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NexTech3D.ai Corporation — Management Reports 2021
Feb 24, 2021
47669_rns_2021-02-24_278ef0c7-b485-42af-8c77-31e6194ba33d.pdf
Management Reports
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For the period ended December 31, 2020
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and nine months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 (interim financial statements) and the notes thereto. Historical results should not be taken as indicative of future operations. The information in this report is up to date as of February 23, 2021.
The interim financial statements of the Company have been prepared in compliance with International Accounting Standards (IAS) 34 Interim Financial Reporting (IAS 34) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and adopted by the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA).
The Company’s website is [www.rifco.net] and all previous public Company filings are available through SEDAR [www.sedar.com].
| Rifco Overview 2 Strategic Perspective 2 COVID-19 3 Market Perspective 3 Strategic Review 4 Results of Operations 5 Comparative Results for the Period 8 Asset Review 14 (i) Finance Receivables (ii) Cash Holdback and Over-Collateralization in Finance Receivables Securitized (iii) Deferred Income Tax Asset (iv) Provision for Impairment |
Financial Capacity, Liability, and Liquidity Review 15 (i) Facility availability summary (ii) Cash flow measurements (iii) Equity (iv) Leverage measurements Contractual Obligations 19 Management and Board of Directors Compensation 20 Related Party Balances and Transactions 20 Risk Factors and Management 21 Description of Non-IFRS Measures 24 |
|---|---|
1
Cautionary Statement
Additional information relating to the Company is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) report may contain certain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the business and anticipated financial performance of Rifco. The users of forward-looking statements are cautioned that actual results may vary from the forward-looking information. The Company is subject to material risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. The Company is subject to two main material risks, these being loan performance and continued access to capital. All future looking statements are made with the assumption that loans will perform as modelled and that the Company will continue to have access to reasonably priced capital in amounts sufficient to execute its business plan. When future looking statements are made, they will be updated within the normal course of quarterly and annual financial statements.
Description of Non-IFRS Measures
Throughout this MD&A, management uses terms and ratios which do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers; therefore, descriptions have been provided in the MD&A. For clarity, specifically defined non-IFRS measures are capitalized throughout this document, as are other terms as defined in the Glossary of Other terms and Measures.
Management believes that some non-IFRS measures are useful for investors to use to evaluate the performance of the Company without certain IFRS requirements that some investors may consider to be unrelated to the underlying economic performance of the Company. Management uses these non-IFRS measures to evaluate the performance of the Company.
Specifically, management presents an Adjusted Net Income before tax measure, along with related adjusted sub-totals. Adjusted Net Income before tax Per Common Share, Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Adjusted Equity Ratio and Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Earning Assets Ratios are presented where Adjusted Net Income is used in the calculation in place of Net Income. Adjusted Operating expenses do not include expenses associated with the Strategic review process. These measures do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
For the Description of Non-IFRS Measures please refer to the section “Description of Non-IFRS Measures”.
Rifco Overview
Rifco is built on a foundation of trust, respect, empowerment, accountability and passion which are exhibited by each and every member of the Rifco team, as we collaboratively pursue our collective vision and do so in a manner that is consistent with our purpose.
Rifco’s operations are currently through its sole, wholly owned subsidiary, Rifco National Auto Finance Corporation (RNAF). RNAF operates with a purpose to help its clients obtain a safe and reliable vehicle by providing alternative finance solutions. RNAF currently distributes its alternative finance products indirectly through select automotive dealer partners.
The Company operates in all provinces except Quebec. The Company and its subsidiary are incorporated under the laws of Alberta with its head office situated in Red Deer, Alberta.
Rifco trades its common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “RFC” and is a tier 1 issuer. Since commencing lending operations in February of 2002, the Company has lent over $1.1 billion.
Strategic Perspective
As market conditions dictate, management makes strategic decisions to exploit various segments of the credit spectrum. The anticipated Credit Spread, or the difference between expected yield and forecasted net credit losses, is the most important piece of information in making these decisions. The analysis and forecasting of the Credit Spread Rate allows management to target those credit segments which have the highest returns.
2
The Company manages two main strategic risk factors. First, the Company must possess competencies that drive acceptable credit performance. Second, the Company must maintain access to reasonably priced and appropriately structured capital and borrowings in order to fund its lending operations.
Rifco remains steadfast in originating finance receivables that it believes can achieve acceptable credit performance levels and profit margins. As margins are affected by funding rates and expected credit performance, the Company adjusts targeted origination levels, credit requirements, and lending rates while maintaining market continuity. Rifco will not pursue a strategy of seeking to increase its market share at the expense of unsustainable credit performance.
The Company funds its originated finance receivables through its own equity, bank borrowing, securitization and the issuance of unsecured debentures. Rifco maintains strong funding relationships and has been able to receive increased levels of funding capacity as needed.
COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns and government interventions are a continuously evolving situation without historical precedent for comparison and prediction purposes.
Rifco was identified as an essential service in Alberta and has remained operational since the start of the pandemic.
The Company has undertaken a number of initiatives:
-
Rifco’s entire team has been operationally tested to work from home with full access to all necessary systems and tools
-
Implemented extraordinary cleaning and hygiene practices, signage, and supplies
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Reduced office, workspace and meeting room density limits
-
Reduced its human resources expenses
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Credit tightening, increased proof of income thresholds, prohibited lending to borrowers employed in certain industries and tightened business rules deliberately reduced originations. All restrictions have not yet been unwound
-
Adapted existing payment deferral and modification tools to accommodate affected borrowers
Rifco’s increased credit restrictions and documentation requirements have had a meaningful impact on near term origination levels.
In the quarter ended March 31, 2020, the company increased its provision for loan losses associated with otherwise unimpaired loans. The Company has maintained elevated provision ratios for unimpaired loans. To date, delinquency and loan losses have not increased versus the pre-COVID periods.
While many financial services providers offered 6-months ‘no-payment’ loan deferrals, Rifco focused on 1 to 3-months ‘reducedpayment’ deferrals. The COVID deferrals and loan payment modifications, that were previously granted, are now resolved. At the April 2020 peak, 10.9% of our loans had some degree of payment deferral in the month. Since the end of 2020, only 2.8% of accounts were remaining in some sort of temporary modified payment arrangement. Most of the accounts that did receive COVID deferrals, received them early in the fiscal year, and are now, since August, reporting as having full scheduled payments due. As such, these accounts are either paying as scheduled, or are reported as delinquent.
Market Perspective
The majority of Canadians finance their vehicle purchases. A significant portion of Canadians require near-prime or non-prime financing for these purchases.
Rifco’s major competitors include three large Canadian financial institutions that currently control a large portion of the nearprime (“B” & “C” credit) market in Canada. In addition, a number of mid-sized and smaller competitors exist throughout the near-prime and non-prime credit spectrum. Prior competitive behavior, which management had thought to be unprofitable and ultimately unsustainable, appears to be negatively impacting some players in the industry. Management is seeing rationalization within the industry as competitors consolidate, sell assets and cease operations.
Rifco believes there is a possibility that the rationalization of the industry may accelerate in the current environment.
3
Strategic Review
On February 3, 2020 Rifco Inc. announced that they had entered into a definitive arrangement agreement pursuant to which CanCap Management Inc. (CanCap) would acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Rifco. The agreement was subject to approval of 66 2/3% of the votes to be cast by Rifco shareholders at a special meeting of Rifco shareholders that was held on April 3, 2020. The motion passed.
CanCap delivered written notice to Rifco on March 27, 2020 alleging termination of the arrangement agreement among the Parties dated February 2, 2020 in respect of a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act of Alberta. CanCap alleged that what it described as "recent events" constituted a "Material Adverse Effect" on the business of Rifco under the terms of the Arrangement Agreement. As such, the Purchaser communicated that it did not intend to close the Arrangement.
Rifco subsequently filed a Statement of Claim that named both ACC Holdings Inc. (ACC) and CanCap as a defendant, and asserted that ACC and CanCap breached the terms of the arrangement agreement by failing to attend at closing and fund the transaction contemplated by the Arrangement Agreement, and by actively opposing the issuance of a final order. Rifco sought specific performance of the Arrangement Agreement as a remedy.
CanCap filed a Statement of Claim that sought an amount of “no less than” $1 million as an “Expense Reimbursement Payment” as a result of what the Purchaser said was a breach of the Arrangement Agreement, which was that Rifco failed to warn the Purchaser about COVID-19 and a decline in oil prices which the Purchaser said constituted a “Material Adverse Effect” on Rifco.
The parties entered into a full and final mutual release and settlement agreement dated July 29, 2020, whereby the parties have, inter alia, released each other from all claims in connection with the Arrangement Agreement in exchange for a payment by CanCap and ACC Holdings Inc. of an aggregate of $1.5M (the “Settlement Amount”) to Rifco. The Settlement Amount was paid to Rifco on July 30, 2020. The income is netted against the strategic review process expenses.
Corporate Update
On December 14, 2020 Rifco Inc. announced the results of its Annual General and Special Meeting. The shareholders replaced the existing board and elected Tim Peterson, Jeffrey Newhouse, Jared Priestner, and Sean Aylward to serve as directors. In addition, Jeffrey Newhouse succeeded Bill Graham as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Company.
The Board has established the following near-term objectives for RNAF:
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Right-size the organization relative to its current client base, and work towards achieving a consistent 4% return on assets (ROA) managed, as measured by net income before tax, adjusted for non-cash changes in provision for impairment;
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Grow our existing client base and vehicle units financed by 10% organically;
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Grow our existing client base and vehicle units financed through accretive acquisitions; and
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Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement and focus on delivering an exceptional client experience to all our stakeholders.
Rifco will continue to provide investors an update as to the future strategic direction of the Company in due course, as the Board and management complete their strategic review.
4
Results of Operations
The results of operations and cash flows for the period ended December 31, 2020 are presented in accordance with IFRS except for the adjusted line items.
The Company is reporting the following results over the comparable periods:
| As at | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| **Dec 31, 2020 ** | **Mar 31, 2020 ** | Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| ($,000's) | ||||
| Finance receivables | 200,290 | 228,959 | 230,356 | |
| Total assets | 201,593 | 228,328 | 233,081 | |
| Total liabilities | 178,827 | 202,270 | 204,030 | |
| Adjusted Equity1 | 33,408 | 37,321 | 37,372 | |
| Equity | 22,766 | 26,058 | 29,051 | |
| Delinquency Rate | 3.97% | 5.55% | 5.32% | |
| For the three | months ended | For the nine | months ended | |
| **Dec 31, 2020 ** | Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | |
| ($,000's except per share and ratios) | ||||
| Financial revenue | 8,584 | 9,819 | 26,578 | 29,630 |
| Credit losses | 2,145 | 4,327 | 6,738 | 12,428 |
| Credit Spread | 6,439 | 5,492 | 19,840 | 17,202 |
| Adjusted Operating Expenses1,2 | 3,403 | 2,775 | 8,562 | 8,143 |
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes1,2 | 711 | (81) | 3,835 | 621 |
| Net income before taxes | 208 | 398 | 5,615 | 269 |
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes per Common Share - | $0.033 | $(0.004) | $0.177 | $0.029 |
| Basic1,2 | ||||
| Adjusted Net Income before Taxes per Common Share - Diluted | $0.033 |
$(0.004) | $0.177 | $0.029 |
| Net income (loss) per common share - Basic | $0.008 | $0.009 | $0.189 | $0.007 |
| Net income (loss) per common share - Diluted | $0.008 | $0.009 | $0.189 | $0.007 |
| Originations | 17,882 | 27,155 | 36,674 | 84,305 |
| Average loan receivables | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 |
| Net Portfolio Yield | 17.38% | 17.38% | 17.15% | 17.51% |
| Credit Loss Rate | 4.34% | 7.66% | 4.35% | 7.34% |
| Credit Spread Rate | 13.04% | 9.72% | 12.80% | 10.17% |
| Financial Expense Ratio | 4.71% | 4.96% | 4.80% | 4.99% |
| Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio1,2 | 6.89% | 4.93% | 5.52% | 4.80% |
| Adjusted Return Pre-Tax On Adjusted Equity1,2 | 7.72% | (0.87%) | 14.46% | 2.22% |
1 See the section “Description of Non-IFRS Measures” for these definitions
2 Definition for Adjusted Net Income before Taxes has been revised to exclude the strategic review expenses and comparative period has been revised accordingly.
5
Adjusted Net Income before Taxes, for the year to date, is $3.8M, which is $3.2M higher than the comparable period of $0.6M. Adjusted Net Income before Taxes in the quarter of $0.7M was $0.8M higher than the comparable quarter loss of $0.1M and $1.6M lower than the preceding quarter of $2.3M. Adjusted Net Income before Taxes removes the effect of the non-cash provisions and the strategic review process expenses on net income before tax. Adjusted Net Income before Taxes accounts for the actual credit losses incurred in the period and is the measure that management uses to evaluate the performance of the Company in the period as it removes the volatility associated with the effect of estimates, assumptions and the strategic review expenses.
Net income before tax, for the year to date, increased by $5.3M to $5.6M from $0.3M in the comparable period. Net income before tax, for the quarter, decreased by $0.2M to $0.2M from $0.4M in the comparable quarter and a decrease of $2.5M from a net income before tax of $2.8M, in the preceding quarter.
Credit Spread is one of the most important measures used by management to evaluate the performance of the loan receivables over a period. The Credit Spread Rate increased 263 basis points for the year to date from 10.17% to 12.80%. The Credit Spread rate increased by 332 basis points over the comparative quarter from 9.72% to 13.04% and decreased 120 basis points from preceding quarter rate of 14.24%. Credit Spread has been positively impacted by improved results from the new custom credit model and pricing model.
Credit losses, including costs and net of recoveries, for the year to date, decreased by 45.78% from $12.4M, in the comparable period, to $6.7M in the current period. Credit losses, including costs and net of recoveries, for the quarter, decreased by $2.2M from $4.3M in the comparable quarter to $2.1M and increased by $0.5M from $1.7M, in the preceding quarter. The annualized Credit Loss Rate, for the year to date, decreased by 299 basis points to 4.35% from 7.34%, in the comparable period. The annualized Credit Loss Rate, for the quarter, decreased by 332 basis points to 4.34% from 7.66% in the comparable quarter and increased by 110 basis points from 3.24%, in the preceding quarter. While credit underwriting associated with the new custom credit model and improved collections and recovery procedures have had a positive impact on credit losses, they have also benefited from COVID-19 government support programs for affected borrowers.
The Financial Expense Ratio, for the year to date, decreased by 19 basis points from 4.99%, in the comparable period, to 4.80%. The Financial Expense Ratio, for the quarter, decreased by 25 basis points from 4.96% in the comparable quarter to 4.71% and decreased 9 basis points from 4.80%, in the preceding quarter. The treasury reorganization previously announced February 2020 has contributed to an improved overall cost of borrowing.
The Delinquency Rate decreased by 135 basis points to 3.97% from 5.32%, in the comparable period. The Delinquency Rate decreased 158 basis points from 5.55% at the beginning of the year. Continued government support programs for those impacted by COVID-19 has had a strong impact on the Company’s Delinquency Rate. Loan modification and payment deferral programs are not currently having a material impact on delinquency results.
Adjusted Operating Expenses, for the year to date, increased by 5.15% from $8.1M to $8.6M, in the comparable period. Adjusted Operating Expenses, during the quarter, increased 22.63% from $2.8M in the comparable quarter to $3.4M and 34.29% from $2.5M, in the preceding quarter. The Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio increased by 72 basis points to 5.52% compared to 4.80% in the comparative period. The Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio, for the quarter, increased 196 basis points to 6.89% from 4.93%, in the comparative quarter, and 194 basis points from 4.95%, in the preceding quarter. The increased Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio was driven primarily by the declining Average Loan Receivables balance.
The Company posted year to date Originations of $36.7M, a 56.50% decrease from $84.3M, in the comparable period. The Company posted Originations for the current quarter of $17.9M which is a decrease of 34.15% to the comparable period which had Originations of $27.2. This decrease is primarily due to consumer trends and the internal restrictions on credit quality imposed by the company due to the uncertain impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health restrictions. With the lifting of some restrictions, Originations increased by 58.80% from $11.3M, in the preceding quarter, to $17.9M, in the current quarter.
Total financial revenue decreased 10.30% to $26.6M from $29.6M, in the comparable period, due to the shrinkage of the average portfolio size as principal reductions exceeded originations during the period. Total financial revenue decreased by 4.06% from $8.9M, in the preceding quarter, and 12.58% from $9.8M, in the comparative quarter, to $8.6M, in the current quarter.
Rifco is in regular contact with all of its funders and remains optimistic regarding the availability of bank borrowing and securitized facilities. Rifco has successfully completed multiple securitization tranches since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
6
Rifco has leveraged its recent investments in its loan origination system and new credit model to enhance the automation of its credit decisioning. While all loans are verified prior to funding, approximately 80% of its credit decisioning is automated. Rifco believes that automation increases the integrity, accuracy, predictability, and reliability of decision making, improving ultimate credit spread. Automation also helps Rifco manage its operating expenses while the overall market is experiencing a decline in ultimate booking rates on applications seen.
7
Comparative Results for the Period
All income and expense items are measured against the average outstanding loan receivables in the period.
| For the three | For the three | months ended | months ended | For | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, | 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, | 2019 | |||
| % of loan | % of loan |
% of loan | % of loan | |||||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | |||||
| ($,000's except ratios) | ||||||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | ||||
| Financial revenue | 8,584 | 17.38% | 9,819 | 17.38% | 26,578 | 17.15% | 29,630 | 17.51% |
| Credit losses | 2,145 | 4.34% | 4,327 | 7.66% | 6,738 | 4.35% | 12,428 | 7.34% |
| Credit Spread | 6,439 | 13.04% | 5,492 | 9.72% | 19,840 | 12.80% | 17,202 | 10.17% |
| Financial expenses | 2,325 | 4.71% | 2,798 | 4.96% | 7,443 | 4.80% | 8,438 | 4.99% |
| Adjusted Net Financial Income before Operating Expenses1 |
4,114 | 8.33% | 2,694 | 4.76% | 12,397 | 8.00% | 8,764 | 5.18% |
| Adjusted Operatingexpenses1 | 3,403 | 6.89% | 2,775 | 4.93% | 8,562 | 5.52% | 8,143 | 4.80% |
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes1 |
711 | 1.44% | (81) | (0.17%) | 3,835 | 2.48% | 621 | 0.38% |
| Strategic review process | - | 0.00% | (123) | (0.20%) | 500 | 0.32% | (163) | (0.11%) |
| (Increase) decrease in provision for impairment |
(503) | (1.02%) | 602 | 1.07% | 1,280 | 0.83% | (189) | (0.11%) |
| Net income before taxes | 208 | 0.42% | 398 | 0.70% | 5,615 | 3.63% | 269 | 0.16% |
| Income tax expense | (31) | (0.06%) | (213) | (0.38%) | (1,523) | (0.98%) | (120) | (0.07%) |
| Net income | 177 | 0.36% | 185 | 0.32% | 4,092 | 2.65% | 149 | 0.09% |
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes | per Common Share:1 | |||||||
| Basic | $0.033 | $(0.004) | $0.177 | $0.029 | ||||
| Diluted | $0.033 | $(0.004) | $0.177 | $0.029 | ||||
| Net income per common share: | ||||||||
| Basic | $0.008 | $0.009 | $0.189 | $0.007 | ||||
| Diluted | $0.008 | $0.009 | $0.189 | $0.007 |
1 See the section “Description of Non-IFRS Measures” for these definitions
8
Financial Revenue
| For | the three | months ended | months ended | For | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, | 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, | 2019 | |||
| % of loan | % of loan |
% of loan | % of loan | |||||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | |||||
| ($,000's except ratios) | ||||||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | ||||
| Interest income | 8,523 | 17.25% | 9,451 | 16.74% | 26,158 | 16.88% | 28,136 | 16.63% |
| Discount income | 504 | 1.02% | 635 | 1.12% | 1,545 | 1.00% | 2,748 | 1.62% |
| Fee income | 339 | 0.69% | 566 | 1.00% | 993 | 0.64% | 1,362 | 0.81% |
| Gross Financial Revenue | 9,366 | 18.96% | 10,652 | 18.86% | 28,696 | 18.52% | 32,246 | 19.06% |
| Loan origination and acquisition costs | (782) (1.58%) |
(833) | (1.48%) | (2,118) | (1.37%) | (2,616) | (1.55%) | |
| Financial revenue | 8,584 | 17.38% | 9,819 | 17.38% | 26,578 | 17.15% | 29,630 | 17.51% |
Gross Portfolio Yield is comprised of the interest, discount, and fees earned before expensing the amortization of origination costs. Gross Portfolio Yield decreased by 54 basis points, for the year to date, from 19.06%, in the comparable period, to 18.52% in the current period due to the diminishing discount income associated with the shrinkage of the portfolio purchased in June 2018. Gross Portfolio Yield increased by 10 basis points from 18.86%, in the comparative quarter, to 18.96%, in the current quarter. Gross Portfolio Yield increased 24 basis points from 18.72%, in the preceding quarter. Net Portfolio Yield decreased by 36 basis points, for the year to date, from 17.51% in the prior period to 17.15% in the current period. Net Portfolio Yield during the quarter increased 0 basis points from 17.38% in the comparable quarter to 17.38%. Net Portfolio Yield during the quarter decreased 10 basis points from 17.48% in the preceding quarter.
As the portfolio purchased in June 2018 rapidly pays down, elevated interest and discount income has largely normalized. The purchased portfolio represents 1.92% of the total portfolio as of December 31, 2020 compared to 9.82% at time of purchase in June 2018.
Total financial revenue decreased 10.30% to $26.6M from $29.6M, in the comparable period, due to the shrinkage of the average portfolio size as principal reductions exceeded originations during the period. Total financial revenue decreased by 4.06% from $8.9M, in the preceding quarter, and 12.58% from $9.89.8M, in the comparative quarter, to $8.6M, in the current quarter.
The majority of loan receivables are comprised of near-prime vehicle purchase loans that are generally priced at risk-adjusted annual interest rates between 10% and 25%. Additionally, the Company has a non-prime lending program that is being offered through limited dealer partners. As part of the program, GPS and starter interrupter devices are required to be installed on each financed vehicle. The program delivers the Company a Net Portfolio Yield between 33% and 44%. Dealer partners pay a discount fee to the Company which increases the Net Portfolio Yield to the Company.
When the Company originates a loan receivable, certain expenses are incurred. These expenses include commission paid to dealers, security registration, credit reports obtained, internet portal costs, and vehicle valuation reports. The largest of these expenses is the commission paid to dealers. The origination expenses are amortized over the life of the loan receivable and are netted against interest income. The year to date amortization of origination expenses decreased by 19.04% from $2.6M in the comparative period to $2.1M. The rate as a percentage of average loan receivables decreased by 18 basis points from 1.55% to 1.37% in the current period. The amortization of origination expenses decreased by 6.12% from $0.8M in the comparative period to $0.8M. The rate as a percentage of average loan receivables increased by 10 basis points from 1.48% to 1.58%, in the current quarter.
Credit Losses
Management intends to originate a portfolio of finance receivables that will generate interest income sufficient to compensate for the underwriting risk and to maintain a positive profit margin. Credit losses are budgeted as a significant expense. Credit losses are a trailing indicator of credit quality. The impact of credit underwriting policy may not be fully observed for up to 24 subsequent months. The Custom Credit model was implemented November 1, 2018. Rifco management focuses on achieving an attractive threshold Credit Spread Rate, rather than targeting a specific loss rate.
9
| For | the three | months ended | months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | |||||
| % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | |||||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | |||||
| ($,000's except ratios) | ||||||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | ||||
| Credit losses - net of recoveries | 1,893 | 3.83% | 3,824 | 6.77% | 5,929 | 3.83% | 11,017 | 6.51% |
| Repossession and recoverycosts | 252 | 0.51% | 503 | 0.89% | 809 | 0.52% | 1,411 | 0.83% |
| Total Credit Losses | 2,145 | 4.34% | 4,327 | 7.66% | 6,738 | 4.35% | 12,428 | 7.34% |
Credit losses, including costs and net of recoveries, for the year to date, decreased by 45.78% from $12.4M, in the comparable period, to $6.7M in the current period. Credit losses, including costs and net of recoveries, for the quarter, decreased by $2.2M from $4.3M in the comparable quarter to $2.1M and increased by $0.5M from $1.7M, in the preceding quarter. The annualized Credit Loss Rate, for the year to date, decreased by 299 basis points to 4.35% from 7.34%, in the comparable period. The annualized Credit Loss Rate, for the quarter, decreased by 332 basis points to 4.34% from 7.66% in the comparable quarter and increased by 110 basis points from 3.24%, in the preceding quarter. While credit underwriting associated with the new custom credit model and improved collections and recovery procedures have had a positive impact on credit losses, they have also benefited from COVID-19 government support programs for affected borrowers.
The Delinquency Rate decreased by 135 basis points to 3.97% from 5.32%, in the comparable period. The Delinquency Rate decreased 158 basis points from 5.55% at the beginning of the year. Continued government support programs for those impacted by COVID-19 has had a strong impact on the Company’s Delinquency Rate. Loan modification and payment deferral programs are not currently having a material impact on delinquency results.
While many financial services providers offered 6-months ‘no-payment’ loan deferrals, Rifco focused on 1 to 3-months ‘reduced-payment’ deferrals. The COVID deferrals and loan payment modifications, that were previously granted, are now resolved. At the April 2020 peak, 10.9% of our loans had some degree of payment deferral in the month. Since the end of December, only 2.8% of accounts were remaining in some sort of temporary modified payment arrangement. Most of the accounts that did receive COVID deferrals, received them early in the fiscal year, are now, since August, reporting as having full scheduled payments due. As such, these accounts are either paying as scheduled, or are reported as delinquent.
Credit Loss Policy
The Company maintains a corresponding Credit loss policy for its most severely delinquent finance receivables. Specifically, and on a monthly basis, finance receivables are allocated as credit losses when they either exceed 120 days or are deemed to be otherwise uncollectable. Credit loss balances are continually pursued either through Rifco’s employed collectors or through third party collection agency services. Recoveries are applied accordingly.
10
Credit Spread
| For | the three | months ended | months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | For the nine months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | |||||
| % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | |||||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | |||||
| ($,000's except ratios) | ||||||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | ||||
| Financial revenue | 8,584 | 17.38% | 9,819 | 17.38% | 26,578 | 17.15% | 29,630 | 17.51% |
| Credit losses | 2,145 | 4.34% | 4,327 | 7.66% | 6,738 | 4.35% | 12,428 | 7.34% |
| Credit Spread | 6,439 | 13.04% | 5,492 | 9.72% | 19,840 | 12.80% | 17,202 | 10.17% |
Credit Spread is one of the most important measures used by management to evaluate the performance of the loan receivables over a period. The Credit Spread Rate increased 263 basis points for the year to date from 10.17% to 12.80%. The Credit Spread rate increased by 332 basis points over the comparative quarter from 9.72% to 13.04% and decreased 120 basis points from preceding quarter rate of 14.24%. Credit Spread has been positively impacted by improved results from the new custom credit model and pricing model.
Financial Expenses
| For | the three | months ended | For the nine | months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| % of loan | % of loan |
% of loan | % of loan |
||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | ||
| ($,000's except ratios) | |||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | |
| Financial expense | 2,325 | 4.71% | 2,798 4.96% |
7,443 4.80% |
8,438 4.99% |
Financial expense includes interest paid on bank borrowings, securitization debt, and unsecured debentures and also includes fees paid on borrowing.
The Financial Expense Ratio, for the year to date, decreased by 19 basis points from 4.99%, in the comparable period, to 4.80%. The Financial Expense Ratio, for the quarter, decreased by 25 basis points from 4.96% in the comparable quarter to 4.71% and decreased 9 basis points from 4.80%, in the preceding quarter. The treasury reorganization previously announced February 2020 has contributed to an improved overall cost of borrowing.
11
Operating Expenses
| For | the three | months ended | months ended | For | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | the nine months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | |||||
| % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | % of loan | |||||
| receivables | receivables | receivables | receivables | |||||
| ($,000's except ratios) | ||||||||
| Average Loan Receivables for the Period | 197,611 | 225,815 | 206,664 | 225,538 | ||||
| Wage and benefits | 2,008 | 4.06% | 1,968 | 3.49% | 5,794 | 3.74% | 5,673 | 3.35% |
| Professional fees | 746 | 1.51% | 82 | 0.15% | 873 | 0.56% | 245 | 0.14% |
| Office and general | 562 | 1.14% | 523 | 0.93% | 1,522 | 0.98% | 1,590 | 0.94% |
| Stock based compensation | (26) (0.05%) |
44 | 0.08% | 40 | 0.03% | 178 | 0.10% | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 113 | 0.23% | 158 | 0.28% | 333 | 0.21% | 457 | 0.27% |
| Adjusted Operating Expenses | 3,403 | 6.89% | 2,775 | 4.93% | 8,562 | 5.52% | 8,143 | 4.80% |
| Strategic reviewprocess | - | 0.00% | 123 | 0.20% | (500) | (0.32%) | 163 | 0.11% |
| Operating Expenses | 3,403 | 6.89% | 2,898 | 5.13% | 8,062 | 5.20% | 8,306 | 4.91% |
Adjusted Operating Expenses, for the year to date, increased by 5.15% from $8.1M to $8.6M, in the comparable period. Adjusted Operating Expenses, during the quarter, increased 22.63% from $2.8M in the comparable quarter to $3.4M and 34.29% from $2.5M, in the preceding quarter. The Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio increased by 72 basis points to 5.52% compared to 4.80% in the comparative period. The Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio, for the quarter, increased 196 basis points to 6.89% from 4.93%, in the comparative quarter, and 194 basis points from 4.95%, in the preceding quarter. The increased Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio was driven primarily by the costs incurred by company and the concerned shareholder group in conjunction with the Annual General and Special Meeting of the Company as well as the declining Average Loan Receivables balance.
12
Summary of Quarterly Results
| Summary of Quarterly Results | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~~2021~~ | ~~2021~~ | ~~2020~~ | ~~2020~~ | ~~2020~~ | ~~2020~~ | ~~2019~~ | ~~2019~~ | ||||
| For the fiscal periods ended | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||
| Q3 | Q2 | Q1 | Q4 | Q3 | Q2 | Q1 | Q4 | Q3 | |||
| ($,000's except per share & ratios) | |||||||||||
| Finance receivables | 200,290 | 205,174 | 215,069 | 228,959 | 230,356 | 229,787 | 230,101 | 228,535 | 234,507 | ||
| Total assets | 201,593 | 210,406 | 220,871 | 228,328 | 233,081 | 232,324 | 232,222 | 230,145 | 235,254 | ||
| Total liabilities | 178,827 | 180,370 | 192,967 | 202,270 | 204,030 | 203,503 | 203,023 | 201,421 | 206,447 | ||
| Adjusted Equity | 33,408 | 40,250 | 38,311 | 37,321 | 37,372 | 37,507 | 37,449 | 36,833 | 37,017 | ||
| Shareholders' equity | 22,766 | 30,036 | 27,904 | 26,058 | 29,051 | 28,821 | 29,199 | 28,724 | 28,806 | ||
| Book Value Per Share | $1.05 | $1.39 | $1.29 | $1.21 | $1.35 | $1.33 | $1.35 | $1.33 | $1.33 | ||
| Adjusted Book Value Per Share | $1.54 | $1.86 | $1.77 | $1.73 | $1.73 | $1.74 | $1.73 | $1.71 | $1.71 | ||
| Stock price | $0.90 | $0.94 | $0.70 | $0.79 | $0.85 | $0.85 | $0.85 | $0.90 | $0.80 | ||
| For the Period: | |||||||||||
| Finance receivables originated | 17,882 | 11,261 | 7,532 | 24,021 | 27,155 | 27,336 | 29,814 | 20,223 | 21,276 | ||
| Average loan receivables | 197,611 | 204,689 | 216,988 | 224,580 | 225,815 | 226,248 | 224,553 | 227,008 | 233,276 | ||
| Total financial revenue | 8,584 | 8,947 | 9,047 | 9,744 | 9,819 | 9,926 | 9,885 | 9,518 | 10,194 | ||
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes1 | 711 | 2,295 | 827 | 660 | (81) | 113 | 588 | 37 | (330) | ||
| Net income (loss) before taxes | 208 | 2,752 | 2,653 | (3,801) | 398 | (492) | 362 | 177 | 282 | ||
| Net income (loss) | 177 | 2,103 | 1,810 | (3,030) | 185 | (437) | 400 | (118) | 181 | ||
| Adjusted Net Income (Loss) before Taxes per Common Share: | |||||||||||
| Basic | $0.033 | $0.106 | $0.038 | $0.031 | $(0.004) | $0.005 | $0.027 | $0.002 | $(0.015) | ||
| Diluted | $0.033 | $0.106 | $0.038 | $0.031 | $(0.004) | $0.005 | $0.027 | $0.002 | $(0.015) | ||
| Net income (loss) per common share: | |||||||||||
| Basic | $0.008 | $0.097 | $0.084 | $(0.140) | $0.009 | $(0.020) | $0.019 | $(0.005) | $0.008 | ||
| Diluted | $0.008 | $0.097 | $0.084 | $(0.140) | $0.009 | $(0.020) | $0.019 | $(0.005) | $0.008 | ||
| Loan Receivable Performance Measures:2 | |||||||||||
| Net Portfolio Yield | 17.38% | 17.48% | 16.68% | 17.35% | 17.38% | 17.56% | 17.60% | 16.76% | 17.48% | ||
| Credit Loss Rate | 4.34% | 3.24% | 5.40% | 6.17% | 7.66% | 7.72% | 6.64% | 6.51% | 6.73% | ||
| Credit Spread Rate | 13.04% | 14.24% | 11.28% | 11.18% | 9.72% | 9.84% | 10.96% | 10.25% | 10.75% | ||
| Delinquency Rate (over 30 days) | 3.97% | 3.43% | 1.91% | 5.55% | 5.32% | 6.15% | 5.69% | 5.46% | 5.33% | ||
| Performance Measures: 2 | |||||||||||
| Adjusted Efficiency Ratio | 39.64% | 28.32% | 29.03% | 29.90% | 28.26% | 26.47% | 27.73% | 30.82% | 35.76% | ||
| Leverage Ratio3 | 6.03 | 5.23 | 5.77 | 6.12 | 6.24 | 6.19 | 6.20 | 6.25 | 6.36 | ||
| Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Adjusted Equity | 7.72% | 23.37% | 8.75% | 7.07% | (0.87%) | 1.21% | 6.33% | 0.40% | (3.56%) | ||
| Ratios:2 | |||||||||||
| Financial Expense Ratio | 4.71% | 4.80% | 4.90% | 4.82% | 4.96% | 4.96% | 5.04% | 5.03% | 5.06% | ||
| Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio | 6.89% | 4.95% | 4.84% | 5.19% | 4.93% | 4.63% | 4.88% | 5.18% | 6.25% | ||
| Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Earning Assets | 1.44% | 4.49% | 1.54% | 1.17% | (0.17%) | 0.25% | 1.04% | 0.07% | (0.57%) |
1 Definition for Adjusted Net Income before Taxes has been revised to exclude the strategic review expenses and Q1, Q2 and Q3 2020 have been revised accordingly.
2 Percentages have been annualized except Efficiency Ratio and Delinquency Rate
3 Definition for Leverage Ratio has been revised to use Adjusted Equity which reflects management’s view of the leverage of the Company
13
Asset Review
Finance Receivables
Finance receivables decreased by $28.7M from $229.0M at March 31, 2020 to $200.3M at the end of the current period.
The Company originates finance receivables from credit applications submitted by approved dealers. All finance receivables are installment loan obligations with a fixed interest rate and term. All finance receivables are secured by motor vehicle collateral and are registered with the applicable provincial personal property registry.
The Company posted year to date Originations of $36.7M, a 56.50% decrease from $84.3M, in the comparable period. The Company posted Originations for the current quarter of $17.9M which is a decrease of 34.15% to the comparable period which had Originations of $27.2. This decrease is primarily due to consumer trends and the internal restrictions on credit quality imposed by the company due to the uncertain impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health restrictions. With the lifting of some restrictions, Originations increased by 58.80% from $11.3M, in the preceding quarter, to $17.9M, in the current quarter.
| As at | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | **Mar 31, ** | 2020 | ||
| ($,000's) | ||||
| Finance receivables - securitized | 155,720 | 77.75% | 169,938 | 74.22% |
| Finance receivables - securitized (over-collateralization)1 | 20,147 | 10.06% | 23,442 | 10.24% |
| Finance receivables - owned | 24,423 | 12.19% | 35,579 | 15.54% |
| Total | 200,290 | 100.00% | 228,959 | 100.00% |
1 Additional finance receivable collateral is provided as over-collateralization security to some securitizers.
Average loan receivables for the year to date decreased 8.37% to $206.7M from $225.5M, in the comparable period. The decline can be primarily attributed to extremely low origination volumes due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cash Holdback and Over-Collateralization in Finance Receivables Securitized
When securitizing finance receivables, finance receivable over-collateralization is used. In some cases, this is used in combination with cash holdback in order to protect against the risk of prepayment and credit losses. The securitizers have recourse to draw down on the cash holdback balance held by the securitizers in the event of individual finance receivables default or prepayment. The amount of cash holdback is determined at the time of sale based on average loan terms, credit grades, and finance receivable over-collateralization. Utilizing an over-collateralization component allows for a lower level of the cash holdback. This reduces the Company’s financial expense.
At period end, the total cash holdback was $17.7M compared to $18.8M at the prior year end. During the period, the Company received cash holdback releases of $5.7M compared to $4.6M, in the comparable period.
Funds in the cash holdback are restricted cash as they are subject to a number of predetermined formulas and financial covenants. Cash releases increase the Company’s working capital position.
The cash holdback and over-collateralization is the Company’s theoretical maximum exposure to credit losses on securitized finance receivables. However, management is of the opinion that in typical circumstances the entirety of the credit losses will be borne by the Company.
Each of the Company’s securitization facilities feature loan over-collateralization. The ratio of over-collateralization is between 5% and 20%, resulting in a fraction of the finance receivables payment stream being securitized. As payments are collected from borrowers, the Company is obligated to remit a portion of each payment to the securitizer. The remaining collected payments are retained by the Company.
14
In the event that the Company breached its facility covenants, or if the cash holdback fell below the required percentage (applicable for facilities which have a requirement for cash holdback) of the total debt in the securitization facility, the Company would be required to remit the borrowers’ entire monthly payment (100%) to the securitizer. Under this scenario, the Company’s share of each borrower’s payment would be deposited into a cash holdback account until the facility default is resolved.
The following table shows the effect that the total cash holdback has on the securitized debt.
| As | at | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Mar | 31, 2020 | |
| ($,000's) | |||
| Total securitized debt | 173,926 | 196,364 | |
| Total cash holdback | (17,732) | (18,797) | |
| Securitized debt | 156,194 | 177,567 |
Deferred Income Tax Asset
The Company’s Deferred Income Tax Asset consists primarily of the temporary timing difference of the loan loss provision. Taxable income is calculated using actual loan losses and does not consider provisioning.
Provision for Impairment
The provision for impairment does not impact the ultimate net charge-off rate of the Company’s finance receivable portfolio, which is driven by borrowers’ credit profile and behavior. The Company will continue to write off loans when they either exceed 120 days or are deemed to be otherwise uncollectable. The provision for impairment only changes the timing of the recognition of loan losses. Likewise, the cash flows used in and generated by the Company’s finance receivables are not impacted by the provision for impairment as any change in the estimated allowance for loan losses is a non-cash item.
The provision for impairment and ultimate carrying value of finance receivables, are not a reflection of the actual economic value of the loan portfolio, but rather, a calculation of the acquisition cost minus future expected losses with no recognition of inherent value or future revenue of the loan portfolio.
Determining the provision for impairment required overlaying the COVID-19 effects and the related factors such as: the duration of the lock-down conditions, the effectiveness and duration of government relief programs, amongst other factors – are especially uncertain. As the COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation, the scenarios applied, and results obtained could be especially susceptible to volatility.
| For the three months ended | For the three months ended | For the nine | months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | Dec 31, 2020 | Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| ($,000's) | ||||
| Credit losses net of recoveries for the Period | 1,893 | 3,824 | 5,929 | 11,017 |
| Repossession and recovery costs for the Period | 252 | 503 | 809 | 1,411 |
| Provision for impairment and credit losses for the Period | (2,648) | (3,725) | (5,458) | (12,617) |
| Decrease(increase) inprovision for impairment | (503) | 602 | 1,280 | (189) |
The increase in the provision for impairment and credit loss for the period is due to the increased weighting placed on the downside scenario and increased estimates of loss given default due to the uncertainty associated with the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns partially offset by the declining balance of finance receivables.
Financial Capacity, Liability, and Liquidity Review
Rifco’s Origination and Servicing Platform is its most valuable asset. The ability to leverage this Platform requires the financial capacity to employ appropriately priced and structured funding.
15
To fund the origination of finance receivables, the Company uses two bank borrowing facilities totaling $22.5M and three securitization facilities totaling $137.5M. The Company’s combined credit facilities total $160.0M of which there was $94.5M in remaining capacity at period end. While this represents the currently available capacity, the annually renewing nature of two of the securitization facilities, and our 15-year history of successfully obtaining these renewals suggests actual future availability may be much higher.
Facility Availability Summary
| As at Dec 31, 2020 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limit | Utilized | Available | Renewal Date | |
| ($,000's) | ||||
| Bank Borrowing - Connect First Credit Union Ltd. | 2,500 | - | 2,500 | Non-Expiring |
| Bank Borrowing - Canadian Schedule 1 Chartered Bank | 20,000 | 4 | 19,996 | 29-Jan-21 |
| Securitization - Securcor Trust1 | 50,000 | 16,674 | 33,326 | 31-Jul-21 |
| Securitization - Connect First Credit Union Ltd.2 | 47,500 | 29,376 | 18,124 | Non-Expiring |
| Securitization - Canadian Schedule 1 Chartered Bank | 40,000 | 19,428 | 20,572 | 29-Jan-21 |
| Total active facilities | 160,000 | 65,482 | 94,518 | |
| Non-readvanceable facilities3 | 114,482 | 114,482 | - | |
| Total | 274,482 | 179,964 | 94,518 |
1 Calculated as the sum of Tranches received, does not include repayments, and does not equal Securitized Debt.
2 Revolving Securitization Facility
3 Reported as the Securitized Debt that is now removed from facility utilization. Amounts are not readvanceable.
The Company manages its liquidity and capital resources by utilizing financial leverage through a diversified and balanced approach. The Company’s ability to access funding at competitive rates through various economic cycles, enables it to maintain necessary liquidity and is an important condition to future success.
The Company’s primary sources of liquidity are (i) cash flows from operations, (ii) bank borrowing, (iii) securitization, (iv) unsecured debentures (v) term debt, and (vi) equity. The Company’s primary use of cash is the funding of finance receivables and the funding of working capital.
In order to maintain access to liquidity from external sources, certain financial covenants must be maintained. From time to time, and typically at facility renewal, these covenants are subject to negotiation and revision.
Rifco’s increased loan loss provision in quarter four of fiscal 2020 relating to the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic created a covenant violation with its funders relating to EBITDA, despite being a non-cash forward-looking estimate. Subsequent to March 31, 2020, a renewal of the facility of comparable size and terms was obtained. The facility no longer has an EBITDA covenant. The Company is in compliance with all covenants under the new facility.
| Total Debt to Tangible Net Worth Ratio | As | at | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nogreater than 10.0x | Dec 31, 2020 | Mar | 31, 2020 |
| ($,000's except ratios) | |||
| Total Debt | 168,640 | 189,113 | |
| Tangible Net Worth | 32,658 | 37,200 | |
| Total Debt to Tangible Net Worth Ratio | 5.16 | 5.08 |
1 See the section “Description of Non-IFRS Measures” for these definitions
16
Bank Borrowing
Bank borrowings is comprised of two credit facilities.
The Company has a revolving credit facility with Connect First Credit Union Ltd. of $2.5M. The Company has provided a general security agreement covering all Company assets that is subordinated to the registered senior debt holders. The facility does not have any expiry date and is due on demand. The amount drawn on this facility at period end was Nil.
The Company obtained a revolving credit facility with a Canadian Schedule I Chartered Bank for $20.0M effective January 29, 2020. This facility functions as a warehouse facility and finances the capital cost of an originated loan less one month’s payment for up to 90 days. After 90 days, the Company must either securitize the loan with the Canadian Schedule I Chartered Bank or another approved financial institution. The facility has a January 29, 2021 renewal date. The amount drawn on this facility at period end was $0.0M.
On January 29, 2021, Rifco received notification of the successful annual renewal of its warehouse facility. The facility was decreased from $20.0M to $10.0M at Rifco’s request to manage the cost of stand-by fees. The other terms and conditions of the warehouse facility largely remain the same.
Unsecured Debentures
The Company issues unsecured debentures. Unsecured debentures allow Rifco the right to redeem the debenture in the last year of the agreement without penalty. The unsecured debenture holders do not have early retraction rights and have no right to convert into common shares. All unsecured debentures allow Rifco certain rights to redeem the debentures upon a change of control of the Company. The unsecured debentures have an asset coverage covenant. Non-compliance with this covenant could result in the debenture holders declaring an event of default and requiring all amounts outstanding to be immediately due and payable. The Company was compliant for the reporting period. The unsecured debentures are non-retractable with maturity dates that vary between February 2021 and November 2025. The Company has been successful in renewing or replacing maturing unsecured debentures in the past.
Unsecured debentures issued and outstanding decreased by $1.3M from $11.5M at prior year end to $10.2M.
Securitization Facilities
The Company maintains securitization facilities with Securcor Trust and a Canadian Schedule I Charter Bank. The securitization debt with Securcor Trust and a Canadian Schedule I Charter Bank are annual committed facilities and future renewals are independent of previous facilities. The current annual commitment of the Securcor Trust facility is $50.0M and has a $16.7M utilization for the current period. Rifco has a 15-year history of successfully renewing its annual securitization facilities.
The Company’s securitization facility with a Canadian Schedule I Charter Bank facility had $19.4M utilization for the current period. This facility has an annual expected utilization of $40.0M and a renewal date of January 29, 2021.
On January 29, 2021, Rifco received notification of the successful annual renewal of its securitization debt facility. The terms and conditions of the facility largely remain the same.
The securitization facility with Securcor Trust is subject to certain covenants. These covenants include a maximum debt to tangible net worth ratio, a minimum tangible net worth covenant and maximum delinquency and credit loss ratios. Noncompliance with any of these covenants could result in the securitizer declaring an event of default and restricting the Company from selling finance receivables into the facility, receiving future releases from the cash holdback or being forced to remit the full payment stream from over collateralized loans.
As at December 31, 2020, the Company was in compliance with all covenants. As at March 31, 2020 the Company was not in compliance with its EBITDA covenant with respect to securitization debt due to the significant increase in loan loss provisioning in anticipation of the impact of COVID-19. Subsequent to March 31, 2020, a renewal of the facility was obtained. The facility no longer has an EBITDA covenant. The new covenants were applied retroactively to March 31, 2020. The Company is in compliance with all covenants under the new facility.
The Company maintains a revolving $47.5M securitization facility with Connect First Credit Union Ltd. The securitization facility includes three additional Alberta Credit Unions, with Connect First Credit Union Ltd. The facility has no expiry date. The facility has a fixed limit of $47.5M and was utilized to $29.4M at December 31, 2020.
17
The Company regularly securitizes loans in order to free up bank borrowing capacity, increase working capital and fix funding rates and terms.
Management determines securitization transaction levels by weighing a number of factors, some of which are as follows:
-
Growth rate of originations
-
Management of key financial ratios
-
Securitization pricing in context of other financing alternatives
If required, the Company’s liquidity can be positively impacted by securitizing owned finance receivables. Owned finance receivables have decreased by $11.2M to $24.4M at December 31, 2020 from $35.6M at March 31, 2020. Securitization of finance receivables would typically contribute net cash proceeds at the time of the transaction.
The Company originated $36.7M in finance receivables in the period and securitized $45.3M in loan principal representing 123.6% of originations.
The Company is in regular contact with all of its funders and remains optimistic regarding the availability of bank borrowing facilities and securitized facilities through the current fiscal period and beyond. The Company manages origination rates, credit facilities, and Net Financing Margin in order to maximize liquidity and maintain acceptable profitability. The interest rates and credit facility limits currently being received are expected to allow for profitable growth.
Cash flow measurements
The following tables contain non-IFRS measures and therefore should not be considered, in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared and presented in accordance with IFRS.
Modified Funds Flow from Operations
| For | the three | months ended | months ended | For | the nine | months ended | months ended | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec | **31, 2020 ** | Dec | 31, 2019 | Dec | 31, 2020 | Dec | 31, 2019 | |
| ($,000's except per share) | ||||||||
| Net cash flows from (used in) operating activities | 5,877 | (58) | 32,991 | (420) | ||||
| Funds advanced on finance receivables | 17,882 | 27,155 | 36,674 | 84,305 | ||||
| Principal collections of finance receivables | (20,874) | (22,762) | (59,415) | (71,467) | ||||
| Credit losses net of recoveries | (1,893) | (3,824) | (5,929) | (11,017) | ||||
| Income taxes paid | 9 | 3 | 9 | 3 | ||||
| Origination costs and discounts - net | 783 | 1,204 | 2,091 | 3,983 | ||||
| Settlement received | - | - | (1,500) | - | ||||
| Other receivables, payables andprepaid expenses | (237) | (1,002) | 1,906 | (1,910) | ||||
| Modified Funds Flow From Operations | 1,547 | 716 | 6,827 | 3,477 | ||||
| Weighted average number of common shares | 21,628 | 21,597 | 21,612 | 21,597 | ||||
| Modified Funds Flow From Operations per share | $ | 0.07 |
$ | 0.03 |
$ | 0.32 |
$ | 0.16 |
The Modified Funds Flow from Operations table provides useful information as it is not directly impacted by variability in the level of loan Originations. Modified Funds Flow from Operations represents cash generation for the period excluding activities relating to the finance receivables balance.
Modified Funds Flow from Operations was $6.8M in the current period, a 96.35% increase from $3.5M in the comparative period. Modified Funds Flow from Operations was $1.5M, in the current quarter, a 116.20% increase from $0.7M, in the comparative quarter. Modified Funds Flow from Operations of $0.32 per share for the period, compared with $0.16 per share in the comparative period.
18
Equity
| As | at | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Mar | 31, 2020 | |
| ($,000's except per share) | |||
| Adjusted Equity | 33,408 | 37,321 | |
| Less: Provision for impairment - after tax1 | 10,642 | 11,263 | |
| Equity | 22,766 | 26,058 | |
| Shares outstanding | 21,750 | 21,597 | |
| Adjusted Book Value per Share | $1.54 | $1.73 | |
| Book value per share | $1.05 | $1.21 |
1 Current weighted average tax rate of 23.66% assumed constant for life of provision for impairment for Dec 31, 2020. Weighted average tax rate of 26% assumed constant for life of provision for impairment for Mar 31, 2020.
Equity decreased to $22.8M from $26.1M at March 31, 2020. Adjusted Equity decreased by $3.9M to $33.4M from $37.3M. Adjusted Book Value Per Share decreased to $1.54 from $1.73 at March 31, 2020. The decrease is due to the $0.35 per common share dividend declared and paid in December 2020 offset by earnings in the period.
Leverage Measurements
| As | at | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 | Mar | 31, 2020 | |
| ($,000's except ratio) | |||
| Total assets | 201,593 | 228,328 | |
| Adjusted Equity | 33,408 | 37,321 | |
| Leverage Ratio | 6.03 | 6.12 |
The Leverage Ratio has decreased from 6.12 at year end to 6.03 at period end. The decrease is due to the decrease in total asset balance offset by the decrease in adjusted equity due to the common share dividend paid.
Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth short and long-term obligations as at period end and the timing of future payments under those obligations. The obligations include the operating leases for premises, unsecured debentures, securitized debt, and software hosting agreements.
The lease liability consists of premises lease commitments. Penalties would be incurred if early termination was required.
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| Payments due by period | Payments due by period | Payments due by period | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 | Over 5 | |||||
| year | 1 to 3 years | 4 to 5 | years | years | Total | |
| ($,000's) | ||||||
| Accounts payable and accruals | 9,721 | - | - | - | 9,721 | |
| Securitization debt - undiscounted1 | 55,598 | 115,673 | 22,625 | 828 | 194,724 | |
| Unsecured debentures2 | 2,923 | 7,237 | 1,797 | - | 11,957 | |
| Lease liability3 | 254 | 558 | 615 | 383 | 1,810 | |
| Purchase obligations4 | 163 | 83 | - | - | 246 | |
| Total contractual obligations | 58,938 | 123,551 | 25,037 | 1,211 | 208,737 |
1Securitization debt is presented as the total stream of payments less the offset of the cash holdback released in the corresponding year. No provisions have been made for credit losses or loan prepayments. 2 Unsecured debentures – repayments of principal and future interest 3 Lease liabilities is presented as total stream of payments. 4 Purchase obligations – an agreement to purchase goods or services that is enforceable and legally binding to the Company. The Company’s obligations are for its software agreements.
Management and Board of Directors Compensation
As at December 31, 2020, the Company had four executive officers that receive regular employment income (including bonuses). On December 11, 2020 the existing CEO resigned from the Company and was replaced. The total amount paid to the four executive officers, including contractual severance to the previous CEO, during the period was $1.0M which is an increase of $0.2M from the $0.8M paid in the comparative period. Executive officers also receive certain approved itemized expense reimbursement.
On December 11, 2020 the number of directors of the Company was reduced from six directors, five of which were independent, to four directors, three of which are independent. Each director, other than the CEO, receives an annual retainer of $13,333 and an additional $3,333 for Chairman of the Board and $2,000 for Committee Chairman positions held. Non-management directors receive meeting fees of $500 per day or $250 per day for virtual meetings and reimbursement of normal travel expenses. The fees and non-cash stock based compensation paid to independent directors in the period was $0.0M compared to $0.1M, in the comparable period, in addition to normal itemized expense reimbursement.
The CEO is a director but does not receive any additional compensation for services rendered in such capacity.
Related Party Balances and Transactions
During the quarter, related parties were holders of unsecured debentures in the Company. The terms offered to related parties for the unsecured debentures are identical to those offered to non-related debenture holders.
At period end, the total debentures held by related parties was $1.8M (March 31, 2020 - $3.0M). None of the related parties are officers or directors. The related parties are comprised of relatives of certain officers and employees of the Company who currently hold $1.8M (March 31, 2020 - $1.7M) in debentures with varying terms. In addition, $0.0M (March 31, 2020 - $1.3M) in debentures with varying terms are held by relatives and companies related to a non-management insider. These transactions are in the normal course of business and consideration established and agreed to by the related parties is at arm’s length. Total interest paid to related parties in the period was $0.1M compared to $0.2M, in the comparable period.
Costs incurred by the concerned shareholder group in conjunction with the Annual General and Special Meeting of the Company were paid by the Company in the amount of $0.4M. These amounts were recorded as operating expenses in the quarter.
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Risk Factors and Management
In addition to the other information contained in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis, shareholders and prospective investors should give careful consideration to the following factors.
General
There are trends and factors that may be beyond management’s control which affect the Company’s operations and business. Such trends and factors include adverse changes in the conditions in the specific markets for Rifco products and services, the conditions in the broader market for vehicle and consumer financing and the conditions in the domestic or global economy generally. Although the Company’s performance is affected by the general condition of the economy, not all of its service areas are affected equally. It is not possible for management to accurately predict economic fluctuations and the impact of such fluctuations on the Company’s performance.
Consumer Protection Laws and Government Regulations Risk
Consumer protection legislation specifically targeting high rate lenders is being introduced and/or being signed into law in various jurisdictions across Canada. Management is actively monitoring proposed and effective legislation, as well as participating in feedback exercises, primarily through its legal advisors and trade associations. Any legislation currently proposed is not expected to materially impact the Company’s operations. Numerous consumer protection laws and related regulations impose substantial requirements upon lenders involved in consumer finance. Also, federal and provincial laws impose restrictions on consumer transactions and require contract disclosures relating to the cost of borrowing and other matters. These requirements impose specific statutory liabilities upon creditors who fail to comply with their provisions. Courts have applied general equitable principles to secured parties pursuing repossession or litigation involving deficiency balances. These equitable principles may have the effect of relieving an obligor from some or all of the legal consequences of default.
Rifco currently operates in an unregulated environment with regards to capital requirements. However, the Criminal Code of Canada imposes a restriction on the cost of borrowing in any lending transaction of 60%. The application of capital requirements or a reduction in the maximum cost of borrowing could impact the Company’s ability to operate profitably.
Lending Risk
Rifco’s finance receivables consist primarily of non-traditional loans to borrowers who may have had previous financial difficulties or may not yet have a sufficient credit history. These are borrowers that cannot meet the credit standards required by traditional lenders. There is a higher degree of risk associated with these borrowers. For this reason Rifco charges higher interest rates and expects to experience higher levels of delinquencies and credit losses than traditional lenders. Rifco cannot guarantee that delinquency and credit loss levels will correspond with historical levels experienced. There is risk that Delinquency Rates and Credit Loss Rates could increase significantly.
Rifco maintains a uniform set of credit standards and a Credit Model to support the credit approval process. Rifco utilizes riskbased pricing through its pricing matrix system to accurately reflect increasing levels of risk. Many applications are approved with a significant number of conditions and many contracts are not funded due to the borrower’s inability to comply with approval conditions.
Rifco maintains a proactive position on collection of its finance receivables. The Company’s systems collect payments electronically which provides for quick notification of delinquencies. Delinquent borrowers are normally contacted on the same day the Company learns that a payment has not cleared their account. Rifco reports to both credit reporting agencies in order to provide customers with additional motivation to make timely payments.
For each finance receivable granted, Rifco obtains a registered charge against the collateral through the Personal Property Security Acts (PPSA) in the applicable province. Any failure to obtain such a registration as contemplated in the PPSA may result in not perfecting a lien/security interest position in the related financed vehicle and may jeopardize the Company’s ability to realize on the collateral.
In addition to the payment performance of the obligor, certain factors may affect the ability to recoup the full amount due on a finance receivable include:
- Depreciation, damage, or loss of any financed vehicle.
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Insufficient or no insurance coverage being maintained.
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Fraud or forgery by the persons financing their vehicle.
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Fraud by the dealer offering Rifco financing.
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Priority liens on financed vehicles.
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The application of federal and provincial bankruptcy and insolvency laws.
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Federal or provincial laws may prohibit, limit, or delay repossession and sale of the vehicles to recover losses on defaulted finance receivables, as well as limit Rifco’s right to sue for any deficiency.
The lockdowns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly impacted automobile sales and have therefore decreased Rifco loan originations with the most noticeable impact beginning in April. The current COVID-19 pandemic and associated lock-downs could also foreseeably impact the timing and values obtained in vehicle liquidation.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company’s financial condition is adversely affected by an inability to meet funding obligations and support its business growth. The Company manages its capital to maintain its ability to continue as a going concern and to provide adequate returns to shareholders. The capital structure of the Company consists of external debt and shareholders’ equity, which comprises issued capital, contributed surplus and retained earnings.
The Company manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it in light of economic conditions. The Company, upon approval from its Board of Directors, will balance its overall capital structure through the issuance of unsecured debentures, increasing or decreasing debt or by undertaking other activities, such as new share issuances, as deemed appropriate under the specific circumstances. The Company’s liquidity and funding strategies and objectives have not changed significantly from the prior year.
The Company’s bank borrowing facility and securitization facilities must be negotiated and renewed on a periodic basis. If the Company were unable to renew these facilities, on acceptable terms, when they became due, there could be a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
The unsecured debentures have an asset coverage covenant. Non-compliance with this covenant could result in the debenture holders declaring an event of default and requiring all amounts outstanding to be immediately due and payable.
The Securcor Trust securitization facility is subject to certain covenants. These covenants include a minimum net worth ratio, a maximum debt to tangible net worth ratio and a maximum delinquency and Credit Loss Rate and a Marginal Asset Test covenant. Non-compliance with any of these covenants could restrict the Company from selling finance receivables into the trust, receiving future releases from the cash holdback or be forced to remit the full payment stream from over collateralized loans.
The Canadian Schedule 1 Chartered Bank facility is subject to certain covenants. These covenants include a minimum net worth, and a maximum delinquency and Credit Loss Rate. Non-compliance with any of these covenants could restrict the Company from selling finance receivables into the trust, receiving future releases from the cash holdback or be forced to remit the full payment stream from over collateralized loans.
Should the Company default on any of its facilities or on its unsecured debentures, there could be a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
Competition Risk
Vehicle purchase financing is a highly competitive market place. Some of the companies that compete in this market place on a national level often have significantly more financial, technical and human resources than Rifco. They may have solid reputations with dealers, debt providers, and greater market experience. Competitors are sometimes considerably larger and may be funded at a lower cost than Rifco can currently obtain.
Personnel Risk
Certain Rifco employees are important to its continued success. Senior executive management is not governed by management contracts. If any of these persons would be unable or unwilling to continue in their employment with the Company there could be a material adverse effect on delinquency, default, credit loss rates, originations, and financial results.
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Technology Risk
Rifco is dependent upon the successful and uninterrupted functioning of its computer, internet, and data processing systems. The failure of these systems could interrupt operations or materially impact management’s ability to originate and service customer accounts. If sustained or repeated, a system failure could negatively affect financial results.
Although Rifco has an extensive disaster recovery plan, which includes:
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Routinely backing up key software applications.
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Databases and hardware are subject to strict security controls.
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Off-site data backup storage with remote facility set up capabilities.
Unforeseen information loss to the Company could occur.
Economic Conditions Risk
Rifco is subject to changes in general economic conditions that are beyond its control. During times of economic slowdown or recession Rifco would generally expect to see higher delinquencies, defaults, repossessions, and credit losses which could result in the following:
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Decreased consumer demand.
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Reduced returns on repossessed vehicles.
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Delayed timing on repossession sales.
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Increase in collection staff to handle higher delinquency.
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Increased operating expenses with potentially no revenue increase.
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Sustained poor economic conditions could affect the liquidity of the Company.
Interest Rate Risk
Although, Rifco’s interest rate risk has declined due to its financing strategy of matched funding through securitizations with fixed rates and locked in terms for unsecured debentures, Rifco does maintain minimal bank borrowing with variable rates.
An increase in interest rates would have an effect on Net Financing Margin through the pricing of securitizations at the time of sale. Generally, an increased rate environment would negatively affect Rifco’s business as market conditions may limit the Company’s ability to increase rates charged. Marginal interest rates could rise to the point where the Company’s business model could be stressed.
Dealer Risk
Each dealer is required to sign an agreement outlining the terms of conduct required to enable them to process applications to Rifco. There is no recourse against a dealer for non-performance by the obligor. Rifco maintains a dealer network in all provinces except Quebec. Management monitors portfolio originations, delinquencies and credit losses by dealer on a regular basis. Ongoing negative trends or an indication of misrepresentation by a dealer will result in the relationship being terminated. There is no guarantee that the dealer network will continue to generate referrals at the current rate.
Environmental Risk
Rifco and its activities have no direct significant impact on the environment.
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Description of Non-IFRS Measures
Throughout this MD&A, management uses the following terms and ratios not found in IFRS and which do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers, and therefore require definition. Management uses these measures to evaluate performance of the Company. These non-IFRS measures and additional information should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Adjusted Book Value Per Share – Adjusted Equity divided by the total number of issued and outstanding common shares.
Adjusted Efficiency Ratio – Adjusted Operating Expenses divided by financial revenue reported as an annualized percentage.
Adjusted Equity – Shareholders equity plus after tax provision for impairment.
Adjusted Net Income Before Taxes – Income before taxes adjusted for non-cash change in provision for impairment and expenses related to the Strategic review process.
Adjusted Net Financial Income Before Operating Expenses – Net financial income before operating expenses adjusted for non-cash change in provision for impairment.
Adjusted Net Income Before Tax Per Common Share – Adjusted Net Income Before Taxes divided by average common shares outstanding.
Adjusted Operating Expenses – Operating expenses less expenses associated with the Strategic review process
Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio – Adjusted Operating Expenses as a percentage of average loan receivables.
Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Adjusted Equity – Adjusted Net Income Before Taxes as a percent of average Adjusted Equity.
Adjusted Return Pre-Tax on Earning Assets – Adjusted Net Income Before Taxes as a percent of average loan receivables.
Modified Funds Flow from Operations – Includes cash generation for the period excluding activities relating to finance receivables advanced and collected, origination costs, income taxes and others shown on statement of cash flows in the financial statements.
Modified Funds Flow from Operations Per Share – Modified Funds Flow from Operations divided by the average number of issued and outstanding common shares.
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Glossary of Other Terms and Measures
Contract Interest Rate – The implicit interest rate that is utilized to calculate the borrower’s regularly schedule payment.
Credit Loss Rate – The total of all credit losses, including all repossession and recovery expenses for the period divided into the average loan receivables, expressed as an annualized percentage.
Credit Spread – Total financial revenue less total credit losses.
Credit Spread Rate – Net Portfolio Yield less Credit Loss Rate.
Credit Model – The policies and processes that are followed in order to adjudicate credit applications with the goal of predictable credit losses and attractive Return on Earning Assets.
Delinquency Rate – Delinquent finance receivables divided by the total finance receivables expressed as a percentage.
Financial Expense Ratio – Financial expenses for the period as a percentage of average loan receivables, annualized.
Gross Portfolio Yield – The sum of interest income, discount income and fee income divided by average loan receivables reported as an annualized percentage.
Gross Financial Revenue – Financial revenue plus amortization of origination costs.
Leverage Ratio – Assets divided by Adjusted Equity. This is an important industry standard measurement that can be used to compare Companies and an increasing trend to a higher Leverage Ratio could indicate increasing risk.
Net Financing Margin - Net financing income before impairment divided by average finance receivables reported as an annualized percentage.
Net Portfolio Yield – Financial revenue divided by average loan receivables reported as an annualized percentage.
Operating Expense Ratio – Total operating expenses divided by average loan receivables reported as an annualized percentage.
Platform (Origination and Servicing Platform) – The proprietary systems and processes used to originate and service finance receivables with predictable credit performance. Also see Credit Model.
Tangible Net Worth – Total equity plus unsecured debentures minus intangible assets (including unamortized leasehold improvements), amounts due by officers, subsidiaries and/or related parties.
Total Debt – Total bank debt, accounts payable and accruals, income taxes payable and securitization debt.
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