Item 1. BUSINESS
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc., formerly called Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., prior to that called E.A. Viner Holdings Limited and immediately prior to that called Goldale Investments Limited (the "Company"), maintains its registered office and principal place of business at 20 Eglinton Avenue West, Suite 1110, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4R 1K8 and its telephone number is (416) 322-1515.
The Company was originally incorporated under the laws of British Columbia. Pursuant to its Certificate and Articles of Continuation effective October 12, 1977, the Company's legal existence was continued under the Business Corporation Act (Ontario) as if it had been incorporated as an Ontario corporation. Further, pursuant to its Certificate and Articles of Continuation effective May 11, 2005, the Company’s legal existence was continued under the Canada Business Corporations Act.
The Company is a holding company and carries on no active business. It owns, directly or through intermediate subsidiaries, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. (formerly called Fahnestock & Co. Inc. and prior to that called Edward A. Viner & Co., Inc.), a New York corporation ("Oppenheimer"); Freedom Investments, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Freedom"); Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. (formerly called Hudson Capital Advisors Inc.), a New York corporation ("OAM"); Evanston Financial, Inc., a New York corporation (“Evanston”); since September 17, 2001, Josephthal & Co. Inc., a New York corporation (“Josephthal”); and since November 9, 2001, Prime Charter, Ltd., a Delaware corporation (“Prime”). Oppenheimer, OAM and Freedom are sometimes collectively referred to as the "Operating Subsidiaries". Through the Operating Subsidiaries, the Company is engaged in the securities brokerage and trading business and offers investment advisory and other related financial services. Oppenheimer and OAM are the principal Operating Subsidiaries. Oppenheimer is engaged in the securities brokerage business in the United States and, through the agency of local licensed broker-dealers, operates offices in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Caracas, Venezuela. OAM is engaged in the investment advisory business in the United States. In addition, Oppenheimer conducts an investment advisory business under the names Fahnestock Asset Management and Omega Group, divisions of Oppenheimer. The business formerly conducted by Josephthal and Prime is now conducted by Oppenheimer. The private client business acquired from CIBC World Markets Inc. in January 2003 discussed below is being conducted by Oppenheimer. The asset management business acquired from CIBC World Markets Inc. in June 2003 discussed below is being conducted by OAM. The Company operates a discount brokerage business through Freedom.
In March 2002, through Freedom, the Company purchased the business of BUYandHOLD Securities Corporation and affiliates for cash consideration of $2,297,000. BUYandHOLD is an on-line brokerage business headquartered in Edison, NJ. The combination of the Freedom and BUYandHOLD technology platforms provides clients with a comprehensive and diversified suite of online financial services. BUYandHOLD operates as a division of Freedom. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method.
In May 2002, Oppenheimer Trust Company received a charter as a limited purpose bank domiciled in New Jersey. Oppenheimer Trust Company offers trust services to the clients of Oppenheimer and OAM.
On January 3, 2003, the Company acquired the U.S. Private Client Division of CIBC World Markets Inc. and on June 4, 2003 acquired the U.S. Asset Management Division of CIBC World Markets Inc. (the “Oppenheimer divisions”) for a total consideration of approximately $242 million, of which approximately $16 million was paid in cash at closing from cash on hand and the balance was paid from the proceeds of the issuance of debt instruments. The private client business is being operated by Oppenheimer and added approximately 620 account executives in 18 branches located in the major financial centers of the United States to its business at the closing date. Client assets of the Private Client Division were approximately $30 billion at the closing date. Assets under management in the Asset Management Division were approximately $8.5 billion at the acquisition date. The asset management business is being operated by OAM. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method. This transaction more than doubled the Company’s retail exposure and asset base.
At December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer employed approximately 1,730 full-time registered representatives and approximately 1,239 other employees in trading, research, investment banking, investment advisory services, public finance and support positions in the United States for Oppenheimer, OAM and Freedom, for a total of approximately 2,969 full-time employees.
Oppenheimer and Freedom are broker-dealers registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and in all other jurisdictions where their respective businesses require registration. Oppenheimer, in addition to its United States operations, has two additional offices: it conducts business in Caracas and Buenos Aires through local broker-dealers who are licensed under the laws of Venezuela and Argentina, respectively.
The Operating Subsidiaries are collectively engaged in a broad range of activities in the securities brokerage business, including retail securities brokerage, institutional sales, bond trading and investment banking - offering both corporate and public finance services, underwriting, research, market making and investment advisory and asset management services. No material part of the Company's revenues, taken as a whole, are derived from a single customer or group of customers.
Oppenheimer is a member of the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. ("NYSE"), the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"), the American Stock Exchange, Inc. ("AMEX"), the Chicago Stock Exchange Incorporated ("CSE"), the Chicago Board Options Exchange, Inc. ("CBOE"), the New York Futures Exchange, Inc. ("NYFE"), the National Futures Association ("NFA") and the Securities Industry Association ("SIA"). In addition, Oppenheimer has satisfied the requirements of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board ("MSRB") for effecting customer transactions in municipal securities. Freedom is a member of the NASD. Oppenheimer is registered in Ontario, Canada as an International Dealer.
Oppenheimer, which acts as a clearing broker for Freedom and carries an omnibus account for the BUYandHOLD Division of Freedom, which is itself a self-clearing firm, is also a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation ("SIPC"), which provides, in the event of the liquidation of a broker-dealer, protection for customers' accounts (including the customer accounts of other securities firms when it acts on their behalf as a clearing broker) held by the firm of up to $500,000 for each customer, subject to a limitation of $100,000 for claims for cash balances. SIPC is funded through assessments
on registered broker-dealers, which may not exceed 1% of a broker-dealer's gross revenues (as defined); SIPC assessments were a flat fee of $150 in 2005, 2004 and 2003. In addition, Oppenheimer has purchased an additional “excess SIPC” policy protection from Lloyds of London of an additional $74,500,000 (and $900,000 for claims for cash balances) per customer. The “excess SIPC” policy has an aggregate limit of liability of $400,000,000. The Company has entered into an indemnity agreement with Lloyds of London pursuant to which the Company has agreed to indemnify Lloyds of London for losses incurred by Lloyds under the policy.
The Company’s internet address is www.opco.com. The Company makes available free of charge through its website its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and other SEC filings and all amendments to those reports within 24 hours of such material being electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.
SOURCES OF REVENUE
The Company derives most of its revenue from the operations of its principal subsidiaries, Oppenheimer and OAM. Although maintained as separate entities, the operations of the Company's brokerage subsidiaries are closely related because Oppenheimer acts as clearing broker and omnibus clearing agent in transactions initiated by Freedom. Except as expressly otherwise stated, the discussion below pertains to the operations of Oppenheimer.
COMMISSIONS AND FEE-BASED REVENUE
A significant portion of Oppenheimer's revenue is derived from commissions from retail and, to a lesser extent, institutional customers on brokerage transactions in exchange-listed and over-the-counter corporate equity and debt securities. Brokerage commissions are charged on both exchange and over-the-counter transactions in accordance with a schedule, which Oppenheimer has formulated. Often, discounts are granted to customers, generally on large trades or to active customers. An increasing number of clients are electing asset-based alternatives instead of the traditional commission structure. In fiscal 2005 asset-based fees from such accounts represented 27% of the private client group’s commissions and fees. Oppenheimer also provides a range of services in other financial products to retail and institutional customers, including the purchase and sale of options on the CBOE, the AMEX and other stock exchanges as well as futures on indexes listed on various exchanges.
Commission business relies heavily on the services of financial consultants with good sales production records and good reputations. Competition among securities firms for such personnel is intense. Retail clients’ accounts are serviced by retail financial advisors (excluding the institutional financial consultants referred to below) in Oppenheimer's offices. Oppenheimer's institutional clients, which include mutual funds, banks, insurance companies, hedge funds, and pension and profit-sharing funds, are serviced by institutional financial advisors. The institutional department is supported by the equity research department which provides coverage of a number of commercial and industrial as well as emerging growth companies and special situation investments.
Securities Clearance Activities
Oppenheimer provides a full range of securities clearance services to two non-affiliated securities firms on a fully-disclosed basis. In addition to commissions and service charges, Oppenheimer derives substantial interest revenue from its securities clearing activities. See "INTEREST - Securities Borrowed / Securities Loaned." Oppenheimer provides margin financing for the clients of the securities firms for which it clears, with the securities firms guaranteeing the accounts of their clients. Oppenheimer also extends margin credit directly to its correspondent firms to the extent that such firms hold securities positions for their own account. Because Oppenheimer must rely on the guarantees and general credit of its correspondent firms, Oppenheimer may be exposed to significant risks of loss if any of its correspondents or its correspondents' customers are unable to meet their respective financial commitments. See "RISK MANAGEMENT."
Commodities
Oppenheimer is a futures commission merchant and clears commodities transactions on a number of commodities exchanges for its clients that trade commodities through a correspondent firm on an omnibus basis. Such client commodity accounts contain significant leverage and thus have a greater than average likelihood of becoming unsecured or for clients incurring substantial losses, that ultimately could result in a loss to the Company.
PRINCIPAL TRANSACTIONS
In the regular course of its business, Oppenheimer takes securities positions as a market maker to facilitate customer transactions and for investment purposes. In making markets and when trading for its own account, Oppenheimer exposes its own capital to the risk of fluctuations in market value.
Oppenheimer monitors its risk by maintaining its securities positions at or below certain pre-established levels. These levels reduce certain opportunities to realize profits in the event that the values of such securities increase. However, they also reduce the risk of loss in the event of decreases in such values and result in controlled interest costs incurred on funds provided to maintain such positions. Oppenheimer also attempts to minimize risk with respect to its principal transactions by re-selling (or buying) to offset its positions quickly after establishing positions, thereby reducing the need to hold securities inventory positions for even short periods of time.
Trading profits or losses depend on (i) the skills of those employees engaged in market-making activities, (ii) the capital allocated to holding positions in securities and (iii) the general trend of prices in the securities markets. Trading as principal requires the commitment of capital and creates an opportunity for profits or an exposure to risk of loss due to market fluctuations. Oppenheimer takes both long and short positions in those securities in which it makes a market.
Equities. Oppenheimer acts as both principal and agent in the execution of its customers' orders in the over-the-counter market. Oppenheimer buys, sells and maintains an inventory of a security in order to "make a market" in that security. (To "make a market" in a security is to maintain firm bid and offer prices by standing ready to buy or sell round
lots at publicly quoted prices. In order to make a market, it is necessary to commit capital to buy, sell and maintain an inventory of a security.) In executing customer orders for over-the-counter securities in which it does not make a market, Oppenheimer generally charges a commission and acts as agent, or will act as principal by marking the security up or down in a riskless transaction, working with another firm which is a market-maker acting as principal. However, when the buy or sell order is in a security in which Oppenheimer makes a market, Oppenheimer normally acts as principal and purchases from or sells to its customers at a price which is approximately equal to the current inter-dealer market price plus or minus a mark-up or mark-down. The stocks in which Oppenheimer makes a market also may include those of issuers which are followed by Oppenheimer's research department. Oppenheimer makes markets in over 900 over-the-counter equity securities, and trades securities for its own account, as well as to facilitate customer transactions. As a result of the move to decimal trading in the NASDAQ, which began for all stocks in April 2001, narrowing bid-ask spreads and smaller price increments are being experienced and are resulting in a decrease in trading revenue earned from the Company’s market making operations. Recent rule-making by the SEC may further reduce the Company’s ability to trade as principal with its clients if the Company has performed ‘financial planning’ services on behalf of those clients. Oppenheimer also trades in OTC Bulletin Board and pink sheet securities. These securities are typically more illiquid, have smaller capitalizations and may involve more risk than NASDAQ-traded securities.
High Yield. Oppenheimer also trades and positions non-investment grade public and private debt securities, as well as distressed securities. Risk of loss upon default by the borrower is significantly greater with respect to unrated or less than investment grade corporate debt securities than with other corporate debt securities. These securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other creditors of the issuer. These issuers usually have high levels of indebtedness and are more sensitive to adverse economic conditions, such as recession or increasing interest rates, than are investment grade issuers. There is a limited market for some of these securities and market quotes are available only from a small number of dealers.
Other Trading and Investment Activities
Oppenheimer holds positions in its trading accounts in over-the-counter securities and in exchange-listed securities in which it does not make a market and may engage from time to time in other types of principal transactions in securities. Oppenheimer has several trading departments including: a convertible bond department, a risk arbitrage department, a corporate bond dealer department, a municipal bond department, a government/mortgage backed securities department, and a department that underwrites and trades U.S. government agency issues, taxable corporate bonds, preferred shares and Unit Investment Trusts. These departments continually purchase and sell securities and make markets in order to make a profit on the inter-dealer spread. Although Oppenheimer from time to time holds an inventory of securities, more typically, it seeks to match customer buy and sell orders. In addition, Oppenheimer or OAM hold proprietary positions in equity or fixed income securities in which it may not act as a dealer.
The size of its securities positions on any one day may not be representative of Oppenheimer's exposure on any other day because securities positions vary substantially
based upon economic and market conditions, allocations of capital, underwriting commitments and trading volume. Also, the aggregate value of inventories of stocks which Oppenheimer may carry is limited by the Net Capital Rule. See "NET CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS" and Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources."
In the case of OAM, it holds investments as general partner in a range of investment partnerships (“hedge funds”), which are offered to Oppenheimer hedge fund-qualified clients as well as qualified clients of other broker-dealers.
Investment Income
Principal transactions with customers as well as market-making and other trading and investment activities, dividends and interest earned on securities held in inventory, cash and cash equivalents and cash and securities held in segregated accounts are treated as investment income.
The Company’s investment activities include investing in equity and equity-related securities, fixed income securities and limited partnerships as well as general partnership interests in connection with private investment transactions, either for the accounts of Company-sponsored private equity partnerships, real estate partnerships or special purpose partnerships or as ‘seed’ investments for portfolio managers who are establishing an investment record or for its own account. These activities include mutual fund investments, insurance vehicles with investment options, including those made in connection with its deferred compensation plans, venture capital investments, and investments in portfolio and operating companies. The fair value of these investments is subject to a higher degree of volatility and may include significant risks of loss while attempting to obtain higher returns than those available from publicly-traded securities.
INTEREST
Oppenheimer derives a substantial portion of its interest revenue, and incurs a substantial portion of its interest expense, in connection with its securities borrowed/ securities loaned activity. Oppenheimer also earns interest on its securities portfolio, on its operating and segregated balances, on its margin lending activity and on certain of its investments. Oppenheimer also incurs interest expense on its long-term debt, bank loans and free credit balances in the accounts of customers.
Securities Borrowed / Securities Loaned. In connection with both its trading and brokerage activities, Oppenheimer borrows securities to cover short sales and to complete transactions in which customers have failed to deliver securities by the required settlement date and lends securities to other brokers and dealers for similar purposes. Oppenheimer has an active securities borrowed and lending business, in which Oppenheimer borrows securities from one party and lends them to another party. When Oppenheimer borrows securities, Oppenheimer provides cash to the lender as collateral, which is reflected in the Company’s financial statements as receivable from brokers and dealers. Oppenheimer earns interest revenues on this cash collateral. Similarly, when Oppenheimer lends securities to another party, that party provides cash to Oppenheimer as collateral, which is reflected in the Company’s financial statements as payable to brokers and dealers. Oppenheimer pays interest expense on the cash collateral received from the party borrowing the securities.
Margin Lending. Customers’ transactions are executed on either a cash or margin basis. In a margin transaction, Oppenheimer extends credit to the customer, collateralized by securities and cash in the customer’s account, for a portion of the purchase price, and receives income from interest charged on such extensions of credit. Margin lending by Oppenheimer is subject to the margin rules of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, NYSE margin requirements and Oppenheimer’s internal policies.
The primary source of funds to finance customers' margin account borrowings are collateralized and uncollateralized bank borrowings, funds generated by lending securities on a cash collateral basis in excess of the amount of securities borrowed and free credit balances in customers' accounts. Free credit balances in customers' accounts, to the extent not required to be segregated pursuant to SEC rules, may be used in the conduct of Oppenheimer’s business, including the extension of margin credit. Subject to applicable regulations, interest is paid by Oppenheimer on most, but not all, of such free credit balances awaiting reinvestment by customers. The customer is charged for such margin financing at interest rates derived from the company’s “base” rate as defined, as well as the brokers’ loan rate, and LIBOR, to which is added an additional amount of up to 2%. To the extent that the use of free credit balances reduces borrowings, interest expense is reduced.
In permitting a customer to purchase securities on margin, Oppenheimer is subject to the risk that a market decline could reduce the value of its collateral below the amount of the customer’s indebtedness and that the customer might otherwise be unable to repay the indebtedness.
In addition to monitoring the creditworthiness of its customers, Oppenheimer also considers the trading liquidity and volatility of the securities it accepts as collateral for its margin loans. Trading liquidity and volatility may be dependent, in part, upon the market in which the security is traded, the number of outstanding shares of the issuer, events affecting the issuer and/or securities markets in general, and whether or not there are any legal restrictions on the sale of the securities. Oppenheimer considers all of these factors at the time it agrees to extend credit to customers and continues to review its extensions of credit on an ongoing basis.
The majority of Oppenheimer’s margin loans are made to United States citizens or to corporations which are domiciled in the United States. Oppenheimer increasingly has extended credit to investors or corporations who are citizens of foreign countries or who may reside outside the United States. Oppenheimer believes that should such foreign investors default upon their loans and should the collateral for those loans be insufficient to satisfy the investors’ obligations, it may be more difficult to collect such investors’ outstanding indebtedness than would be the case if investors were citizens or residents of the United States.
Although Oppenheimer attempts to minimize the risk associated with the extension of credit in margin accounts, there is no assurance that the assumptions on which Oppenheimer bases its decisions will be correct or that it is in a position to predict factors or events which will have an adverse impact on any individual customer or issuer, or the securities markets in general.
INVESTMENT BANKING BUSINESS
Oppenheimer offers corporations (primarily middle-market growth companies) a full range of financial advisory services as well as debt, equity, and convertible financing services. Products include acquisition financing, private placements and public offerings of debt and equity securities, debt refinancings, restructuring, merger and acquisition and exclusive sales advice, structured financings and securitizations. Investment banking activity involves both economic and regulatory risks. An underwriter may incur losses if it is unable to sell the securities it is committed to purchase or if it is forced to liquidate its commitments at less than the agreed upon purchase price. In addition, under the Securities Act and other laws and court decisions with respect to underwriters’ liability and limitations on indemnification of underwriters by issuers, an underwriter is subject to substantial potential liability for material misstatements or omissions in prospectuses and other communications with respect to underwritten offerings. Further, underwriting commitments constitute a charge against net capital and Oppenheimer’s underwriting commitments may be limited by the requirement that it must, at all times, be in compliance with the Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 of the SEC.
Oppenheimer intends to continue to pursue opportunities to provide services for its corporate customers, which may require it to finance and/or underwrite the issuance of securities. Under circumstances where Oppenheimer is required to act as an underwriter or to take a position in the securities of its customers, Oppenheimer may assume greater risk than would normally be assumed in its normal trading activity. Oppenheimer also participates as an underwriter in the syndication of issues managed by other securities firms.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY BUSINESS
Oppenheimer (through its Fahnestock Asset Management and OMEGA Group divisions) and OAM provide investment advisory services for a fee to its clients. These equity and debt management service fees are based on the value of the portfolio under management. In addition to the management fee, transactions executed for such accounts may be effected at standard rates of commission or at discounts from Oppenheimer 's customary commission schedule.
At December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer and OAM had approximately $10.3 billion under management. The agreements under which the portfolios are managed on behalf of institutions and other investors generally provide for termination by either party at any time. Effective December 5, 2005, Advantage Advisers Inc. and Imperial Investment Advisors Private Limited, subsidiaries of OAM, no longer acted as portfolio manager for the India Fund or the Asia Tigers Fund, respectively.
OAM is a broad-based advisory platform that includes: Investment Advisory Services (IAS), Strategic Asset Review (STAR), and Portfolio Advisory Services (PAS), collectively the consulting services; Oppenheimer Investment Advisors (OIA), core internally managed client accounts; and Alternative Investments Group, non-traditional investment strategies within SEC-registered funds.
Fahnestock Asset Management and OMEGA Group (financial advisor discretionary fee-based advisory accounts) provide customized discretionary investment management services and products to high net worth individuals and families, endowments and foundations and institutions. They seek to provide portfolio management, client service and other financial services in a disciplined manner that is tailored to meet their clients’ particular needs and objectives.
Oppenheimer Institutional Management is a newly formed division to offer investment management services to a class of clients that includes corporate pension plans, Taft-Hartley Plans, endowments, and the pension plans of municipal and governmental units. (See “Importance of Investment Performance”).
Importance of Investment Performance.
The Company believes that investment performance is one of the most important factors for the growth of assets under management for a company in the asset management business. Poor investment performance could impair growth of the Company’s asset management business because existing clients might withdraw funds and the Company’s ability to attract funds from existing and new clients might diminish.
Investment advisory and administrative contracts are generally terminable at will or upon relatively short notice. Institutional and individual clients can terminate their relationships with an asset manager, reduce the aggregate amount of assets under management, or shift their funds to other types of accounts with different rate structures for any number of reasons, including investment performance, changes in prevailing interest rates, loss of key investment management personnel and financial market performance. In a declining stock market, the withdrawal of assets from accounts could accelerate.
Other Business
The Company operates a mortgage banking business through Evanston. Evanston is an approved MAP/FHA lender and also a Ginnie Mae approved Multifamily Issuer. Evanston directly provides all aspects of mortgage banking: origination, processing, underwriting, closing, securitizing and servicing of FHA mortgage loans.
RISK MANAGEMENT
For a discussion of risk management, see Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”.
ADMINISTRATION AND OPERATIONS
Administration and operations personnel are responsible for the processing of securities transactions; the receipt, identification and delivery of funds and securities; the maintenance of internal financial controls; accounting functions; custody of customers' securities; the handling of margin accounts for Oppenheimer and its correspondents; and general office services. Oppenheimer employs approximately 370 persons in its
administration and operations departments at its head office, approximately 60 persons in its administration and operations departments in Detroit and approximately 183 administrative and operations persons located in its branch offices.
There is considerable fluctuation during any year and from year to year in the volume of transactions Oppenheimer must process. Oppenheimer records transactions and posts its books on a daily basis. Operations personnel monitor day-to-day operations to assure compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. Failure to keep current and accurate books and records can render Oppenheimer liable for disciplinary action by governmental and self-regulatory organizations.
Oppenheimer executes its own and certain of its correspondents' securities transactions on all United States exchanges of which it is a member and in the over-the-counter market. Oppenheimer clears all of its securities transactions (i.e., it delivers securities that it has sold, receives securities that it has purchased and transfers related funds) through its own facilities and through memberships in various clearing corporations and custodian banks.
Oppenheimer believes that its internal controls and safeguards are adequate, although fraud and misconduct by customers and employees and the possibility of theft of securities are risks inherent in the securities industry. As required by the NYSE and certain other authorities, Oppenheimer carries an insurance policy (a broker's blanket bond) covering loss or theft of securities, forgery of checks and drafts, embezzlement, fraud and misplacement of securities. This bond provides coverage of up to an aggregate of $15,000,000 with a self-insurance retention of $1,000,000. The Company’s businesses entail the inherent risk of liability related to litigation from clients or third party vendors and actions taken by regulatory agencies. To help protect against these potential liabilities, the Company purchases insurance in amounts, and against risks, that the Company considers appropriate. There can be no assurance, however, that a claim or claims will be covered by insurance or, if covered, will not exceed the limits of available insurance coverage, that any insurer will remain solvent and will meet its obligations to provide the Company with coverage or that insurance coverage will continue to be available with sufficient limits at a reasonable cost. Over the last several years, insurance expenses have increased and the Company expects further increases to be significant going forward. In addition, certain insurance coverage may not be available or may only be available at prohibitive costs. Renewals of insurance policies may expose Oppenheimer to additional costs through higher premiums or the assumption of higher deductibles or co-insurance liability.
COMPETITION
Oppenheimer encounters intense competition in all aspects of the securities business and competes directly with other securities firms, a significant number of which have substantially greater resources and offer a wider range of financial services. In addition, there has recently been increasing competition from other sources, such as commercial banks, insurance companies and certain major corporations that have entered the securities industry through acquisition, and from other entities. Additionally, foreign-based securities firms and commercial banks regularly offer their services in performing a variety of investment banking functions including: merger and acquisition advice, leveraged
buy-out financing, merchant banking, and bridge financing, all in direct competition with U.S. broker-dealers. These developments have led to the creation of a greater number of integrated financial services firms that may be able to compete more effectively than Oppenheimer for investment funds by offering a greater range of financial services.
Oppenheimer believes that the principal factors affecting competition in the securities industry are the quality and ability of professional personnel and relative prices of services and products offered. Oppenheimer and its competitors employ advertising and direct solicitation of potential customers in order to increase business and furnish investment research publications in an effort to retain existing, and attract potential, clients. Many of Oppenheimer's competitors engage in these programs more extensively than does Oppenheimer.
There is substantial commission discounting by broker-dealers competing for institutional and retail brokerage business. Recently, full service firms have begun offering on-line trading services to their clients at substantial discounts to their regular pricing. Oppenheimer intends to compete in this area, but it is likely to reduce profitability per transaction, unless offset by higher transaction volume. The continuation of such discounting and an increase in the incidence thereof could adversely affect Oppenheimer. However, an increase in the use of discount brokerages could be beneficial to Freedom.
DISASTER RECOVERY
The events of September 11, 2001 heightened the need for comprehensive disaster recovery plans. Disaster recovery plans exist for the Company’s critical systems, and redundancies are built into the systems as deemed appropriate. The Company believes that its disaster recovery program, including off-site back-up technology and operational facilities, is adequate to handle a reasonable business disruption. However, there can be no assurances that a disaster directly affecting the Company’s headquarters or its operations center would not have a material adverse impact on the Company. Insurance and other safeguards might only partially reimburse the Company for its losses. The Company also uses periodic self-assessments, internal audit reviews and independent consultants as a further check on operational risk and exposure.
The Company maintains disaster recovery procedures and a site remote from its main operations at which it houses back-up facilities to its main operations in New York City. In recent years, the Company has substantially upgraded its investment in such procedures and facilities, but there remains substantial risk and uncertainty with respect to the efficacy of such planning due to the complications of moving its personnel and business to any such facility.
REGULATION
The securities industry in the United States is subject to extensive regulation under both federal and state laws. The SEC is the federal agency charged with administration of the federal securities laws. Much of the regulation of broker-dealers has been delegated to self-regulatory organizations (“SROs”) such as the NASD and national securities exchanges such as the NYSE and the National Futures Association. The NYSE has been
designated Oppenheimer’s primary regulator with respect to securities activities and the National Futures Association has been designated Oppenheimer’s primary regulator with respect to commodities activities. The NASD has been designated Oppenheimer’s primary regulator with respect to options trading activities. The NASD has been designated Freedom’s primary regulator with respect to securities activities. These self-regulatory organizations adopt rules (subject to approval by the SEC or the Commodities Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"), as the case may be) governing the industry and conduct periodic examinations of Oppenheimer's and Freedom's operations. Securities firms are also subject to regulation by state securities commissions in the states in which they do business. Oppenheimer and Freedom are each registered as a broker-dealer in the 50 states and Puerto Rico. Oppenheimer is also registered as an International Dealer in Canada.
The regulations to which broker-dealers are subject cover all aspects of the securities business, including sales methods, trade practices among broker-dealers, the use and safekeeping of customers' funds and securities, capital structure of securities firms, record keeping and the conduct of directors, officers and employees. The SEC has adopted rules requiring underwriters to ensure that municipal securities issuers provide current financial information and imposing limitations on political contributions to municipal issuers by brokers, dealers and other municipal finance professionals. Additional legislation, changes in rules promulgated by the SEC, the CFTC and by self-regulatory organizations, or changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules may directly affect the method of operation and profitability of broker-dealers. The SEC, self-regulatory organizations (including the NYSE and NASD) and state securities commissions may conduct administrative proceedings which can result in censure, fine, issuance of cease and desist orders or suspension or expulsion of a broker-dealer, its officers, or employees. These administrative proceedings, whether or not resulting in adverse findings, can require substantial expenditures and can have an adverse impact on the reputation of a broker-dealer. The principal purpose of regulating and disciplining broker-dealers is to protect customers and the securities markets rather than to protect creditors and shareholders of broker-dealers. Effective April 1, 2006, rules adopted by the NYSE (Rule 342) and NASD (Rules 3012 and 3013) require that the CEO certify annually that there is a process in place to monitor the effectiveness of the Company’s adherence to rules and procedures related to the operation of its business.
In prior years, abuses by certain participants in the mutual fund industry, including activities relating to market timing, late trading and selective disclosure of portfolio holdings, prompted legislative and regulatory scrutiny of a wide range of fund-related activities. This scrutiny resulted in the adoption of new rules and a number of legislative and regulatory proposals relating to fund practices. In this regard, the SEC implemented rules designed to strengthen existing prohibitions relating to late trading and to enhance required disclosure of market timing and pricing policies. The SEC also adopted and proposed additional rules requiring corporate governance changes including the adoption of compliance policies and the requirement that funds and investment advisors designate a chief compliance officer.
Oppenheimer is also subject to regulation by the SEC and under certain state laws in connection with its business as an investment advisor and in connection with its research department activities.
Margin lending by Oppenheimer is subject to the margin rules of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the NYSE. Under such rules, Oppenheimer is limited in the amount it may lend in connection with certain purchases of securities and is also required to impose certain maintenance requirements on the amount of securities and cash held in margin accounts. In addition, Oppenheimer may (and currently does) impose more restrictive margin requirements than required by such rules. See "INTEREST - Margin Lending."
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 effected significant changes to corporate governance, accounting requirements and corporate reporting. This law generally applies to all companies, including the Company, with equity or debt securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The Company has taken numerous actions, and incurred substantial expenses, over the last two and a half years to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, related regulations promulgated by the SEC and other corporate governance requirements of the NYSE. Management has determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 was effective. See Item 8, under the caption “Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting”.
NET CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
As registered broker-dealers and member firms of the NYSE (Oppenheimer) or the NASD (Freedom), the Operating Subsidiaries are subject to certain net capital requirements pursuant to Rule 15c3-1 (the "Net Capital Rule") promulgated under the Exchange Act. The Net Capital Rule, which specifies minimum net capital requirements for registered brokers and dealers, is designed to measure the general financial integrity and liquidity of a broker-dealer and requires that at least a minimum part of its assets be kept in relatively liquid form.
Oppenheimer elects to compute net capital under an alternative method of calculation permitted by the Net Capital Rule. (Freedom computes net capital under the basic formula as provided by the Net Capital Rule.) Under this alternative method, Oppenheimer is required to maintain a minimum "net capital", as defined in the Net Capital Rule, at least equal to 2% of the amount of its "aggregate debit items" computed in accordance with the Formula for Determination of Reserve Requirements for Brokers and Dealers (Exhibit A to Rule 15c3-3 under the Exchange Act) or $250,000, whichever is greater. "Aggregate debit items" are assets that have as their source transactions with customers, primarily margin loans. Failure to maintain the required net capital may subject a firm to suspension or expulsion by the NYSE, the SEC and other regulatory bodies and ultimately may require its liquidation. The Net Capital Rule also prohibits payments of dividends, redemption of stock and the prepayment of subordinated indebtedness if net capital thereafter would be less than 5% of aggregate debit items (or 7% of the funds required to be segregated pursuant to the Commodity Exchange Act and the regulations thereunder, if greater) and payments in respect of principal of subordinated indebtedness if net capital thereafter would be less than 5% of aggregate debit items (or 6% of the funds required to be segregated pursuant to the Commodity Exchange Act and the regulations thereunder, if greater). The Net Capital Rule also provides that the total outstanding principal amounts of a broker-dealer's indebtedness
under certain subordination agreements (the proceeds of which are included in its net capital) may not exceed 70% of the sum of the outstanding principal amounts of all subordinated indebtedness included in net capital, par or stated value of capital stock, paid in capital in excess of par, retained earnings and other capital accounts for a period in excess of 90 days.
Net capital is essentially defined in the Net Capital Rule as net worth (assets minus liabilities), plus qualifying subordinated borrowings minus certain mandatory deductions that result from excluding assets that are not readily convertible into cash and deductions for certain operating charges. The Net Capital Rule values certain other assets, such as a firm's positions in securities, conservatively. Among these deductions are adjustments (called "haircuts") in the market value of securities to reflect the possibility of a market decline prior to disposition.
Compliance with the Net Capital Rule could limit those operations of the brokerage subsidiaries of the Company that require the intensive use of capital, such as underwriting and trading activities and the financing of customer account balances, and also could restrict the Company's ability to withdraw capital from its brokerage subsidiaries, which in turn could limit the Company's ability to pay dividends, repay debt and redeem or purchase shares of its outstanding capital stock. Under the Net Capital Rule, broker-dealers are required to maintain certain records and provide the SEC with quarterly reports with respect to, among other things, significant movements of capital, including transfers to a holding company parent or other affiliate. The SEC and/or industry self-regulatory organizations (“SROs”) may in certain circumstances restrict the Company's brokerage subsidiaries' ability to withdraw excess net capital and transfer it to the Company or to other of the Operating Subsidiaries or to expand the Company’s business.
Item 1A.
Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
The Company’s business and operations are subject to numerous risks. The material risks and uncertainties that management believes affect the Company are described below. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties that management is not aware of or focused on or that management currently deems immaterial may also impair the Company’s business operations. If any of the following risks actually occur, the Company’s financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
If the Company is unable to repay its outstanding indebtedness obligations when due, its operations may be materially adversely affected.
At December 31, 2005, the Company had an aggregate of approximately $1.9 billion of indebtedness. The Company cannot assure that its operations will generate funds sufficient to repay its existing debt obligations as they come due. The Company’s failure to repay its indebtedness and make interest payments as required by its debt obligations could have a material adverse affect on its operations.
The Company is subject to extensive securities regulation and the failure to comply with these regulations could subject it to penalties or sanctions.
The securities industry and the Company’s business is subject to extensive regulation by the SEC, state securities regulators and other governmental regulatory authorities. The Company is also regulated by industry self-regulatory organizations, including the NYSE, the NASD and the MSRB. The regulatory environment is also subject to change and the Company may be adversely affected as a result of new or revised legislation or regulations imposed by the SEC, other federal or state governmental regulatory authorities, or self-regulatory organizations. The Company also may be adversely affected by changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules by these governmental authorities and self-regulatory organizations.
Oppenheimer is a registered broker-dealer with the SEC and a member firm of the NYSE. Broker-dealers are subject to regulations which cover all aspects of the securities business, including:
·
sales methods and supervision;
·
trading practices among broker-dealers;
·
use and safekeeping of customers’ funds and securities;
·
anti-money laundering and Patriot Act compliance;
·
capital structure of securities firms;
·
compliance with lending practices (Regulation T);
·
record keeping; and
·
the conduct of directors, officers and employees.
Compliance with many of the regulations applicable to the Company involves a number of risks, particularly in areas where applicable regulations may be subject to varying interpretation. The requirements imposed by these regulators are designed to ensure the integrity of the financial markets and to protect customers and other third parties who deal with the Company. Consequently, these regulations often serve to limit the Company’s activities, including through net capital, customer protection and market conduct requirements. Much of the regulation of broker-dealers has been delegated to self-regulatory organizations, principally the NASD Regulation, Inc., the regulatory arm of the NASD, and the NYSE, which are the Company’s primary regulatory agencies. NASD Regulation, Inc. and the NYSE adopt rules, subject to approval by the SEC, which govern its members and conducts periodic examinations of member firms’ operations.
If the Company is found to have violated any applicable regulation, formal administrative or judicial proceedings may be initiated against it that may result in:
·
censure;
·
fine;
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civil penalties, including treble damages in the case of insider trading violations;
·
the issuance of cease-and-desist orders;
·
the deregistration or suspension of our broker-dealer activities;
·
the suspension or disqualification of our officers or employees; or
·
other adverse consequences.
The imposition of any of these or other penalties could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. See Item 1, under the caption “REGULATION” and Item 7, “Managements’ Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” - Regulation.
The Company may incur significant losses from trading and investment activities due to market fluctuations and volatility.
The Company generally maintains trading and investment positions in the equity markets. To the extent that the Company owns assets, i.e., has long positions, in those markets, a downturn in those markets could result in losses from a decline in the value of those long positions. Conversely, to the extent that the Company has sold assets that it does not own, i.e., has short positions, in any of those markets, an upturn in those markets could expose the Company to potentially unlimited losses as it attempts to cover its short positions by acquiring assets in a rising market.
In addition, the Company maintains trading positions that can be adversely affected by the level of volatility in the financial markets, i.e., the degree to which trading prices fluctuate over a particular period, in a particular market, regardless of market levels.
The value of the Company’s goodwill and intangible assets may become impaired
A substantial portion of the Company’s assets arise from goodwill and intangibles recorded as a result of business acquisitions it has made. The Company is required to perform a test for impairment of such goodwill and intangible assets, at least annually. If the test resulted in a write-down of goodwill and/or intangible assets, the Company would incur a significant loss.
Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other external events could significantly impact the Company’s business
Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on the Company’s ability to conduct business. Although management has established disaster recovery policies and procedures, the occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. The Company maintains a disaster recovery site to aid it in reacting to circumstances such as those described above. The plans and preparations for such eventualities including the site itself may not be adequate or effective for their intended purpose.
The Company’s revenue may decline in adverse market or economic conditions.
During periods of unfavorable financial and economic conditions the number and size of the transactions in which the Company provides underwriting services, merger and acquisition consulting and other services are reduced. The Company’s investment banking revenues, in the form of financial advisory and underwriting fees, are directly related to the number and size of the transactions in which it participates and therefore
may be adversely affected by a sustained downturn in the securities markets. Additionally, a downturn in market conditions may lead to a decline in the volume of transactions that the Company executes for its customers and, therefore, to a decline in the revenue the Company receives from commissions and principal transactions. If these adverse financial and economic conditions were to persist, the Companye would incur a further decline in transactions and revenue that it receives from commissions and principal transactions. Management fees associated with the Company’s advisory business will decline with a decline in security prices.
The Company depends on its senior employees and the loss of their services could harm its business.
The Company’s success is dependent in large part upon the services of several of its senior executives and employees. Any loss of service by the CEO may adversely affect the business and operations of the Company. The Company maintains key man insurance on the life of its CEO. If the Company’s senior executives or employees terminate their employment with it and the Company is unable to find suitable replacements in relatively short periods of time, itsr operations may be materially and adversely affected. The Company does not currently have employment agreements or non-competition agreements with any of its senior officers.
The Company faces significant competition for professional employees.
From time to time, individuals the Company employs may choose to leave to pursue other opportunities. The Company has experienced losses of financial advisors, trading and investment banking professionals in the past, and the level of competition for key personnel remains intense. The Company can not give assurances that the loss of key personnel will not occur again in the future. The loss of a financial adviser or a trading or investment banking professional, particularly a senior professional with a broad range of contacts in an industry, could materially and adversely affect the Company’s operating results.
The Company is subject to various risks associated with the securities industry.
As a securities broker-dealer, Oppenheimer is subject to uncertainties that are common in the securities industry. These uncertainties include:
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the volatility of domestic and international financial, bond and stock markets, as demonstrated by recent disruptions in the financial markets;
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extensive governmental regulation;
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litigation;
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intense competition;
·
substantial fluctuations in the volume and price level of securities; and
·
dependence on the solvency of various third parties.
As a result, revenue and earnings may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year. In periods of low volume, profitability is impaired because certain expenses remain relatively fixed. Oppenheimer is smaller and has less capital than many of its competitors in the securities industry. In the event of a market downturn, the Company’s business could be adversely affected in many ways. The Company’s revenue is likely to decline in such circumstances and, if the Company is unable to reduce expenses at the same pace, its profit margins would erode.
The Company’s risk management policies and procedures may leave it exposed to unidentified risks or an unanticipated level of risk.
The policies and procedures the Company employs to identify, monitor and manage risks may not be fully effective. Some methods of risk management are based on the use of observed historical market behavior. As a result, these methods may not predict future risk exposures, which could be significantly greater than the historical measures indicate. Other risk management methods depend on evaluation of information regarding markets, clients or other matters that are publicly available or otherwise accessible by the Company. This information may not be accurate, complete, up-to-date or properly evaluated. Management of operational, legal and regulatory risk requires, among other things, policies and procedures to properly record and verify a large number of transactions and events. The Company can not give assurances that its policies and procedures will effectively and accurately record and verify this information. See Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”.
The Company seeks to monitor and control its risk exposure through a variety of separate but complementary financial, credit, operational and legal reporting systems. The Company believes that it effectively evaluates and manages the market, credit and other risks to which it is exposed. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of the Company’s ability to manage risk exposure can never be completely or accurately predicted or fully assured. For example, unexpectedly large or rapid movements or disruptions in one or more markets or other unforeseen developments can have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements. The consequences of these developments can include losses due to adverse changes in securities values, decreases in the liquidity of trading positions, higher volatility in earnings, increases in the Company’s credit risk to customers as well as to third parties and increases in general systemic risk.
Credit risk exposes the Company to losses caused by financial or other problems experienced by third parties.
The Company is exposed to the risk that third parties that owe it money, securities or other assets will not perform their obligations. These parties include:
·
trading counterparties;
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customers;
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clearing agents;
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exchanges;
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clearing houses; and
·
other financial intermediaries as well as issuers whose securities we hold.
These parties may default on their obligations owed to the Company due to bankruptcy, lack of liquidity, operational failure or other reasons. This risk may arise, for example, from:
·
holding securities of third parties;
·
executing securities trades that fail to settle at the required time due to non-delivery by the counterparty or systems failure by clearing agents, exchanges, clearing houses or other financial intermediaries; and
·
extending credit to clients through bridge or margin loans or other arrangements.
Significant failures by third parties to perform their obligations owed to the Company could adversely affect its revenue and perhaps its ability to borrow in the credit markets.
Intense competition from existing and new entities may adversely affect the Company’s revenue and profitability.
The securities industry is rapidly evolving, intensely competitive and has few barriers to entry. The Company expects competition to continue and intensify in the future. Many of the Company’s competitors have significantly greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than the Company does. Some of the Company’s competitors also offer a wider range of services and financial products than the Company does and have greater name recognition and a larger client base. These competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or changing opportunities, technologies and client requirements. They may also be able to undertake more extensive promotional activities, offer more attractive terms to clients, and adopt more aggressive pricing policies. The Company may not be able to compete effectively with current or future competitors and competitive pressures faced by it may harm its business.
The precautions the Company takes to prevent and detect employee misconduct may not be effective and it could be exposed to unknown and unmanaged risks or losses.
The Company runs the risk that employee misconduct could occur. Misconduct by employees could include:
·
employees binding us to transactions that exceed authorized limits or present unacceptable risks to the Company;
·
employees hiding unauthorized or unsuccessful activities from the Company; or
·
the improper use of confidential information.
These types of misconduct could result in unknown and unmanaged risks or losses to the Company including regulatory sanctions and serious harm to its reputation. The precautions the Company takes to prevent and detect these activities may not be effective. If employee misconduct does occur, the Company’s business operations could be materially adversely affected.
Failure to comply with net capital requirements could subject the Company to suspension or revocation by the SEC or suspension or expulsion by the NASD and the NYSE.
Oppenheimer and Freedom are subject to the SEC’s net capital rule which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Oppenheimer computes its net capital requirements under the alternative method provided for in the Rule which requires that Oppenheimer maintain net capital equal to two percent of aggregate customer related debit items, as defined in SEC Rule 15c3-1. At December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer had net capital of $172,780,000, which was $144,904,000 in excess of the $27,876,000 required to be maintained at that date. Freedom computes its net capital requirement under the basic method provided for in the Rule, which requires that Freedom maintain net capital equal to the greater of $250,000 or 6 2/3% of aggregate indebtedness, as defined. At December 31, 2005, Freedom had net capital of $7,005,000, which was $6,755,000 in excess of the $250,000 required to be maintained at that date. The net capital rule is designed to measure the general financial integrity and liquidity of a
broker-dealer. In computing net capital, various adjustments are made to net worth which exclude assets not readily convertible into cash. Additionally, the regulations require that certain assets, such as a broker-dealer’s position in securities, be valued in a conservative manner so as to avoid over-inflation of the broker-dealer’s net capital. The net capital rule requires that a broker-dealer maintain a certain minimum level of net capital. The particular levels vary in application depending upon the nature of the activity undertaken by a firm. Compliance with the net capital rule limits those operations of broker-dealers which require the intensive use of their capital, such as underwriting commitments and principal trading activities. The rule also limits the ability of securities firms to pay dividends or make payments on certain indebtedness such as subordinated debt as it matures. A significant operating loss or any charge against net capital could adversely affect the ability of a broker-dealer to expand or, depending on the magnitude of the loss or charge, maintain its then present level of business. The NASD and the NYSE may enter the offices of a broker-dealer at any time, without notice, and calculate the firm’s net capital. If the calculation reveals a deficiency in net capital, the NYSE or NASD may immediately restrict or suspend certain or all of the activities of a broker-dealer, including its ability to make markets.
Risk of losses associated with securities laws violations and litigation.
Many aspects of the Company’s business involve substantial risks of liability. An underwriter is exposed to substantial liability under federal and state securities laws, other federal and state laws, and court decisions, including decisions with respect to underwriters’ liability and limitations on indemnification of underwriters by issuers. For example, a firm that acts as an underwriter may be held liable for material misstatements or omissions of fact in a prospectus used in connection with the securities being offered or for statements made by its securities analysts or other personnel. In recent years, there has been an increasing incidence of litigation involving the securities industry, including class actions that seek substantial damages. The Company’s underwriting activities will usually involve offerings of the securities of smaller companies, which often involve a higher degree of risk and are more volatile than the securities of more established companies. In comparison with more established companies, smaller companies are also more likely to be the subject of securities class actions, to carry directors and officers liability insurance policies with lower limits or not at all, and to become insolvent. Each of these factors increases the likelihood that an underwriter may be required to contribute to an adverse judgment or settlement of a securities lawsuit.
In the normal course of business, the Operating Subsidiaries have been and continue to be the subject of numerous civil actions and arbitrations arising out of customer complaints relating to our activities as a broker-dealer, as an employer and as a result of other business activities. In general, cases may involve various allegations that employees mishandled customer accounts. The Company believes that, based on our historical experience and the reserves established by the Company, the resolution of the claims presently pending will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition. However, although the Company typically reserves an amount it believes will be sufficient to cover any damages assessed against it, the Company has in the past been assessed damages that exceeded its reserves. If the Company misjudged the amount of damages that may be assessed against it from pending or
threatened claims, or if the Company is unable to adequately estimate the amount of damages that will be assessed against it from claims that arise in the future and reserve accordingly, its financial statements may be materially adversely affected.
The Company’s information systems may experience an interruption or breach in security
The Company relies heavily on communications and information systems to conduct its business. Any failure, interruption or breach in security of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in the Company’s customer relationship management, general ledger, and other systems. While the Company has policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the effect of the failure, interruption or security breach of its information systems, there can be no assurance that any such failures, interruptions or security breaches will not occur or, if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. The occurrence of any failures, interruptions or security breaches of the Company’s information systems could damage the Company’s reputation, result in a loss of customer business, subject the Company to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose the Company to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
The Company continually encounters technological change
The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve customers and to reduce costs. The Company’s future success depends, in part, upon its ability to address the needs of its customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in the Company’s operations. Many of the Company’s competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. The Company may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to its customers. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business and, in turn, the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
Risks associated with the Company’s stock
The Company’s stock price can be volatile
Stock price volatility may make it difficult for an investor to resell the Company’s Class A non-voting shares (the “Class A Shares”) when wanted and at prices deemed attractive. The Company’s stock price can fluctuate significantly in response to a variety of factors including, among other things:
·
Actual or anticipated variations in quarterly results of operations;
·
Recommendations by securities analysts;
·
Operating and stock price performance of other companies that investors deem comparable to the Company;
·
News reports relating to trends, concerns and other issues in the financial services industry;
·
Perceptions in the marketplace regarding the Company and/or its competitors;
·
New technology used, or services offered, by competitors;
·
Significant acquisitions or business combinations, strategic partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments by or involving the Company or its competitors;
·
Failure to integrate acquisitions or realize anticipated benefits from acquisitions; and
·
The occurrence of any of the other events described in these Risk Factors.
General market fluctuations, industry factors and general economic and political conditions and events, such as economic slowdowns or recessions, interest rate changes or credit loss trends, could also cause the Company’s stock price to decrease regardless of operating results.
The Trading Volume In The Company’s Class A Shares Is Less Than That of Larger Financial Services Companies
Although the Company’s Class A Shares are listed for trading on the NYSE and the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”), the trading volume in its Class A Shares is less than that of larger financial services companies. A public trading market having the desired characteristics of depth, liquidity and orderliness depends on the presence in the marketplace of willing buyers and sellers of the Company’s Class A Shares at any given time. This presence depends on the individual decisions of investors and general economic and market conditions over which the Company has no control. Given the lower trading volume of the Company’s Class A Shares, significant sales of the Company’s Class A Shares, or the expectation of these sales, could cause the Company’s stock price to fall.
The Company issues two classes of stock
The Company issues two classes of stock, Class A Shares and Class B voting shares. At December 31, 2005, there were 99,680 Class B voting shares outstanding compared to 12,496,141 Class A Shares. The voting power associated with the Class B voting shares will be effectively able to exercise control over all matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of all directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, and other matters affecting the Company. This voting power may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of the Company. The controlling shareholder(s) may have potential conflicts of interest with other shareholders. See Item 4, “Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders”.
Possible additional issuances will cause dilution
At December 31, 2005, the Company had 12,496,141 Class A Shares outstanding and options to purchase a total of 1,775,641 Class A Shares. The Company is further authorized to issue up to 8,694,711 Class A Shares under compensation plans and pursuant to the exchange terms of outstanding debentures, for which shareholder approval has already been obtained. If the Company issues additional shares, its other shareholders may find their holdings drastically diluted, which if it occurs, means that they will own a smaller percentage of the Company.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None
Item 2.
Item 2. PROPERTIES
The Company maintains offices at 20 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada for general administrative activities. Most day-to-day management functions are conducted at the executive offices of Oppenheimer at 125 Broad Street, New York, New York. This office also serves as the base for most of Oppenheimer 's research, operations and trading and investment banking activities, although other offices also have employees who work in these areas. Investment advisory services are offered from the Company’s office at 200 Park Avenue, New York, New York, although other offices also have employees who work in this area. Generally, the offices outside of 125 Broad Street, New York serve as bases for sales representatives who process trades and provide other brokerage services in co-operation with Oppenheimer 's New York office using the data processing facilities located there. Freedom conducts its business from its offices located in Edison, N.J. Management believes that its present facilities are adequate for the purposes for which they are used and have adequate capacity to provide for presently contemplated future uses.
The Company and its subsidiaries own no real property, but at December 31, 2005, occupied office space totaling approximately 939,000 square feet in 84 locations under standard commercial terms expiring between 2006 and 2019. If any leases are not renewed, the Company believes it could obtain comparable space elsewhere on commercially reasonable rental terms.
Item 3.
Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Many aspects of the Company’s business involve substantial risks of liability. In the normal course of business, the Company has been named as defendant or co-defendant in lawsuits creating substantial exposure. The Company is also involved from time to time in governmental and self-regulatory agency investigations and proceedings. There has been an increased incidence of litigation and regulatory investigations in the financial services industry in recent years, including customer claims seeking, in total, substantial damages. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Regulatory Environment".
The Company is the subject of customer complaints, has been named as defendant or codefendant in various lawsuits seeking, in total, substantial damages and is involved in certain governmental and self-regulatory agency investigations and proceedings. These proceedings arise primarily from securities brokerage, asset management and investment banking activities. While the ultimate resolution of pending litigation and other matters cannot be currently determined, in the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, the Company has no reason to believe that the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition. However, the Company’s results of operations could be materially affected during any period if liabilities in that period differ from prior estimates. The materiality of legal matters to the Company’s future operating results depends on the level of future results of operations as well as the timing and ultimate outcome of such legal matters.
Item 4.
Item 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The Class B voting shares (the "Class B Shares"), the Company's only class of voting securities, are not registered under the Exchange Act and are not required to be registered. The Class B Shares are owned by fewer than 500 shareholders of record. Consequently, the Company is not required under Section 14 of the Exchange Act to furnish proxy soliciting material or an information statement to holders of the Class B Shares. However, the Company is required under applicable Canadian securities laws to provide proxy soliciting material, including a management information circular, to the holders of its Class B Shares.
Pursuant to the Company's Articles of Incorporation, holders of Class A non-voting shares (the "Class A Shares"), although not entitled to vote thereat, are entitled to receive notices of shareholders' meetings and to receive all informational documents required by law or otherwise to be provided to holders of Class B Shares. In addition, holders of Class A Shares are entitled to attend and speak at all meetings of shareholders, except class
meetings not including the Class A Shares.
In the event of either a "take-over bid" or an "issuer bid" (as those terms are defined in the Securities Act (Ontario)) being made for the Class B Shares and no corresponding offer being made to purchase Class A Shares, the holders of Class A Shares would have no right under the Articles of Incorporation of the Company or under any applicable statute to require that a similar offer be made to them to purchase their Class A Shares.
No matters were submitted to the Company's shareholders during the fourth quarter of the Company's 2005 fiscal year.
The Company’s next Annual Meeting of Shareholders is scheduled to be held on Monday, May 15, 2006 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
The Company's Class A Shares are listed and traded on the NYSE and the TSX (trading symbol “OPY”). The Class B Shares are not traded on any stock exchange in Canada or the United States and, as a consequence, there is only limited trading in the Class B shares. The Company does not presently contemplate listing the Class B Shares in the United States on any national or regional stock exchange or on Nasdaq.
The following tables set forth the high and low sales prices of the Class A Shares on the TSX and on the NYSE. Prices provided are in Canadian dollars or U.S. dollars as indicated and are based on data provided by the TSX and the NYSE.
The following table sets forth information about the shareholders of the Company as at December 31, 2005 as set forth in the records of the Company's transfer agent and registrar:
Class A Shares:
(1) The majority of Class A Shares are held by depositories and intermediaries.
Class B Shares
(1) The Company has been informed that 50,975 Class B shares held by Phase II Financial Limited, an Ontario corporation, are beneficially owned by A.G. Lowenthal, Chairman, CEO and a Director of the Company, a U.S. citizen and resident. See Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters".
Dividends
The following table sets forth the frequency and amount of any cash dividends declared on the Company’s Class A and Class B Shares for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 and the first quarter of 2006.
Future dividend policy will depend upon the earnings and financial condition of the Operating Subsidiaries, the Company's need for funds and other factors. Dividends may be paid to holders of Class A Shares and Class B Shares (pari passu), as and when declared by the Company's Board of Directors, from funds legally available therefore.
CERTAIN TAX MATTERS
The following paragraphs summarize certain United States and Canadian federal income tax considerations in connection with the receipt of dividends paid on the Class A and Class B Shares of the Company. These tax considerations are stated in brief and general terms and are based on United States and Canadian law currently in effect. There are other potentially significant United States and Canadian federal income tax considerations and state, provincial or local income tax considerations with respect to ownership and disposition of the Class A and Class B Shares which are not discussed herein. The tax considerations relative to ownership and disposition of the Class A and Class B Shares may vary from taxpayer to taxpayer depending on the taxpayer's particular status. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should consult with their tax advisors regarding tax considerations, which may apply to the particular situation.
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
Dividends on Class A and Class B Shares paid to citizens or residents of the U.S. or to U.S. corporations (including any Canadian federal income tax withheld) will be subject to U.S. federal income taxation as qualified dividends to the extent paid out of the Company’s earnings and profits, determined under U.S. tax principles, subject to tax at 15%. Such dividends will not be eligible for the deduction for dividends received by corporations (unless such corporation owns by vote and value at least 10% of the stock of the Company, in which case a portion of such dividend may be eligible for such exclusion).
U.S. corporations, U.S. citizens and U.S. residents will generally be entitled, subject to certain limitations, to a credit against their U.S. federal income tax for Canadian federal income taxes withheld from such dividends. Taxpayers may claim a deduction for such taxes if they do not elect to claim such tax credit. No deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by an individual taxpayer who does not itemize deductions. Because the application of the foreign tax credit depends upon the particular circumstances of each shareholder, shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors in this regard.
Canadian Federal Income Tax Considerations
Dividends paid on Class A and Class B Shares held by non-residents of Canada will generally be subject to Canadian withholding tax. This withholding tax is levied at the basic rate of 25%, although this rate may be reduced by the terms of any applicable tax treaty. The Canada - U.S. tax treaty provides that the withholding rate on dividends paid to U.S. residents on Class A and Class B Shares is generally 15%.
Normal Course Issuer Bid
On July 20, 2005, the Company announced that during the year commencing July 22, 2005 it intended to purchase up to 644,000 of its Class A Shares by way of a Normal Course Issuer Bid through the facilities of the TSX and/or the NYSE, representing approximately 5% of the outstanding Class A Shares. During the fourth quarter of 2005, the Company purchased 137,700 Class A Shares for an average price of $19.51 per share. The Company purchased 916,268 Class A Shares in 2005 at an average price of $21.43 per share pursuant to the current Normal Course Issuer Bid as well as pursuant to a Normal Course Issuer Bid that commenced on July 22, 2004 and terminated on July 21, 2005. All shares purchased by the Company pursuant to Normal Course Issuer Bids are cancelled. The Company may, at its option, apply to extend the program for an additional year.
The following table describes the purchases in fiscal 2005 of Class A Shares made by the Company pursuant to Normal Course Issuer Bids in effect from July 22, 2004 through July 21, 2005 for a maximum of 669,000 shares and then from July 22, 2005 through July 21, 2006 for a maximum of 644,000 shares.
Item 6.
Item 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table presents selected financial information derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the five years ended December 31, 2005. The selected financial information should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report. In 2003, the Company purchased the U.S. private client and asset management divisions of CIBC World Markets Inc. The 2003 amounts include the assets and liabilities and operating results of the private client division for the entire year and the assets and liabilities and operating results of the asset management division as of and subsequent to June 4, 2003. In 2002, the Company purchased the business of BUYandHOLD Securities Corporation. The 2002 amounts include the assets and liabilities and operating results of BUYandHOLD as of and subsequent to the period after March 12, 2002. In 2001, the Company purchased Josephthal and Prime. The 2001 amounts include the assets and liabilities and operating results of Josephthal and Prime as of and subsequent to the period after September 17, 2001 and November 9, 2001, respectively. See also Item 1, “BUSINESS” and Item 7, "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations".
(1)
The Class A Shares and Class B Shares are combined because they are of equal rank for purposes of dividends and in the event of a distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up.
Item 7.
Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The Company’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto which appear elsewhere in this annual report.
The Company engages in a broad range of activities in the securities industry, including retail securities brokerage, institutional sales and trading, investment banking (both corporate and public finance), research, market-making, and investment advisory and asset management services. The Company provides its services from 81 offices in 21 states located throughout the United States. The Company conducts business in 2 offices in Latin America through local broker-dealers. Client assets entrusted to the Company as at December 31, 2005 totaled approximately $52.3 billion. The Company provides investment advisory services through OAM and Oppenheimer’s Fahnestock Asset Management and OMEGA Group divisions. The Company provides trust services and products through Oppenheimer Trust Company. The Company provides discount brokerage services through Freedom and through BUYandHOLD, a division of Freedom. At December 31, 2005, client assets under management by the asset management groups totaled $10.3 billion. At December 31, 2005, the Company employed approximately 2,969 people full time, of whom approximately 1,730 were financial advisors.
Critical Accounting Policies
The Company’s accounting policies are essential to understanding and interpreting the financial results reported in the consolidated financial statements. The significant accounting policies used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements are summarized in note 1 to those statements. Certain of those policies are considered to be particularly important to the presentation of the Company’s financial results because they require management to make difficult, complex or subjective judgments, often as a result of matters that are inherently uncertain. The following is a discussion of these policies.
Valuation of Securities and Other Assets
Substantially all financial instruments are reflected in the consolidated financial statements at fair value or amounts that approximate fair value. These include cash equivalents; deposits with brokers and clearing organizations; securities owned; and securities sold but not yet purchased. Where available, the Company uses prices from independent sources such as listed market prices, or broker or dealer price quotations. In addition, even where the value of a security is derived from an independent market price or broker or dealer quote, certain assumptions may be required to determine the fair value. For instance, the Company generally assumes that the size of positions in securities that the Company holds would not be large enough to affect the quoted price of the securities if the Company were to sell them, and that any such sale would happen in an orderly manner. However, these assumptions may be incorrect and the actual value realized upon disposition could be different from the current carrying value. The Company's remaining financial instruments are generally short-term in nature, and their carrying values approximate fair value, with the exception of the Company’s variable rate exchangeable debentures, which are carried at cost.
Investments, included in securities owned, which have a ready market are valued using quoted market or dealer prices. Investments with no ready market value are stated at fair value as determined in good faith by management. Generally, management will initially value investments at cost. Factors considered in valuing individual investments include available market prices, type of security, purchase price, purchases of the same or similar securities by other investors, marketability, restrictions on disposition, current financial position and operating results of the issuer, and other pertinent information.
Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of these investments. There are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. The fair value estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of an amount that the Company could realize in a current transaction. Because of inherent uncertainty of valuation, these estimated fair values do not necessarily represent amounts that might be ultimately realized, since such amounts depend on future circumstances and the differences could be material.
Intangible Assets and Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess cost of a business acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," provides that goodwill is no longer amortized and the value of identifiable
intangible assets must be amortized over their useful lives, unless the asset is determined to have an indefinite useful life. Goodwill relates to the acquisitions of Oppenheimer, First of Michigan Capital Corporation, Grand Charter Group Incorporated, Josephthal & Co. Inc. and the Oppenheimer divisions and has been allocated to the private client reporting unit pursuant to SFAS No. 142. The Company obtained an independent valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed with respect to the acquisition of the Oppenheimer division in 2003. This valuation involved significant estimates, which were based on historical data, revenue projections and industry experience. The Company has identified intangible assets relating to customer relationships, which it is amortizing over their useful lives, and trademarks and trade names, which are being evaluated for impairment on at least an annual basis. The excess cost of the Oppenheimer division is being allocated to goodwill.
The Company reviews its goodwill on at least an annual basis in order to determine whether its value is impaired. As a result of the Company’s share price trading below book value during the latter part of 2005, the Company engaged an independent investment bank to test the value of the Company. Based on that report and the judgment of management, the Company has determined that there has been no impairment of goodwill. Goodwill is impaired when the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of the reporting unit. In estimating the fair value of the reporting unit, the Company uses valuation techniques based on multiples of revenues, earnings, book value and discounted cash flows similar to models employed in analyzing the purchase price of an acquisition target. If the value of the goodwill is impaired, the difference between the value of the goodwill reflected on the financial statements and its current fair value is recognized as an expense in the period in which the impairment occurs.
Reserves
The Company records reserves related to legal and regulatory proceedings in "accounts payable and other liabilities". The determination of the amounts of these reserves requires significant judgment on the part of management. Management considers many factors including, but not limited to: the amount of the claim; the amount of the loss in the client's account; the basis and validity of the claim; the possibility of wrongdoing, if any, on the part of an employee of the Company; previous results in similar cases; and legal precedents and case law as well as the timing of the resolution of such matters. Each legal and regulatory proceeding is reviewed with counsel in each accounting period and the reserve is adjusted as deemed appropriate by management. Any change in the reserve amount is recorded as a charge to results in that period. The assumptions of management in determining the estimates of reserves may be incorrect and the actual disposition of a legal or regulatory proceeding could be greater or less than the reserve amount.
The Company also records reserves or allowances for doubtful accounts related to receivables from clients and financial consultants. Client loans are collateralized by securities; however, if there is a decline in the value of the collateral and the Company cannot obtain additional collateral or collect on the loan, a reserve is established. The Company also makes loans or pays advances to financial advisors as part of its hiring process. Reserves are established on these receivables if the financial advisor is no longer associated with the Company and the receivable has not been promptly repaid or if it is determined that it is probable the amount will not be collected.
The Company also estimates taxes payable and records income tax reserves. These reserves are based on historic experience and may not reflect the ultimate liability. The Company monitors and adjusts these reserves as necessary.
Asset Management Operations
Asset management fees are generally recognized over the period the related service is provided based on the account value at the valuation date in accordance with the respective asset management agreements. In certain circumstances, the firm is entitled to receive incentive fees when the return on assets under management exceeds certain benchmark returns or other performance targets. Incentive fees are generally based on investment performance over a 12-month period and are not subject to adjustment once the measurement period ends. Accordingly, incentive fees are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings when the measurement period ends. Asset management fees and incentive fees are included in “Advisory fees" in the consolidated statements of earnings. Assets under management are not included as assets of the Company.
Business Environment
The securities industry is directly affected by general economic and market conditions, including fluctuations in volume and price levels of securities and changes in interest rates, inflation, political events, investor participation levels, legal and regulatory, accounting, tax and compliance requirements and competition, all of which have an impact on commissions, firm trading, fees from accounts under investment management, and investment income as well as on liquidity. Substantial fluctuations can occur in revenues and net income due to these and other factors.
Economic and market conditions continued to improve in the fourth quarter of 2005. Investors remained focused on record high oil prices, indications of higher inflation, and rising short-term interest rates. Expectations of increased corporate earnings led to increased equity market participation. Commission revenue improved in the fourth quarter of 2005 compared to the previous six quarters, although, in total, commissions for fiscal 2005 slightly lagged commissions in fiscal 2004. Net interest revenue improved significantly in fiscal 2005 compared to fiscal 2004 as a result of higher interest rates and higher customer debit balances. Advisory fees in fiscal 2005 showed an increase compared to fiscal 2004 in line with improved market conditions and clients continuing adoption of fee-based programs. The Company’s expense burden in 2005 increased compared to the same period of 2004 due primarily to higher interest costs, increased variable compensation costs relating to higher revenue levels, and an increase in the provision for legal and regulatory reserves.
The Company has experienced a material increase in expenses relating to regulatory matters as it responds to the requirements of its various industry regulators, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the Patriot Act, as well as regulatory matters related to the Company specifically, all of which have imposed significant costs including the establishment of additional reserves, as well as the expenditure of time and effort for the organization. Expenses of this type are anticipated to continue into the future, although not at the level experienced in 2005.
Interest rate changes impact the Company’s costs associated with carrying proprietary
fixed income and equity inventories as well as its cost of borrowed funds. Interest rates were higher in fiscal 2005 compared to in fiscal 2004. Investor interest in fixed income securities is driven by attractiveness of published rates, the direction of rates and economic expectations. Volatility in bond prices also impacts opportunities for profits in fixed income proprietary trading. Management constantly monitors its exposure to interest rate fluctuations to mitigate risk of loss in volatile environments.
Regulatory Environment
The brokerage business is subject to regulation by the SEC, the NYSE, the NASD and various state securities regulators. Events in recent years surrounding corporate accounting and other activities leading to investor losses resulted in the enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and have caused increased regulation of public companies. New regulations and new interpretations and enforcement of existing regulations are creating increased costs of compliance and increased investment in systems and procedures to comply with these more complex and onerous requirements. Increasingly, the various states are imposing their own regulations that make the uniformity of regulation a thing of the past, and make compliance more difficult and more expensive to monitor. This regulatory environment has resulted in increased costs of compliance with rules and regulations, in particular, the impact of the rules and requirements that were created by the passage of the Patriot Act, and the anti-money laundering regulations (AML) that are related thereto. The expectation is that the increased costs of compliance in today’s regulatory environment are not temporary.
The NASD (Rule 3013) and the NYSE (Rule 342) have instituted new rules relating to supervisory control processes. These rules require that on March 31, 2006 the CEOs of regulated broker-dealers certify that their companies have processes to ensure that controls are in place so that policies and procedures conform to the requirements of applicable federal securities laws. The Company currently has no reason to believe that its CEO will not be able to make such certification.
Mutual Fund Inquiry
Since the third quarter of 2003, Oppenheimer has been responding to the SEC, the NY State Attorney General, the NYSE, the NASD and other regulators as part of an industry-wide review of market timing, late trading and other activities involving mutual funds. The Company has answered several document requests and subpoenas and there have been on-the-record interviews of Company personnel. The inquiries have centered on Oppenheimer’s activities as a broker/dealer and as a clearing firm. The Company has conducted its own investigation and is continuing to cooperate with the investigating entities.
The Company believes that a few of its former financial advisors, working from a single branch office, engaged in activities that are the subject of the SEC's inquiry largely during the period before the Company acquired the U.S. Private Client Division of CIBC World Markets on January 3, 2003. The former employees and two persons, who had a supervisory role with respect to such financial advisors, who continue to be employed by the Company, are also being investigated by and have received “Wells Notices” from the SEC; the Company has received no such Notice. There is no evidence that either the Company or its employees were engaged in "late trading". The Company has set aside reserves that it believes should address its financial exposure with respect to
these matters. The Company continues to closely monitor its mutual fund activities and the activities of its employees.
Other Regulatory Matters
The Company has been the subject of various regulatory investigations with respect to its operations up to and including 2005. Most of these matters revolve around the period when the Company was transferring the business and client accounts of various acquisitions it has made to a common systems platform between September 2001 and June 2003. During that period of time, the Company absorbed approximately 35 branch offices and 1,000 financial advisors, and transitioned more than 250,000 client accounts from four separate and distinct companies, each of which utilized a different technology platform. The Company's business doubled during this period. As previously reported, certain of the Company’s operations were impacted beginning in June 2003 and the Company experienced client service issues, which were subsequently corrected. The new businesses undertaken by the Company and the effect on the Company’s operations for the period described above has resulted in investigations by the SEC, the NYSE, and the NASD. With the exception of the mutual funds timing matter described above, the Company has settled substantially all outstanding matters with the NYSE.
On December 19, 2005, Oppenheimer settled various regulatory matters including anti-money-laundering (“AML”) issues and NYSE regulatory examination findings (2003-2005). The settlements involved total fines of $4.15 million, which was fully reserved in the Company’s results for the nine months ended September 30, 2005. As previously disclosed, these settled matters arose during a period of rapid expansion of the Company. As a result of this rapid growth, the Company had not yet put in place all of the processes and procedures for the management of its larger business. Those processes have now been in place for an extended period of time.
The Company’s AML settlement with the NYSE and the U.S. Treasury Department (FinCEN) involved inadequate implementation of policies and procedures primarily in its two foreign branch offices, inadequate staffing and training in its AML area, and the filing of inadequate suspicious activity reports and did not involve allegations of money-laundering or any other illegal or illicit activities by clients or employees of our firm. Further, none of the matters covered by the AML settlement resulted in any loss to clients.
Oppenheimer also consented, without admitting or denying the allegations, to a censure and the imposition of a fine of $250,000 by the NASD with respect to the late filing of Forms U-4 and U-5 during the period January 2002 through March 2004.
On May 3, 2005 the NASD filed a complaint against Oppenheimer for matters arising prior to 2004 with respect to the timeliness and accuracy of its municipal bond reporting, the adequacy of its email retention, the adequacy of its supervisory systems and procedures, as well as the timeliness of its response to certain NASD requests for information. The Company believes that it has made and continues to make every effort to cooperate with the NASD and all other regulators. The Company worked diligently to provide tens of thousands of documents and all requested information and will continue to work with the NASD toward a resolution of this matter.
On January 9, 2006, the NASD filed an action against Oppenheimer and its Chairman and CEO (the “2006 Complaint”) for alleged violations with respect to the Company’s
filing of the NASD mutual fund breakpoint survey in 2003. This action could result in, among other things, monetary penalty, censure, suspension and/or other remedial sanctions. As previously disclosed, Oppenheimer had previously informed the NASD of certain limitations within its system relative to selecting out and generating data in the form requested by the NASD, and the NASD had stated that no extensions to file would be granted to any firm. As a result, just prior to the deadline, Oppenheimer submitted the data it then had available. The NASD informed Oppenheimer within two days that its submission was deficient. The Company and Mr. Lowenthal, the Chairman and CEO, further maintain that the assignment of overall responsibility for the response to the 2003 survey was properly delegated by its CEO to individuals who had the requisite experience and background to complete and file the survey with the NASD. The Company and Mr. Lowenthal believe that they have strong defenses for the disciplinary action brought against them because of these issues and intend to vigorously defend the action. As the NASD itself notes, the issuance of a disciplinary complaint represents the initiation of a formal proceeding by the NASD in which the allegations have not been heard or determined and does not represent a decision as to any of the allegations contained in the complaint.
Prior to the filing of the 2006 Complaint, the Company advised the NASD that it had reviewed the actual breakpoints applied for the period 2001 through 2005, a period longer than required by NASD of similar member firms, and had returned to customers approximately $450,000 in breakpoint credits and had revised and enhanced its procedures for determining applicable breakpoints. The Company believes that the breakpoint survey matter was an industry-wide problem and that the Company has appropriately addressed in all respects the breakpoint issue with it clients.
The Company and Mr. Lowenthal are cooperating, have been cooperating and intend to continue to cooperate with all regulators and hope to reach a fair resolution of all outstanding regulatory issues. The Company has and continues to request an expedited adjudication of the matters in dispute.
As noted above, certain regulatory issues between the Company and the NYSE and NASD remain outstanding. As part of its ongoing business, the Company records reserves for legal expenses, judgments, fines and/or awards attributable to litigation and regulatory matters. In connection therewith, the Company has increased its legal reserves for the fourth quarter of 2005.
Business Continuity
The Company is committed to an on-going investment in its technology and communications infrastructure including extensive business continuity planning and investment. These costs are on-going and the Company believes that current and future costs will exceed historic levels due to business and regulatory requirements. The Company believes that internally-generated funds from operations are sufficient to finance its expenditure program.
Outlook
The Company's long-term plan is to continue to expand existing offices by hiring experienced professionals as well as through the purchase of operating branch offices from other broker dealers, thus maximizing the potential of each office and the development of
existing trading, investment banking, investment advisory and other activities. Equally important is the search for viable acquisition candidates. As opportunities are presented, it is the long-term intention of the Company to pursue growth by acquisition where a comfortable match can be found in terms of corporate goals and personnel and at a price that would provide the Company's shareholders with incremental value. In the near term, the Company will not be seeking additional significant acquisitions, but will continue to focus its attention on the management of its existing business. In addition, the Company is committed to improving its technology capabilities to support client service and the expansion of its capital markets capabilities.
Results of Operations
The results of the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to the same period of 2004, reflect improved market conditions in 2005 compared to 2004 as well as the impact of higher interest rates and higher customer balances.
The U.S. economy has continued to pick up momentum as reflected in growth in fourth quarter GNP. In the last half of 2005, the equity markets experienced a rally that allowed most of the major indexes to close up for the year.
The following table sets forth the amount and percentage of the Company's revenue from each principal source for each of the following years ended December 31.
The Company derives most of its revenue from the operations of its principal subsidiaries, Oppenheimer and OAM. Although maintained as separate entities, the operations of the Company's brokerage subsidiaries are closely related because Oppenheimer acts as clearing broker and omnibus clearing agent in transactions initiated by Freedom. Except as expressly otherwise stated, the discussion below pertains to the operations of Oppenheimer.
It is important to note when comparing the results of the year ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, that the 2003 first quarter results were substantially impacted by non-operating items resulting from a favorable arbitration award in the amount of $21,750,000.
The following table and discussion summarizes the changes in the major revenue and expense categories for the past two years.
Fiscal 2005 compared to Fiscal 2004
Revenue, other than interest
Commission income and, to a large extent, income from principal transactions depend on investor participation in the markets. In the year ended December 31, 2005, commission revenue decreased by 1% compared to fiscal 2004 primarily as a result of overall investor activity in the markets. Markets were relatively robust in the last two quarters of 2005, however, commission income for fiscal 2005 did not quite rise to the level achieved in 2004. Net revenue from principal transactions decreased by 10% in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004 due to the lack of volatility in the equity and fixed income markets as well as lower trading volumes for much of 2005 compared to 2004. Investment banking revenues increased 11% in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared with fiscal 2004 due to an increase in new issue and secondary issuance in 2005 compared to 2004 and the increased size of the Company’s investment banking effort. Advisory fees increased by 9% for the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. Assets under management by the asset management group were $10.3 billion at December 31, 2005, unchanged from December 31, 2004, net of the December 5, 2005 expiration of the advisory contracts
for the Asia Tigers Fund and India Fund. These two advisory contracts represented approximately $1.2 billion of assets managed at December 5, 2005. Other revenue decreased by 15% in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004.
Interest
Net interest revenue (interest revenue less interest expense) increased significantly in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004 as a result of higher interest rates in 2005 combined with higher customer debit balances. Higher customer debit balances flowed from improved market conditions in the fourth quarter of 2005 as well as the Company’s larger customer base in 2005 compared to 2004.
Expenses, other than interest
Compensation expense decreased by 2% in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. Compensation expense has volume-related components and, therefore, will decrease with the decreased level of commission business conducted in the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to fiscal 2004. The amortization of forgivable loans to financial advisors is included in compensation expense. This expense is relatively fixed and is not influenced by increases or decreases in revenue levels. The Company’s notes receivable balance peaked in July 2003 as a result of the acquisition of the Oppenheimer divisions, resulting in higher amortization levels beginning in the third quarter of 2003 which are expected to continue through most of 2006. That said, due to attrition, the amortization expense in fiscal 2005 was approximately $23 million compared to approximately $29 million in fiscal 2004. The cost of clearing and exchange fees increased by 12% in the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. The Company finds itself processing a larger number of trades due to the general growth of its business and the fractionalization of executions as a result of changes in the equity markets, incurring higher overall clearing and exchange fees in fiscal 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. The cost of communications and technology decreased 8% in the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to fiscal 2004. The level of investment in technology declined in 2005. The new contracts with vendors have reduced communications cost in fiscal 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. Occupancy costs decreased 3% in fiscal 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. The Company has continued to address its occupancy costs and has been successful in negotiating favorable leases resulting in reduced costs in fiscal 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. Other expenses increased by 21% for the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to fiscal 2004. Included in other expenses in 2005 is approximately $17 million of fee expense paid to third party money managers by OAM ($14 million in 2004); approximately $4 million of solicitor fee expense paid to third parties by Oppenheimer for introduced business ($3.8 million in 2004); approximately $17 million in regulatory settlement, litigation and legal costs ($6 million in 2004); a credit of approximately $400 thousand with respect to bad debt expense ($1 million credit in 2004) and a reduction in audit and accounting fees primarily due to the Company’s ability in 2005 to self-administer its Sarbanes-Oxley processes and procedures ($1.7 million in 2005 compared to $2.6 million in 2004). The Company continued to be affected by litigation and regulatory settlement costs in 2005. Much of the Company’s unfavorable litigation experience in the past several years arose from its acquisitions of Josephthal and Prime Charter in 2001. As stated above, the Company has been affected by regulatory settlement expenses in 2005 which primarily arose from the period in 2003 after the conversion of customer accounts following the acquisition of the private client business of CIBC World Markets Inc. The Company may incur additional such expenses in future quarters. The Company has used its best estimate to provide adequate reserves to cover potential litigation losses.
Fiscal 2004 compared to Fiscal 2003
Revenue, other than interest
Commission income and, to a large extent, income from principal transactions depend on investor participation in the markets. In the year ended December 31, 2004, commission revenue increased by 1% compared to fiscal 2003 primarily as a result of overall investor activity in the markets. The markets were relatively robust in the first quarter of 2004, however, investor activity in the markets fell dramatically in the second and third quarters of 2004 only picking up again after the U.S. Presidential election was over. Net revenue from principal transactions decreased by 18% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003 due to the lack of volatility in the equity and fixed income markets as well as lower trading volumes for much of 2004 compared to 2003. Investment banking revenues decreased 11% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared with fiscal 2003 due to the drop in new issue and secondary issuance in 2004 compared to 2003. Advisory fees increased by 27% for the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. The year ended December 31, 2004 includes the operations of Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. for the full period, while the 2003 comparative period includes results following its acquisition on June 4, 2003. Assets under management by the asset management group were $10.3 billion at December 31, 2004 compared to $9.6 billion at December 31, 2003. Other revenue decreased by 41% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003 due to incentive fees received with respect to 2003 in the amount of $10.7 million compared to approximately $1.4 million in 2004.
Interest
Net interest revenue (interest revenue less interest expense) remained relatively unchanged in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. Interest revenue, which primarily relates to revenue from customer margin balances and securities lending activities, remained relatively unchanged in 2004 from 2003.
Expenses, other than interest
Compensation expense decreased by 2% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. Compensation expense has volume-related components and, therefore, will increase with the increased level of commission business conducted in the year ended December 31, 2004, compared to fiscal 2003. The amortization of forgivable loans to financial advisors is included in compensation expense. This expense is relatively fixed and is not influenced by increases or decreases in revenue levels. The Company’s notes receivable balance peaked in July 2003 as a result of the acquisition of the Oppenheimer divisions, resulting in higher amortization levels beginning in the third quarter of 2003, which will continue through most of 2006. The cost of clearing and exchange fees decreased by 25% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. The change in the year to year comparison is primarily due to the elimination of clearing costs of approximately $9.4 million associated with the clearing of Oppenheimer private client division customer accounts by CIBC World Markets during the transition period from the January 3, 2003 acquisition date through the May 27, 2003 conversion of client accounts; however, the Company’s employment costs and associated expenses for self-clearing this additional business increased when compared to the same periods of 2003. The cost of communications and technology decreased 7% in the year ended December 31, 2004, compared to fiscal 2003 due to costs associated with upgrading the technology base across the firm after the conversion of the Oppenheimer private client division accounts in May 2003. The level
of investment tapered off in 2004. Occupancy costs increased by 4% in the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. Occupancy costs remained relatively flat in 2004 compared to 2003, without the effect of the restatement. The effect of the cumulative impact of the change in accounting for leases with rent escalation clauses and landlord incentives of $2,454,000 (of which $779,000 represents the cumulative effect of the error as at December 31, 2003) was booked in the restated results for the year ended December 31, 2004, resulting in the net increase in occupancy costs compared to the same period in 2003. Other expenses decreased by 17% for the year ended December 31, 2004 compared to fiscal 2003. Included in other expenses in 2004 is approximately $14 million of fee expense paid to third party money managers by OAM ($8 million in 2003); approximately $3.8 million of solicitor fee expense paid to third parties by Oppenheimer for introduced business ($4 million in 2003); approximately $6 million in litigation and legal costs ($15 million in 2003); approximately $2.6 million in audit and accounting fees ($1.7 million in 2003); and a credit of approximately $1 million with respect to bad debt expense ($4.5 million charge in 2003). The Company continued to be affected by litigation settlement costs. Much of the Company’s unfavorable litigation experience in the past several years arose from its acquisitions of Josephthal Group Inc. and Prime Charter Inc. in 2001. These matters were substantially resolved by the end of fiscal 2004. The Company may face additional unfavorable judgments in future quarters. The Company has used its best estimate to provide adequate reserves to cover potential litigation losses.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Total assets at December 31, 2005 increased by approximately 21% from December 31, 2004 due primarily to an increase in receivable from customers, as well as an increase in receivable from brokers and clearing organizations due to an expansion of the Company’s stock borrow/stock loan business and increases in securities owned due to a newly developed institutional money management business (consisting of ‘seed’ investments funded by the Company) in 2005 compared to 2004.These increases were partly offset by decreases in notes receivable and property, plant and equipment. In 2005, the Company established a relationship with a single large customer. At December 31, 2005 this customer’s debit balance, included in receivable from customers, amounted to approximately $170 million. Information concerning the Company’s off balance sheet arrangements is included in note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Such information is incorporated herein by reference.
The Company satisfies its need for funds from its own cash resources, internally generated funds, collateralized and uncollateralized borrowings, consisting primarily of bank loans, and uncommitted lines of credit. The amount of Oppenheimer 's bank borrowings fluctuates in response to changes in the level of the Company's securities inventories and customer margin debt, changes in stock loan balances and changes in notes receivable from employees. Oppenheimer has arrangements with banks for borrowings on an unsecured and on a fully collateralized basis. At December 31, 2005, $139,700,000 of such borrowings were outstanding, a significant increase compared to outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2004. At December 31, 2005, the Company had available collateralized and uncollateralized letters of credit of $160,200,000 in favor of Options Clearing Corporation.
In connection with the acquisition of the Oppenheimer divisions, the Company issued
variable rate exchangeable debentures in the amount of approximately $161 million and a zero coupon promissory note in the amount of approximately $66 million. The notes to the consolidated financial statements contain a description of these instruments. The debentures, if exchanged, would represent an increase of approximately 35% of the issued Class A Shares of the Company. The interest due on the debentures is payable semi-annually and is being financed from internally-generated funds. The principal payments on the zero coupon promissory note are also being financed from internally-generated funds. The Company believes that the necessary internally-generated funds will be available to service these obligations from funds generated by normal operations, including funds generated by the acquired business.
In connection with the acquisition of the Oppenheimer divisions, the Company had arranged a credit facility in the amount of $50 million with CIBC. In January 2003, the Company borrowed $25 million under this facility and borrowed the balance in July 2003. The borrowings were used to finance broker notes and were repayable, together with interest, at the CIBC U.S. base rate plus 2%, over five years or earlier if any broker notes become due earlier. The interest and principal repayments have been made out of internally-generated funds. In accordance with the credit arrangement, the Company has provided certain covenants to CIBC with respect to the maintenance of minimum debt/equity ratios and net capital of Oppenheimer. In the Company’s view, the most restrictive of the covenants requires that Oppenheimer maintain minimum excess net capital of $100 million. As at December 31, 2005, the Company was in compliance with the covenants. In January 2006, the Company repaid the principal in full and terminated the credit arrangement. The Company financed this repayment by utilizing cash on hand and existing credit facilities.
Funding Risk
The following table summarizes the Company’s cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003.
The Company’s expansion of its receivable from customers and securities owned in 2005 was financed by an increase in bank call loans and securities lending activities. In addition, during 2005, the Company repurchased 916,268 of its Class A Shares for $19.6 million pursuant to an Issuer Bid and repaid approximately $23 million of long-term debt.
The strong cash inflows from operations in 2004 after the major acquisition the Company undertook in 2003 with the purchase of the Oppenheimer divisions contributed to significant reductions in bank call loans as well as the paying down of approximately $30 million of long-term debt in 2004.
In 2003 the Company experienced large cash out-flows from operations despite strong earnings as it adjusted to the larger size of the post-acquisition business. These out-
flows as well as the cash portion of the purchase price of the Oppenheimer divisions were covered by increases in both short and long-term bank borrowings.
Management believes that funds from operations, combined with the Company's capital base and available credit facilities, are sufficient for the Company's liquidity needs in the foreseeable future. (See factors affecting “forward-looking statements”). However, there is no guarantee that the Company will continue to be able to meet its debt repayment and other obligations.
Other Matters
The Company paid cash dividends to its shareholders totaling $4,700,000, during 2005, from internally-generated cash.
During 2005, the Company purchased a total of 916,268 of its Class A non-voting shares at an average cost of $21.43 per share through the facilities of the New York and Toronto Stock Exchanges by way of a Normal Course Issuer Bid, using internally generated cash. The Company has expressed an intention to purchase up to 644,000 of its Class A Shares from time to time between July 22, 2005 and July 21, 2006 from internally generated funds (384,900 Class A Shares having already been purchased).
Because of the Company's strong financial condition, size and earnings history, management believes adequate sources of credit would be available to finance higher trading volumes, branch expansion, and major capital expenditures, as needed. See factors affecting “forward-looking statements”.
The book value of the Company’s Class A and Class B Shares was $24.46 at December 31, 2005, an increase of approximately 7% compared to book value of $22.91 at December 31, 2004, based on total outstanding shares of 12,595,821 and 13,396,556, respectively.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Information concerning the Company’s off balance sheet arrangements is included in note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Such information is incorporated herein by reference.
Contractual and Contingent Obligations
The Company has contractual obligations to make future payments in connection with non-cancelable lease obligations, certain retirement plans and debt assumed upon the acquisition of the Oppenheimer divisions.
The following table sets forth these contractual and contingent commitments as at December 31, 2005.
Contractual Obligations
(In millions of dollars)
Inflation
Because the assets of the Company's brokerage subsidiaries are highly liquid, and because securities inventories are carried at current market values, the impact of inflation generally is reflected in the financial statements. However, the rate of inflation affects the Company's costs relating to employee compensation, rent, communications and certain other operating costs, and such costs may not be recoverable in the level of commissions charged. To the extent inflation results in rising interest rates and has other adverse effects upon the securities markets, it may adversely affect the Company's financial position and results of operations.
Newly Issued Accounting Standards
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued a revision to SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, SFAS No. 123-R, “Share-Based Payment”. SFAS No. 123-R, which requires that stock options be accounted for at fair value, focuses primarily on transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for employee services and generally establishes standards for accounting for transactions in which an entity obtains goods or services in share-based transactions. The Company will commence expensing stock-based compensation awards on January 1, 2006 using the ‘modified prospective method’.
The Company estimates that the impact of adopting SFAS 123R will result in additional compensation expense in 2006 of approximately $2 million, based on the 1,179,284 non-vested options outstanding at December 31, 2005. Future stock-based compensation expense has been estimated in a manner similar to that used in making our historical pro forma disclosures. Estimated future compensation expense will change to reflect future option grants, changes in estimated forfeitures and actual forfeiture experience.
Factors Affecting “Forward-Looking Statements”
From time to time, the Company may publish “Forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act or make oral statements that constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements may relate to such matters as anticipated financial performance, future revenues or earnings, business prospects, projected ventures, new products, anticipated market performance, and similar matters. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements. In order to comply with the terms of the safe harbor, the Company cautions readers that a variety of factors could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the Company’s forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, include, but are not limited to: (i) transaction volume in the securities markets, (ii) the volatility of the securities markets, (iii) fluctuations in interest rates, (iv) changes in regulatory requirements which could affect the cost of doing business, (v) fluctuations in currency rates, (vi) general economic conditions, both domestic and international, (vii) changes in the rate of inflation and the related impact on the securities markets, (viii) competition from existing financial institutions and other new participants in the securities markets, (ix) legal developments affecting the litigation experience of the securities industry, (x) changes in federal and state tax laws which could affect the popularity of products sold by the Company,(xi) the effectiveness of efforts to reduce costs and eliminate overlap, (xii) war and nuclear confrontation, (xiii) the Company’s ability to achieve its business plan, and (xiv) corporate governance issues. There can be no assurance that the Company has correctly or completely identified and assessed all of the factors affecting the Company’s business. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. See Item 1A - Risk Factors.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Risk Management
The Company’s principal business activities by their nature involve significant market, credit and other risks. The Company’s effectiveness in managing these risks is critical to its success and stability.
As part of its normal business operations, the Company engages in the trading of both fixed income and equity securities in both a proprietary and market-making capacity. The Company makes markets in over-the-counter equities in order to facilitate order flow and accommodate its institutional and retail customers. The Company also makes markets in municipal bonds, mortgage-backed securities, government bonds and high yield bonds.
Market Risk. Market risk generally means the risk of loss that may result from the potential change in the value of a financial instrument as a result of fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates and in equity and commodity prices. Market risk is inherent in all types of financial instruments, including both derivatives and non-derivatives. The Company’s exposure to market risk arises from its role as a financial intermediary for its customers’ transactions and from its proprietary trading and arbitrage activities.
Oppenheimer monitors market risks through daily profit and loss statements and position reports. Each trading department adheres to internal position limits determined by senior management and regularly reviews the age and composition of its proprietary accounts. Positions and profits and losses for each trading department are reported to senior management on a daily basis.
In its market-making activities, Oppenheimer must provide liquidity in the equities for which it makes markets. As a result of this, Oppenheimer has risk containment policies in place, which limit position size and monitor transactions on a minute-to-minute basis.
Credit Risk. Credit risk represents the loss that the Company would incur if a client, counterparty or issuer of securities or other instruments held by the Company fails to perform its contractual obligations. The Company follows industry practice to reduce credit risk related to various investing and financing activities by obtaining and maintaining collateral. The Company adjusts margin requirements if it believes the risk exposure is not appropriate based on market conditions. When Oppenheimer advances funds or securities to a counterparty in a principal transaction or to a customer in a brokered transaction, it is subject to the risk that the counterparty or customer will not repay such advances. If the market price of the securities purchased or loaned has declined or increased, respectively, Oppenheimer may be unable to recover some or all of the value of the amount advanced. A similar risk is also present where a customer is unable to respond to a margin call and the market price of the collateral has dropped. In addition, Oppenheimer's securities positions are subject to fluctuations in market value and liquidity.
In addition to monitoring the credit-worthiness of its customers, Oppenheimer imposes more conservative margin requirements than those of the NYSE. Generally, Oppenheimer limits customer loans to an amount not greater than 65% of the value of the securities (or 50% if the securities in the account are concentrated in a limited number of issues). Particular attention and more restrictive requirements are placed on more highly volatile securities traded in the NASDAQ market. In comparison, the NYSE permits loans of up to 75% of the value of the equity securities in a customer's account. Further discussion of credit risk appears in Item 8, under the caption “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements”.
Operational Risk. Operational risk generally refers to the risk of loss resulting from the Company’s operations, including, but not limited to, improper or unauthorized execution and processing of transactions, deficiencies in its operating systems, business disruptions and inadequacies or breaches in its internal control processes. The Company operates in diverse markets and it is reliant on the ability of its employees and systems to process high numbers of transactions often within short time frames. In the event of a breakdown or improper operation of systems, human error or improper action by employees, the Company could suffer financial loss, regulatory sanctions or damage to its reputation. In order to mitigate and control operational risk, the Company has developed and continues to enhance policies and procedures (including the maintenance of disaster recovery facilities and procedures related thereto) that are designed to identify and manage operational risk at appropriate levels. With respect to its trading activities, the Company has procedures designed to ensure that all transactions are accurately recorded and properly reflected on the Company’s books on a timely basis. With respect to client activities, the Company operates a system of internal controls designed to ensure that transactions and other account activity (new account solicitation,
transaction authorization, transaction processing, billing and collection) are properly approved, processed, recorded and reconciled. The Company has procedures designed to assess and monitor counterparty risk. For a discussion of funding risk, see Item 7, under the caption “Liquidity and Capital Resources”.
Legal and Regulatory Risk. Legal and regulatory risk includes the risk of non-compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements, client claims and the possibility of sizeable adverse legal judgments. The Company is subject to extensive regulation in the different jurisdictions in which it conducts its activities. Regulatory oversight of the securities industry has become increasingly intense over the past few years and the Company, as well as others in the industry, has been directly affected by this increased regulatory scrutiny.
The Company has comprehensive procedures for addressing issues such as regulatory capital requirements, sales and trading practices, use of and safekeeping of customer funds and securities, granting of credit, collection activities, money laundering, and record keeping. The Company has designated Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officers who monitor compliance with regulations under the U.S.A. Patriot Act. See further discussion on the Company’s reserve policy in Item 7, under the caption “Critical Accounting Policies”, Item 3, “Legal Proceedings” and Item 1, “Regulation”.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. The Company does not rely on off-balance sheet arrangements or transactions with unconsolidated, special purpose or limited purpose entities to manage risk.
Value-at-Risk
Value-at-risk is a statistical measure of the potential loss in the fair value of a portfolio due to adverse movements in underlying risk factors. In response to the SEC’s market risk disclosure requirements, the Company has performed a value-at-risk analysis of its trading of financial instruments and derivatives. The value-at-risk calculation uses standard statistical techniques to measure the potential loss in fair value based upon a one-day holding period and a 95% confidence level. The calculation is based upon a variance-covariance methodology, which assumes a normal distribution of changes in portfolio value. The forecasts of variances and co-variances used to construct the model, for the market factors relevant to the portfolio, were generated from historical data. Although value-at-risk models are sophisticated tools, their use can be limited as historical data is not always an accurate predictor of future conditions. The Company attempts to manage its market exposure using other methods, including trading authorization limits and concentration limits.
At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company’s value-at-risk for each component of market risk was as follows (in thousands of dollars):
The potential future loss presented by the total value-at-risk generally falls within predetermined levels of loss that should not be material to the Company’s results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. The changes in the value-at-risk amounts reported in 2005 from those reported in 2004 reflect changes in the size and composition of the Company’s trading portfolio at December 31, 2005 compared to December 31, 2004, which include a larger position in fixed income securities on an overall portfolio which is 87% higher than at December 31, 2004. The Company’s portfolio as at December 31, 2005 includes approximately $14,660,000 ($15,097,000 in 2004) in corporate equities, which are co-related to deferred compensation liabilities and which do not bear any value-at-risk to the Company. The Company did not use derivative financial instruments to hedge market risk in fiscal 2004, but did hold a small hedge position in 2005 which is described in note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Such information is hereby incorporated by reference. Further discussion of risk management appears in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the Results of Operations” and Item 1, “Risk Management”.
The value-at-risk estimate has limitations that should be considered in evaluating the Company’s potential future losses based on the year-end portfolio positions. Recent market conditions including increased volatility, may result in statistical relationships that result in higher value-at-risk than would be estimated from the same portfolio under different market conditions. Likewise, the converse may be true. Critical risk management strategy involves the active management of portfolio levels to reduce market risk. The Company’s market risk exposure is continuously monitored as the portfolio risks and market conditions change.
Item 8.
Item 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
OPPENHEIMER HOLDINGS INC.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as at December 31, 2005 and 2004
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the three years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
As of December 31, 2005, management conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management has determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 was effective.
The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets; provide reasonable assurances that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and 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 Company’s financial statements.
Management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included herein, which expresses unqualified opinions on management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc.
We have completed integrated audits of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc.’s 2005 and 2004 consolidated financial statements and of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, and an audit of its 2003 consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Our opinions, based on our audits, are presented below.
Consolidated financial statements
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit of financial statements includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Internal control over financial reporting
Also, in our opinion, management’s assessment, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting included herein, that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005 based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on those criteria. Furthermore, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2005, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the COSO. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material
respects. An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (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.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
New York, New York
March 9, 2006
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
OPPENHEIMER HOLDINGS INC.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Expressed in U.S. dollars)
December 31, 2005
GENERAL
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. (”OPY") is incorporated under the laws of Canada. On September 2, 2003 the names of OPY and certain of its subsidiaries were changed. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of OPY and its subsidiaries (together, the “Company”). The principal subsidiaries of OPY are Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. ("Oppenheimer"), a registered broker dealer in securities, and Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. (“OAM”), a registered investment advisor under the Investment Advisors Act of 1940. Oppenheimer operates as Fahnestock & Co. Inc. in Latin America. Oppenheimer owns Freedom Investments, Inc. (“Freedom”), a registered broker dealer in securities, which also operates as the BUYandHOLD division of Freedom, offering on-line discount brokerage and dollar-based investing services. Oppenheimer is a member of the New York Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange and several other regional exchanges in the United States. The Company engages in a broad range of activities in the securities industry, including retail securities brokerage, institutional sales and trading, investment banking (both corporate and public finance), research, market-making, securities lending activities, trust services, and investment advisory and asset management services.
1. Summary of significant accounting policies
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for purpose of inclusion in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K and in its annual report to shareholders.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The most significant estimates are related to income taxes, contingencies, goodwill and intangibles and investment valuation. Actual results could be materially different from these estimates.
Since operations are predominantly based in the United States of America, these consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars.
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements:
(a) Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all subsidiaries. The major subsidiaries, which are wholly-owned and operated in the United States of America, are as follows:
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
-broker/dealer in securities
Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc.
-investment advisory services
Freedom Investments, Inc.
-discount broker in securities
Significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
(b) Brokerage operations
Transactions in proprietary securities and related revenues and expenses are recorded on a trade date basis. Customers’ securities and commodities transactions are reported on a settlement date basis, which is generally three business days after trade date. Related commission income and expense is recorded on a trade date basis. Securities owned and securities sold, but not yet purchased, are reported at market value generally based upon quoted prices. Realized and unrealized changes in market value are recognized in principal transactions, net in the period in which the change occurs.
Securities failed to deliver and receive represent the contract value of securities which have not been received or delivered by settlement date. Included in receivable from brokers and clearing organizations are securities failed to deliver of $23,673,000 ($30,798,000 in 2004). Included in payable to brokers and clearing organizations are securities failed to receive of $35,722,000 ($29,867,000 in 2004).
(c) Asset management operations
Asset management fees are generally recognized over the period the related service is provided based on the account value at the valuation date per the respective asset management agreements. In certain circumstances, OAM is entitled to receive incentive fees when the return on assets under management exceeds certain benchmark returns or other performance targets. Incentive fees are generally based on investment performance over a 12-month period and are not subject to adjustment once the measurement period ends. Accordingly, incentive fees are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations when the measurement period ends. Asset management fees and incentive fees are included in advisory fees in the consolidated statements of operations. Assets under management are not included as assets of the Company.
(d) Fair value
Securities owned, including those pledged; securities sold, but not yet purchased; and readily marketable investments are valued using quoted market or dealer prices. Customer receivables, primarily consisting of floating-rate loans collateralized by customer-owned securities, are charged interest at rates similar to other such loans made throughout the industry. The Company's remaining financial instruments are generally short-term in nature, and their carrying values approximate fair value, with the exception of the Company’s variable rate exchangeable debentures, which are carried at issuance.
(e) Cash and cash equivalents
The Company defines cash equivalents as highly liquid investments with original maturities of less than 90 days that are not held for sale in the ordinary course of business.
(f) Drafts payable
Drafts payable represent amounts drawn by the Company against a bank.
(g) Intangible Assets
Intangible assets arose upon the acquisition of the U.S. Private Client and Asset Management Divisions of CIBC World Markets Inc. (the “Oppenheimer divisions”) and are comprised of customer relationships and trademarks and trade names. Customer relationships are carried at $2,695,000 (which is net of accumulated amortization of $2,205,000) and are being amortized on a straight-line basis over 80 months commencing in January 2003. Trademarks and trade names, carried at $31,700,000, which are not amortized, are subject to at least an annual test for impairment to determine if the fair value is less than their carrying amount. Trademarks and trade names recorded as at December 31, 2005 have been tested for impairment and it has been determined that no impairment has occurred.
(h) Goodwill
Goodwill arose upon the acquisitions of Oppenheimer, First of Michigan Capital Corporation, Josephthal & Co. Inc., Grand Charter Group Incorporated and the Oppenheimer divisions. Goodwill is subject to at least an annual test for impairment to determine if the fair value of goodwill of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Goodwill recorded as at December 31, 2005 has been tested for impairment and it has been determined that no impairment has occurred.
(i) Property, plant and equipment, lease accounting and landlord incentives
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation of furniture, fixtures and equipment is provided on a straight-line basis generally over three to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the life of the improvement or the remaining term of the lease. Leases with escalating rents are expensed on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Landlord incentives are recorded as deferred rent and amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the applicable lease.
(j) Foreign currency translations
Canadian currency balances have been translated into U.S. dollars as follows: monetary assets and liabilities at exchange rates prevailing at period end; revenue and expenses at average rates for the period; and non-monetary assets and shareholders’ equity at historical rates. Cumulative translation adjustments are immaterial.
(k) Income taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities arise from temporary differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred tax balances are determined by applying the enacted tax rates.
(l) Securities lending activities
Securities borrowed and securities loaned are carried at the amounts of cash collateral advanced or received.
Securities borrowed transactions require the Company to deposit cash or other collateral with the lender. The Company receives cash or collateral in an amount generally in excess of the market value of securities loaned.
The Company monitors the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis and may require counterparties to deposit additional collateral or return collateral pledged, when appropriate.
Included in receivable from brokers and clearing organizations are deposits paid for securities borrowed of $472,499,000 ($415,288,000 in 2004). Included in payable to brokers and clearing organizations are deposits received for securities loaned of $794,353,000 ($641,393,000 in 2004).
(m) Investments
Investments, included in securities owned, which have a ready market are valued using quoted market or dealer prices. Investments with no ready market value are stated at fair value as determined in good faith by management. Generally, management will initially value investments at cost. Factors considered in valuing individual investments include available market prices, type of security, purchase price, purchases of the same or similar securities by other investors, marketability, restrictions on disposition, current financial position and operating results of the issuer, and other pertinent information.
Management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of these investments. There are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. The fair value estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of an amount that the Company could realize in a current transaction. Because of inherent uncertainty of valuation, these estimated fair values do not necessarily represent amounts that might be ultimately realized, since such amounts depend on future circumstances and the differences could be material.
(n) Investment banking revenues
Investment banking fees are recorded on offering date, sales concessions on trade date and other underwriting fees at the time the transaction is substantially completed and income is reasonably determinable.
(o) Interest expense
Included in interest expense is interest on bank call loans, bank loans, debt, securities loaned, customer credits and interest paid with respect to repurchase agreements, when applicable.
Interest expense relating to the variable rate exchangeable debentures is computed using the interest method. The interest method requires the application of the effective interest rate over the life of increasing rate debt instruments. The effective annual interest rate under the interest method of the variable rate exchangeable debentures is 4.5% over the life of the debentures.
(p) Stock-based compensation plans
The Company has a stock-based compensation plan. The Company accounts for stock based compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”. No compensation expense is recognized for this plan when stock options are issued to employees as the options are exercisable at the fair value at the date of grant. Any consideration paid by employees on the exercise of stock options or purchase of stock is credited to share capital. See note 2 for further discussion.
(q) Reserves
The Company records reserves related to legal and regulatory proceedings in accounts payable and other liabilities. The determination of the amounts of these reserves requires significant judgment on the part of management. Management considers many factors including, but not limited to: the amount of the claim; specifically in the case of client litigation, the amount of the loss in the client's account and the possibility of wrongdoing, if any, on the part of an employee of the Company; the basis and validity of the claim; previous results in similar cases; and legal precedents and case law as well as the timing of the resolution of such matters. Each legal and regulatory proceeding is reviewed with counsel in each accounting period and the reserve is adjusted as deemed appropriate by management. Any change in the reserve amount is recorded as a charge to results in that period. The assumptions of management in determining the estimates of reserves may be incorrect and the actual disposition of a legal or regulatory proceeding could be greater or less than the reserve amount.
The Company also records reserves or allowances for doubtful accounts related to receivables from clients and financial consultants. Client loans are collateralized by securities; however, if there is a decline in the value of the collateral and the Company cannot obtain additional collateral or collect on the loan, a reserve may be established. The Company also makes loans or pays advances to financial advisors as part of its hiring process. Reserves are established on these receivables if the financial advisor is no longer associated with the Company and the receivable has not been promptly repaid or if it is determined that it is probable the amount will not be collected.
The Company also estimates taxes payable and records income tax reserves. These reserves are based on historic experience and may not reflect the ultimate liability. The Company monitors and adjusts these reserves as necessary.
(r) Notes receivable
The Company had notes receivable from employees of approximately $59,874,000 at December 31, 2005, which are recorded at face value net of accumulated amortization. These amounts represent retention payments generally in the form of upfront loans to financial advisors and key revenue producers as part of the Company’s overall growth strategy. These loans are generally forgiven over a service period of 3-5 years from the initial date of the loan or based on productivity levels of employees with respect to certain of these notes receivable and all such notes are contingent on their continued employment with the Company. The unforgiven portion of the notes becomes due on demand in the event the employee departs during the service period. Management monitors and compares individual financial advisor production to each loan issued to ensure future recoverability. Amortization of notes receivable is included in the statements of operations in compensation and related expenses.
(s) Stock-based compensation
Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (SFAS 123) was issued in 1995 and changed the method of accounting for stock compensation plans similar to those of the Company. Adoption of SFAS 123’s fair value recognition method is optional. The Company has chosen to continue to apply Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”, and related interpretations in accounting for its stock compensation plans.
In accordance with SFAS 123, the following presents the pro forma profit and earnings per share impact, using a fair value calculation, of the Company’s stock-based compensation relating to its Equity Incentive Plan. See Note 12. Amounts are expressed in thousands of dollars, except per share amounts.
For purposes of the pro forma presentation, the Company determined fair value using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for grants in fiscal 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively: expected dividend yields of 1.4%, 1.1% and 1.3%; risk-free interest rates ranging from 3.6% to 3.9%, 2.9% to 3.8% and 2.87% to 3.4%; expected volatility ranging from 23.46% to 26.12%, 18% to 21% and 21% to 23%; and expected life of approximately 5 years. The weighted average fair value of options granted during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, was $1,101,000, $2,961,000 and $1,697,000. The fair value is being amortized over the vesting period for purposes of pro forma presentation. Stock options generally expire five years after the date of grant or three months after the date of retirement, if earlier. Stock options generally vest over a five year period with 0% vesting in year one, 25% of the shares becoming exercisable on each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date and the balance vesting in the last six months of the option life. The vesting period is at the discretion of the Compensation and Stock Option Committee and is determined at the time of grant.
The calculation of fair value in this pro forma presentation is not indicative of future amounts because it does not take into consideration future grants or any difference between actual and assumed forfeitures.
2. Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued a revision to SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, SFAS No. 123-R, “Share-Based Payment”. SFAS No. 123-R, which requires that stock options be accounted for at fair value, focuses primarily on transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for employee services and generally establishes standards for accounting for transactions in which an entity obtains goods or services in share-based transactions. The Company will commence expensing stock-based compensation awards on January 1, 2006 using the ‘modified prospective method’.
The Company estimates that the impact of adopting SFAS 123R will result in additional compensation expense in 2006 of approximately $2 million, based on the 1,179,284 non-vested options outstanding at December 31, 2005. Future stock-based compensation expense has been estimated in a manner similar to that used in making our historical pro forma disclosures. Estimated future compensation expense will change to reflect future option grants, changes in estimated forfeitures and actual forfeiture experience.
3. Cash and securities segregated under federal and other regulations
Deposits of $23,526,000 (2004 - $15,291,000) were held at year-end in special reserve bank accounts for the exclusive benefit of customers in accordance with regulatory requirements. To the extent permitted, these deposits are invested in interest bearing accounts collateralized by qualified securities.
4. Securities owned and Securities sold, but not yet purchased (at market value)
Securities owned and Securities sold, but not yet purchased, consist of trading and investment securities at market values. Included in securities owned at December 31, 2005 are corporate equities with market values of approximately $14,660,000 ($15,097,000 in 2004), which are correlated to deferred compensation liabilities to certain employees. Also included in securities owned are investments with estimated fair values of approximately $2,500,000. At December 31, 2005, the Company had pledged securities owned of approximately $1,042,000 ($3,333,000 in 2004) as collateral to counterparties for securities loan transactions, which can be sold or repledged.
5. Property, plant and equipment
Depreciation and amortization expense, included in occupancy and equipment costs, was $9,347,000, $10,482,000 and $8,783,000 in the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.
6. Bank call loans
Bank call loans, primarily payable on demand, bear interest at various rates but not exceeding the broker call rate, which was 6% at December 31, 2005. These loans, collateralized by firm and customer securities (with market values of approximately $53,185,000 and $182,260,000, respectively), at December 31, 2005 are primarily with two U.S. money center banks. Details of the bank call loans are as follows:
(1)
The average amount outstanding during the year was computed by adding amounts outstanding at the end of each month and dividing by twelve.
(2)
The weighted average interest rate during the year was computed by taking a weighted average of the weighted average daily interest rate on the last day of each month.
Interest expense in 2005 on bank call loans was $9,325,000 ($3,666,000 in 2004 and $3,545,000 in 2003) of which $8,710,000 ($3,713,000 in 2004 and $3,588,000 in 2003) was paid on a cash basis.
7. Long term liabilities
a) Bank loans are subject to a credit arrangement with Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (“CIBC”) dated January 2, 2003 in the initial aggregate amount of $50 million dollars, and bear interest at the U.S. base rate plus 2% per annum. The minimum annual principal repayment under the agreement is approximately $10,119,000. The principal repayments are tied to certain employee notes receivable issued during 2003 and repayments above the minimum level are triggered by the termination of employment of these employees. In accordance with the credit arrangement, the Company has provided certain covenants to CIBC with respect to the maintenance of minimum debt/equity ratios and net capital of Oppenheimer. In the Company’s view, the most restrictive of the covenants requires that Oppenheimer maintain minimum excess net capital of $100 million. As at December 31, 2005, the Company was in compliance with the covenants. Interest expense in 2005 on bank loans was $1,648,000 ($2,118,000 in 2004) and $1,689,000 ($2,177,000 in 2004) was paid on a cash basis. See Note 18.
(b)The Zero Coupon Promissory Note is repayable as related employee notes receivable, which are assigned to Oppenheimer, become due and are forgiven. Such payments are to be made notwithstanding whether any of the employees’ loans default.
(c)The first and second variable rate exchangeable debentures are exchangeable for approximately 6.9 million Class A non-voting shares of the Company at the rate of $23.20 per share. The annual interest rate is 3% in 2003, 4% in 2004 - 2006, and 5% in 2007 through maturity. The first and second variable rate exchangeable debentures, which mature on January 2, 2013, contain a retraction clause, which may be activated by the holder for a period of 120 days at the end of year seven. Interest is payable semi-annually in June and December. Interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 on the first and second variable rate exchangeable debentures was $7,357,000and $6,504,000 ($6,540,000 in 2004) was paid on a cash basis. Under the interest method, the effective annual interest rate over the life of the first and second variable rate exchangeable debentures is 4.5%.
8. Share capital
The Company's authorized share capital, all of which is without par value, consists of (a) an unlimited number of first preference shares issuable in series; (b) an unlimited number of Class A non-voting shares (“Class A Shares”); and (c) 99,680 Class B voting shares (“Class B Shares”).
The Class A and the Class B Shares are equal in all respects except that the Class A Shares are non-voting.
The Company's issued and outstanding share capital is as follows (no first preference shares have been issued):
Issuance of shares
The Company issued 64,176 Class A Shares from Treasury for a total consideration of $1,628,000 to the Company's 401(k) plan in the year ended December 31, 2005 (75,137 Class A Shares for $2,547,000 in 2004 and 23,042 Class A Shares for $613,000 in 2003).
In addition, the Company issued 51,357 Class A Shares from Treasury for a total consideration of $1,001,000 related to the exercise of options pursuant to its Equity Incentive Plan in the year ended December 31, 2005 (534,319 Class A Shares for $8,557,000 in 2004 and 425,171 Class A Shares for $7,154,000 in 2003). The Equity Incentive Plan is described in Note 12.
Issuer Bid
During the 12-month period that commenced on July 22, 2005, the Company may purchase up to 644,000 Class A Shares by way of a Normal Course Issuer Bid (“Issuer Bid”) through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange and/or the New York Stock Exchange. During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company purchased 916,268 Class A Shares for a total consideration of $19,635,000 (132,100 Class A Shares for $3,120,000 in 2004 and 25,700 Class A Shares for $585,000 in 2003), pursuant to the current Issuer Bid as well as pursuant to an Issuer Bid that commenced on July 22, 2004 and terminated on July 21, 2005. At December 31, 2005, the Company may purchase up to 259,100 Class A Shares under the current issuer bid. All shares purchased pursuant to Issuer Bids are cancelled.
Dividends
In 2005, the Company paid cash dividends to holders of Class A and Class B Shares as follows ($0.36 in 2004 and 2003):
Dividend per share
Record Date
Payment Date
$0.09
February 11, 2005
February 25, 2005
$0.09
May 6, 2005
May 20, 2005
$0.09
August 5, 2005
August 19, 2005
$0.09
November 11, 2005
November 25, 2005
9. Contributed capital
Contributed capital represents the tax benefit on the difference between market price and exercise price on employee stock options exercised.
10. Income taxes
The income tax provision shown in the consolidated statements of operations is reconciled to amounts of tax that would have been payable (recoverable) from the application of combined federal, state, provincial and local tax rates to pre-tax profit as follows:
Income taxes included in the consolidated statements of operations represent the following:
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2005 and 2004 were as follows:
Goodwill arising from the acquisitions of Josephthal Group Inc. and the Oppenheimer divisions is being amortized for tax purposes on a straight-line basis over 15 years. The difference between book and tax is recorded as a deferred tax liability.
On a cash basis, the Company paid income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 in the amounts of $14,391,000, $10,654,000 and $13,342,000, respectively.
11. Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share was computed by dividing net profit by the weighted average number of Class A and Class B Shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share includes the weighted average Class A and Class B Shares outstanding and the effects of exchangeable debentures using the if converted method and Class A Share options using the treasury stock method.
Earnings per share has been calculated as follows:
12. Employee Compensation Plans
Equity Incentive Plan
Under the Company’s 1996 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended March 10, 2005 (“EIP”), the compensation and stock option committee of the board of directors of the Company may grant options to purchase Class A Shares to officers and key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. Grants of options are made to the Company’s independent directors on a formula basis. Options are generally granted for a five-year term and generally vest at the rate of 25% of the amount granted for each year held. The aggregate number of Class A Shares available under the EIP is 5,015,000.
The following table summarizes awards under the EIP for the three years ended December 31, 2005.
The following table summarizes stock options outstanding and exercisable as at December 31, 2005.
Stock Appreciation Rights
The Company has granted Stock Appreciation Rights to certain employees as part of their compensation package based on a formula reflecting gross production and length of service. The value of Stock Appreciation Rights granted in 2005 totaled approximately $1,455,000 ($1,028,000 in 2004 and $635,000 in 2003) and will vest five years from the end of the related fiscal year. The liability is being recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s liability with respect to Stock Appreciation Rights totaled $1,192,000.
Employee Share Plan
On March 10, 2005, the Company adopted the Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Employee Share Plan (“ESP”). Under the ESP, the compensation and stock option committee of the board of directors of the Company may grant stock awards to key management employees. The aggregate number of Class A Shares that are available under the ESP is 750,000. Generally, stock awards vest three years from the date of the award. The value of stock awards granted in 2005 total approximately $243,000 (nil in 2004 and 2003). The liability is being recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.
The following table summarizes awards under the ESP as at December 31, 2005.
Other stock-related compensation awards
In 2003, the Company awarded 31,110 Class A Shares (priced at $22.50 per share) to certain employees, which vested on January 3, 2006. The liability has been recognized over the vesting period.
The total amount expensed in 2005 for stock appreciation rights, ESP and other stock-related compensation awards was $755,000 ($808,000 in 2004 and $468,000 in 2003).
Defined Benefit Plan
The Company, through its subsidiaries, maintains a defined contribution plan covering substantially all full-time U.S. employees. The Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. 401(k) Plan provides that Oppenheimer may make discretionary contributions. Eligible Oppenheimer employees may make voluntary contributions which may not exceed $14,000, $13,000 and $12,000 per annum in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The Company made contributions to the 401(k) Plan of $3,963,000, $3,168,000 and $3,491,000 in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.
Old Michigan Corp. (originally called First of Michigan Corporation), sponsors an unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (“SERP”), which is a non-qualified plan that provides certain former officers additional retirement benefits. Payments under the SERP were $267,000, $300,000 and $367,000 in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. At December 31, 2005, benefits payable under the SERP were approximately $688,000.
Deferred Compensation Plans
The Company maintains an Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (“EDCP”) and a Deferred Incentive Plan (“DIP”) in order to offer certain qualified high-performing financial advisors a bonus based upon a formula reflecting years of service, production, net commissions and a valuation of their clients’ assets. The bonus amounts resulted in deferrals in fiscal 2005 of approximately $5,094,000 ($1,366,000 in 2004 and $1,254,000 in 2003). These deferrals normally vest after five years. The EDCP also includes voluntary deferrals by senior executives which are not subject to vesting. The liability is being recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The Company maintains a company-owned life insurance policy, which is designed to offset 60% of the EDCP liability. The EDCP liability is being tracked against the value of a phantom investment portfolio held for this purpose. At December 31, 2005, the Company’s liability with respect to the EDCP and DIP totaled $10,376,000.
In addition, the Company is maintaining a deferred compensation plan on behalf of certain employees who were formerly employed by CIBC World Markets. The liability is being tracked against the value of an investment portfolio held by the Company for this purpose.
The total amount expensed in 2005 for the Company’s deferred compensation plans was $2,729,000 ($3,102,000 in 2004 and $1,398,000 in 2003).
13. Commitments and contingencies
The Company and its subsidiaries have operating leases for office space, equipment and furniture and fixtures expiring at various dates through 2019. Future minimum rental commitments under such office and equipment leases as at December 31, 2005 are as follows:
Certain of the leases contain provisions for rent increases based on changes in costs incurred by the lessor.
The Company's rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 was $33,327,000, $32,454,000 and $31,028,000, respectively.
At December 31, 2005, the Company had collateralized and uncollateralized letters of credit for $160,200,000 in favor of Options Clearing Corporation. Collateral for these letters of credit include marketable customer securities of approximately $219,056,000, pledged to two financial institutions.
Many aspects of the Company’s business involve substantial risks of liability. In the normal course of business, the Company has been named as defendant or co-defendant in lawsuits creating substantial exposure. The Company is also involved from time to time in governmental and self-regulatory agency investigations and proceedings. There has been an increased incidence of litigation and regulatory investigations in the financial services industry in recent years.
The Company is the subject of customer complaints, has been named as defendant or codefendant in various lawsuits seeking, in total, substantial damages and is involved in certain governmental and self-regulatory agency investigations and proceedings. These proceedings
arise primarily from securities brokerage, asset management and investment banking activities. In accordance with SFAS No. 5 "Accounting for Contingencies," the Company has established provisions for estimated losses from pending complaints, legal actions, regulatory investigations and proceedings. While the ultimate resolution of pending litigation and other matters cannot be currently determined, in the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, the Company has no reason to believe that the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its financial statements. However, the Company’s financial statements could be materially affected during any period if liabilities in that period differ from prior estimates. The materiality of legal matters to the Company’s future operating results depends on the level of future results of operations as well as the timing and ultimate outcome of such legal matters.
14. Regulatory Requirements
The Company's major subsidiaries, Oppenheimer and Freedom, are subject to the uniform net capital requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") under Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”). Oppenheimer computes its net capital requirements under the alternative method provided for in the Rule which requires that Oppenheimer maintain net capital equal to two percent of aggregate customer related debit items, as defined in SEC Rule 15c3-3. At December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer had net capital of $172,780,000, which was $144,904,000 in excess of the $27,876,000 required to be maintained at that date. Freedom computes its net capital requirement under the basic method provided for in the Rule, which requires that Freedom maintain net capital equal to the greater of $250,000 or 6 2/3% of aggregate indebtedness, as defined. At December 31, 2005, Freedom had net capital of $7,005,000, which was $6,755,000 in excess of the $250,000 required to be maintained at that date. At December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer and Freedom had $12,843,000 and $10,683,000, respectively, in cash and securities segregated under Federal and other regulations.
Oppenheimer Trust Company is subject to regulation by the New Jersey Department of Banking.
In accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s No-Action Letter dated November 3, 1998, the Company has computed a reserve requirement for the proprietary accounts of introducing firms as of December 31, 2005. The Company had no deposit requirements as of December 31, 2005.
15. Financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk and concentration of credit risk
In the normal course of business, the Company's securities activities involve execution, settlement and financing of various securities transactions for customers. These activities may expose the Company to risk in the event customers, other brokers and dealers, banks, depositories or clearing organizations are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations.
The Company is exposed to off-balance sheet risk of loss on unsettled transactions in the event customers and other counterparties are unable to fulfill their contractual obligations. It is the Company's policy to periodically review, as necessary, the credit standing of each counterparty with which it conducts business.
Securities sold, but not yet purchased represent obligations of the Company to deliver the specified security at the contracted price and thereby create a liability to repurchase the security in the market at prevailing prices. Accordingly, these transactions result in off-balance-sheet risk, as the Company's ultimate obligation to satisfy the sale of securities sold, but not yet purchased may exceed the amount recognized on the balance sheet. Securities positions are monitored on a daily basis.
The Company's customer financing and securities lending activities require the Company to pledge customer securities as collateral for various financing sources such as bank loans and securities lending. At December 31, 2005, the Company had approximately $1.6 billion of
customer securities under customer margin loans that are available to be pledged of which the Company has repledged approximately $460,998,000 under securities loan agreements and approximately $182,260,000 with respect to bank call loans. In addition, the Company has received collateral of approximately $453,871,000 under securities borrow agreements of which the Company has repledged approximately $296,690,000 as collateral under securities loans agreements. Included in receivable from brokers and clearing organizations are receivables from four major U.S. broker-dealers totaling $247,524,000. Included in receivable from customers is a receivable from one customer in the amount of $169,644,000 which is collateralized with fixed income securities in the amount of $214,438,000, and therefore bears minimal credit risk.
The Company monitors the market value of collateral held and the market value of securities receivable from others. It is the Company's policy to request and obtain additional collateral when exposure to loss exists. In the event the counterparty is unable to meet its contractual obligation to return the securities, the Company may be exposed to off-balance sheet risk of acquiring securities at prevailing market prices.
At December 31, 2005, the Company had outstanding commitments to buy and sell of $2,539,000 and $670,000, respectively, primarily of mortgage-backed securities on a when issued basis. These commitments have off-balance sheet risks similar to those described above.
Futures contracts, comprised of treasury note futures and high-grade copper futures, represent commitments to purchase or sell at a future date and at a specified price. Credit risk and market risk exist with respect to these instruments. Credit risk associated with the contracts is limited to amounts recorded in the balance sheet. Notional or contractual amounts are used to express the volume of these transactions, and do not represent the amounts potentially subject to market risk. At December 31, 2005, the Company had open contracts to sell Chicago Board of Trade (“CBOT”) five year treasury note futures as well as March 2006 High-Grade Copper contracts with notional values of approximately $44 million. The fair value of these derivative financial instruments, included in receivable from brokers and clearing organizations at December 31, 2005, was approximately $1.3 million.
The Company has a clearing arrangement with Pershing LLC to clear certain transactions in foreign securities. The clearing broker has the right to charge the Company for losses that result from a client's failure to fulfill its contractual obligations. The Company has a relationship with R.J. O’Brien & Associates which maintains an omnibus account on behalf of Oppenheimer and executes commodities transactions on all exchanges. Accordingly, the Company has credit exposures with these clearing brokers. The clearing brokers can rehypothecate the securities held on behalf of the Company. As the right to charge the Company has no maximum amount and applies to all trades executed through the clearing brokers, the Company believes there is no maximum amount assignable to this right. At December 31, 2005, the Company had recorded no liabilities with regard to this right. The Company's policy is to monitor the credit standing of these clearing brokers, all counterparties and all clients with which it conducts business.
The Company has entered into an indemnity agreement with Lloyds of London pursuant to which the Company has agreed to indemnify Lloyds for losses incurred by Lloyds under the excess SIPC policy.
16. Segment Information
The Company has determined its reportable segments based on the Company’s method of internal reporting, which disaggregates its retail business by branch and its proprietary and investment banking businesses by product. The Company’s segments are: Private Client which includes all business generated by the Company’s 83 branches and Freedom, including commission and fee income earned on client transactions, net interest earnings on client margin loans and cash balances, stock loan activities and financing activities, as well as arbitration awards; Capital Markets which includes market-making activities in over-the-counter equities, institutional trading in both fixed income and equities, structured assets transactions, bond trading, trading in mortgage-backed securities, corporate underwriting activities, public finance activities, and syndicate participation; and Asset Management which includes fees from money market funds and the investment management services of Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. and Oppenheimer’s asset management divisions employing various programs to professionally manage client assets either in individual accounts or in funds. The Company evaluates the performance of its segments and allocates resources to them based upon profitability.
The table below presents information about the reported revenue and operating income (profit before income taxes) of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003. The Company’s business is predominantly in the U.S. Asset information by reportable segment is not reported, since the Company does not produce such information for internal use.
* OAM earned incentive fees, net of approximately $2.2 million in 2005 compared to approximately $1.4 million in 2004 and approximately $10.7 million in 2003. These fees are based on the performance of certain limited partnerships (hedge funds) of which OAM is a general partner.
17. Related party transactions
The Company does not make loans to its officers and directors except under normal commercial terms pursuant to client margin account agreements. These loans are fully collateralized by such employee-owned securities.
18. Subsequent events
On January 26, 2006, a cash dividend of U.S. $0.10 per share (totaling $1,276,000) was declared payable on February 24, 2006 to Class A non-voting and Class B shareholders of record on February 10, 2006.
On January 19, 2006, the Company repaid its bank loan obligation to CIBC in full from available funds on hand. Accordingly, the credit arrangement described in Note 7(a) has been terminated.
19. Quarterly Information (unaudited)
(Expressed in thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)
Item 9.
Item 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
Item 9A.
Item 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
As of December 31, 2005, Oppenheimer’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and its Principal Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in timely alerting management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, of material information about the Company required to be included in periodic SEC filings. However, in evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2005 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm thereon are set forth in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Section 303A.12(a) CEO Certification
The Company submitted a Section 12(a) CEO Certification to the New York Stock Exchange on May 23, 2005 with respect to fiscal 2004.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 CEO and CFO Certifications
The Company submitted the CEO and CFO Certifications required under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act as exhibits to its Annual Report on Form 10-K /A (Amendment No. 1) for the year ended December 31, 2004.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information required by this item will be contained under the caption “Election of Directors” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 15, 2006. Information about compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 required by this form will be contained under the caption “Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Act of 1934” in that proxy statement. That information is incorporated herein by reference to the proxy statement.
STATEMENT OF CORPORATE GOVERNACE PRACTICES, WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY AND COMMITTEE CHARTERS
A copy of the Company’s Statement of Corporate Governance Practices and its Whistleblower Policy, as well as copies of the Charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation and Stock Option Committee and Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee are posted on the Company’s website at www.opco.com. These documents can be requested by writing to the Company at its head office or by making an email request to investorrelations@opy.ca.
CODE OF ETHICS
The Company has adopted a Code of Conduct and Business Ethics for Directors, Officers and Employees, which can be found on its website at www.opco.com. These documents can be requested by writing to the Company at its head office or by making an email request to investorrelations@opy.ca.
Item 11.
Item 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item will be contained under the captions “Election of Directors -Directors Compensation” and “Executive Compensation” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12.
Item 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by this item will be contained under the caption “Security Ownership of Beneficial Owners and Management” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13.
Item 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information required by this item will be contained under the caption “Indebtedness of Directors and Executive Officers under (1) Securities Purchase and (2) Other Programs” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14.
Item 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this item will be contained under the caption “Appointment of Auditors” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)
(i)
Financial Statements
See Item 8 (pages 49-76)
(ii)
Financial Statement Schedules
Not Applicable.
(iii)
Listing of Exhibits
The exhibits which are filed with this Form 10-K or are incorporated herein by reference are set forth in the Exhibit Index (pages 82-84)
(b)
Exhibits
See the Exhibit Index included hereinafter.
(c)
Financial Statement Schedules excluded from the annual report to shareholders
None
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, in the City of New York, State of New York, on the 9th day of March, 2006.
OPPENHEIMER HOLDINGS INC.
BY: “E.K. Roberts”
E.K. Roberts, President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates below indicated.
Signature
Title
Date
Director
J.L. Bitove
“R. Crystal”
Director
March 9, 2006
R. Crystal
“A.G. Lowenthal”
Chairman, Chief Executive
March 9, 2006
A.G. Lowenthal
Officer (Principal Executive Officer), Director
“K.W. McArthur”
Director
March 9, 2006
K.W. McArthur
“A.W. Oughtred”
Secretary, Director
March 9, 2006
A.W. Oughtred
“E.K. Roberts”
President & Treasurer,
March 9, 2006
E.K. Roberts
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer), Director
“B. Winberg”
Director
March 9, 2006
B. Winberg
EXHIBIT INDEX
Unless designated by an asterisk indicating that such document has been filed herewith, the Exhibits listed below have been heretofore filed by the Company pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act and are hereby incorporated herein by reference to the pertinent prior filing.
Number
Description
Page
2.1
Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of December 9, 2002 and Amendment No. 1 to the Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of January 2, 2003, by and among Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., Viner Finance Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and CIBC World Markets Corp. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
2.2
Asset Management Acquisition Agreement dated as of January 2, 2003, by and among Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., Fahnestock & Co. Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and CIBC World Markets Corp. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
3 (a)
Articles of Amendment of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. dated May 11, 2005 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005).
3(b)
By-Laws of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005).
4.1
Stakeholders Agreement dated December 9, 2002, by and among Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Albert G. Lowenthal, Phase II Financial L.P., Phase II Financial Limited, The Albert G. Lowenthal Foundation, Olga Roberts and Elka Estates Limited (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
4.2
Registration Rights Agreement dated January 2, 2003, issued by Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. to Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
4.3
Exchangeable Debenture dated January 6, 2003, issued by E. A. Viner International Co. to Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
4.4
Interim Exchangeable Debenture dated January 6, 2003, issued by E. A. Viner International Co. to Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
4.5
Exchangeable Debenture dated May 17, 2003, issued by E. A. Viner International Co. to Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 dated March 11, 2004).
10(a)
Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan, Amended and Restated as at May 17, 1999 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form S-8 dated May 15, 2000).
10(b)
Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan Amendment No. 1 dated February 29, 2000 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999).
10(c)
Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan Amendment No. 2 dated May 19, 2001 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001).
10(d)
Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan Amendment No. 3 dated February 28, 2002 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form S-8 dated December 17, 2002).
10(e)
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan Amendment No. 4 dated February 26, 2004 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form S-8 dated July 28, 2004).
10(f)
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. 1996 Equity Incentive Plan Amendment No. 5 dated March 10, 2005 (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005).
10(g)
Employee Share Plan dated January 1, 2005 (previously filed as an exhibit filed to Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005).
10(h)
Performance-Based Compensation Agreement between Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. and Albert G. Lowenthal dated March 15, 2005 (previously filed as an exhibit filed to Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2005).
10(i)
Securities Purchase Agreement dated June 11, 1997, between 1888 Limited Partnership and DST Systems Inc. and Purchaser (previously filed as an exhibit to Schedule 14D-1 and Schedule 13D for First of Michigan Capital Corporation dated June 18, 1997).
10(j)
Credit Agreement dated January 2, 2003, by and between Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc. and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
10(k)
Amended and Restated Promissory Note dated January 15, 2003, made by Viner Finance Inc. for the benefit of CIBC World Markets Corp (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
10(l)
Non-Competition Agreement dated January 2, 2003, by and among Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and CIBC World Markets Corp., Fahnestock & Co. Inc. and Viner Finance Inc. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
10(m)
Non-Solicitation Agreement dated January 2, 2003 by and among Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., Fahnestock & Co. Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and CIBC World Markets Corp. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
10(n)
Clearing Agreement dated January 2, 2003 between Fahnestock & Co. Inc. and CIBC World Markets Corp. (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
10(o)
Shareholders Agreement dated December 9, 2002, by and among Fahnestock Viner Holdings Inc., Albert G. Lowenthal, Phase II Financial L.P., Phase II Financial Limited, The Albert G. Lowenthal Foundation, Olga Roberts and Elka Estates Limited (previously filed as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated January 17, 2003).
Consent of independent accountants (filed herewith) *
31.1
Rule 13a - 14(a) 15d - 14(a) Certification signed by A.G. Lowenthal (filed herewith) *
31.2
Rule 13a - 14(a) 15d - 14(a) Certification signed by E.K. Roberts (filed herewith) *
32.1
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 signed by A.G. Lowenthal (filed herewith) *
32.2
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 signed by E.K. Roberts (filed herewith) *