company. (See Note 13, for further information regarding our secured loans made to related parties.)

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Secured Loans - Acquired: Secured loans also include short-term loans, which include a combination of on-demand lines and short term facilities that are purchased from our customer. The Company acquires a portfolio of their loan receivables at a price that approximates the aggregate carrying value of each loan in the portfolio, as determined on the effective transaction date. Each loan in the portfolio is fully secured by the borrowers' assets, which include bullion, numismatic and semi-numismatic material that are held in safekeeping by the Company. Typically, the seller of the loan portfolio retains the responsibility for the servicing and administration of the loans.
    As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, our secured loans carried weighted-average effective interest rates of 9.4% and 9.2%, respectively, and mature in periods generally ranging typically from on-demand to one year.
The secured loans that the Company generates with active customers of A-Mark are reflected as an operating activity on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. The secured loans that the Company generates with borrowers who are not active customers of A-Mark are reflected as an investing activity on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows as secured loans, net. For the secured loans that are reflected as an investing activity and have terms that allow the borrower to increase their loan balance (at the discretion of the Company) based on the excess value of their collateral compared to their aggregate principal balance of loan and are repayable on demand or in the short-term, the borrowings and repayments are netted on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
Credit Quality of Secured Loans Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses
The Company applies a systematic methodology to determine the allowance for credit losses for secured loan receivables. The secured loan receivables portfolio is comprised solely of secured loans with similar risk profiles. This similarity allows the Company to apply a standard methodology to determine the credit quality for each loan. The credit quality of each loan is generally determined by the secured material, the initial and ongoing collateral value determination and the assessment of loan to value determination. Typically, the Company's secured loan receivables within its portfolio have similar credit risk profiles and methods for assessing and monitoring credit risk.
The Company evaluates its loan portfolio in one of two classes of secured loan receivables: those loans secured by: 1) bullion and 2) numismatic and semi-numismatic items. The Company's secured loans by portfolio class, which align with management reporting, are as follows:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Bullion
 
$
64,970

 
67.0
%
 
$
61,767

 
67.7
%
 
Numismatic and semi-numismatic
 
32,001

 
33.0

 
29,471

 
32.3

 
 
 
$
96,971

 
100.0
%
 
$
91,238

 
100.0
%
 
Each of the two classes of receivables have the same initial measurement attribute and a similar method for assessing and monitoring credit risk. The methodology of assessing the credit quality of the secured loans acquired by the Company is similar to the secured loans originated by the Company; they are administered using the same internal reporting system, collateralized by precious metals or other pledged assets, for which a loan to value determination procedures are applied.
Credit Quality of Loans and Non Performing Status
Generally, interest is due and payable within 30 days. A loan is considered past due if interest is not paid in 30 days or collateral calls are not met timely. Typically, loans do not achieve the threshold of non performing status due to the fact that customers are generally put into default for any interest past due over 30 days and for unsatisfied collateral calls. When this occurs the loan collateral is typically liquidated within 90 days.
For certain secured loans, interest is billed monthly and, if not paid, is added to the outstanding loan balance. These secured loans are considered past due if their current loan-to-value ratio fails to meet established minimum equity levels, and the borrower fails to meet the collateral call required to reestablish the appropriate loan to value ratio.    
Non-performing loans have the highest probability for credit loss. The allowance for credit losses attributable to non-performing loans is based on the most probable source of repayment, which is normally the liquidation of collateral. In determining collateral value, the Company estimates the current market value of the collateral and considers credit enhancements such as additional collateral and third-party guarantees. Due to the accelerated liquidation terms of the Company's loan portfolio, all past due loans are generally liquidated within 90 days of default.

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Further information about the Company's credit quality indicators includes differentiating by categories of current loan-to-value ratios. The Company disaggregates its secured loans that are collateralized by precious metal products, as follows:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
Loan-to-value of 75% or more
 
$
52,233

 
53.9
%
 
$
60,432

 
66.2
%
Loan-to-value of less than 75%
 
44,738

 
46.1

 
30,806

 
33.8

Secured loans collateralized by precious metal products
 
$
96,971

 
100.0
%
 
$
91,238

 
100.0
%
    The Company had no loans with a loan-to-value ratio in excess of 100% at December 31, 2017. At June 30, 2017, the Company had no loans with a loan-to-value ratio in excess of 100%.
Impaired loans
A loan is considered impaired if it is probable, based on current information and events, that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan. Customer loans are reviewed for impairment and include loans that are past due, non-performing or in bankruptcy. Recognition of interest income is suspended and the loan is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future interest income is not probable. Accrual is resumed, and previously suspended interest income is recognized, when the loan becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are removed. Cash receipts on impaired loans are recorded first against the receivable and then to any unrecognized interest income.
All loans are contractually subject to margin call. As a result, loans typically do not become impaired due to the fact the Company has the ability to require margin calls which are due upon receipt. Per the terms of the loan agreement, the Company has the right to liquidate the loan collateral in the event of a default. The material is highly liquid and easily sold to pay off the loan. Such circumstances would result in a short term impairment that would typically result in full repayment of the loan and fees due to the Company.
For the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company incurred no loan impairment costs.
6.
INVENTORIES
Our inventory consists of the precious metals that the Company has physically received, and inventory held by third-parties, which, at the Company's option, it may or may not receive. Below, our inventory is summarized by classification at December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
Inventory held for sale
 
$
73,959

 
$
43,787

Repurchase arrangements with customers
 
106,434

 
92,496

Consignment arrangements with customers
 
15,026

 
7,368

Commemorative coins, held at lower of cost or market
 
129

 
40

Borrowed precious metals
 
19,526

 
5,625

Product financing arrangements, restricted
 
120,161

 
135,343

 
 
$
335,235

 
$
284,659

Inventory Held for Sale. Inventory held for sale represents precious metals, excluding commemorative coin inventory, that have been received by the Company that is not subject to repurchase or consignment arrangements with third parties. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the inventory held for sale totaled $74.0 million and $43.8 million, respectively.
Repurchase Arrangements with Customers. The Company enters into arrangements with certain customers under which A-Mark purchases precious metals products that are subject to repurchase by the customer at the fair value of the product on the repurchase date, whereby the Company retains legal title to the metals. The Company or the counterparty may typically terminate any such arrangement with 14 days' notice.  Upon termination the customer’s rights to repurchase any remaining inventory is forfeited. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, included within inventory is $106.4 million and $92.5 million, respectively, of precious metals products subject to repurchase.
Consignment Arrangements with Customers. The Company periodically loans metals to customers on a short-term consignment basis. Inventories loaned under consignment arrangements to customers as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 totaled $15.0 million and $7.4 million, respectively. Such transactions are recorded as sales and are removed from the Company's inventory at the time the customer elects to price and purchase the precious metals.

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Commemorative Coins. Our commemorative coin inventory, including its premium component, is held at the lower of cost or market, because the value of commemorative coins is influenced more by supply and demand determinants than on the underlying spot price of the precious metal content of the commemorative coins. Unlike our bullion coins, the value of commemorative coins is not subject to the same level of volatility as bullion coins because our commemorative coins typically carry a substantially higher premium over the spot metal price than bullion coins. Our commemorative coins are not hedged, and are included in inventory at the lower of cost or market and totaled $129,000 and $40,000 as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively.
Borrowed Precious Metals. Inventories include amounts borrowed from suppliers and customers that arise from various arrangements including unallocated metal positions held by customers in the Company’s inventory, as well as amounts due to suppliers for the use of consigned inventory, and shortages in unallocated metal positions held by the Company in the supplier’s inventory. Unallocated or pool metal represents an unsegregated inventory position that is due on demand, in a specified physical form, based on the total ounces of metal held in the position. Amounts under these arrangements require delivery either in the form of precious metals or cash. Corresponding obligations related to liabilities on borrowed metals are reflected on the condensed consolidated balance sheets and totaled $19.5 million and $5.6 million as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively.
Product Financing Arrangements. Inventories include amounts for obligations under product financing arrangements. The Company enters into a product financing agreement for the transfer and subsequent re-acquisition of gold and silver at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price with a third party finance company. This inventory is restricted and is held at a custodial storage facility in exchange for a financing fee, by the third party finance company. During the term of the financing, the third party finance company holds the inventory as collateral, and both parties intend for the inventory to be returned to the Company at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price on the finance arrangement termination date. These transactions do not qualify as sales and have been accounted for as financing arrangements in accordance with ASC 470-40 Product Financing Arrangements. The obligation is stated at the amount required to repurchase the outstanding inventory. Both the product financing and the underlying inventory are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value included in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Such obligations totaled $120.2 million and $135.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively.
The Company mitigates market risk of its physical inventories and open commitments through commodity hedge transactions (see Note 11.) As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the unrealized gains (losses) resulting from the difference between market value and cost of physical inventories were $5.6 million and $(4.5) million, respectively.
Premium component of inventory
The Company's inventories primarily include bullion and bullion coins and are acquired and initially recorded at fair market value. The fair market value of the bullion and bullion coins is comprised of two components: (1) published market values attributable to the cost of the raw precious metal, and (2) a published premium paid at acquisition of the metal. The premium is attributable to the additional value of the product in its finished goods form and the market value attributable solely to the premium is readily determined, as it is published by multiple reputable sources. The premium is included in the cost of the inventory, paid at acquisition, and is a component of the total fair market value of the inventory. The precious metal component of the inventory may be hedged through the use of precious metal commodity positions, while the premium component of our inventory is not a commodity that may be hedged.
The Company’s inventories are subsequently recorded at their fair market values, that is, "marked-to-market", except for our commemorative coin inventory. The daily changes in the fair market value of our inventory are offset by daily changes in fair market value of hedging derivatives that are taken with respects to our inventory positions; both the change in the fair market value of the inventory and the change in the fair market value of these derivative instruments are recorded in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
The premium component, at market value, included in the inventories as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 totaled $4.4 million and $4.1 million, respectively.

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7. PLANT, PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Plant, property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Office furniture, and fixtures
 
$
2,010

 
$
1,638

 
Computer equipment
 
727

 
462

 
Computer software
 
3,533

 
2,386

 
Plant equipment
 
2,048

 
1,979

 
Building
 
315

 
315

 
Leasehold improvements
 
2,789

 
2,571

 
Total depreciable assets
 
11,422

 
9,351

 
Less: accumulated depreciation
 
(4,789
)
 
(3,885
)
 
Property and equipment not placed in service
 
1,221

 
1,105

 
Land
 
36

 
36

 
Plant, property and equipment, net
 
$
7,890

 
$
6,607

 
Depreciation expense for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $530,000 and $275,000, respectively. Depreciation expense for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $902,000 and $500,000, respectively.
Pursuant to the Company's acquisition of Goldline (see Note 1) the Company recorded approximately $1.8 million of additional property and equipment, which represents the approximate fair value of these assets.
8. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
In connection with the acquisition of A-Mark by Former Parent on July 1, 2005, the accounts of the Company were adjusted using the push down basis of accounting to recognize the allocation of the consideration paid to the respective net assets acquired. In accordance with the push down basis of accounting, the Company's net assets were adjusted to their fair values as of the date of the acquisition based upon an independent appraisal.
Due to the Company's business combination with AMST that closed on August 31, 2016, the Company recorded an additional $2.5 million and $4.3 million of identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, respectively; these values were based upon an independent appraisal. The Company’s investment in AMST has resulted in synergies between the acquired minting operation and the Company’s established distribution network by providing a more steady and reliable fabricated source of silver during times of market volatility. The Company considers that much of the acquired goodwill relates to the “ ready state” of AMST's established minting operation with existing quality processes, procedures and ability to scale production to meet market needs. 
Due to the Company's acquisition of Goldline (see Note 1), the Company recorded $5.0 million and $1.5 million of additional identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, respectively; these values were based upon an independent appraisal and represents their fair values at the acquisition date. The Company’s investment in Goldline is expected to create synergies between Goldline's direct marketing operation and the Company’s established distribution network, secured storage and lending operations that is expected to lead to increased product margin spreads, lower distribution and storage costs for Goldline, and a larger customer base for the Company's secured lending operations.

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The carrying value of goodwill and other purchased intangibles as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 is as described below:
dollar amounts in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017

Estimated Useful Lives (Years)
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Book Value
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Net Book Value
Identifiable intangible Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Existing customer relationships
5 - 15
 
8,848

 
(5,012
)
 
3,836

 
6,447

 
(4,636
)
 
1,811

Non-compete and other
3 - 5
 
2,300

 
(2,022
)
 
278

 
2,000

 
(2,000
)
 

Employment agreement
3
 
295

 
(207
)
 
88

 
195

 
(195
)
 

Intangibles subject to amortization
 
 
11,443

 
(7,241
)
 
4,202

 
8,642

 
(6,831
)
 
1,811

Trade Name
Indefinite
 
$
4,454

 
$

 
$
4,454

 
$
2,254

 
$

 
$
2,254

 
 
 
$
15,897

 
$
(7,241
)
 
$
8,656

 
$
10,896

 
$
(6,831
)
 
$
4,065

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
Indefinite
 
$
10,331

 
$

 
$
10,331

 
$
8,881

 
$

 
$
8,881

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Company's intangible assets are subject to amortization except for trade-names, which have an indefinite life. Intangible assets subject to amortization are amortized using the straight-line method over their useful lives, which are estimated to be three to fifteen years. Amortization expense related to the Company's intangible assets for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $253,000 and $111,000, respectively. Amortization expense related to the Company's intangible assets for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $410,000 and $207,000, respectively. For the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not identify any impairments related to the Company's goodwill or intangible assets.
Estimated amortization expense on an annual basis for the succeeding five years is as follows (in thousands):
Fiscal Year Ending June 30,
 
Amount
2018 (6 months remaining)
 
$
506

2019
 
1,012

2020
 
1,012

2021
 
621

2022
 
571

Thereafter
 
480

Total
 
$
4,202


9.
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS
The Company has two investments in privately-held entities, both of which are online precious metals retailers and customers of the Company. The Company has exclusive supplier agreements with each entity, for which these customers have agreed to purchase all bullion products required for their businesses exclusively from A-Mark, subject to certain limitations. The Company also provides fulfillment services to both of these customers. The following table shows the carrying value of the Company's investments in the privately held companies, categorized by type of investment:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Equity method investment
 
$
7,646

 
$
7,467

 
Cost method investment
 
500

 
500

 
 
 
$
8,146

 
$
7,967

 
Equity Method Investment
The Company applies the equity method of accounting for its investment in which it has aggregate ownership interest of 20.6%. Under the equity method of accounting, the carrying value of the investment is adjusted for the Company's proportional share of the investee's reported earnings or losses with the corresponding share of earnings or losses reported in other income (expense) on the condensed consolidated statements of income. The Company's proportionate share of the investee’s net income

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totaled $122,000 and $93,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The Company's proportionate share of the investee’s net income totaled $179,000 and $79,000 for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Cost Method Investment
The Company applies the cost method to its investment in which its ownership percentage, based on the number of fully dilutive common shares outstanding, was 2.5% as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the aggregate carrying balance of this investment was $0.5 million.

10.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
Accounts payable consists of the following:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Trade payables to customers
 
$
830

 
$
277

 
Advances from customers
 
54,496

 
36,382

 
Liability on deferred revenue
 
2,805

 
3,777

 
Other accounts payable
 
1,623

 
1,511

 
 
 
$
59,754

 
$
41,947

 
11.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING TRANSACTIONS
The Company is exposed to market risk, such as changes in commodity prices, and foreign exchange rates. To manage the volatility relating to these exposures, the Company enters into various derivative products, such as forwards and futures contracts. By policy, the Company historically has entered into derivative financial instruments for the purpose of hedging substantially all of Company's market exposure to precious metals prices, and not for speculative purposes.
Commodity Price Management
The Company manages the value of certain assets and liabilities of its trading business, including trading inventories, by employing a variety of hedging strategies. These strategies include the management of exposure to changes in the market values of the Company's trading inventories through the purchase and sale of a variety of derivative instruments, such as, forwards and futures contracts.
The Company enters into derivative transactions solely for the purpose of hedging its inventory subject to price risk, and not for speculative market purposes. Due to the nature of the Company's global hedging strategy, the Company is not using hedge accounting as defined under Topic 815 of the ASC, whereby the gains or losses would be deferred and included as a component of other comprehensive income. Instead, gains or losses resulting from the Company's futures and forward contracts and open sale and purchase commitments are reported as unrealized gains or losses on commodity contracts (a component of cost of sales) with the related unrealized amounts due from or to counterparties reflected as a derivative asset or liability on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
The Company's trading inventories and purchase and sale transactions consist primarily of precious metal products. The value of these assets and liabilities are marked-to-market daily to the prevailing closing price of the underlying precious metals. The Company's precious metals inventories are subject to market value changes, created by changes in the underlying commodity market prices. Inventories purchased or borrowed by the Company are subject to price changes. Inventories borrowed are considered natural hedges, since changes in value of the metal held are offset by the obligation to return the metal to the supplier.
    The Company’s open sale and purchase commitments typically settle within 2 business days, and for those commitments that do not have stated settlement dates, the Company has the right to settle the positions upon demand. Futures and forwards contracts open at end of any period typically settle within 30 days. Open sale and purchase commitments are subject to changes in value between the date the purchase or sale price is fixed (the trade date) and the date the metal is received or delivered (the settlement date). The Company seeks to minimize the effect of price changes of the underlying commodity through the use of forward and futures contracts.
The Company's policy is to substantially hedge its inventory position, net of open sale and purchase commitments that are subject to price risk. The Company regularly enters into precious metals commodity forward and futures contracts with financial institutions to hedge price changes that would cause changes in the value of its physical metals positions and purchase commitments and sale commitments. The Company has access to all of the precious metals markets, allowing it to place hedges. The Company also maintains relationships with major market makers in every major precious metals dealing center.

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Table of Contents            

The Company’s management sets credit and position risk limits. These limits include gross position limits for counterparties engaged in sales and purchase transactions with the Company. They also include collateral limits for different types of sale and purchase transactions that counterparties may engage in from time to time.
Derivative Assets and Liabilities
The Company's derivative assets and liabilities represent the net fair value of the difference (or intrinsic value) between market values and trade values at the trade date for open precious metals sale and purchase contracts, as adjusted on a daily basis for changes in market values of the underlying metals, until settled. The Company's derivative assets and liabilities represent the net fair value of open precious metals forwards and futures contracts. The precious metals forwards and futures contracts are settled at the contract settlement date.
All of our commodity derivative contracts are under master netting arrangements and include both asset and liability positions (i.e., offsetting derivative instruments). Substantially all of these transactions are secured by the underlying metals positions. As such, for the Company's derivative contracts with the same counterparty, the receivables and payables have been netted on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Such derivative contracts include open sale and purchase commitments, futures, forwards and margin accounts. In the table below, the aggregate gross and net derivative receivables and payables balances are presented by contract type and type of hedge, as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017.
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
in thousands
 
Gross Derivative
 
Amounts Netted
 
Cash Collateral Pledge
 
Net Derivative
 
Gross Derivative
 
Amounts Netted
 
Cash Collateral Pledge
 
Net Derivative
Nettable derivative assets:
Open sale and purchase commitments
 
$
1,911

 
$
(902
)
 
$

 
$
1,009

 
$
1,625

 
$
(694
)
 
$

 
$
931

Option contracts
 
158

 

 

 
158

 

 

 

 

Future contracts
 
179

 

 

 
179

 
1,273

 

 

 
1,273

Forward contracts
 
53

 

 

 
53

 
15,754

 
(371
)
 

 
15,383

 
 
$
2,301

 
$
(902
)
 
$

 
$
1,399

 
$
18,652

 
$
(1,065
)
 
$

 
$
17,587

Nettable derivative liabilities:
Open sale and purchase commitments
 
$
10,162

 
$
(7,601
)
 
$

 
$
2,561

 
$
31,568

 
$
(1,783
)
 
$

 
$
29,785

Margin accounts
 
6,974

 

 
(2,722
)
 
4,252

 
7,936

 

 
(3,139
)
 
4,797

Liability of price protection programs
 
84

 

 

 
84

 

 

 

 

Future contracts
 
4,167

 

 

 
4,167

 

 

 

 

Forward contracts
 
16,356

 

 

 
16,356

 

 

 

 

 
 
$
37,743

 
$
(7,601
)
 
$
(2,722
)
 
$
27,420

 
$
39,504

 
$
(1,783
)
 
$
(3,139
)
 
$
34,582


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Gains or Losses on Derivative Instruments
The Company records the derivative at the trade date with a corresponding unrealized gain (loss), shown as a component of cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. The Company adjusts the derivatives to fair value on a daily basis until the transactions are settled. When these contracts are net settled, the unrealized gains and losses are reversed and the realized gains and losses for forward contracts are recorded in revenue and cost of sales, and the net realized gains and losses for futures and option contacts are recorded in cost of sales.
Below is a summary of the net gains (losses) on derivative instruments for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Gains (losses) on derivative instruments:
 
Unrealized gains (losses) on open future commodity and forward contracts and open sale and purchase commitments, net
 
$
(22,260
)
 
$
(52,983
)
 
$
(10,003
)
 
$
(34,833
)
 
Realized (losses) gains on future commodity contracts, net
 
9,635

 
30,083

 
12,022

 
15,824

 
 
 
$
(12,625
)
 
$
(22,900
)
 
$
2,019

 
$
(19,009
)
 
Summary of Hedging Activity
In a hedging relationship, the change in the value of the derivative financial instrument is offset to a great extent by the change in the value of the underlying hedged item. The following table summarizes the results of our hedging activities, which shows the precious metal commodity inventory position, net of open sale and purchase commitments, that is subject to price risk as of December 31, 2017 and at June 30, 2017.
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Inventory
 
$
335,235

 
$
284,659

 
Less unhedgable inventory:
 
 
 
 
 
Commemorative coin inventory, held at lower of cost or market
 
(129
)
 
(40
)
 
Premium on metals position
 
(4,365
)
 
(4,088
)
 
Inventory value not hedged
 
(4,494
)
 
(4,128
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Subtotal
 
330,741

 
280,531

 
Commitments at market:
 
 

 
 

 
Open inventory purchase commitments
 
549,114

 
587,687

 
Open inventory sales commitments
 
(170,720
)
 
(121,602
)
 
Margin sale commitments
 
(6,974
)
 
(7,936
)
 
In-transit inventory no longer subject to market risk
 
(1,502
)
 
(3,931
)
 
Unhedgable premiums on open commitment positions
 
1,442

 
495

 
Borrowed precious metals
 
(19,526
)
 
(5,625
)
 
Product financing arrangements
 
(120,161
)
 
(135,343
)
 
Advances on industrial metals
 
6,487

 
1,580

 
Inventory subject to price risk
 
568,901

 
595,856

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventory subject to derivative financial instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
Precious metals forward contracts at market values
 
374,485

 
462,231

 
Precious metals futures contracts at market values
 
193,772

 
133,450

 
Total market value of derivative financial instruments
 
568,257

 
595,681

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net inventory subject to commodity price risk
 
$
644

 
$
175

 

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Notional Balances of Derivatives
The notional balances of the Company's derivative instruments, consisting of contractual metal quantities, are expressed at current spot prices of the underlying precious metal commodity. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company had the following outstanding commitments and open forward and future contracts:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Purchase commitments
 
$
549,114

 
$
587,687

 
Sales commitments
 
(170,720
)
 
(121,602
)
 
Margin sales commitments
 
(6,974
)
 
(7,936
)
 
Open forward contracts
 
374,485

 
462,231

 
Open futures contracts
 
193,772

 
133,450

 
The contract amounts (i.e., notional balances) of the Company's forward and futures contracts and the open sales and purchase commitments are properly not reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet. The Company records the difference between the market price of the underlying metal or contract and the trade amount at fair value.
The Company is exposed to the risk of failure of the counterparties to its derivative contracts. Significant judgment is applied by the Company when evaluating the fair value implications. The Company regularly reviews the creditworthiness of its major counterparties and monitors its exposure to concentrations. At December 31, 2017, the Company believes its risk of counterparty default is mitigated as a result of such evaluation and the short-term duration of these arrangements.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Management
The Company utilizes foreign currency forward contracts to manage the effect of foreign currency exchange fluctuations on its sale and purchase transactions. These contracts generally have maturities of less than one week. The accounting treatment of our foreign currency exchange derivative instruments is similar to the accounting treatment of our commodity derivative instruments, that is, the change in the value in the financial instrument is immediately recognized as a component of cost of sales. Unrealized gains (losses) on foreign exchange derivative instruments shown on the face of the condensed consolidated statements of income totaled $139,000 and $(3,000) for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Unrealized gains (losses) on foreign exchange derivative instruments shown on the face of the condensed consolidated statements of income totaled $38,000 and $(9,000) for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The market values (fair values) of the Company’s foreign exchange forward contracts and the net open sale and purchase commitment transactions, denominated in foreign currencies, outstanding at December 31, 2017 was $2.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively. The market values (fair values) of the Company’s foreign exchange forward contracts and the net open sale and purchase commitment transactions, denominated in foreign currencies, outstanding at June 30, 2017 was $2.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively.
12.     INCOME TAXES
Income from operations before provision for income taxes is shown below:
in thousands
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
U.S.
 
$
266

 
$
4,330

 
$
950

 
$
7,314

 
Foreign
 

 

 
34

 
14

 
Income before provision for income taxes
 
$
266

 
$
4,330

 
$
984

 
$
7,328

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return based on a June 30 tax year end. The provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consists of the following:
in thousands
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Federal
 
$
314

 
$
1,590

 
$
566

 
$
2,576

 
State and local
 
10

 

 
31

 
73

 
Foreign
 

 

 
1

 

 
Provision for income taxes
 
$
324

 
$
1,590

 
$
598

 
$
2,649

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The effective tax rate for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are set forth below:
in thousands
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Effective tax rate
 
121.8
%
 
36.7
%
 
60.8
%
 
36.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
On December 22, 2017, the comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into law. The Tax Act makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code. The Company has reviewed the anticipated tax impact of the recent legislation as it relates to the financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2017 and going forward.
The SEC staff has issued Staff Accounting Bulletin 118 ("SAB 118"), which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. In accordance with SAB 118, to the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act is incomplete but the Company is able to determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the financial statements. If a company cannot determine a provisional estimate to be included in the financial statements, it should continue to apply ASC 740 on the basis of the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately before the enactment of the Tax Act. A company must reflect the income tax effects of those aspects of the Act for which the accounting under ASC 740 is complete. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740.
The final transition impacts of the Tax Act may differ materially from our estimate, due to, among other things, changes in interpretations of the Tax Act, legislative action to address questions that arise as a result of the Tax Act, changes in accounting standards for income taxes or related interpretations in response to the Tax Act, and updates or changes to estimates the Company has utilized to calculate the transition impacts. The Company has estimated its deferred tax assets as of the date of enactment. In addition, the Company has estimated the amount of the deferred tax assets expected to reverse by the end of the year. To the extent there are updates or changes to these estimates, there will be an adjustment to the amount recorded as expense related to the implementation of the Tax Act. These tax law changes are the primary reasons for the abnormally high effective tax rate for the three and six months periods ended December 31, 2017. The Company has been able to make reasonable estimates of the effects of elements of the Tax Act and has recorded provisional adjustments to incorporate these estimates in our financial statements.
With respect to deferred tax assets (net of deferred tax liabilities) that are in existence as of the enactment date (i.e., valued using a 35.0% federal tax rate), the Company has been negatively impacted by the (1) new corporate tax rates, and (2) the effective date of the new provision, the effect of which is to preclude taxpayers from carrying net operating losses (NOLs) back to prior taxable years. This is because any realization of deferred taxes during the remaining portion of the fiscal year against taxable income will be realized at a lower 28.06% blended tax rate. Further, to the extent the realization of such deferred tax assets were to exceed such taxable income, resulting in an NOL, such NOL can no longer be carried back to a prior tax year and can only be carried forward to subsequent years for realization at a 21.0% tax rate.
The Tax Act reduces the corporate tax rate from 35.0% to 21.0% for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. For fiscal year taxpayers, a blended tax rate is required to compute the current tax liability. The Company has adjusted its deferred tax rate to 21.0% or 28.06% as of December 22, 2017 depending upon when the temporary differences are expected to reverse. For certain of our deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities, we have recorded a provisional decrease of $0.2 million, with a corresponding net adjustment to deferred income tax $0.2 million for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017. While we are able to make a reasonable estimate of the impact of the reduction in corporate rate, our estimate may be affected by other factors, including fluctuation in market pricing related to our inventory and related hedging activity. Accordingly, our estimate of the timing of the reversal of these items may ultimately impact the tax rate which is applied to the reversal of certain timing differences. The Company anticipates analyzing any adjustments each quarter and plans to finalize any adjustment within the allowable measurement period.
Tax Balances and Activity
Income Taxes Receivable and Payable
As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, income taxes receivable totaled $0.7 million and $0.0 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, income taxes payable totaled $0.0 million and $1.4 million, respectively.
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized by evaluating both positive and negative evidence. The ultimate realization

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of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, management concluded that with the exception of certain state net operating losses, it was more likely than not that the Company would be able to realize the benefit of the U.S. federal and state deferred tax assets. We based this conclusion on historical and projected operating performance, as well as our expectation that our operations will generate sufficient taxable income in future periods to realize the tax benefits associated with the deferred tax assets.
As of December 31, 2017, the consolidated balance sheet reflects the deferred tax items for each tax-paying component (i.e., federal and state), resulting in a state deferred tax asset of $1.5 million and a federal deferred tax asset of $2.7 million. As of June 30, 2017, the consolidated balance sheet reflects the deferred tax items for each tax-paying component (i.e., federal and state), resulting in a state deferred tax asset of $1.4 million and a federal deferred tax asset of $2.5 million.
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards and Valuation Allowances
As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company's state and city net operating loss carryforwards totaled approximately $12.5 million and $12.5 million, respectively. The Company's tax-effected net operating loss carryforwards totaled, as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, $0.7 million and $0.7 million, respectively. These net operating loss carryforwards start to expire in the year ending June 30, 2028. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company had $56,000 and $56,000, respectively, of valuation allowance for certain state and city net operating loss carryforwards, based on the Company's annual assessment of the realizability of its deferred tax assets.
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
The Company has taken or expects to take certain tax benefits on its income tax return filings that it has not recognized a tax benefit (i.e., an unrecognized tax benefit) on its consolidated statements of income. The Company's measurement of its uncertain tax positions is based on management's assessment of all relevant information, including, but not limited to prior audit experience, audit settlement, or lapse of the applicable statute of limitations. For the six months ended December 31, 2017, there was no material movement unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties.
Tax Examinations
Refer to Note 12 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2017 Annual Report for information relating to open tax examinations; there have been no significant changes.
13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Sales and Purchases Made to Affiliated Companies
During the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company made sales and purchases to various companies, which have been deemed to be related parties, as follows:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
 
Sales
 
Purchases
 
Sales
 
Purchases
 
Sales
 
Purchases
 
Sales
 
Purchases
 
Former Parent
 
$
8,065

 
$
1,152

 
$
14,999

 
$
12,137

 
$
12,497

 
$
3,541

 
$
21,667

 
$
23,336

 
Equity method investee
 
112,316

 
670

 
137,460

 
408

 
194,287

 
1,028

 
266,536

 
497

 
SilverTowne
 
4,133

 
6,280

 
12,030

 
130

 
7,283

 
6,379

 
18,819

 
2,742

 
 
 
$
124,514

 
$
8,102

 
$
164,489

 
$
12,675

 
$
214,067

 
$
10,948

 
$
307,022

 
$
26,575

 

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Balances with Affiliated Companies or Persons
As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the Company had related party receivables and payables balances as set forth below:
 in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
Receivables
 
Payables
 
Receivables
 
Payables
 
Former Parent
 
$
1,424

(1) 
$

 
$

 
$
27

 
Equity method investee
 
1,835

(2) 

 

 
558

 
SilverTowne
 

 
363

(3) 

 
1,768

 
Goldline Lenders
 

 
8,015

(4) 

 

 
 
 
$
3,259

 
$
8,378

 

 
$
2,353

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
(1) Balance includes a secured line of credit with a balance of $1.5 million.
 
(2) Balance represents mostly open trade receivables.
 
(3) Balance includes: (a) a trade receivables of $0.2 million (shown as a component of receivables), and (b) a contingent earn-out liability of $0.6 million (shown as a component of other long-term liabilities).
 
(4) Balance includes: the face value the Goldline Credit Facility ($7.5 million), and the associated estimated debt funding fees payable ($0.5 million). The Goldline Credit facility and the debt funding fee is payable in August 2020.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured Loans Made to an Affiliated Company
On September 29, 2017, CFC entered into a loan agreement with Former Parent providing a secured line of credit, bearing interest at a competitive rate per annum. The loan is secured by numismatic and semi-numismatic products. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the aggregate carrying value of this loan was $1.5 million and $0.0 million, respectively, and is shown on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as a component of secured loans receivable (see Note 5).
Note payable to SilverTowne
On August 31, 2016, the Company signed a $500,000 promissory note with SilverTowne that was payable in one year related to our acquisition of AMST. This note was paid in full in August 2017.
Long Term Debt Obligations with Goldline Lenders
As of December 31, 2017, the carrying value of the long term debt obligation payable to Goldline Lenders totaled $6,873,000, and is shown in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as debt obligations (related party). The face value of this debt obligation is $7,500,000 and the related unamortized loan funding fee, a contra-liability, totaled $627,000 as of December 31, 2017 (see Note 14). The estimated loan funding fee payable to Goldline Lenders as of December 31, 2017 totaled $515,000 and is shown on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as component of other long-term liabilities.

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Activity with Affiliated Companies or Persons
Interest Income Earned from Affiliated Companies
During the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company earned interest income related to loans made to Former Parent and related to financing products sold to affiliated companies, as set forth below:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Interest income from secured loan receivables
 
$
51

 
$
22

 
$
53

 
$
32

 
Interest income from finance products
 
576

 
687

 
1,120

 
1,355

 
 
 
$
627

 
$
709

 
$
1,173

 
$
1,387

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Expense Incurred Related to Notes Payable and Long-Term Debt Obligation
During the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company incurred interest related to notes payable due to SilverTowne and a long-term debt payable to the Goldline Lenders, as set forth below:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Interest expense incurred related to notes payable
 
$
1

 
$

 
$
1

 
$

 
Interest expense incurred related to long-term debt obligation
 
201

 

 
279

 

 
 
 
$
202

 
$

 
$
280

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Income Earned from Equity Method Investee
During the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded its proportional share of its equity method investee's net income (loss) as other income (expense) that total $122,000 and $93,000, respectively. During the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded its proportional share of its equity method investee's net income (loss) as other income (expense) that total $179,000 and $79,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the carrying balance of the equity method investment was $7.6 million and $7.5 million, respectively.
14.
FINANCING AGREEMENTS
Lines of Credit
The Company has an uncommitted demand revolving credit facility ("Trading Credit Facility”) provided to the Company by a syndicate of financial institutions, with Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. ("Rabobank") acting as lead lender and administrative agent and Natixis, New York Branch acting as syndication agent.  The Trading Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the Company’s assets on a first priority basis.  Currently, the Trading Credit Facility provides the Company with access up to $275.0 million, featuring a $225 million base with a $50.0 million accordion option, and is scheduled to mature on March 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2017, the Company incurred $1.9 million of loan costs in connection with the Trading Credit Facility, which was capitalized and is being amortized over the term of the Trading Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, the remaining unamortized balance was approximately $0.3 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
The Company routinely uses the Trading Credit Facility to purchase precious metals from suppliers and for operating cash flow purposes. Amounts under the Trading Credit Facility bear interest based on London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a 2.50% margin for revolving credit line loans and a 4.50% margin for bridge loans (that is, for loans that exceed the available revolving credit line). The one-month LIBOR rate was approximately 1.56% and 1.17% as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively. Borrowings are due on demand and totaled $214.0 million and $180.0 million at December 31, 2017 and at June 30, 2017, respectively. The amounts available under the respective borrowing facilities are determined at the end of each week following a specified borrowing base formula.  The Company is able to access additional credit as needed to finance operations, subject to the overall limits of the borrowing facilities and lender approval of the revised borrowing base calculation. Based on the latest approved borrowing bases in effect, the amounts available under the Trading Credit Facility after taking into account current borrowings, totaled $35.9 million and $45.6 million as determined on the Friday before December 31, 2017 and on Friday, June 30, 2017, respectively.
The Trading Credit Facility has certain restrictive financial covenants, including one requiring the Company to maintain a minimum tangible net worth. As of December 31, 2017 the minimum tangible net worth financial covenant under the Trading

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Credit Facility was $47.5 million, as retroactively adjusted per a Trading Credit Facility amendment (see Note 19). The Company is in compliance with all restrictive financial covenants as of December 31, 2017.
Interest expense related to the Company’s lines of credit totaled $2.0 million and $1.6 million, which represents 59.2% and 63.5% of the total interest expense recognized, for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our lines of credit carried a daily weighted average effective interest rate of 3.81% and 3.36%, respectively, for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Interest expense related to the Company’s lines of credit totaled $3.7 million and $3.0 million, which represents 61.1% and 64.2% of the total interest expense recognized, for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our lines of credit carried a daily weighted average effective interest rate of 3.78% and 3.17%, respectively, for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Debt Obligation
On August 28, 2017, in connection with the closing of the Goldline acquisition (see Note 1), Goldline, then known as Goldline Acquisition Corp., entered into a privately placed credit facility in the amount of $7.5 million (the “Goldline Credit Facility”) with various lenders (the "Goldline Lenders"). Borrowings under the Goldline Credit Facility were used to finance a portion of the consideration payable pursuant to the Goldline acquisition.
The Goldline Credit Facility is secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of the assets of Goldline , and is guaranteed by the Company. Interest on the Goldline Credit Facility is payable quarterly in arrears at the rate of 8.5% per annum, and the Goldline Lenders under the Goldline Credit Facility are entitled to an additional funding fee payment at maturity equal to the greater of 3% of the principal amount of the Goldline Credit Facility and 10% of cumulative EBITDA (for the periods ending June 30, 2018, 2019 and 2020) of Goldline in excess of $10 million, on a pro rata basis. The Goldline Credit Facility has a three-year maturity, and all outstanding principal and unpaid interest is due upon maturity (August 28, 2020).
In connection with the Goldline Credit Facility, the Company incurred $0.2 million of loan funding costs and accrued $0.5 million of estimated loan funding fees that are due to the Goldline Lenders at maturity date. These loan funding fee were capitalized and are being amortized over the term of the Goldline Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2017, the carrying balance of the Goldline Credit facility was $6.9 million, and the remaining unamortized loan cost balance was approximately $0.6 million, which is amortized ratably through the maturity date. As of December 31, 2017, the balance of the loan fee payable was $0.5 million, of which $0.3 million was estimated based on discounted cash flow model of Goldline's projected results.
Interest expense related to the Goldline Credit Facility (including debt loan amortization costs) totaled $200,000 which represents 6.0% of the total interest expense recognized, for the three months ended December 31, 2017. The Goldline Credit Facility's weighted average effective interest rate was 9.29% for the three months ended December 31, 2017.
Interest expense related to the Goldline Credit Facility (including debt loan amortization costs) totaled $279,000 which represents 4.6% of the total interest expense recognized, for the six months ended December 31, 2017. The Goldline Credit Facility's weighted average effective interest rate was 9.33% for the six months ended December 31, 2017.
The obligations of Goldline and the Company pursuant to the documentation governing the Goldline Credit Facility are subordinated to the Company’s obligations under the Uncommitted Credit Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2016, as amended (see Lines of Credit, above in Note 14), among the Company, Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. New York Branch, as administrative agent, and the Goldline Lenders named therein (the “Uncommitted Credit Agreement”) including, among other subordination terms, that the Goldline Lenders will be permitted to collect regularly scheduled payments of principal and interest, provided that no event of default is continuing under the Uncommitted Credit Agreement and the Company is in pro forma compliance with the financial covenants pursuant to the Uncommitted Credit Agreement.

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Goldline Lenders
The following table shows the directors, executive officer and principal stockholder that participated in the Goldline Credit Facility transaction, and provides related information:
Goldline Lenders
 
Position/Relationship
 
Amount of Company Indebtedness Acquired (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gregory N. Roberts
 
Chief Executive Officer, Director and principal stockholder
(2) 
$
587,500

(2) 
William D. Richardson
 
Principal stockholder
(3) 
587,500

(3) 
Jeffrey D. Benjamin
 
Chairman of the Board and Director
 
1,000,000

 
Ellis Landau
 
Director
 
375,000

 
William Montgomery
 
Director
 
1,500,000

 
Jess Ravich
 
Director
 
500,000

(4) 
 
 
 
 
4,550,000

 
7 other persons
 
Non-affiliated members
 
2,950,000

 
 
 
 
 
$
7,500,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
The amount shown is expected to remain outstanding throughout the term of the Goldline Credit Facility, with repayment due in August 2020.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver Bow Ventures LLC (“Silver Bow”) is the Lender. Mr. Roberts holds 50% of the ownership interests in and controls Silver Bow. Accordingly, the amount of indebtedness shown, and the interest amounts potentially payable on such indebtedness shown, represent 50% of the aggregate amounts of indebtedness held by and potential interest payable to Silver Bow.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Silver Bow Ventures LLC (“Silver Bow”) is the Lender. Mr. Richardson holds 50% of the ownership interests in and controls Silver Bow. Accordingly, the amount of indebtedness shown, and the interest amounts potentially payable on such indebtedness shown, represent 50% of the aggregate amounts of indebtedness held by and potential interest payable to Silver Bow.
 
(4)
 
Libra Securities Holdings, LLC is the Lender. Mr. Ravich and a trust for his family members holds 100% of the ownership interests and controls Libra Securities Holdings, LLC.
 
Liability on Borrowed Metals
The Company borrows precious metals from its suppliers under short-term agreements with our suppliers. Amounts under these arrangements require delivery either in the form of precious metals or cash. Liabilities also arise from unallocated position held by customers of the Company's inventory. The Company's inventories included borrowed metals with market values totaling $19.5 million and $5.6 million as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively, with the corresponding liability on borrowed metals reflected on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Product Financing Arrangements
The Company has agreements with financial institutions (third parties) that allows the Company to transfer its gold and silver inventory at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price with these third parties. Such agreements allow the Company to repurchase this inventory at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price on the repurchase date. The third party charges a monthly fee as percentage of the market value of the outstanding obligation; such monthly charges are classified in interest expense. These transactions do not qualify as sales, and therefore have been accounted for as financing arrangements and reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as product financing arrangements. The obligation is stated at the amount required to repurchase the outstanding inventory. Both the product financing obligation and the underlying inventory (which is entirely restricted) are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value recorded as a component of cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. Such obligation totaled $120.2 million and $135.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, respectively.


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15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Refer to Note 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2017 Annual Report for information relating to minimum rental payments under operating and capital leases, consulting and employment contracts, and other commitments. Other that the following items, the Company is not aware of any material changes to commitments as summarized the 2017 Annual Report. In connection with the Goldline acquisition (see Note 1):
the Company has guaranteed all of the obligations of Goldline under the Goldline Credit Facility (this guarantee is unconditional and constitutes a guarantee of payment and not merely of collection) (see Note 14);
the Company leases approximately 19,700 square feet of office space in Los Angeles, California at a cost of $2.45 per square foot per month. The term of the lease is 7.0 years with annual base rent increases of 3%. The term of this lease expires on February 28, 2022 and the Company has the option to renew the lease term for an additional 5 years at the then current market rate. The lease requires the payment of related property taxes, insurance, maintenance and other cost related to the leased property;
the Company provided the landlord of the office space in Los Angeles, California a standby letter of credit for $500,000 in value in lieu of of a security deposit. This letter of credit is renewed annually and reduces each lease anniversary date as provided in the lease agreement; and
approximately 80 employees of Goldline were eligible to roll over funds from Goldline's 401(k) plan into A-Mark's 401(k) plan at the Closing Date. Goldline employees are eligible to make payroll contributions in A-Mark's 401(k) plan beginning on November 1, 2017. Employees' contributions are discretionary to a maximum of 90% of compensation. For all plan members, the Company contributes 30% of the eligible employees' contributions to the IRS maximum annual contribution.

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16.
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Payment of Dividends
    In fiscal 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company initiated a cash dividend policy that calls for the payment of quarterly dividends. The table below summarizes the eight most recent quarterly dividends declared pursuant to this policy:
Dividend
Declaration Date
 
Record Date
 (at close of Business)
 
Type of Dividend
 
Basis of Payment
 
Payment Date
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
February 2, 2016
 
February 15, 2016
 
Cash
 
$
0.07

per common share
 
February 29, 2016
 
April 29, 2016
 
May 13, 2016
 
Cash
 
$
0.07

per common share
 
May 27, 2016
 
September 7, 2016
 
September 19, 2016
 
Cash
 
$
0.07

per common share
 
October 7, 2016
 
November 1, 2016
 
November 14, 2016
 
Cash
 
$
0.07

per common share
 
December 1, 2016
 
January 26, 2017
 
February 8, 2017
 
Cash
 
$
0.08

per common share
 
February 24, 2017
 
May 2, 2017
 
May 15, 2017
 
Cash
 
$
0.08

per common share
 
May 25, 2017
 
August 30, 2017
 
September 18, 2017
 
Cash
 
$
0.08

per common share
 
September 27, 2017
 
November 13, 2017
 
November 24, 2017
 
Cash
 
$
0.08

per common share
 
December 13, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2014 Stock Award and Incentive Plan
Prior to the Distribution, the Company’s Board of Directors ("Board") adopted and the Company's then sole stockholder approved the 2014 Stock Award and Incentive Plan, which was approved by the Company's stockholders in February 2015. On November 2, 2017, the Company's stockholders approved the amended and restated 2014 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (the "2014 Plan"), to (i) increase the available shares authorized for issuance under the plan by 525,000 shares, (ii) extend the term of the 2014 Plan until 2027, an additional five years, and (iii) eliminate provisions that add back to the share reserve shares surrendered or withheld to pay the exercise price of an option or withheld to cover tax withholding obligations for any type of award, and shares as to which a stock appreciation right is exercised that exceed the number of shares actually delivered.
Under the 2014 Plan, the Company may grant options and other equity awards as a means of attracting and retaining officers, employees, non-employee directors and consultants, to provide incentives to such persons, and to align the interests of such persons with the interests of stockholders by providing compensation based on the value of the Company's stock. Awards under the 2014 Plan may be granted in the form of incentive or non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted stock, restricted stock units, dividend equivalent rights and other stock-based awards (which may include outright grants of shares). The 2014 Plan also authorizes grants of performance-based cash incentive awards, including awards qualifying under Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m). The 2014 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, which, in its discretion, may select officers and other employees, directors (including non-employee directors) and consultants to the Company and its subsidiaries to receive grants of awards. The Board of Directors itself may perform any of the functions of the Compensation Committee under the 2014 Plan.
Under the 2014 Plan, the exercise price of options and base price of SARs, as set by the Compensation Committee, generally may not be less than the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant, and the maximum term of stock options and SARs is 10 years. The 2014 Plan limits the number of share-denominated awards that may be granted to any one eligible person to 250,000 shares in any fiscal year. Also, in the case of non-employee directors, the 2014 Plan limits the maximum grant-date fair value at $300,000 of stock-denominated awards granted to a director in a given fiscal year, except for a non-employee Chairman of the Board whose grant-date fair value maximum is $600,000 per fiscal year. The 2014 Plan will terminate when no shares remain available for issuance and no awards remain outstanding; however, the authority to grant new awards will terminate on December 13, 2022.
As of December 31, 2017, 573,545 shares were available for grant under the 2014 Plan.
Valuation and Significant Assumptions of Equity Awards Issued
The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model, which uses various inputs such as the estimated common share price, the risk-free interest rate, volatility, expected life and dividend yield, all of which are estimates.
Stock Options
During the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company incurred $302,073 and $228,973 of compensation expense related to stock options, respectively. During the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company incurred $738,480 and $420,433 of compensation expense related to stock options, respectively. As of December 31, 2017, there was total remaining compensation expense of $2.1 million related to employee stock options, which will be recorded over a weighted average period of approximately 2.2 years.

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The following table summarizes the stock option activity for the six months ended December 31, 2017.
 
 
Options
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share
 
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Award
Outstanding at June 30, 2017
 
741,327

 
$
17.89

 
$
1,514

 
$
6.19

Granted
 
116,605

 
$
17.23

 
 
 
 
Cancellations, expirations and forfeitures
 
(1,350
)
 
$
20.19

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2017
 
856,582

 
$
17.80

 
$
1,109

 
$
6.04

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable at December 31, 2017
 
396,348

 
$
14.47

 
$
1,104

 
$
6.04

 
Following is a summary of the status of stock options outstanding at December 31, 2017:
 
 
 
 
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
Exercise Price Ranges
 
Number of Shares Outstanding
 
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price
 
Number of Shares Exercisable
 
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price
From
 
To
 
 
 
 
 
 
$

 
$
10.00

 
134,239

 
4.85
 
$
8.39

 
134,239

 
4.85
 
$
8.39

10.01

 
15.00

 
98,888

 
4.78
 
$
11.94

 
97,888

 
4.75
 
$
11.96

15.01

 
25.00

 
523,455

 
8.72
 
$
19.85

 
139,221

 
8.59
 
20.13

25.01

 
60.00

 
100,000

 
8.14
 
$
25.50

 
25,000

 
8.14
 
25.50

 
 
 
 
856,582

 
7.59
 
$
17.80

 
396,348

 
6.35
 
$
14.47

Certain Anti-Takeover Provisions
The Company’s certificate of incorporation and by-laws contain certain anti-takeover provisions that could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or of discouraging a third party from attempting to acquire, control of the Company without negotiating with its Board. Such provisions could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to pay in the future for the Company’s securities. Certain of such provisions provide for a Board with staggered terms, allow the Company to issue preferred stock with rights senior to those of the common stock, or impose various procedural and other requirements which could make it more difficult for stockholders to effect certain corporate actions.

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17. CUSTOMER AND SUPPLIER CONCENTRATIONS
Customer Concentration
Customers providing 10 percent or more of the Company's revenues for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 are presented on a comparative basis in the table below:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
 
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Total revenue
 
$
1,680,738

 
100.0
%
 
$
2,126,361

 
100.0
%
 
$
3,844,528

 
100.0
%
 
$
3,932,014

 
100.0
%
 
Customer concentrations
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
HSBC Bank USA
 
$
407,509

 
24.2
%
 
$
467,688

 
22.0
%
 
$
918,773

 
23.9
%
 
$
974,475

 
24.8
%
 
Mitsubishi Intl. Corp.
 
382,761

 
22.8

 
300,848

 
14.1

 
919,874

 
23.9

 
504,741

 
12.8

 
 
 
$
790,270

 
47.0
%
 
$
768,536

 
36.1
%
 
$
1,838,647

 
47.8
%
 
$
1,479,216

 
37.6
%
 
    
The loss of any of the above listed customers could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Company.
Supplier Concentration
The Company buys precious metals from a variety of sources, including through brokers and dealers, from sovereign and private mints, from refiners and directly from customers. The Company believes that no one or small group of suppliers is critical to its business, since other sources of supply are available that provide similar products on comparable terms.

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18.
SEGMENTS AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
The Company evaluates segment reporting in accordance with FASB ASC 280, Segment Reporting, each reporting period, including evaluating the organizational structure the reporting package reviewed by the Chief Operation Decision Maker (“CODM”). The Company has concluded the Chief Executive Officer and the President collectively act as the CODM. The Company's operations are organized under two business segments — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services and Direct Sales.
Our Direct Sales segment was created on August 28, 2017 as a result of our recent acquisition (see Note 1), and thus comparative prior period data is not available ("N/A").
Revenue
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Revenue by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
1,651,442

 
$
2,126,361

 
$
3,804,862

 
$
3,932,014

 
Direct Sales
 
29,296

(1) 
N/A

 
39,666

(2) 
N/A

 
Total revenue
 
$
1,680,738

 
$
2,126,361

 
$
3,844,528

 
$
3,932,014

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1) Includes $10.8 million of intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment. The elimination of these intercompany sales are reflected in the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
(2) Includes $17.7 million of intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment. The elimination of these intercompany sales are reflected in the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Revenue by geographic region
(as determined by the shipping address or where the services were performed):
 
United States
 
$
1,579,893

 
$
2,009,168

 
$
3,631,814

 
$
3,719,247

 
Europe
 
73,022

 
56,565

 
127,380

 
103,585

 
North America, excluding United States
 
26,896

 
55,247

 
81,774

 
100,050

 
Asia Pacific
 
374

 
4,039

 
1,726

 
6,574

 
Africa
 
1

 

 
1

 

 
Australia
 
552

 
1,342

 
1,833

 
2,558

 
Total revenue
 
$
1,680,738

 
$
2,126,361

 
$
3,844,528

 
$
3,932,014

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Profit and Gross Margin Percentage
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Gross profit by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
7,168

 
$
9,859

 
$
12,813

 
$
17,923

 
Direct Sales
 
1,748

 
N/A

 
3,409

 
N/A

 
Total gross profit
 
$
8,916

 
$
9,859

 
$
16,222

 
$
17,923

 
Gross margin percentage by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
0.434
%
 
0.464
%
 
0.337
%
 
0.456
%
 
Direct Sales
 
5.967
%
 
N/A

 
8.594
%
 
N/A

 
Weighted average gross margin percentage
 
0.530
%
 
0.464
%
 
0.422
%
 
0.456
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Table of Contents            

Operating Expenses and Income
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Operating income and expenses by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General and administrative expenses
 
$
(5,724
)
 
$
(6,131
)
 
$
(11,517
)
 
$
(11,795
)
 
Interest income
 
$
3,268

 
$
2,959

 
$
6,429

 
$
5,818

 
Interest expense
 
$
(3,159
)
 
$
(2,447
)
 
$
(5,813
)
 
$
(4,688
)
 
Other expense
 
$
790

 
$
90

 
$
750

 
$
70

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General and administrative expenses
 
$
(3,625
)
 
N/A

 
$
(4,808
)
 
N/A

 
Interest expense
 
$
(200
)
 
N/A

 
$
(279
)
 
N/A

 
Depreciation and Amortization
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Depreciation and amortization by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
(428
)
 
$
(386
)
 
$
(760
)
 
$
(707
)
 
Direct Sales
 
(355
)
 
N/A

 
(552
)
 
N/A

 
Total depreciation and amortization
 
$
(783
)
 
$
(386
)
 
$
(1,312
)
 
$
(707
)
 
Advertising expense
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Advertising expense by segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
(190
)
 
$
(199
)
 
$
(302
)
 
$
(366
)
 
Direct Sales
 
(869
)
 
N/A

 
(1,274
)
 
N/A

 
Total advertising expense
 
$
(1,059
)
 
$
(199
)
 
$
(1,576
)
 
$
(366
)
 

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Table of Contents            

Inventory
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Inventories by segment
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
324,194

 
$
284,659

 
Direct Sales
 
11,041

 
N/A

 
Total inventories
 
$
335,235

 
$
284,659

 
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Inventories by geographic region
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
323,005

 
$
276,809

 
Europe
 
4,481

 
3,154

 
North America, excluding United States
 
7,240

 
4,310

 
Asia
 
509

 
386

 
Total inventories
 
$
335,235

 
$
284,659

 
Assets
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Assets by segment
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
498,020

 
$
478,500

 
Direct Sales
 
29,103

 
N/A

 
Total assets
 
$
527,123

 
$
478,500

 
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Assets by geographic region
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
510,504

 
$
469,114

 
Europe
 
8,870

 
4,690

 
North America, excluding United States
 
7,240

 
4,310

 
Asia
 
509

 
386

 
Total assets
 
$
527,123

 
$
478,500

 
Long-term Assets
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Long-term assets by segment
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
31,354

 
$
31,479

 
Direct Sales
 
7,839

 
N/A

 
Total long-term assets
 
$
39,193

 
$
31,479

 
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Long-term assets by geographic region
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
39,138

 
$
31,423

 
     Europe
 
55

 
56

 
Total long-term assets
 
$
39,193

 
$
31,479

 

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Table of Contents            

Capital Expenditures for Property and Equipment
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
December 31, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
 
Capital expenditures on property and equipment by segment
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
269

 
$
944

 
Direct Sales
 
148

 
N/A

 
Total capital expenditures on property and equipment
 
$
417

 
$
944

 
Goodwill
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
Goodwill by segment
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
 
$
8,881

 
$
8,881

 
Direct Sales
 
1,450

 
N/A

 
Total goodwill
 
$
10,331

 
$
8,881

 
19.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Dividend Declaration
Effective January 30, 2018, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per common share to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 13, 2018 which is scheduled to be paid on or about February 27, 2018.

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Table of Contents            

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q ("Form 10-Q") contains statements that are considered forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give the Company's current expectations and forecasts of future events. All statements other than statements of current or historical fact contained in this Quarterly Report, including statements regarding the Company's future financial position, business strategy, budgets, projected costs and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the Company's current plans, and the Company's actual future activities and results of operations may be materially different from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. Any or all of the forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report may turn out to be inaccurate. The Company has based these forward-looking statements largely on its current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that it believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. The forward-looking statements can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date hereof. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained in this Form 10-Q.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes contained elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those factors discussed below and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, particularly in “Risk Factors.”
INTRODUCTION
Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is provided as a supplement to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes to help provide an understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. Our discussion is organized as follows:
Executive overview. This section provides a general description of our business, as well as significant transactions and events that we believe are important in understanding the results of operations.
Results of operations. This section provides an analysis of our results of operations presented in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of income by comparing the results for the respective years. Included in our analysis is a discussion of five performance metrics: (i) ounces of gold sold, (ii) ounces of silver sold, (iii) Wholesale trading ticket volume, (iv) Direct Sales ticket volume, (v) inventory turnover ratio and (vi) number of secured loans at period-end.
Financial condition and liquidity and capital resources. This section provides an analysis of our cash flows, as well as a discussion of our outstanding debt as of December 31, 2017. Included in the discussion of outstanding debt is a discussion of the amount of financial capacity available to fund our future commitments, as well as a discussion of other financing arrangements.
Critical accounting estimates. This section discusses those accounting policies that both are considered important to our financial condition and results, and require significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in their application. In addition, all of our policies, including critical accounting policies, are summarized in Note 2 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
Recent accounting pronouncements. This section discusses new accounting pronouncements, dates of implementation and impact on our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents            

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
Our Business
We conduct our operations in two reportable segments: (1) Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services, and (2) Direct Sales.
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services Segment
The Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment operates as a full-service precious metals trading company. We offer gold, silver, platinum and palladium in the form of bars, plates, powder, wafers, grain, ingots and coins. Our Industrial unit services manufacturers and fabricators of products utilizing or incorporating precious metals. Our Coin and Bar unit deals in over 200 coin and bar products in a variety of weights, shapes and sizes for distribution to dealers and other qualified purchasers. We have trading centers in El Segundo, California and Vienna, Austria for buying and selling precious metals. In addition to wholesale trading activity, A-Mark offers its customers a variety of services, including financing, storage, consignment, logistics and various customized financial programs. As a U.S. Mint-authorized purchaser of gold, silver and platinum coins, A-Mark purchases product directly from the U.S. Mint and other sovereign mints for sale to its customers.
Through our wholly-owned subsidiary Collateral Finance Corporation, referred to as CFC, a licensed California Finance Lender, we offer loans collateralized by numismatic and semi-numismatic coins and bullion to coin and precious metal dealers, investors and collectors. Through our wholly-owned subsidiary Transcontinental Depository Services, referred to as TDS, we offer a variety of managed storage options for precious metals products to financial institutions, dealers, investors and collectors around the world. TDS started doing business in 2012. Our financing business generates interest income that is not classified as revenues. If interest income generated by the financing business were classified as revenues, it would represent less than 1% of our total revenues for each of the periods presented. Our storage business generated less than 1% of total revenues for each of the periods presented.
The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, A-M Global Logistics, LLC, referred to as Logistics, commenced operations as a logistics fulfillment center in July 2015. Logistics, based in Las Vegas, Nevada, provides our customers an array of complementary services, including receiving, handling, inventorying, processing, packing, and shipping of precious metals and custom coins on a secure basis. Our logistics business generated less than 1% of the total revenues for each of the periods presented.
In August 2016, the Company formed AMST, a joint venture with SilverTowne, L.P., referred to as SilverTowne, an Indiana-based producer of minted silver. The Company and SilverTowne, L.P. own 55% and 45%, respectively, of AMST. AMST acquired the entire minting operations (referred to as SilverTowne Mint) of SilverTowne, L.P., with the goal of providing greater product selection to our customers and greater pricing stability within the supply chain, as well as to gain increased access to silver during volatile market environments, which have historically resulted in higher demand for precious metals products.
Direct Sales Segment
The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, Goldline, Inc. ("Goldline"), is a direct retailer of precious metals to the investor community. Goldline markets its precious metal products primarily on radio, internet and television. Goldline sells gold and silver bullion in the form of coins, and bars, as well as numismatic coins. We entered into the Direct Sales segment through our acquisition of substantially all of the net assets of Goldline, LLC ("Goldline, LLC" or the "Seller"), effective August 28, 2017. (See Note 1.)
Goldline, LLC has been a leading direct retailer of precious metals to the metals community and has experienced a history of profitability that goes back 20 years. Its direct-to-customer model places a strong emphasis on providing exemplary customer service, allowing that company the ability to achieve higher margins and a broader array of service options than many of its competitors.
In recent years, Goldline, LLC’s revenues and gross profits declined, and the Seller experienced losses after December 31, 2016. The Company believes that this decline in performance was attributable to a number of factors, including the entrance of new competition (e.g., internet retailers), shifting behaviors of its key customer base in light of the change in political environment, and capital resource limitations. As a result, during the eight months prior to the acquisition by the Company, the Seller scaled back its business significantly, including by effecting a reduction in force.
The decline in performance and other conditions allowed A-Mark the opportunity to acquire the net assets of Goldline, LLC at a favorable price as compared to the assets reflected on the balance sheet of the Seller at December 31, 2016.
Going forward, the Company intends to leverage Goldline’s depth of experience in the industry, and to vertically integrate its wholesale operations with Goldline’s retail business. Among the synergies the Company hopes to realize include the integration and cross-selling of our financing, fulfillment and storage operations between the two segments.

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Table of Contents            

Our Strategy
The Company has grown from a small numismatics firm in 1965 to a significant participant in the bullion and coin markets, with approximately $7.0 billion and $6.8 billion in revenues for the years ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our strategy continues to focus on growth, including the volume of our business, our geographic presence, particularly in Europe, and the scope of complementary products and services that we offer to our customers. We intend to promote our growth by leveraging off of the strengths of our existing integrated operations: the depth of our customer relations; our access to market makers, suppliers and government mints and other mints; our trading offices in the U.S. and Europe, which are open 21 hours a day 5 days a week; our expansive precious metals dealer network; our depository relationships around the world; our knowledge of secured lending; our logistics capabilities; our trading expertise; and the quality and experience of our management team.
Our Customers
Our customers include financial institutions, bullion retailers, industrial manufacturers and fabricators, sovereign mints, refiners, coin and metal dealers, investors and collectors. The Company makes a two way market, which results in many customers also operating as our suppliers.  This diverse base of customers purchases a variety of products from the Company in a multitude of grades, primarily in the form of coins and bars.
Factors Affecting Revenues, Gross Profits, Interest Income and Interest Expense
Revenues. The Company enters into transactions to sell and deliver gold, silver, platinum and palladium to industrial and commercial users, coin and bullion dealers, mints, and financial institutions. The metals are investment or industrial grade and are sold in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The Company also sells precious metals on forward contracts at a fixed price based on current prevailing precious metal spot prices with a certain delivery date in the future (up to six months from date of the forward contract.) Typically, these forward contracts are net settled against our other forward positions or are settled in cash, whereby no physical product is delivered. Sales on forward contracts can be a substantial portion of revenues in any given period. We enter into these forward contacts as part of our hedging strategy to mitigate our price risk of holding inventory; they are not entered into for speculative purposes.
In addition, the Company earns revenue by providing storage solutions for precious metals and numismatic coins for financial institutions, dealers, investors and collectors worldwide and by providing storage and order-fulfillment services to our retail customers. These revenue streams are complementary to our trading activity, and represents less than 1% of our revenues.
The Company operates in a high volume/low margin industry.  Revenues are impacted by three primary factors: product volume, market prices and market volatility. A material change in any one or more of these factors may result in a significant change in the Company’s revenues. A significant increase or decrease in revenues can occur simply based on changes in the underlying commodity prices and may not be reflective of an increase or decrease in the volume of products sold. 
Gross Profits. Gross profit is the difference between our revenues and the cost of our products. Since we quote prices based on the current commodity market prices for precious metals, we enter into a combination of forward and futures contracts to effect a hedge position equal to the underlying precious metal commodity value, which substantially represents inventory subject to price risk.  We enter into these derivative transactions solely for the purpose of hedging our inventory, and not for speculative purposes. Our gross profit includes the gains and losses resulting from these derivative instruments. However, the gains and losses on the derivative instruments are substantially offset by the gains and losses on the corresponding changes in the market value of our precious metals inventory. As a result, our results of operations generally are not materially impacted solely by changes in commodity prices.
Volatility also affects our gross profits. Greater volatility typically causes the trading spreads to widen resulting in an increase in the gross profit. Product supply constraints during extended periods of higher volatility has historically resulted in a heightening of wider trading spreads resulting in further improvement in the gross profit.
Interest Income. The Company enters into secured loans and secured financing structures with its customers under which it charges interest. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, CFC, the Company also enters into loans secured by precious metals and numismatic material owned by the borrowers and held by the Company for the term of the loan. The Company offers a number of secured financing options to its customers to finance their precious metals purchases including consignments and other structured inventory finance products whereby the Company earns a fee based on the underlying value of the precious metal.
    Interest Expense. The Company incurs interest expense as a result of usage under its lines of credit. The Company also incurs interest expense as a result of its product financing agreements for the transfer and subsequent re-acquisition of gold and silver at a fixed price with a third-party finance company, and may incur interest expense when we borrow precious metals from our suppliers under short-term arrangements, which can bear interest at a designated rate.

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Table of Contents            

Performance Metrics        
In addition to financial statement indicators, management also utilizes certain key operational metrics to assess the performance of our business.
We look at the number of ounces of gold and silver sold and delivered to our customers (excluding ounces recorded on forward contracts). These metrics reflect our business volume without regard to changes in commodity pricing, which also impacts revenue and can mask actual business trends.
Another measure of our business volume, unaffected by changes in commodity pricing, is Wholesale Trading & Ancillary segment ticket volume and Direct Sales segment ticket volume, which is the total number orders processed by our trading desks in El Segundo, California and Vienna, Austria. In periods of higher volatility, there is generally increased trading in the commodity markets, and increased demand for our products, which translates into higher business volume.
Inventory turnover is another performance measure on which we are focused. We define inventory turnover as the cost of sales during the relevant period divided by the average inventory during the period. Inventory turnover is a measure of how quickly inventory has moved during the period. A higher inventory turnover ratio, which we typically experience during periods of higher volatility when trading is more robust, reflects a more efficient use of our capital.     
Finally, as a measure of the size of our lending business, we look at the number of outstanding secured loans to customers at the end of the fiscal quarter.
Fiscal Year
Our fiscal year end is June 30 each year. Unless otherwise stated, references to years in this report relate to fiscal years rather than to calendar years.

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Table of Contents            

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
Condensed Consolidated Results of Operations
The operating results of our business for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
in thousands, except per share data and performance metrics
 
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
1,680,738

 
100.000
 %
 
$
2,126,361

 
100.000
 %
 
$
(445,623
)
 
(21.0
)%
Gross profit
8,916

 
0.530
 %
 
9,859

 
0.464
 %
 
$
(943
)
 
(9.6
)%
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(9,349
)
 
(0.556
)%
 
(6,131
)
 
(0.288
)%
 
$
3,218

 
52.5
 %
Interest income
3,268

 
0.194
 %
 
2,959

 
0.139
 %
 
$
309

 
10.4
 %
Interest expense
(3,359
)
 
(0.200
)%
 
(2,447
)
 
(0.115
)%
 
$
912

 
37.3
 %
Other income
651

 
0.039
 %
 
93

 
0.004
 %
 
$
558

 
600.0
 %
Unrealized (loss) gain on foreign exchange
139

 
0.008
 %
 
(3
)
 
 %
 
$
142

 
NM

Net income before provision for income taxes
266

 
0.016
 %
 
4,330

 
0.204
 %
 
$
(4,064
)
 
(93.9
)%
Provision for income taxes
(324
)
 
(0.019
)%
 
(1,590
)
 
(0.075
)%
 
$
(1,266
)
 
(79.6
)%
Net income (loss)
(58
)
 
(0.004
)%
 
2,740

 
0.129
 %
 
$
(2,798
)
 
(102.1
)%
Add:
Net gain (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
147

 
0.009
 %
 
(10
)
 
 %
 
$
137

 
NM

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(205
)
 
(0.012
)%
 
$
2,750

 
0.129
 %
 
$
(2,955
)
 
(107.5
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted income per share attributable to A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc.:
Per Share Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.03
)
 
 
 
$
0.39

 
 
 
$
(0.42
)
 
(107.7
)%
Diluted
$
(0.03
)
 
 
 
$
0.39

 
 
 
$
(0.42
)
 
(107.7
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold(1)
376,000

 
 
 
772,000

 
 
 
(396,000
)
 
(51.3
)%
Silver ounces sold(2)
11,964,000

 
 
 
22,816,000

 
 
 
(10,852,000
)
 
(47.6
)%
Inventory turnover ratio(3)
5.2

 
 
 
7.2

 
 
 
(2.0
)
 
(27.8
)%
Number of secured loans at period end(4)
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
NM
 
Not meaningful.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold and delivered to the customer during the three-month period, excluding ounces of gold recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold and delivered to the customer during the three-month period, excluding ounces of silver recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Inventory turnover ratio is the cost of sales divided by average inventory.
 
 
 
 
 
(4)
 
Number of outstanding secured loans to customers at the end of the period.
 


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Table of Contents            

Overview of Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016

Condensed Consolidated Results of Operations
The operating results of our business for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
in thousands, except per share data and performance metrics
 
 
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
3,844,528

 
100.000
 %
 
$
3,932,014

 
100.000
 %
 
$
(87,486
)
 
(2.2
)%
Gross profit
16,222

 
0.422
 %
 
17,923

 
0.456
 %
 
$
(1,701
)
 
(9.5
)%
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(16,325
)
 
(0.425
)%
 
(11,795
)
 
(0.300
)%
 
$
4,530

 
38.4
 %
Interest income
6,429

 
0.167
 %
 
5,818

 
0.148
 %
 
$
611

 
10.5
 %
Interest expense
(6,092
)
 
(0.159
)%
 
(4,688
)
 
(0.119
)%
 
$
1,404

 
29.9
 %
Other income (expense)
712

 
0.019
 %
 
79

 
0.002
 %
 
$
633

 
801.3
 %
Unrealized gain on foreign exchange
38

 
0.001
 %
 
(9
)
 
 %
 
$
47

 
NM

Net income before provision for income taxes
984

 
0.026
 %
 
7,328

 
0.186
 %
 
$
(6,344
)
 
(86.6
)%
Provision for income taxes
(598
)
 
(0.016
)%
 
(2,649
)
 
(0.067
)%
 
$
(2,051
)
 
(77.4
)%
Net income
386

 
0.010
 %
 
4,679

 
0.119
 %
 
$
(4,293
)
 
(91.8
)%
Add:
Net gain (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest
113

 
0.003
 %
 
(21
)
 
(0.001
)%
 
$
134

 
NM

Net income attributable to the Company
$
273

 
0.007
 %
 
$
4,700

 
0.120
 %
 
$
(4,427
)
 
(94.2
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted income per share attributable to A-Mark Precious Metals, Inc.:
Per Share Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.04

 
 
 
$
0.67

 
 
 
$
(0.63
)
 
(94.0
)%
Diluted
$
0.04

 
 
 
$
0.66

 
 
 
$
(0.62
)
 
(93.9
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold(1)
708,000

 
 
 
1,302,000

 
 
 
(594,000
)
 
(45.6
)%
Silver ounces sold(2)
26,495,000

 
 
 
44,591,000

 
 
 
(18,096,000
)
 
(40.6
)%
Inventory turnover ratio(3)
12.4

 
 
 
14.6

 
 
 
(2.2
)
 
(15.1
)%
Number of secured loans at period end(4)
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
NM
 
Not meaningful.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold and delivered to the customer during the six-month period, excluding ounces of gold recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold and delivered to the customer during the six-month period, excluding ounces of silver recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Inventory turnover ratio is the cost of sales divided by average inventory.
 
 
 
 
 
(4)
 
Number of outstanding secured loans to customers at the end of the period.
 


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Table of Contents            

Revenues
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
1,680,738

 
100.000
%
 
$
2,126,361

 
100.000
%
 
$
(445,623
)
 
(21.0
)%
Performance Metrics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold
376,000

 
 
 
772,000

 
 
 
(396,000
)
 
(51.3
)%
Silver ounces sold
11,964,000

 
 
 
22,816,000

 
 
 
(10,852,000
)
 
(47.6
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $445.6 million, or 21.0%, to $1.681 billion from $2.1 billion in 2016. Our revenues decreased primarily due to a decrease in the total amount of gold and silver ounces sold and lower silver prices, offset by higher gold prices and an increase in forward sales.
Gold ounces sold for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 396,000 ounces, or 51.3%, to 376,000 ounces from 772,000 ounces in 2016. Silver ounces sold for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 10,852,000 ounces, or 47.6%, to 11,964,000 ounces from 22,816,000 ounces in 2016. On average, the prices for gold increased by 4.1% and prices for silver decreased by 2.9% during the three months ended December 31, 2017 as compared to 2016.
    
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
3,844,528

 
100.000
%
 
$
3,932,014

 
100.000
%
 
$
(87,486
)
 
(2.2
)%
Performance Metrics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold
708,000

 
 
 
1,302,000

 
 
 
(594,000
)
 
(45.6
)%
Silver ounces sold
26,495,000

 
 
 
44,591,000

 
 
 
(18,096,000
)
 
(40.6
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $87.5 million, or 2.2%, to $3.845 billion from $3.932 billion in 2016. Our revenues decreased primarily due to a decrease in the total amount of gold and silver ounces sold and lower silver prices, offset by an increase in forward sales.
Gold ounces sold for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 594,000 ounces, or 45.6%, to 708,000 ounces from 1,302,000 ounces in 2016. Silver ounces sold for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 18,096,000 ounces, or 40.6%, to 26,495,000 ounces from 44,591,000 ounces in 2016. On average, the prices for gold was unchanged and prices for silver decreased by 7.9% during the six months ended December 31, 2017 as compared to 2016.
    
Gross Profit
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Gross profit
$
8,916

 
0.530
%
 
$
9,859

 
0.464
%
 
$
(943
)
 
(9.6
)%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventory turnover ratio
5.2

 
 
 
7.2

 
 
 
(2.0
)
 
(27.8
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by $0.9 million, or 9.6%, to $8.9 million from $9.9 million in 2016. Overall gross margin decreased due to subdued market conditions (e.g., lower gold and silver sales volume) compared to the prior year quarter. The Company’s profit margin percentage increased by 14.2% to 0.530% from 0.464% in 2016 and was largely attributable to the gross margin realized by the newly acquired Direct Sales segment (i.e., Goldline).
Our inventory turnover rate for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by 27.8%, to 5.2 from 7.2 in 2016. The decrease in our inventory turnover rate was primarily due to low market volitility and a higher volume of activity in our product financing arrangements with customers (under this type of arrangement the Company carries inventory on its balance sheet for longer periods than inventory currently available for sale).

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Table of Contents            

Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Gross profit
$
16,222

 
0.422
%
 
$
17,923

 
0.456
%
 
$
(1,701
)
 
(9.5
)%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Inventory turnover ratio
12.4

 
 
 
14.6

 
 
 
(2.2
)
 
(15.1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by $1.7 million, or 9.5%, to $16.2 million from $17.9 million in 2016. Overall gross margin decreased due to subdued market conditions (e.g., lower gold and silver sales volume) compared to the prior fiscal year. The Company’s profit margin percentage decreased by 7.5% to 0.422% from 0.456% in 2016. The drop in gross profit percentage was largely attributable to higher forward contracts, which increase revenues but have negligible impact on the gross margin, offset by gross margin of the newly acquired Direct Sales segment (i.e., Goldline).
Our inventory turnover rate for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by 15.1%, to 12.4 from 14.6 in 2016. The decrease in our inventory turnover rate was primarily due to low market volitility and a higher volume of activity in our product financing arrangements with customers (under this type of arrangement the Company carries inventory on its balance sheet for longer periods than inventory currently available for sale).
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
(9,349
)
 
(0.556
)%
 
$
(6,131
)
 
(0.288
)%
 
$
3,218

 
52.5
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2017 increased $3.2 million, or 52.5%, to $9.3 million from $6.1 million in 2016. The change was primarily due to new selling, general and administrative expense of the related to our newly acquired Direct Sales segment (e.g., Goldline) of $3.6 million, a $0.4 million non-recurring legal expense, partially offset by $0.9 million of incentive compensation expense reductions.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
(16,325
)
 
(0.425
)%
 
$
(11,795
)
 
(0.300
)%
 
$
4,530

 
38.4
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased $4.5 million, or 38.4%, to $16.3 million from $11.8 million in 2016. The change was primarily due to new selling, general and administrative expense related to our newly acquired Direct Sales segment (e.g., Goldine) of $4.8 million, $0.3 million of stock compensation expense, a $0.4 million non-recurring legal expense, partially offset by $1.4 million of incentive compensation expense reductions.

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Interest Income    
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest income
$
3,268

 
0.194
%
 
$
2,959

 
0.139
%
 
$
309

 
10.4
%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of secured loans at period-end
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.3 million, or 10.4%, to $3.3 million from $3.0 million in 2016. This increase was primarily due to increases in interest rates and the aggregate value of the secured loan portfolio. The number of secured loans outstanding increased by 66.3% to 2,823 from 1,698 in 2016. Interest income from our secured loan portfolio increased by $0.4 million or by 23.1% in comparison to the same year-ago period. The aggregate increase in interest income was offset by decreases in other finance product income.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest income
$
6,429

 
0.167
%
 
$
5,818

 
0.148
%
 
$
611

 
10.5
%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of secured loans at period-end
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.6 million, or 10.5%, to $6.4 million from $5.8 million in 2016. This increase was primarily due to increases in interest rates and aggregate value of the secured loan portfolio. The number of secured loans outstanding increased by 66.3% to 2,823 from 1,698 in 2016. Interest income from our secured loan portfolio increased by $0.8 million or by 22.2% in comparison to the same year-ago period. The aggregate increase in interest income was offset partially by decreases in other finance product income. Our finance fees earned related to repurchase arrangements with customers decreased by 5.3% or by $0.1 million in comparison to the same year-ago period.
Interest Expense
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest expense
$
(3,359
)
 
(0.200
)%
 
$
(2,447
)
 
(0.115
)%
 
$
912

 
37.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.9 million, or 37.3% to $3.4 million from $2.4 million in 2016. The increase was related primarily to a significantly greater usage of our lines of credit, as a result of continued growth in the business, new debt financing agreement associated with our acquisition of Goldline, higher average inventory levels primarily related to product financing arrangements, amortization costs related to loan fees related to third party financing arrangements, and higher LIBOR interest rates that went in to effect subsequent to the Federal Reserve rate increases. In comparison to the same year-ago period, interest expense increased by $0.6 million or by 33.7% related to our Trading Credit Facility (including debt amortization costs), by $0.2 million related to our Goldline Credit Facility.

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Table of Contents            

Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest expense
$
(6,092
)
 
(0.159
)%
 
$
(4,688
)
 
(0.119
)%
 
$
1,404

 
29.9
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased $1.4 million, or 29.9% to $6.1 million from $4.7 million in 2016. The increase was related primarily to a significantly greater usage of our lines of credit, as a result of continued growth in the business, new related-party debt financing agreement associated with our acquisition of Goldline, higher average inventory levels primarily related to product financing arrangements, amortization costs related to loan fees related to third party financing fee arrangments, and higher LIBOR interest rates that went in to effect subsequent to the Federal Reserve rate increases. In comparison to the same year-ago period, interest expense increased by $0.8 million or by 24.5% related to our Trading Credit Facility (including debt amortization costs), by $0.3 million related to the Goldline Credit Facility, and by $0.1 million or 22.2% related to product financing agreements (or "reverse-repurchase arrangements").
Provision for Income Taxes
Our effective rate could be adversely affected by the relative proportions of revenue and income before taxes in the various domestic and international jurisdictions in which the Company operates. The Company is also subject to changing tax laws, regulations and interpretations in multiple jurisdictions in which we operate. The Company's effective rate can also be influenced by the tax effects of purchase accounting for acquisitions and non-recurring charges, which may cause fluctuations between reporting periods.
The Company’s tax provision for the three and six months ended December 31, 2017 includes the impact of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Reform”), which was signed into law on December 22, 2017. Among numerous provisions included in the new law was the reduction of the corporate federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% and the changes in carry-back and the carryforward rules that apply to net operating losses, both of which impacted the Company.
As to the final effective date for taxable years when a NOL is no longer able to be carried back and must be carried forward, the final language of this provision did not follow the Conference Agreement. Therefore, the Company believes this language is a drafting error and is actively pursuing technical corrections on this matter. If the effective date is subsequently changed to be consistent with the Conference Agreement, the Company could be entitled to a subsequent tax benefit.
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Provision for income taxes
$
(324
)
 
(0.019
)%
 
$
(1,590
)
 
(0.075
)%
 
$
(1,266
)
 
(79.6
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our provision for income taxes was $0.3 million and $1.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our effective tax rate was approximately 121.8% and 36.7% for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our effective tax rate differs from the federal statutory rate primarily due to the recent Tax Reform legislation that resulted in approximately $0.2 million of additional income tax expense (e.g., incremental to the Company's normal effective tax rate) related to the revaluation of deferred taxes assets and liabilities. This was primarily driven by the two changes in the tax law as discussed above (e.g., change in income tax rates and use of net operating losses).

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Table of Contents            

[Tax reform placeholder]
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Provision for income taxes
$
(598
)
 
(0.016
)%
 
$
(2,649
)
 
(0.067
)%
 
$
(2,051
)
 
(77.4
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our provision for income taxes was $0.6 million and $2.6 million for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our effective tax rate was approximately 60.8% and 36.1% for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our effective tax rate differs from the federal statutory rate primarily due to the recent Tax Reform legislation that resulted in approximately $0.2 million of additional income tax expense related to the revaluation of deferred taxes assets and liabilities. This was primarily driven by the two changes in the tax law as discussed above (e.g., change in income tax rates and use of net operating losses).

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Table of Contents            

Segment Results of Operations
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services Segment Results of Operations
Overview of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
The operating results of our Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
in thousands, except per share data and performance metrics
 
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
1,651,442

 
100.000
 %
 
$
2,126,361

 
100.000
 %
 
$
(474,919
)
 
(22.3
)%
Gross profit
7,168

 
0.434
 %
 
9,859

 
0.464
 %
 
$
(2,691
)
 
(27.3
)%
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(5,724
)
 
(0.347
)%
 
(6,131
)
 
(0.288
)%
 
$
(407
)
 
(6.6
)%
Interest income
3,268

 
0.198
 %
 
2,959

 
0.139
 %
 
$
309

 
10.4
 %
Interest expense
(3,159
)
 
(0.191
)%
 
(2,447
)
 
(0.115
)%
 
$
712

 
29.1
 %
Other income
651

 
0.039
 %
 
93

 
0.004
 %
 
$
558

 
600.0
 %
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange
139

 
0.008
 %
 
(3
)
 
 %
 
$
142

 
NM

Net income before provision for income taxes
$
2,343

 
0.142
 %
 
$
4,330

 
0.204
 %
 
$
(1,987
)
 
(45.9
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Gold ounces sold(1)
369,000

 
 
 
772,000

 
 
 
(403,000
)
 
(52.2
)%
Silver ounces sold(2)
11,832,000

 
 
 
22,816,000

 
 
 
(10,984,000
)
 
(48.1
)%
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment ticket volume(3)
30,264

 
 
 
35,198

 
 
 
(4,934
)
 
(14.0
)%
Number of secured loans at period end(4)
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
NM
 
Not meaningful.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold and delivered to the customer during the period, excluding ounces of gold recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold and delivered to the customer during the period, excluding ounces of silver recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Trading ticket volume represents the total number of product orders processed by our trading desks in El Segundo, California and Vienna, Austria, for the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
 
 
 
 
(4)
 
Number of outstanding secured loans to customers at the end of the period.
 


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Table of Contents            

Overview of Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
The operating results of our Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:
in thousands, except performance metrics
 
 
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
3,804,862

 
100.000
 %
 
$
3,932,014

 
100.000
 %
 
$
(127,152
)
 
(3.2
)%
Gross profit
12,813

 
0.337
 %
 
17,923

 
0.456
 %
 
$
(5,110
)
 
(28.5
)%
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(11,517
)
 
(0.303
)%
 
(11,795
)
 
(0.300
)%
 
$
(278
)
 
(2.4
)%
Interest income
6,429

 
0.169
 %
 
5,818

 
0.148
 %
 
$
611

 
10.5
 %
Interest expense
(5,813
)
 
(0.153
)%
 
(4,688
)
 
(0.119
)%
 
$
1,125

 
24.0
 %
Other income
712

 
0.019
 %
 
79

 
0.002
 %
 
$
633

 
801.3
 %
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange
38

 
0.001
 %
 
(9
)
 
 %
 
$
47

 
NM

Net income before provision for income taxes
$
2,662

 
0.070
 %
 
$
7,328

 
0.186
 %
 
$
(4,666
)
 
(63.7
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold(1)
699,000

 
 
 
1,302,000

 
 
 
(603,000
)
 
(46.3
)%
Silver ounces sold(2)
26,343,000

 
 
 
44,591,000

 
 
 
(18,248,000
)
 
(40.9
)%
Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment ticket volume(3)
60,147

 
 
 
57,229

 
 
 
2,918

 
5.1
 %
Number of secured loans at period end(4)
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

_________________________________
 
 
 
 
NM
 
Not meaningful.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold and delivered to the customer during the period, excluding ounces of gold recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold and delivered to the customer during the period, excluding ounces of silver recorded on forward contracts.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Trading ticket volume represents the total number of product orders processed by our trading desks in El Segundo, California and Vienna, Austria, for the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
 
 
 
 
(4)
 
Number of outstanding secured loans to customers at the end of the period.
 


60

Table of Contents            

Revenues — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
1,651,442

 
100.000
%
 
$
2,126,361

 
100.000
%
 
$
(474,919
)
 
(22.3
)%
Performance Metrics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold
369,000

 
 
 
772,000

 
 
 
(403,000
)
 
(52.2
)%
Silver ounces sold
11,832,000

 
 
 
22,816,000

 
 
 
(10,984,000
)
 
(48.1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $474.9 million, or 22.3%, to $1.651 billion from $2.126 billion in 2016. Our revenues decrease primarily due to a decrease in the total amount of gold and silver and ounces sold and lower silver prices, partially offset by higher gold prices and an increase in forward sales.
Gold ounces sold for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 403,000 ounces, or 52.2%, to 369,000 ounces from 772,000 ounces in 2016. Silver ounces sold for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 10,984,000 ounces, or 48.1%, to 11,832,000 ounces from 22,816,000 ounces in 2016. On average, the prices for gold increased by 3.4% and prices for silver decreased by 3.3% during the three months ended December 31, 2017 as compared to 2016.
    
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Revenues
$
3,804,862

 
100.000
%
 
$
3,932,014

 
100.000
%
 
$
(127,152
)
 
(3.2
)%
Performance Metrics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold
699,000

 
 
 
1,302,000

 
 
 
(603,000
)
 
(46.3
)%
Silver ounces sold
26,343,000

 
 
 
44,591,000

 
 
 
(18,248,000
)
 
(40.9
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $127.2 million, or 3.2%, to $3.805 billion from $3.932 billion in 2016. Our revenues decreased primarily due to a decrease in the total amount of gold and silver ounces sold and lower silver prices, offset by an increase in forward sales.
Gold ounces sold for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 603,000 ounces, or 46.3%, to 699,000 ounces from 1,302,000 ounces in 2016. Silver ounces sold for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased 18,248,000 ounces, or 40.9%, to 26,343,000 ounces from 44,591,000 ounces in 2016. On average, the prices for gold was unchanged and prices for silver decreased by 8.1% during the six months ended December 31, 2017 as compared to 2016.
    
Gross Profit — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Gross profit
$
7,168

 
0.434
%
 
$
9,859

 
0.464
%
 
$
(2,691
)
 
(27.3
)%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale trading ticket volume
30,264

 
 
 
35,198

 
 
 
(4,934
)
 
(14.0
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by $2.7 million, or 27.3%, to $7.2 million from $9.9 million in 2016. Overall gross margin decreased due to subdued market conditions (e.g., lower gold and silver sales volume) compared to the prior year quarter. The Company’s profit margin percentage decreased by 6.5% to 0.434% from 0.464% in 2016 and was largely attributable to higher forward contracts, which increase revenues but have negligible impact on the gross margin. The Company enters into forward contracts to hedge its precious metals price risk exposure and not for speculative purposes.
The wholesale trading ticket volume for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by 4,934 tickets, or 14.0%, to 30,264 tickets from 35,198 tickets in 2016. The decrease in our trading ticket volume was primarily due to subdued market conditions.

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Table of Contents            

Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metric
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Gross profit
$
12,813

 
0.337
%
 
$
17,923

 
0.456
%
 
$
(5,110
)
 
(28.5
)%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale trading ticket volume
60,147

 
 
 
57,229

 
 
 
2,918

 
5.1
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased by $5.1 million, or 28.5%, to $12.8 million from $17.9 million in 2016. Overall gross margin decreased due to subdued market conditions (e.g., lower gold and silver sales volume) compared to the prior fiscal year. The Company’s profit margin percentage decreased by 26.2% to 0.337% from 0.456% in 2016 and was largely attributable to higher forward contracts, which increase revenues but have negligible impact on the gross margin. The Company enters into forward contracts to hedge its precious metals price risk exposure and not for speculative purposes.
The wholesale trading ticket volume for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased by 2,918 tickets, or 5.1%, to 60,147 tickets from 57,229 tickets in 2016. The increase in our trading ticket volume was primarily the result of an increase in customer usage of our online portal. Generally, the quantity-size (i.e., ounces) of customer orders placed through the portal is less than the quantity size of orders processed through our trading desk.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services

Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
(5,724
)
 
(0.347
)%
 
$
(6,131
)
 
(0.288
)%
 
$
(407
)
 
(6.6
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $0.4 million, or 6.6%, to $5.7 million from $6.1 million in 2016. The change was primarily due to $0.9 million of incentive compensation expense reductions, offset by a $0.4 million non-recurring legal expense.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
$
(11,517
)
 
(0.303
)%
 
$
(11,795
)
 
(0.300
)%
 
$
(278
)
 
(2.4
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the six months ended December 31, 2017 decreased $0.3 million, or 2.4%, to $11.5 million from $11.8 million in 2016. The change was primarily due to $1.4 million of incentive compensation expense reductions, offset by $0.3 million of stock compensation expense and a $0.4 million of non-recurring legal expense.

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Interest Income — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest income
$
3,268

 
0.198
%
 
$
2,959

 
0.139
%
 
$
309

 
10.4
%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of secured loans at period-end
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.3 million, or 10.4%, to $3.3 million from $3.0 million in 2016. This increase was primarily due to increases in interest rates and the aggregate value of the secured loan portfolio. Interest income from our secured loan portfolio increased by $0.4 million or by 23.1% in comparison to the same year-ago period. The number of secured loans outstanding increased by 66.3% to 2,823 from 1,698 in 2016. The aggregate increased in interest income was offset by decreases in other finance product income.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands, except performance metrics
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest income
$
6,429

 
0.169
%
 
$
5,818

 
0.148
%
 
$
611

 
10.5
%
Performance Metric
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of secured loans at period-end
2,823

 
 
 
1,698

 
 
 
1,125

 
66.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.6 million, or 10.5%, to $6.4 million from $5.8 million in 2016. Interest income from our secured loan portfolio increased by $0.8 million or by 22.2% in comparison to the same year-ago period. This increase was primarily due to increases in interest rates and the aggregate value of the secured loan portfolio. The number of secured loans outstanding increased by 66.3% to 2,823 from 1,698 in 2016. The aggregate increase in interest income was offset by decreases in other finance product income. Our finance fees earned related to repurchase arrangements with customers decreased by 5.3% or by $0.1 million in comparison to the same year-ago period.

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Interest Expense — Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest expense
$
(3,159
)
 
(0.191
)%
 
$
(2,447
)
 
(0.115
)%
 
$
712

 
29.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2017 increased $0.7 million, or 29.1% to $3.2 million from $2.4 million in 2016. The increase was related primarily to a significantly greater usage of our lines of credit, as a result from continued growth in the business, higher average inventory levels primarily related to product financing arrangements, amortization costs related to loan fees related to third party financing arrangements, and higher LIBOR interest rates that went in to effect subsequent to the Federal Reserve rate increases. In comparison to the same year-ago period, interest expense increased by $0.6 million or by 33.7% related to our Trading Credit Facility.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
2016
 
$
 
%
in thousands
$
 
% of revenue
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Increase/(decrease)
 
Increase/(decrease)
Interest expense
$
(5,813
)
 
(0.153
)%
 
$
(4,688
)
 
(0.119
)%
 
$
1,125

 
24.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense for the six months ended December 31, 2017 increased $1.1 million, or 24.0% to $5.8 million from $4.7 million in 2016. The increase was related primarily to a significantly greater usage of our lines of credit, as a result from continued growth in the business, holding higher average inventory levels primarily related to product financing arrangements, amortization costs related to loan fees related to third party financing arrangements, and higher LIBOR interest rates that went in to effect subsequent to the Federal Reserve rate increases. In comparison to the same year-ago period, interest expense increased by $0.7 million or by 23.7% related to our Trading Credit Facility (including debt amortization costs), by $0.1 million or by 23.2% related to loan servicing costs paid to a third-party, and by $0.1 million or by 22.2% related to product financing agreements (or "reverse-repurchase arrangements").


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Direct Sales Segment Results of Operations
Overview of Results of Operations for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
The Direct Sales segment was created on August 28, 2017 as a result of the Goldline acquisition, thus comparative prior period data is not available. The operating results of our Direct Sales segment for the three months ended December 31, 2017 are as follows:
in thousands, except performance metrics
 
Three Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Revenues
$
29,296

(a) 
100.000
 %
 
Gross profit
1,748

 
5.967
 %
(b) 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(3,625
)
 
(12.374
)%
 
Interest expense
(200
)
 
(0.683
)%
 
Net loss before provision for income taxes
$
(2,077
)
 
(7.090
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold(1)
7,000

 
 
 
Silver ounces sold(2)
132,000

 
 
 
Direct Sales segment ticket volume(3)
4,019

 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
(a)
 
Includes $10.8 million of intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
 
 
 
 
(b)
 
Gross profit percentage realized from sales, excluding intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary services segment, is 12.922% for the three-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold to third-party customers during the three-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold to third-party customer during the three-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Direct Sales segment trading ticket volume represents the total number of product orders processed.
 
 
 
 
 


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Table of Contents            

Overview of Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016
The Direct Sales segment was created on August 28, 2017 as a result of the Goldline acquisition, thus comparative prior period data is not available. The operating results of our Direct Sales segment for the six months ended December 31, 2017 are as follows:
in thousands, except performance metrics
 
Six Months Ended December 31,
2017
 
 
$
 
% of revenue
 
Revenues
$
39,666

(a) 
100.000
 %
 
Gross profit
3,409

 
8.594
 %
(b) 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
(4,808
)
 
(12.121
)%
 
Interest expense
(279
)
 
(0.703
)%
 
Net loss before provision for income taxes
$
(1,678
)
 
(4.230
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics:
 
 
 
 
Gold ounces sold(1)
9,000

 
 
 
Silver ounces sold(2)
152,000

 
 
 
Direct Sales ticket volume(3)
6,930

 
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
 
(a)
 
Includes $17.7 million of intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment.
 
 
 
 
 
(b)
 
Gross profit percentage, excluding intercompany sales from the Direct Sales segment to the Wholesale Trading & Ancillary Services segment, is 19.350% for the six-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
 
Gold ounces sold represents the ounces of gold product sold to third-party customers during the six-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(2)
 
Silver ounces sold represents the ounces of silver product sold to third-party customer during the six-month period.
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
Direct Sales segment trading ticket volume represents the total number of product orders processed.
 
 
 
 
 

Segment Results — Direct Sales
Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016
Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2017 were $29.3 million. The total amount of gold and silver sold to third-party customers was 7,000 ounces and 132,000 ounces, respectively. Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2017 was $1.7 million. Selling, general and administration expenses and for the three months ended December 31, 2017 was $3.6 million.
Six Months Ended December 31, 2017 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2016
Revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2017 were $39.7 million. The total amount of gold and silver sold to third-party customers was 9,000 ounces and 152,000 ounces, respectively. Gross profit for the six months ended December 31, 2017 was $3.4 million. Selling, general and administration expenses and for the six months ended December 31, 2017 was $4.8 million.

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LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
Primary Sources and Uses of Cash
Overview
Liquidity is defined as our ability to generate sufficient amounts of cash to meet all of our cash needs. Liquidity is of critical importance to us and imperative to maintain our operations on a daily basis.
A substantial portion of our assets are liquid. As of December 31, 2017, approximately 92% of our assets consisted of cash, customer receivables, derivative assets, secured loans receivables, and precious metals inventory, measured at fair value. Cash generated from the sales of our precious metals products is our primary source of operating liquidity.
Typically, the Company acquires its inventory by: (1) purchasing inventory from our suppliers by utilizing our own capital and lines of credit; (2) borrowing precious metals from our suppliers under short-term arrangements which may bear interest at a designated rate, and (3) repurchasing inventory at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price on the specified repurchase date.
In addition to selling inventory, the Company generates cash from earned interest income. Through CFC, the Company enters into secured loans and secured financing structures with its customers under which it charges interest. The Company offers a number of secured financing options to its customers to finance their precious metals purchases including consignments and other structured inventory finance products. The loans are secured by precious metals and numismatic material owned by the borrowers and held by the Company as security for the term of the loan. Furthermore, our customers may enter into purchase agreements whereby the customer agrees to purchase our inventory at the prevailing spot price for delivery of the product at a specific point in time in the future; interest income is earned from contract date until the material is delivered and paid for in full.
We continually review our overall credit and capital needs to ensure that our capital base, both stockholders’ equity and available credit facilities, can appropriately support our anticipated financing needs. The Company also continually monitors its current and forecasted cash requirements, and draws upon and pays down its lines of credit so as to minimize interest expense.
Lines of Credit
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
June 30, 2017
 
Lines of credit
 
$
214,000

 
$
180,000

 
$
34,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A-Mark has a borrowing facility ("Trading Credit Facility") with a syndicate of banks, Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A. ("Rabobank") acting as lead lender and administrative agent for the syndicate. The Trading Credit Facility provides the Company with access up to $275.0 million, featuring a $225.0 million base with a $50.0 million accordion option. The Trading Credit Facility is scheduled to mature on March 31, 2018. The Company believes that the Trading Credit Facility provides adequate means to capital for its operations (see Note 14). Effective November 13, 2017, the Trading Credit Facility was amended (see Note 19).
Debt Obligation (Related Party)
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
June 30, 2017
 
Debt Obligation - related party
 
$
6,873

 
$

 
$
6,873

 
The Company entered into a privately placed credit facility in the amount of $7.5 million (the “Goldline Credit Facility”) with various lenders (see Note 14). Borrowings under the Goldline Credit Facility were used to finance a portion of the consideration payable pursuant to the Goldline acquisition (see Note 1).

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Table of Contents            

Liability on Borrowed Metals
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
June 30, 2017
 
Liability on borrowed metals
 
$
19,526

 
$
5,625

 
$
13,901

 
We borrow precious metals from our suppliers under short-term arrangements. Amounts under these arrangements are due at maturity and require repayment either in the form of precious metals or cash. Liabilities also arise from unallocated positions held in our inventory.
Product Financing Arrangements
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
June 30, 2017
 
Product financing arrangements
 
$
120,161

 
$
135,343

 
$
(15,182
)
 
The Company has agreements with financial institutions (third parties) that allows the Company to transfer its gold and silver inventory to the third party at a an agreed-upon price based on the spot price, which provides alternative sources of liquidity. During the term of the agreement both parties intend for inventory to be returned at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price on the termination (repurchase) date. The third parties charge monthly interest as a percentage of the market value of the outstanding obligation; such monthly charges are classified in interest expense. These transactions do not qualify as sales and therefore have been accounted for as financing arrangements and reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheet as product financing arrangements. The obligation is stated at the amount required to repurchase the outstanding inventory. Both the product financing arrangements and the underlying inventory (which is entirely restricted) are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value included as a component of cost of sales.
Secured Loans
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
June 30, 2017
Secured loans
 
$
96,971

 
$
91,238

 
$
5,733

The Company is a California license finance lender that makes and acquires commercial loans secured by numismatic and semi-numismatic coins and bullion that affords our customers a convenient means of financing their inventory or collections (see Note 5).  Predominantly, most of the Company's secured loans are short-term in nature and the renewal of these instruments is at the discretion of the Company and, as such, provides us with some flexibility in regards to our capital deployment strategies.

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Table of Contents            

Dividends
In fiscal 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company initiated a cash dividend policy that calls for the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per common share. In fiscal 2016, the Board of Directors modified the policy by increasing the quarterly cash dividend to $0.07 per common share, and in fiscal 2017 the quarterly cash dividend was increased to $0.08 per common share (see Note 16).
Cash Flows
The majority of the Company’s trading activities involve two day value trades under which payment is made in advance of delivery or product is received in advance of payment. The high volume, rapid rate of inventory turnover, and high average value per trade can cause material changes in the sources of cash used in or provided by operating activities on a daily basis. The Company manages these variances through its liquidity forecasts and counterparty limits by maintaining a liquidity reserve to meet the Company’s cash needs. The Company uses various short-term financial instruments to manage the rapid cycle of our trading activities from customer purchase order to cash collections and product delivery, which can cause material changes in the amount of cash used in or provided by financing activities on a daily basis.
The following summarizes components of our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:
in thousands
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended
 
December 31,
2017
 
December 31,
2016
 
December 31, 2017
Compared to
December 31, 2016
 
Net cash used in operating activities
 
$
(11,677
)
 
$
(16,413
)
 
4,736

 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
$
(13,878
)
 
$
(21,755
)
 
7,877

 
Net cash provided by financing activities
 
$
24,507

 
$
34,296

 
(9,789
)
 
Our principal capital requirements have been to fund (i) working capital and (ii) capital expenditures. Our working capital requirements fluctuate with market conditions, the availability of precious metals and the volatility of precious metals commodity pricing.
Net cash used in operating activities
Operating activities used $11.7 million and used $16.4 million in cash for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, representing a $4.7 million decrease in the use of cash compared to the six months ended December 31, 2016. This period over period decrease in the of use of funds (i.e., used less funds) in operating activities was primarily due to changes in the balances of receivables, derivative assets, deferred income taxes, inventory, liability on borrowed metals, offset by changes in the balances of secured loans, income taxes receivables, income taxes payable, and accounts payable, and derivative liabilities.
Net cash used in investing activities
Investing activities used $13.9 million and used $21.8 million in cash for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, representing a $7.9 million decrease in the use of cash compared to the six months ended December 31, 2016. This period over period decrease is the result of the change in balance of secured loans of $13.5 million, offset by an increase in the use of cash for corporate acquisition activity of $6.1 million compared to the comparable prior period.
Net cash provided by financing activities
Financing activities provided $24.5 million and provided $34.3 million in cash for the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, representing a decrease of $9.8 million in funds provided by financing activities compared to the six months ended December 31, 2016. This period over period decrease in funds provided by financing activities was primarily due to changes in the balance of product financing arrangements of $77.3 million, and partially offset by the change in the balance of the Trading Credit Facility of $61.0 million and a new related party debt obligation of $7.5 million in the current period.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents, availability under the Trading Credit Facility and product financing arrangements, and cash we anticipate to generate from operating activities will provide us with sufficient liquidity to satisfy our working capital needs, capital expenditures, investment requirements and commitments through at least the next twelve months.

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Table of Contents            

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS, CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS
Counterparty Risk
We manage our counterparty risk by setting credit and position risk limits with our trading counterparties. These limits include gross position limits for counterparties engaged in sales and purchase transactions and inventory consignment transactions with us. They also include collateral limits for different types of sale and purchase transactions that counterparties may engage in from time to time.
Commodities Risk and Derivatives
We use a variety of strategies to manage our risk including fluctuations in commodity prices for precious metals. Our inventories consist of, and our trading activities involve, precious metals and precious metal products, whose prices are linked to the corresponding precious metal commodity prices. Inventories purchased or borrowed by us are subject to price changes. Inventories borrowed are considered natural hedges, since changes in value of the metal held are offset by the obligation to return the metal to the supplier or deliver metals to the customer.
Open sale and purchase commitments in our trading activities are subject to changes in value between the date the purchase or sale price is fixed (the trade date) and the date the metal is received or delivered (the settlement date). We seek to minimize the effect of price changes of the underlying commodity through the use of forward and futures contracts. Our open sale and purchase commitments generally settle within 2 business days, and for those commitments that do not have stated settlement dates, we have the right to settle the positions upon demand.
Our policy is to substantially hedge our underlying precious metal commodity inventory position. We regularly enter into metals commodity forward and futures contracts with financial institutions to hedge price changes that would cause changes in the value of our physical metals positions and purchase commitments and sale commitments. We have access to all of the precious metals markets, allowing us to place hedges. However, we also maintain relationships with major market makers in every major precious metals dealing center, which allows us to enter into contracts with market makers. Futures and forwards contracts open at December 31, 2017 are scheduled to settle within 30 days.
The Company enters into these derivative transactions solely for the purpose of hedging our inventory holding risk, and not for speculative market purposes. Due to the nature of our hedging strategy, we are not using hedge accounting as defined under, Derivatives and Hedging Topic 815 of the Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC".) Unrealized gains or losses resulting from our futures and forward contracts are reported as cost of sales with the related amounts due from or to counterparties reflected as a derivative asset or liability. The Company adjusts the derivatives to fair value on a daily basis until the transactions are settled. When these contracts are net settled, the unrealized gains and losses are reversed and the realized gains and losses for forward contracts are recorded in revenue and cost of sales, and the net realized gains and losses for futures and option contacts are recorded in cost of sales. The Company’s gains (losses) on derivative instruments are substantially offset by the changes in fair market value of the underlying precious metals inventory and open sale and purchase commitments, which is also recorded in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. For the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the net gains (losses) on derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statements of income totaled $(12.6) million and (22.9) million, respectively.
For the six months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the net gains (losses) on derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statements of income totaled $2.0 million and $(19.0) million, respectively.

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The purpose of the Company's hedging policy is to substantially match the change in the value of the derivative financial instrument to the change in the value of the underlying hedged item. The following table summarizes the results of our hedging activities, showing the precious metal commodity inventory position, net of open sale and purchase commitments, which is subject to price risk, compared to change in the value of the derivative instruments as of December 31, 2017 and at June 30, 2017:
in thousands
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
Inventory
 
$
335,235

 
$
284,659

Less unhedgable inventory:
 
 
 
 
Commemorative coin inventory, held at lower of cost or market
 
(129
)
 
(40
)
Premium on metals position
 
(4,365
)
 
(4,088
)
Inventory value not hedged
 
(4,494
)
 
(4,128
)
 
 
 
 
 
Subtotal
 
330,741

 
280,531

Commitments at market:
 
 

 
 

Open inventory purchase commitments
 
549,114

 
587,687

Open inventory sales commitments
 
(170,720
)
 
(121,602
)
Margin sale commitments
 
(6,974
)
 
(7,936
)
In-transit inventory no longer subject to market risk
 
(1,502
)
 
(3,931
)
Unhedgable premiums on open commitment positions
 
1,442

 
495

Borrowed precious metals
 
(19,526
)
 
(5,625
)
Product financing arrangements
 
(120,161
)
 
(135,343
)
Advances on industrial metals
 
6,487

 
1,580

Inventory subject to price risk
 
568,901

 
595,856

 
 
 
 
 
Inventory subject to derivative financial instruments:
 
 
 
 
Precious metals forward contracts at market values
 
374,485

 
462,231

Precious metals futures contracts at market values
 
193,772

 
133,450

Total market value of derivative financial instruments
 
568,257

 
595,681

 
 
 
 
 
Net inventory subject to commodity price risk
 
$
644

 
$
175


We are exposed to the risk of default of the counterparties to our derivative contracts. Significant judgment is applied by us when evaluating the fair value implications. We regularly review the creditworthiness of our major counterparties and monitor our exposure to concentrations. At December 31, 2017, we believe our risk of counterparty default is mitigated based on our evaluation of the creditworthiness of our major counterparties, the strong financial condition of our counterparties, and the short-term duration of these arrangements.
Commitments and Contingencies
Refer to Note 15 for information relating Company's commitments and contingencies.

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Table of Contents            

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
As of December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017, we had the following outstanding sale and purchase commitments and open forward and future contracts, which are normal and recurring, in nature:
in thousands
 
December 31, 2017
 
June 30, 2017
Purchase commitments
 
$
549,114

 
$
587,687

Sales commitments
 
$
(170,720
)
 
$
(121,602
)
Margin sale commitments
 
$
(6,974
)
 
$
(7,936
)
Open forward contracts
 
$
374,485

 
$
462,231

Open futures contracts
 
$
193,772

 
$
133,450

Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
$
2,299

 
$
2,213

The notional amounts of the commodity forward and futures contracts and the open sales and purchase orders, as shown in the table above, are not reflected at the notional amounts in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company records commodity forward and futures contracts at the fair value, which is the difference between the market price of the underlying metal or contract measured on the reporting date and the trade amount measured on the date the contract was transacted. The fair value of the open derivative contracts are shown as a component of derivative assets or derivative liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.
The Company enters into the derivative forward and future transactions solely for the purpose of hedging its inventory holding risk, and not for speculative market purposes. The Company’s gains (losses) on derivative instruments are substantially offset by the changes in fair market value of the underlying precious metals inventory position, including our open sale and purchase commitments. The Company records the derivatives at the trade date, and any corresponding unrealized gains or losses are shown as a component of cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. We adjust the carrying value of the derivatives to fair value on a daily basis until the transactions are physically settled (see Note 11.)
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
Our condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). In connection with the preparation of our financial statements, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about future events and apply judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and related disclosures. We base our assumptions, estimates and judgments on historical experience, current trends and other factors that we believe to be relevant at the time our condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared. On a regular basis, we review our accounting policies, assumptions, estimates and judgments to ensure that our condensed consolidated financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with U.S. GAAP. However, because future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could materially differ from our estimates.
Our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. We believe that the following accounting policies are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results, and they require our most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, resulting from the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. We have reviewed these critical accounting estimates and related disclosures with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
Revenue Recognition
The Company accounts for its metals and sales contracts using settlement date accounting. Pursuant to such accounting, the Company recognizes the sale or purchase of the metals at settlement date. During the period between the trade and settlement dates, the Company has essentially entered into a forward contract that meets the definition of a derivative in accordance with the Derivatives and Hedging Topic 815 of the ASC. The Company records the derivative at the trade date with any corresponding unrealized gain (loss), shown as component of cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. The Company adjusts the derivatives to fair value on a daily basis until the transactions are settled. When these contracts are settled, the unrealized gains and losses are reversed, and revenue is recognized for contracts that are physically settled. For contracts that are net settled, the realized gains and losses are recorded in cost of sales, with the exception of forward contracts, where their associated realized gain ans losses are recorded in revenue and cost of sales.

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Inventories
The Company's inventories primarily include bullion and bullion coins, which are initially recorded at fair market value. The fair market value of the bullion and bullion coins is comprised of two components: (1) published market values attributable to the cost of the raw precious metal, and (2) a published premium paid at acquisition of the metal. The premium is attributable to the additional value of the product in its finished goods form and the market value attributable solely to the premium may be readily determined, as it is published by multiple reputable sources. The premium is included in the cost of the inventory, paid at acquisition, and is a component of the total fair market value of the inventory. The precious metal component of the inventory may be hedged through the use of precious metal commodity positions, while the premium component of our inventory is not a commodity that may be hedged.
The Company’s inventories, except for certain lower of cost or market basis products (as described below), are subsequently recorded at their fair market values. The daily changes in the fair market value of our inventory are offset by daily changes in the fair market value of hedging derivatives that are taken with respect to our inventory positions; both the change in the fair market value of the inventory and the change in the fair market value of these derivative instruments are recorded in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
While the premium component included in inventories is marked-to-market, our commemorative coin inventory, including its premium component, is held at the lower of cost or market, because the value of commemorative coins is influenced more by supply and demand determinants than on the underlying spot price of the precious metal content of the commemorative coins. Unlike our bullion coins, the value of commemorative coins is not subject to the same level of volatility as bullion coins because our commemorative coins typically carry a substantially higher premium over the spot metal price than bullion coins. Additionally, neither the commemorative coin inventory nor the premium component of our inventory is hedged.
Inventories include amounts borrowed from suppliers and customers arising from various arrangements including unallocated metal positions held by customers in the Company’s inventory, amounts due to suppliers for the use of consigned inventory, as well as shortages in unallocated metal positions held by the Company in the supplier’s inventory. Unallocated or pool metal represents an unsegregated inventory position that is due on demand, in a specified physical form, based on the total ounces of metal held in the position. Amounts under these arrangements require delivery either in the form of precious metals or cash. The Company mitigates market risk of its physical inventories and open commitments through commodity hedge transactions (see Note 11.)
The Company enters into product financing agreements for the transfer and subsequent option to reacquire its gold and silver inventory at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price with a third party finance company. This inventory is restricted and is held at a custodial storage facility in exchange for a financing fee, charged by the third party finance company. During the term of the financing agreement, the third party company holds the inventory as collateral, and both parties intend for the inventory to be returned to the Company at an agreed-upon price based on the spot price on the termination (repurchase) date. The third party charges a monthly fee as percentage of the market value of the outstanding obligation; such monthly charge is classified as interest expense. These transactions do not qualify as sales and have been accounted for as financing arrangements in accordance with ASC 470-40 Product Financing Arrangements, and are reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as product financing arrangements. The obligation is stated at the amount required to repurchase the outstanding inventory. Both the product financing and the underlying inventory (which is restricted) are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value included in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.
The Company periodically loans metals to customers on a short-term consignment basis. Such inventories are removed at the time the customer elects to price and purchase the metals, and the Company records a corresponding sale and receivable.
The Company enters into financing arrangements with certain customers under which A-Mark purchases precious metals products that are subject to repurchase by the customer at the fair value of the product on the repurchase date. The Company or the counterparty may typically terminate any such arrangement with 14 days' notice.  Upon termination the customer’s rights to repurchase any remaining inventory is forfeited.
Goodwill and Other Purchased Intangible Assets
We evaluate goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment annually in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year (or more frequently if indicators of potential impairment exist) in accordance with the Intangibles - Goodwill and Other Topic 350 of the ASC. Other definite-lived intangible assets are evaluated for impairment when events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. We may first qualitatively assess whether relevant events and circumstances make it more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is less than its carrying value. If, based on this qualitative assessment, we determine that goodwill is more likely than not to be impaired, a two-step impairment test is performed. The first step in this test involves comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step in the test is performed, which is measurement of the impairment loss. The impairment loss is calculated by comparing the implied fair value of goodwill, as if the reporting unit has been acquired in a business combination, to its carrying amount.

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Estimates critical to these calculations include projected future cash flows, discount rates, royalty rates, customer attrition rates and foreign exchange rates. Imprecision in estimating unobservable market inputs can impact the carrying amount of assets on the balance sheet. Furthermore, while we believe our valuation methods are appropriate, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain assets could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date.
Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing our financial statements, we are required to estimate our provision for income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which we conduct business, in accordance with the Income Taxes Topic 740 of the ASC. We compute our annual tax rate based on the statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in the various jurisdictions in which we earn income. Significant judgment is required in determining our annual tax rate and in evaluating uncertainty in its tax positions. We recognize a benefit for tax positions that we believe will more likely than not be sustained upon examination. The amount of benefit recognized is the largest amount of benefit that we believe has more than a 50% probability of being realized upon settlement. We regularly monitor our tax positions and adjust the amount of recognized tax benefit based on our evaluation of information that has become available since the end of our last financial reporting period. The annual tax rate includes the impact of these changes in recognized tax benefits. The difference between the amount of benefit taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting represents unrecognized tax benefits. These unrecognized tax benefits are presented in the condensed consolidated balance sheet principally within accrued liabilities. We record valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. Significant judgment is applied when assessing the need for valuation allowances. Areas of estimation include our consideration of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.
Should a change in circumstances lead to a change in judgment about the utilization of deferred tax assets in future years, we would adjust related valuation allowances in the period that the change in circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding increase or charge to income. Changes in recognized tax benefits and changes in valuation allowances could be material to our results of operations for any period, but is not expected to be material to our condensed consolidated financial position.
We account for uncertainty in income taxes under the provisions of Topic 740 of the ASC. These provisions clarify the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise's financial statements, and prescribe a recognition threshold and measurement criteria for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The provisions also provide guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest, and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. The potential interest and/or penalties associated with an uncertain tax position are recorded in provision for income taxes on the condensed consolidated statements of income. Please refer to Note 12 to the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion regarding these provisions.
Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets will not be realized. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization include our forecast of the reversal of temporary differences, future taxable income and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize the net deferred tax assets. Failure to achieve forecasted taxable income in applicable tax jurisdictions could affect the ultimate realization of deferred tax assets and could result in an increase in our effective tax rate on future earnings.
Based on our assessment it appears more likely than not that most of the net deferred tax assets will be realized through future taxable income. Management has established a valuation allowance against the deferred taxes related to certain net operating loss carryovers. Management believes the utilization of these losses may be limited. We will continue to assess the need for a valuation allowance for our remaining deferred tax assets in the future.
The Company's condensed consolidated financial statements recognized the current and deferred income tax consequences that result from the Company's activities during the current and preceding periods, as if the Company were a separate taxpayer prior to the date of the Distribution of the Company when it was a member of the Former Parent's condensed consolidated income tax return group. Current tax receivable reflects balances due from the Former Parent for the Company's share of the income tax assets of the group.
Following the Distribution, the Company files federal and state income tax filings that are separate from the Former Parent's tax filings. The Company recognizes current and deferred income taxes as a separate taxpayer for periods ending after the date of Distribution.
Business Combinations
The Company evaluates each purchase transaction to determine whether the acquired assets meet the definition of a business. The Company accounts for business combinations by applying the acquisition method in accordance with “ASC 805,

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Business Combinations. Transaction costs related to acquisition of a business are expensed as incurred and excluded from the fair value of consideration transferred. The identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and non-controlling interests, if any, in an acquired entity are recognized and measured at their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of consideration transferred over the fair values of identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and non-controlling interests, if any, in an acquired entity, net of fair value of any previously held interest in the acquired entity, is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets and liabilities.
Contingent Earn-out Liability
Contingent consideration is classified as a liability or equity, as applicable. Contingent consideration in connection with the acquisition of a business is measured at fair value on acquisition date, and unless classified as equity, is remeasured at fair value each reporting period thereafter until the consideration is settled, with changes in fair value included in net income.
We record an estimate of the fair value of contingent consideration, related to the earn-out obligations to SilverTowne LP related to SilverTowne Mint transaction. On a quarterly basis, we revalue the liability and record increases or decreases in the fair value as an adjustment to earnings. Changes to the contingent consideration liability can result from adjustments to the discount rate, or from changes to the estimates of future throughput activity of AMST, which are considered Level 3 inputs (see Note 3). Consequentially, the assumptions used in estimating fair value require significant judgment. The use of different assumptions and judgments could result in a materially different estimate of fair value.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
For a description of accounting changes and recent accounting standards, including the expected dates of adoption and estimated effects, if any, on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 2.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Not applicable to smaller reporting companies.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Based on the foregoing, our Certifying Officers concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report.
Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.  Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Certifying Officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The financial statements were prepared by management, which is responsible for their integrity and objectivity and for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting.
The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is 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. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
 
i.
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect
the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;
 
ii.
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
 
iii.
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.
There are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any internal control, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of controls. Accordingly, even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurances with respect to financial statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal controls may vary over time.

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Management assessed the design and effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework ("2013 framework"). Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2017 based on criteria in Internal Control –Integrated Framework issued by the COSO.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are not currently a party to any material legal proceedings.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Risks Relating to Our Business Generally
Our business is heavily dependent on our credit facility.
Our business depends substantially on our ability to obtain financing for our operations. The Trading Credit Facility (as further described and defined below) provides the Company with the liquidity to buy and sell billions of dollars of precious metals annually. The Trading Credit Facility is an uncommitted demand facility provided by a syndicate of financial institutions (the “Trading Credit Lenders”), and is currently scheduled to mature on March 31, 2018.  A-Mark routinely uses funds drawn under the Trading Credit Facility to purchase metals from its suppliers and for operating cash flow purposes.  Our CFC subsidiary also uses the funds drawn under the Trading Credit Facility to finance its lending activities.
Pursuant to the terms of the Trading Credit Facility, each Trading Credit Lender may, at any time in its sole discretion (subject to certain notice requirements), decline to make loans to us. If we are unable to access funds under the Trading Credit Facility, we may be limited in the manner in which we conduct our business and we may be unable to engage in favorable business activities or finance future operations or capital needs.
The Trading Credit Facility requires us to maintain certain financial ratios and to comply with various operational and other covenants. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Trading Credit Facility that was not cured or waived pursuant to the terms of the Trading Credit Facility, the Trading Credit Lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under the Trading Credit Facility to be due and payable immediately. Further, Trading Credit Lenders holding 50% or more of the indebtedness under the Trading Credit Facility may require us to repay all outstanding indebtedness under the Trading Credit Facility at any time, even if we are in compliance with the financial and other covenants under the Trading Credit Facility. 
We cannot assure you that our assets or cash flow would be sufficient to fully repay borrowings under our outstanding debt instruments, including the Trading Credit Facility, upon demand or acceleration, or at maturity, or that we would be able to refinance or restructure the payments under the Trading Credit Facility. The failure of A-Mark to renew or replace the Trading Credit Facility under such circumstances would reduce the financing available to us and could limit our ability to conduct our business, including the lending activity of our CFC subsidiary.  There can be no assurance that we could procure replacement financing on commercially acceptable terms on a timely basis, or at all. We have pledged a significant portion of our assets as collateral under the Trading Credit Facility, and if we were unable to repay the amounts outstanding thereunder, the administrative agent under the Trading Credit Facility could proceed against the collateral granted to secure such indebtedness.
We are subject to fluctuations in interest rates based on the variable interest under the Trading Credit Facility and we may not be able to pass along to our customers and borrowers some or any part of an increase in the interest that we are required to pay under the Trading Credit Facility. Amounts under the Trading Credit Facility bear interest based on one month LIBOR plus (i) 2.50% for revolving credit line loans and (ii) 4.50% for loans extended in excess of the then-available revolving credit line. The LIBOR was approximately 1.56% as of December 31, 2017.
In addition to the Trading Credit Facility, we have incurred the Goldline Credit Facility to finance the Goldline acquisition (as described above under "Liquidity and Financial Condition"). The obligations of the Company and Goldline pursuant to the Goldline Credit Facility are subordinated to the obligations of the Company pursuant to the Trading Credit Facility as set forth in certain subordination agreements executed in connection with the Goldline Credit Facility (the “Goldline Subordination Agreements”), and the Goldline Credit Facility requires us to comply with various operational and other covenants. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Goldline Credit Facility that is not cured or waived pursuant to the terms of the Goldline Credit Facility, the lenders holding a majority of the loans under the Goldline Credit Facility then outstanding could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under the Goldline Credit Facility to be due and payable immediately, subject to the requirements of the Goldline Subordination Agreements, as applicable. We have pledged substantially all of the assets of Goldline as collateral under

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the Goldline Credit Facility, and if we were unable to repay the amounts outstanding thereunder, the lenders under the Goldline Credit Facility could proceed against the collateral granted to secure such indebtedness, subject to the Goldline Subordination Agreements, as applicable. We cannot assure you that the assets or cash flow available to Goldline would be sufficient to fully repay the borrowings under the Goldline Credit Facility, upon demand or acceleration, or at maturity, or that we would be able to refinance or restructure the payments under the Goldline Credit Facility. Further, the incurrence of the Goldline Credit Facility increases the risks as a result of our leverage.
We could suffer losses with our financing operations.
We engage in a variety of financing activities with our customers:
Receivables from our customers with whom we trade in precious metal products are effectively short-term, non-interest bearing extensions of credit that are, in most cases, secured by the related products maintained in the Company’s possession or by a letter of credit issued on behalf of the customer. On average, these receivables are outstanding for periods of between 8 and 9 days.
The Company operates a financing business through CFC that makes secured loans at loan to value ratios—principal loan amount divided by the liquidation value, as conservatively estimated by management, of the collateral—of, in most cases, 50% to 85%. These loans are both variable and fixed interest rate loans, with maturities from three to twelve months.
We make advances to our customers on unrefined metals secured by materials received from the customer. These advances are limited to a portion of the materials received.
The Company makes unsecured, short-term, non-interest bearing advances to wholesale metals dealers and government mints.
The Company periodically extends short-term credit through the issuance of notes receivable to approved customers at interest rates determined on a customer-by-customer basis.
Our ability to minimize losses on the credit that we extend to our customers depends on a variety of factors, including:
our loan underwriting and other credit policies and controls designed to assure repayment, which may prove inadequate to prevent losses;
our ability to sell collateral upon customer defaults for amounts sufficient to offset credit losses, which can be affected by a number of factors outside of our control, including (i) changes in economic conditions, (ii) increases in market rates of interest and (iii) changes in the condition or value of the collateral; and
the reserves we establish for loan losses, which may prove inadequate.
Our business is dependent on a concentrated customer base.
One of A-Mark's key assets is its customer base. This customer base provides deep distribution of product and makes A-Mark a desirable trading partner for precious metals product manufacturers, including sovereign mints seeking to distribute precious metals coinage or large refiners seeking to sell large volumes of physical precious metals. Two customers represented 47.8% of A-Mark's revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2017. Those same two customers represented 37.6% of A-Mark's revenues for the six months ended December 31, 2016. If our relationship with these customers deteriorated, or if we were to lose these customers, our business would be materially adversely affected.
The loss of a government purchaser/distributorship arrangement could materially adversely affect our business.
A-Mark’s business is heavily dependent on its purchaser/distributorship arrangements with various governmental mints. Our ability to offer numismatic coins and bars to our customers on a competitive basis is based on the ability to purchase products directly from a government source. The arrangements with the governmental mints may be discontinued by them at any time. The loss of an authorized purchaser/distributor relationship, including with the U.S. Mint could have a material adverse effect on our business.
The materials held by A-Mark are subject to loss, damage, theft or restriction on access.
A-Mark has significant quantities of high-value precious metals on site, at third-party depositories and in transit. There is a risk that part or all of the gold and other precious metals held by A-Mark, whether on its own behalf or on behalf of its customers, could be lost, damaged or stolen. In addition, access to A-Mark’s precious metals could be restricted by natural events (such as an

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earthquake) or human actions (such as a terrorist attack). Although we maintain insurance on terms and conditions that we consider appropriate, we may not have adequate sources of recovery if our precious metals inventory is lost, damaged, stolen or destroyed, and recovery may be limited. Among other things, our insurance policies exclude coverage in the event of loss as a result of terrorist attacks or civil unrest.
In addition, with the establishment of our Logistics facility and the transfer of our wholesale storage operations from third party depositories to that facility, we are assuming greater potential liability for any loss suffered in connection with the stored inventory. Among other things, our insurance, rather than the third-party depository’s, is now the primary risk policy. While we believe we have adequate insurance coverage covering these operations, in the event of any loss in excess of our coverage, we may be held liable for that excess.
Our business is subject to the risk of fraud and counterfeiting.
The precious metals (particularly bullion) business is exposed to the risk of loss as a result of “materials fraud” in its various forms. We seek to minimize our exposure to this type of fraud through a number of means, including third-party authentication and verification, reliance on our internal experts and the establishment of procedures designed to detect fraud. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in preventing or identifying this type of fraud, or in obtaining redress in the event such fraud is detected.
Our business is influenced by political conditions and world events.
The precious metals business is especially subject to global political conditions and world events. Precious metals are viewed by some as a secure financial investment in times of political upheaval or unrest, particularly in developing economies, which may drive up pricing. The volatility of the commodity prices for precious metals is also likely to increase in politically uncertain times. Conversely, during periods of relative international calm precious metal volatility is likely to decrease, along with demand, and the prices of precious metals may retreat. Because our business is dependent on the volatility and pricing of precious metals, we are likely to be influenced by world events more than businesses in other economic sectors.
We have significant operations outside the United States.
We derive about 5% to 10% of our revenues from business outside the United States, including from customers in developing countries. Business operations outside the U.S. are subject to political, economic and other risks inherent in operating in foreign countries. These include risks of general applicability, such as the need to comply with multiple regulatory regimes; trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements; and fluctuations in equity, revenues and profits due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Currently, we do not conduct substantial business with customers in developing countries. However, if our business in these areas of the world were to increase, we would also face risks that are particular to developing countries, including the difficulty of enforcing agreements, collecting receivables, protecting inventory and other assets through foreign legal systems, limitations on the repatriation of earnings, currency devaluation and manipulation of exchange rates, and high levels of inflation.
We try to manage these risks by monitoring current and anticipated political, economic, legal and regulatory developments in the countries outside the United States in which we operate or have customers and adjusting operations as appropriate, but there can be no assurance that the measures we adopt will be successful in protecting the Company’s business interests.
We are dependent on our key management personnel and our trading experts.
Our performance is dependent on our senior management and certain other key employees. We have employment agreements with Greg Roberts, our CEO, and Thor Gjerdrum, our President, which expire on June 30, 2020 and June 30, 2019, respectively. These and other employees have expertise in the trading markets, have industry-wide reputations, and perform critical functions for our business. We cannot offer assurance that we will be able to negotiate acceptable terms for the renewal of the employment agreements or otherwise retain our key employees. Also, there is significant competition for skilled precious metals traders and other industry professionals. The loss of our current key officers and employees, without the ability to replace them, would have a materially adverse effect on our business.
We are focused on growing our business, but there is no assurance that we will be successful.
We expect to grow both organically and through opportunistic acquisitions. We have devoted considerable time, resources and efforts over the past few years to our growth strategy. We may not be successful in implementing our growth initiatives, which could adversely affect our business.
Liquidity constraints may limit our ability to grow our business.
To accomplish our growth strategy, we will require adequate sources of liquidity to fund both our existing business and our expansion activity. Currently, our sources of liquidity are the cash that we generate from operations and our borrowing availability under the Trading Credit Facility. There can be no assurance that these sources will be adequate to support the growth

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that we are hoping to achieve or that additional sources of financing for this purpose, in the form of additional debt or equity financing, will be available to us, on satisfactory terms or at all. Also, the Trading Credit Facility contains, and any future debt financing is likely to contain, various financial and other restrictive covenants. The need to comply with these covenants may limit our ability to implement our growth initiatives.
We expect to grow in part through acquisitions, but an acquisition strategy entails risks.
We expect to grow in part through acquisitions. We will consider potential acquisitions of varying sizes and may, on a selective basis, pursue acquisitions or consolidation opportunities involving other public companies or privately held companies. However, it is possible that we will not realize the expected benefits from our acquisitions or that our existing operations will be adversely affected as a result of acquisitions. Acquisitions entail certain risks, including: unrecorded liabilities of acquired companies that we fail to discover during our due diligence investigations; difficulty in assimilating the operations and personnel of the acquired company within our existing operations or in maintaining uniform standards; loss of key employees of the acquired company; and strains on management and other personnel time and resources both to research and integrate acquisitions.
We expect to pay for future acquisitions using cash, capital stock, notes and/or assumption of indebtedness. To the extent that our existing sources of cash are not sufficient to fund future acquisitions, we will require additional debt or equity financing and, consequently, our indebtedness may increase or shareholders may be diluted as we implement our growth strategy.
Our Logistics' depository is subject to authorization.
Our Trading Credit Lenders have approved our Logistics facility as an authorized depository. If that approval were to be withdrawn for any reason, we would no longer be able to keep inventory at that location, which would substantially limit our ability to conduct business from that facility.
We are subject to laws and regulations.
We are subject to various laws, litigation, regulatory matters and ethical standards, and our failure to comply with or adequately address developments as they arise could adversely affect our reputation and operations. Our policies, procedures and practices and the technology we implement are designed to comply with federal, state, local and foreign laws, rules and regulations, including those imposed by the SEC and other regulatory agencies, the marketplace, the banking industry and foreign countries, as well as responsible business, social and environmental practices, all of which may change from time to time. Significant legislative changes, including those that relate to employment matters and health care reform, could impact our relationship with our workforce, which could increase our expenses and adversely affect our operations. In addition, if we fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations or implement responsible business, social and environmental practices, we could be subject to damage to our reputation, class action lawsuits, legal and settlement costs, civil and criminal liability, increased cost of regulatory compliance, restatements of our financial statements, disruption of our business and loss of customers. Any required changes to our employment practices could result in the loss of employees, reduced sales, increased employment costs, low employee morale and harm to our business and results of operations. In addition, political and economic factors could lead to unfavorable changes in federal and state tax laws, which may increase our tax liabilities. An increase in our tax liabilities could adversely affect our results of operations. We are also regularly involved in various litigation matters that arise in the ordinary course of business. Litigation or regulatory developments could adversely affect our business and financial condition.
There are various federal, state, local and foreign laws, ordinances and regulations that affect our trading business. For example, we are required to comply with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and a variety of anti-money laundering and know-your-customer rules in response to the USA Patriot Act.
The SEC has promulgated final rules mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act regarding disclosure, on an annual basis, of the use of tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold, known as conflict minerals, in products manufactured by public companies. These new rules require due diligence to determine whether such minerals originated from the Democratic Republic of Congo (the "DRC") or an adjoining country and whether such minerals helped finance the armed conflict in the DRC.
The Company has concluded that it is not currently subject to the conflict minerals rules because it is not a manufacturer of conflict minerals under the definitions set forth in the rules. Depending on developments in the Company’s business, it could become subject to the rules at some point in the future. In that event, there will be costs associated with complying with these disclosure requirements, including costs to determine the origin of gold used in our products. In addition, the implementation of these rules could adversely affect the sourcing, supply and pricing of gold used in our products. Also, we may face disqualification as a supplier for customers and reputational challenges if the due diligence procedures we implement do not enable us to verify the origins for the gold used in our products or to determine that the gold is conflict free.
CFC operates under a California Finance Lenders License issued by the California Department of Corporations. CFC is required to submit a finance lender law annual report to the state which summarizes certain loan portfolio and financial information

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regarding CFC. The Department of Corporations may audit the books and records of CFC to determine whether CFC is in compliance with the terms of its lending license.
There can be no assurance that the regulation of our trading and lending businesses will not increase or that compliance with the applicable regulations will not become more costly or require us to modify our business practices.
The recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is expected to have a significant impact on us.
On December 22, 2017, the comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was signed into law. The Tax Act significantly changes how the U.S. taxes corporations. The Tax Act requires complex computations to be performed, significant judgments to be made in interpretation of the provisions of the Tax Act and significant estimates in calculations, and the preparation and analysis of information not previously relevant or regularly produced. The U.S. Treasury Department, the IRS, and other standard-setting bodies could interpret or issue guidance on how provisions of the Tax Act will be applied or otherwise administered that is different from our interpretation. As we complete our analysis of the Tax Act, collect and prepare necessary data, and interpret any additional guidance, we may make adjustments to provisional amounts that we have recorded that may materially impact our provision for income taxes in the period in which the adjustments are made.
With respect to deferred tax assets (net of deferred tax liabilities) that are in existence as of the enactment date of the Tax Act (i.e., valued using a 35.0% federal tax rate), the Company has been negatively impacted by the (1) new corporate tax rates, and (2) the effective date of the new provision, the effect of which is to preclude taxpayers from carrying net operating losses (NOLs) back to prior taxable years. This is because any realization of deferred taxes during the remaining portion of the fiscal year against taxable income will be realized at a lower 28.06% blended tax rate. Further, to the extent the realization of such deferred tax assets were to exceed such taxable income, resulting in an NOL, such NOL can no longer be carried back to a prior tax year and can only be carried forward to subsequent years for realization at a 21.0% tax rate.    
We operate in a highly competitive industry.
The business of buying and selling precious metals is global and highly competitive. The Company competes with precious metals trading firms and banks throughout North America, Europe and elsewhere in the world, some of whom have greater financial and other resources, and greater name recognition, than the Company. We believe that, as a full service firm devoted exclusively to precious metals trading, we offer pricing, product availability, execution, financing alternatives and storage options that are attractive to our customers and allow us to compete effectively. We also believe that our purchaser/distributorship arrangements with various governmental mints give us a competitive advantage in our coin distribution business. However, given the global reach of the precious metals trading business, the absence of intellectual property protections and the availability of numerous, evolving platforms for trading in precious metals, we cannot assure you that A-Mark will be able to continue to compete successfully or that future developments in the industry will not create additional competitive challenges.
We rely extensively on computer systems to execute trades and process transactions, and we could suffer substantial damages if the operation of these systems were interrupted.
We rely on our computer and communications hardware and software systems to execute a large volume of trading transactions each year. It is therefore critical that we maintain uninterrupted operation of these systems, and we have invested considerable resources to protect our systems from physical compromise and security breaches and to maintain backup and redundancy. Nevertheless, our systems are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, security breaches, including breaches of our transaction processing or other systems, catastrophic events such as fires, tornadoes and hurricanes, and usage errors by our employees. If our systems are breached, damaged or cease to function properly, we may have to make a significant investment to fix or replace them, we may suffer interruptions in our ability to provide quotations or trading services in the interim, and we may face costly litigation.
Our implementation of a new enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system may adversely affect our business and results of operations or the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting.
We are currently implementing a new ERP system. ERP implementations are complex and time-consuming projects that involve substantial expenditures on system software and implementation activities over a significant period of time. If we do not effectively implement the ERP system or if the system does not operate as intended, it could adversely affect our financial reporting systems and our ability to produce financial reports, the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting, and our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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If our customer data were breached, we could suffer damages and loss of reputation.
By the nature of our business, we maintain significant amounts of customer data on our systems. Moreover, certain third party providers have access to confidential data concerning the Company in the ordinary course of their business relationships with the Company. In recent years, various companies, including companies that are significantly larger than us, have reported breaches of their computer systems that have resulted in the compromise of customer data. Any significant compromise or breach of customer or company data held or maintained by either the Company or our third party providers could significantly damage our reputation and result in costs, lost trades, fines and lawsuits. The regulatory environment related to information security and privacy is increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and compliance with those requirements could result in additional costs. There is no guarantee that the procedures that we have implemented to protect against unauthorized access to secured data are adequate to safeguard against all data security breaches.
Risks Related to Our Acquisition of the Goldline Assets
We expect that our recent acquisition of the assets of Goldline, LLC will grow our business and create opportunities from cross-selling, but there is no assurance that this will be the case.
On August 28, 2017, we consummated the acquisition of the assets of Goldline, LLC, a leading direct retailer of precious metals to the investor community.  We believe that the acquisition represents an attractive opportunity to expand our suite of integrated precious metals businesses into the direct-to-client space.  We also believe that the acquisition will provide an opportunity to cross-sell our products and services to Goldline’s broad, high-end customer base, for example utilization of our precious coin and metal storage services at our secured Las Vegas, Nevada facility.  Nevertheless, there is no assurance that we will be successful in conducting a retail bullion business.  For example, the success of this business will require that we continue to maintain the loyalty of a large, widely disseminated customer base, and could depend on our ability to anticipate and appropriately respond to changing attitudes of consumers to investment in precious metals.  There also can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to cross-sell other products and services to the Goldline client base.  If the Goldline business does not succeed as we anticipate, or if we are required to make significant additional investment in the Goldline business in order to maintain or expand the business, our results of operation and liquidity could be adversely affected, which could in turn cause us to be in violation of one or more covenants under the Trading Credit Facility.
The Company may incur unanticipated costs integrating the Goldline business into our operations.
In order to fully achieve the anticipated benefits and synergies of our acquisition of the assets of Goldline, LLC, we will need to successfully integrate the Goldline business, which will be conducted through a separate subsidiary of the Company, with our existing operations.  Brian Crumbaker, the chief executive officer of Goldline, and Blair Harris, the executive vice president of Goldline, have joined our Company, and we expect that with their experience and expertise, we will be able to align the Goldline business with our existing operations with a minimum amount of delay and disruption.  We cannot assure you that this will  be the case, however, and the integration process may take longer, may be more costly, and may require more time and attention of senior management than we anticipate.  If that were the case, the benefits that we hope to achieve from the acquisition may not be realized in the time frame we anticipate or at all.
Goldline’s prior marketing practices could generate adverse publicity for the Company.
In 2011, Goldline and a number of its executives were the subject to a criminal complaint in Santa Monica, California regarding the company’s marketing practices and in February 2012, Goldline settled the action against it by agreeing to refund $4.5 million to its customers. Key members of management were replaced at about the time of the settlement, and, as required by the terms of a related injunction, Goldline eliminated the offending aspects of its sales operations that were the subject of the legal action against it. The injunction expired in early 2017. We believe that in the five years since the criminal action was settled, Goldline has reestablished its reputation as a trusted, premier retailer of precious metals.  Nonetheless, it is possible that Goldline's past businesses issues may continue to have reputational consequences for the Goldline business, and following our acquisition of Goldline, could generate adverse publicity for the Company.

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Risks Relating to Commodities
A-Mark’s business is heavily influenced by volatility in commodities prices.
A primary driver of A-Mark’s profitability is volatility in commodities prices, which leads to wider bid and ask spreads. Among the factors that can impact the price of precious metals are supply and demand of precious metals; political, economic, and global financial events; movement of the U.S. dollar versus other currencies; and the activity of large speculators such as hedge funds. If commodity prices were to stagnate, there would likely be a reduction in trading activity, resulting in less demand for the services A-Mark provides, which could materially adversely affect our business, liquidity and results of operations.
This volatility may drive fluctuation of our revenues, as a consequence of which our results for any one period may not be indicative of the results to be expected for any other period. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
Our business is exposed to commodity price risks, and our hedging activity to protect our inventory is subject to risks of default by our counterparties.
A-Mark’s precious metals inventories are subject to market value changes created by change in the underlying commodity price, as well as supply and demand of the individual products the Company trades. In addition, open sale and purchase commitments are subject to changes in value between the date the purchase or sale is fixed (the trade date) and the date metal is delivered or received (the settlement date). A-Mark seeks to minimize the effect of price changes of the underlying commodity through the use of financial derivative instruments, such as forward and futures contracts. A-Mark’s policy is to remain substantially hedged as to its inventory position and its individual sale and purchase commitments. A-Mark’s management monitors its hedged exposure daily. However, there can be no assurance that these hedging activities will be adequate to protect the Company against commodity price risks associated with A-Mark’s business activities.
Furthermore, even if we are fully hedged as to any given position, there is the risk of default by our counterparties to the hedge. Any such default could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.
Increased commodity pricing could limit the inventory that we are able to carry.
We maintain a large and varied inventory of precious metal products, including bullion and coins, in order to support our trading activities and provide our customers with superior service. The amount of inventory that we are able to carry is constrained by the borrowing limitations and working capital covenants under the Trading Credit Facility. If commodity prices were to rise substantially, and we were unable to modify the terms of the Trading Credit Facility to compensate for the increase, the quantity of product that we could finance, and hence maintain in our inventory, would fall. This would likely have a material adverse effect on our operations.
The Dodd-Frank Act could adversely impact our use of derivative instruments to hedge precious metal prices and may have other adverse effects on our business.
On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which requires the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to promulgate rules and regulations implementing the new legislation, including with respect to derivative contracts on commodities. This legislation and any implementing regulations could significantly increase the cost of some commodity derivative contracts (including through requirements to post collateral, which could adversely affect our available liquidity), materially alter the terms of some commodity derivative contracts, reduce the availability of some derivatives to protect against risks, reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing commodity derivative contracts and potentially increase our exposure to less creditworthy counterparties. If we reduce our use of derivatives as a result of the Dodd-Frank legislation and regulations, we would be exposed to inventory and other risks associated with fluctuations in commodity prices. Also, if the Dodd-Frank legislation and regulations reduces volatility in commodity prices, our revenues could be adversely affected.
We rely on the efficient functioning of commodity exchanges around the world, and disruptions on these exchanges could adversely affect our business.
The Company buys and sells precious metals contracts on commodity exchanges around the world, both in support of its customer operations and to hedge its inventory and transactional exposure against fluctuations in commodity prices. The Company’s ability to engage in these activities would be compromised if the exchanges on which the Company trades or any of their clearinghouses were to discontinue operations or to experience disruptions in trading, due to computer problems, unsettled markets or other factors. The Company may also experience risk of loss if futures commission merchants or commodity brokers with whom the Company deals were to become insolvent or bankrupt.

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Risks Relating to Our Common Stock
Public company costs have increased our expenses and administrative burden, in particular in order to bring our Company into compliance with certain provisions of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
As a public company, we are incurring significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. These increased costs and expenses may arise from various factors, including financial reporting costs associated with complying with federal securities laws (including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002).
Changing laws, regulations and standards relating to corporate governance and public disclosure, including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and related regulations implemented by the SEC and NASDAQ have created uncertainty for public companies, increasing legal and financial compliance costs and making some activities more time consuming. We are currently evaluating and monitoring developments with respect to new and proposed rules and cannot predict or estimate the amount of the additional costs we may incur or the timing of such costs. Applicable laws, regulations and standards are subject to varying interpretations, in many cases due to their lack of specificity, and, as a result, their application in practice may evolve over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. This could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to disclosure and governance practices. We intend to invest resources to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards, and this investment may result in increased selling, general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management’s time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities. If our efforts to comply with new laws, regulations and standards differ from the activities intended by regulatory or governing bodies due to ambiguities related to practice, regulatory authorities may initiate legal proceedings against us and our business may be harmed.
Failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls in accordance with Section 404 of Sarbanes-Oxley could have a material adverse effect on our business.
As a public company, we are required to document and test our internal control over financial reporting in order to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of Sarbanes-Oxley, which requires annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
We are required to implement standalone policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of Section 404. During the course of our testing of our internal controls and procedures, we may identify deficiencies which we may not be able to remediate in time to meet our deadline for compliance with Section 404. Testing and maintaining internal controls can divert our management’s attention from other matters that are also important to the operation of our business. We also expect that the imposition of these regulations will increase our legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more difficult, time consuming and costly. We may not be able to conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404. If we are unable to conclude that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting, then investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, which would likely have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock. In addition, if we do not maintain effective internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial information on a timely basis, which could harm the trading price of our common stock, impair our ability to raise additional capital, or jeopardize our continued listing on the NASDAQ Global Select Market or any other stock exchange on which common stock may be listed.
We may not be able to continue to pay dividends.
Effective March 2, 2015, the Board of Directors approved a cash dividend policy calling for the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per common share. The policy was amended on February 2, 2016 to provide for a quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per common share, and then on January 26, 2017 to provide for a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per common share.  The declaration of cash dividends in the future is subject to the determination each quarter by the Board of Directors, based on a number of factors, including the Company’s financial performance, available cash resources, cash requirements, bank covenants, and alternative uses of cash that the Board of Directors may conclude would represent an opportunity to generate a greater return on investment for the Company. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Company will continue to pay dividends on a regular basis.  If the Board of Directors were to determine not to pay dividends in the future, shareholders would not receive any further return on an investment in our capital stock in the form of dividends, and may only obtain an economic benefit from the common stock only after an increase in its trading price and only by selling the common stock.
Provisions in our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws and of Delaware law may prevent or delay an acquisition of the Company, which could decrease the trading price of our common stock.
Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws and Delaware law contain certain anti-takeover provisions that could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or of discouraging a third party from attempting to acquire, control of the Company without negotiating with our board of directors. Such provisions could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to pay in the future for the Company’s securities. Certain of such provisions

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allow the Company to issue preferred stock with rights senior to those of the common stock, impose various procedural and other requirements which could make it more difficult for Shareholders to effect certain corporate actions and set forth rules regarding how shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings.
We believe these provisions protect our shareholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with our Board of Directors and by providing our Board of Directors with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. However, these provisions apply even if an acquisition offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that our Board of Directors determines is not in the best interests of our Company and our Shareholders. Accordingly, in the event that our board determines that a potential business combination transaction is not in the best interests of our Company and our Shareholders, but certain shareholders believe that such a transaction would be beneficial to the Company and its Shareholders, such Shareholders may elect to sell their shares in the Company and the trading price of our common stock could decrease.
Your percentage ownership in the Company could be diluted in the future.
Your percentage ownership in A-Mark potentially will be diluted in the future because of additional equity awards that we expect will be granted to our directors, officers and employees. We have established an equity incentive plan that provides for the grant of common stock-based equity awards to our directors, officers and other employees. In addition, we may issue equity in order to raise capital or in connection with future acquisitions and strategic investments, which could dilute your percentage ownership.
Our board and management beneficially own a sizeable percentage of our common stock and therefore have the ability to exert substantial influence as shareholders.
Members of our board and management beneficially own approximately 40% of our outstanding common stock. Acting together in their capacity as shareholders, the board members and management could exert substantial influence over matters on which a shareholder vote is required, such as the approval of business combination transactions. Also because of the size of their beneficial ownership, the board members and management may be in a position effectively to determine the outcome of the election of directors and the vote on shareholder proposals. The concentration of beneficial ownership in the hands of our board and management may therefore limit the ability of our public shareholders to influence the affairs of the Company.
If the Company's spinoff from SGI is determined to be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, our shareholders could incur significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities.
In connection with the spinoff, SGI received the written opinion of Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP ("Kramer Levin") to the effect that the spinoff qualified as a tax-free transaction under Section 355 of the Internal Revenue Code, and that for U.S. federal income tax purposes (i) no gain or loss was recognized by SGI upon the distribution of our common stock in the spinoff, and (ii) no gain or loss was recognized by, and no amount was included in the income of, holders of SGI common stock upon the receipt of shares of our common stock in the spinoff. The opinion of tax counsel is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service or the courts, and there is no assurance that the IRS or a court will not take a contrary position. In addition, the opinion of Kramer Levin relied on certain representations and covenants delivered by SGI and us. If, notwithstanding the conclusions included in the opinion, it is ultimately determined that the distribution does not qualify as tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes, each SGI shareholder that is subject to U.S. federal income tax and that received shares of our common stock in the distribution could be treated as receiving a taxable distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of such shares. In addition, if the distribution were not to qualify as tax-free for U.S. federal income tax purposes, then SGI would recognize a gain in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of our common stock distributed to SGI shareholders on the date of the distribution over SGI’s tax basis in such shares. Also, we could have an indemnification obligation to SGI related to its tax liability.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AN USE OF PROCEEDS
None.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
None.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITSEXHIBIT INDEX
Regulation S-K
Exhibit Table
Item No.
 
Description of Exhibit
31

.1
 *
 
Certification Under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31

.2
 *
 
Certification Under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32

.1
 *
 
Certification Under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32

.2
 *
 
Certification Under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101

.INS
 *
 
XBRL Instance Document.
101

.SCH
 *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Schema Document.
101

.CAL
 *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101

.DEF
 *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101

.LAB
 *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101

.PRE
 *
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
_________________________________
 
*
 
Filed herewith
 



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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.
 
 
A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
 
Date:
February 9, 2018
By:  
/s/ Gregory N. Roberts  
 
 
 
 
Name:  
Gregory N. Roberts 
 
 
 
 
Title:  
Chief Executive Officer 
 
 
 
 
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS, INC.
 
Date:
February 9, 2018
By:  
/s/ Cary Dickson
 
 
 
 
Name:  
Cary Dickson
 
 
 
 
Title:  
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
    
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signatures
 
Title(s)
 
Date
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Gregory N. Roberts
 
Chief Executive Officer and Director
 
February 9, 2018
Gregory N. Roberts
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Cary Dickson
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
February 9, 2018
Cary Dickson
 
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

    


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