UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2011

OR

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number 001-15799
 
Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Florida
 
65-0701248
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification Number)

4400 Biscayne Boulevard, 12th Floor
   
Miami, Florida
 
33137
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(212) 409-2000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.                                                                                                                                                Yes þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
                                                                                                                                 Yes þ  No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
¨
 
Accelerated filer
x
Non-accelerated filer
¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company
¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).                                                                                                                                                  Yes ¨  No þ
As of July 31, 2011, there were 183,127,805 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.
 
 
 

 

LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
     
Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
 
     
Item 1.
Financial Statements:
   
       
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of June 30, 2011 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2010
 
2
       
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 (Unaudited) and 2010 (Unaudited)
 
3
       
 
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the six months ended June 30, 2011 (Unaudited)
 
4
       
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2011 (Unaudited) and 2010  (Unaudited)
 
5
       
 
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
6
       
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
13
       
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
21
       
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
 
21
       
PART  II. OTHER INFORMATION
   
       
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
 
21
       
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
 
21
       
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
  21
       
Item 6.
Exhibits
 
22
       
SIGNATURES
 
23
 
 
1

 
 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1. Financial Statements

LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
   
June 30,
 2011
(Unaudited)
   
December 31,
 2010
 
ASSETS
           
             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 9,190     $ 6,927  
Securities owned at fair value
    2,517       2,662  
Receivables from clearing broker.
    21,327       18,073  
Receivables from other broker-dealers
    3,039       1,364  
Other receivables, net
    11,225       9,162  
Furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements, net
    2,427       2,805  
Restricted assets
    150       200  
Intangible assets, net
    25,165       26,431  
Goodwill
    29,711       29,719  
Unamortized debt issue cost
    1,457       1,597  
Other assets
    3,352       2,885  
                 
Total assets
  $ 109,560     $ 101,825  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
                 
Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value
  $ 1,758     $ 10  
Accrued compensation
    4,960       5,328  
Commissions and fees payable
    10,183       9,264  
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    5,590       6,751  
Deferred rent
    2,647       2,928  
Deferred income taxes
    2,827       2,418  
Accrued interest
    587       328  
Notes payable
    31,958       27,879  
                 
Total liabilities
    60,510       54,906  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 6)
               
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Preferred stock, $.0001 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized; none issued
    -       -  
Common stock, $.0001 par value; 400,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding, 183,057,940 in 2011 and 183,496,492 in 2010
    18       18  
Additional paid-in capital
    192,946       191,424  
Accumulated deficit
    (143,914 )     (144,523 )
                 
Total shareholders’ equity
    49,050       46,919  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 109,560     $ 101,825  

See accompanying notes.
 
 
2

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2011
   
2010
 
                         
Revenues:
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Commissions
  $ 30,119     $ 25,648     $ 58,852     $ 51,650  
Advisory fees
    17,191       12,841       32,949       23,698  
Investment banking
    10,549       6,655       21,662       11,421  
Principal transactions
    (628 )     (161 )     (1,052 )     130  
Interest and dividends
    132       137       289       263  
Other income
    2,868       2,464       4,733       4,393  
                                 
Total revenues
  $ 60,231     $ 47,584     $ 117,433     $ 91,555  
                                 
Expenses:
                               
                                 
Commissions and fees
  $ 37,815     $ 28,624     $ 71,687     $ 55,550  
Compensation and benefits
    12,457       10,892       26,600       22,231  
Non-cash compensation
    1,127       1,605       2,084       3,365  
Brokerage, communication and clearance fees
    1,674       1,770       3,423       3,354  
Rent and occupancy, net of sublease revenue
    793       760       1,615       1,534  
Professional services
    954       1,035       1,985       2,147  
Interest
    820       936       1,648       1,892  
Depreciation and amortization
    895       1,018       1,788       2,034  
Other
    3,175       2,985       5,327       5,653  
                                 
Total expenses
    59,710       49,625       116,157       97,760  
                                 
Income (loss) before income taxes
    521       (2,041 )     1,276       (6,205 )
                                 
Income tax expense
    321       188       667       427  
                                 
Net income (loss)
  $ 200     $ (2,229 )   $ 609     $ (6,632 )
                                 
Net income (loss)  per common share (basic and diluted)
  $ 0.00     $ (0.01 )   $ 0.00     $ (0.04 )
                                 
Weighted average common shares used in computation of per share data:
                               
Basic
    183,048,031       170,744,411       183,199,813       169,326,908  
Diluted
    187,005,916       170,744,411       186,659,078       169,326,908  

See accompanying notes.
 
 
3

 

LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands, except share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Common Stock
   
Additional
Paid-In
   
Accumulated
       
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Deficit
   
Total
 
                               
Balance, December 31, 2010
    183,496,492     $ 18     $ 191,424     $ (144,523 )   $ 46,919  
                                         
Issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan
    37,410             45             45  
                                         
Exercise of stock options
    110,000             90             90  
                                         
Stock options granted to members of former Advisory Board and consultants
                    23               23  
                                         
Stock-based compensation to employees
                2,001             2,001  
                                         
Issuance of restricted stock (net of 59,537 shares forfeited)
                60             60  
                                         
Repurchase and retirement of common stock
    (585,962 )           (697 )           (697 )
                                         
Net income
                      609       609  
                                         
Balance, June 30, 2011
    183,057,940     $ 18     $ 192,946     $ (143,914 )   $ 49,050  
 
See accompanying notes.
 
 
4

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Six months ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income (loss)
  $ 609     $ (6,632 )
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements
    522       520  
Adjustment to deferred rent
    (281 )     (209 )
Amortization of debt discount
    35       200  
Amortization of intangible assets
    1,266       1,514  
Amortization of debt issue cost
    140       141  
Deferred income taxes
    409       366  
Benefit attributable to reduction of goodwill
    8        
Non-cash compensation expense
    2,084       3,365  
Loss on disposal of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements
          4  
                 
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
               
Securities owned at fair value
    145       (1,088 )
Receivables from clearing broker
    (3,254 )     77  
Receivables from other broker-dealers
    (1,675 )     (773 )
Other receivables, net
    (2,063 )     760  
Other assets
    (502 )     391  
                 
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
               
Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value
    1,748        
Accrued compensation
    (368 )     (83 )
Accrued interest
    259       269  
Commissions and fees payable
    919       (368 )
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    (1,161 )     (1,332 )
Net cash used in operating activities
    (1,160 )     (2,878 )
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Purchases of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements
    (109 )     (123 )
Decrease in restricted assets
    50       150  
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (59 )     27  
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Issuance of common stock in private equity offering
          13,209  
Issuance of common stock under stock plans
    135       104  
Repurchases of common stock
    (697 )     (64 )
Principal borrowings (payments) under revolving credit facility, net
    5,000       (6,700 )
Principal payments on other notes payable
    (956 )     (3,427 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
    3,482       3,122  
                 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    2,263       271  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    6,927       5,702  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 9,190     $ 5,973  
                 
Supplemental cash flow information
               
Interest paid
  $ 1,205     $ 1,269  
Taxes paid
    73       16  
 
See accompanying notes.
 
 
5

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

1.
Description of Business and Basis of Presentation

Description of Business

Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services Inc. (the “Company”) is a holding company.  Its wholly-owned principal operating subsidiaries are Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. (“Ladenburg”), Investacorp, Inc. (collectively with related companies, “Investacorp”), Triad Advisors, Inc. (“Triad”), Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management Inc. (“LTAM”) and Premier Trust, Inc. (“Premier”).
 
Ladenburg is a full service registered broker-dealer that has been a member of the New York Stock Exchange since 1879. Broker-dealer activities include sales and trading and investment banking. Ladenburg provides its services principally for middle market and emerging growth companies and high net worth individuals through a coordinated effort among corporate finance, capital markets, brokerage and trading professionals.
 
Investacorp and Triad are registered broker-dealers and investment advisors that have been serving the independent financial advisor community since 1978 and 1998, respectively. Investacorp’s and Triad’s independent financial advisors primarily serve retail clients. Investacorp and Triad derive revenue from advisory fees and commissions, primarily from the sale of mutual funds, variable annuity products and other financial products and services.
 
LTAM is a registered investment advisor. It offers various asset management products utilized by Ladenburg and Premier’s clients, as well as clients of Investacorp’s and Triad’s financial advisors.
 
Premier, acquired on September 1, 2010, is a Nevada trust company formed in 2001.  Premier provides wealth management services, including trust administration of personal and retirement accounts, estate and financial planning and custody services. Pro forma results of operations as if Premier was acquired as of January 1, 2010 are not presented because they are not material.
 
Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad customer transactions are cleared through a single clearing broker on a fully-disclosed basis.  Each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad is subject to regulation by, among others, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board.

Basis of Presentation

The condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  In the opinion of management, the interim data includes all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the periods presented.  Because of the nature of the Company’s business, interim period results may not be indicative of full year or future results.
 
The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all information and notes required in annual audited financial statements in conformity with GAAP. The statement of financial condition at December 31, 2010 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date, but does not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statement presentation. Please refer to the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed with the SEC, for additional disclosures and a description of accounting policies.
 
Certain prior year items have been reclassified to conform to the current period’s presentation.  All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
 
The Company has evaluated all subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued.
 
 
6

 

LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
2.
Securities Owned and Securities Sold, But Not Yet Purchased
 
The components of securities owned and securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 were as follows:
 
   
Securities
owned
   
Securities sold,
but not yet purchased
 
June 30, 2011
           
Common stock and warrants
  $ 728     $ 1,749  
Restricted common stock and warrants
    1,789       9  
Total
  $ 2,517     $ 1,758  
                 
December 31, 2010
               
Common stock and warrants
  $ 577     $ 10  
Restricted common stock and warrants
    2,085        
Total
  $ 2,662     $ 10  

 
As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, approximately $990 and $666, respectively, of securities owned were deposited with the Company’s subsidiaries’ clearing broker. Under the clearing agreements with such clearing broker, the securities may be sold or hypothecated by such clearing broker.
 
Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value represent obligations of the Company’s subsidiaries to purchase the specified financial instrument at the then current market price.  Accordingly, these transactions result in off-balance-sheet risk as the Company's subsidiaries’ ultimate obligation to repurchase such securities may exceed the amount recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.

 
The fair value hierarchy, established under authoritative accounting guidance, ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. Financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:

 
Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 
Level 2 — Inputs other than quoted prices in active markets, which are directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability.

 
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability where there is little or no market data, which requires the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

Securities are carried at fair value and classified as follows:

As of June 30, 2011:

Securities owned, at fair value
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Common stock and warrants
  $ 728     $ 1,789     $     $ 2,517  
Total
  $ 728     $ 1,789     $     $ 2,517  

Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Common stock and warrants
  $ 1,749     $ 9     $     $ 1,758  
Total
  $ 1,749     $ 9     $     $ 1,758  
 
 
7

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
As of December 31, 2010:

 
Securities owned, at fair value
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Common stock and warrants
  $ 577     $ 2,085     $     $ 2,662  
Total
  $ 577     $ 2,085     $     $ 2,662  
                                 
Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Common stock and warrants
  $     $ 10     $     $ 10  
Total
  $     $ 10     $     $ 10  

Warrants are carried at a discount to fair value as determined by using the Black-Scholes option pricing model due to illiquidity.  This model takes into account the underlying securities' current market value, the market volatility of the underlying securities, the term of the warrants, exercise price, and risk-free rate of return.  As of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the fair value of the warrants was $1,355 and $1,907, respectively, and is included in common stock and warrants (level 2) above.

3.
Net Capital Requirements

As a registered broker-dealer, Ladenburg is subject to the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1, which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Ladenburg has elected to compute its net capital under the alternative method allowed by this rule.  At June 30, 2011, Ladenburg had net capital, as defined by such rule, of $6,960, which exceeded its minimum capital requirement, as defined, of $250, by $6,710.

Investacorp and Triad are also subject to the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1, which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital and requires that the ratio of aggregate indebtedness to net capital, both as defined in such rule, shall not exceed 15 to 1. At June 30, 2011, Investacorp had net capital of $2,079, which was $1,762 in excess of its required net capital of $317. Investacorp’s net capital ratio was 2.29 to 1. At June 30, 2011, Triad had net capital of $3,682, which was $3,142 in excess of its required net capital of $540. Triad’s net capital ratio was 2.2 to 1.

Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad claim exemptions from the provisions of the SEC’s Rule 15c3-3 pursuant to paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of such rule as they clear their customer transactions through a correspondent broker on a fully disclosed basis.

Premier, chartered by the state of Nevada, is subject to regulation by the Nevada Department of Business and Industry Financial Institutions Division.  Under Nevada law, Premier must maintain minimum stockholder’s equity of at least $1,000. At June 30, 2011, Premier had stockholder’s equity of $2,159.

4.
Income Taxes
 
 
The tax rate for the 2011 periods represents the actual effective tax rate for such period, which the Company believes represents the best estimate of the annual effective tax rate. The rate reflects the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards to offset taxable income and a deferred tax provision of $202 and $409 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively, related to goodwill which is amortized for tax purposes. The balance of the tax provision principally represents alternative minimum taxes for federal and state purposes.
 
Income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010 primarily represents deferred income taxes relating to amortization of goodwill for tax purposes. The income tax rate for the 2010 period did not bear a customary relationship to the effective tax rate, primarily as a result of the increase in the valuation allowance for the 2010 periods.

5.
Notes Payable

   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Note payable to affiliate of the Company’s principal shareholder
  $ 21,950     $ 16,950  
Note payable to former Triad shareholders, net of $4 and $39 of unamortized discount at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
    427       1,247  
Notes payable to clearing firm under forgivable loan
    8,571       8,571  
Note payable to a subsidiary of Premier’s former shareholder
    1,010       1,111  
Total
  $ 31,958     $ 27,879  
 
 
8

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

The Company estimates that the fair value of notes payable was $31,678 at June 30, 2011 and $28,625 at December 31, 2010 based on then current interest rates at which similar amounts of debt could currently be borrowed. As of June 30, 2011, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants in its debt agreements.

6.
Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation and Regulatory Matters

In May 2003, a suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York by Sedona Corporation against Ladenburg, former employees of Ladenburg and a number of other firms and individuals. The plaintiff alleged, among other things, that certain defendants (not Ladenburg) purchased convertible securities from plaintiff and then allegedly manipulated the market to obtain an increased number of shares from the conversion of those securities. Ladenburg acted as placement agent and not as principal in those transactions. Plaintiff’s original complaint alleged that Ladenburg and the other defendants violated federal securities laws and various state laws. In August 2005, Ladenburg’s motion to dismiss was granted in part and denied in part.  On May 27, 2009, the Court granted in part and denied in part motions to dismiss the Second Amended Complaint, and granted plaintiff leave to replead.  On July 9, 2009, plaintiff filed its Third Amended Complaint, which contains no claims under the federal securities laws, leaving only common law claims; the plaintiff seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $660,000 and punitive damages of $400,000.  Ladenburg’s motion to dismiss the Third Amended Complaint, filed on August 17, 2009, is currently pending.  The Company believes the plaintiff’s claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

In July 2004, a suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas by Pet Quarters, Inc. against Ladenburg, a former employee of Ladenburg and a number of other firms and individuals. The plaintiff alleged, among other things, that certain defendants (not Ladenburg) purchased convertible securities from the plaintiff and then allegedly manipulated the market to obtain an increased number of shares from the conversion of those securities. Ladenburg acted as placement agent and not as principal in those transactions. Plaintiff has alleged that Ladenburg and the other defendants violated federal securities laws and various state laws. The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages from the defendants of at least $400,000. In April 2006, Ladenburg’s motion to dismiss was granted in part and denied in part. On July 23, 2010, the plaintiff dismissed its claims against all defendants other than Ladenburg and the former Ladenburg employee.  In March 2011, the Court denied Ladenburg’s motion for reconsideration of the motion to dismiss as to the remaining claims.  The Company believes that the plaintiff’s claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

In July 2008, a suit was filed by BankAtlantic and BankAtlantic Bancorp, Inc. against Ladenburg and a former Ladenburg research analyst. The plaintiffs alleged, among other things, that research reports issued by defendants were false and defamatory, and that defendants were liable for defamation per se and negligence; the amount of the alleged damages was unspecified. In February 2010, the plaintiffs entered into a settlement agreement with Ladenburg resolving all claims against Ladenburg.  On July 1, 2010, the plaintiffs and the former research analyst dismissed the remaining claims with prejudice.  The former research analyst has commenced an arbitration claim against Ladenburg, the Company, and two Company directors for, among other things, indemnification and breach of contract, seeking reimbursement of expenses and other purported damages incurred in defending the suit.  The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

In January 2011, two former clients of Triad filed an arbitration claim concerning their U.S Internal Revenue Code Section 1031 like-kind exchange investments made in 2006. The customers have asserted claims for breach of contract, constructive fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, unsuitability, and failure to supervise, and are seeking approximately $1,800 in compensatory damages.  The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

In January 2011, two former clients of Triad filed an arbitration claim concerning variable annuities purchased in 2008. The customers have asserted claims for breach of contract, fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, unsuitability, negligent supervision, and violations of state securities statutes, and they are seeking approximately $442 in compensatory damages.  The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.
 
 
9

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
Eight arbitration claims have been filed against Triad in 2010 and 2011 by customers asserting that a former registered representative of Triad sold them, not through Triad, guaranteed investments that were fraudulent. The customers have asserted, among other claims, claims for fraud, negligence, theft, conversion, §10(b) violations, failure to supervise, respondeat superior, and breach of fiduciary and other duties, and are seeking a total of $660 in compensatory damages. The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

In March 2011, a former client of Triad filed an arbitration claim concerning unit investment trusts and other investments purchased in the customer’s account. The customer has asserted claims for negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, unsuitability, negligent supervision, and violations of state securities statutes, and is seeking an unspecified amount of compensatory damages.  The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them.

During the fourth quarter of 2009, one of the Company’s broker-dealer subsidiaries had a short-term net-capital deficiency, discovered during a routine regulatory review, which was not disclosed properly on a monthly FOCUS report.  The Company has taken corrective actions, including reporting the deficiency to governmental and self-regulatory organizations, filing amended FOCUS reports for historical periods, reviewing net capital compliance for historical periods, implementing new procedures to monitor net capital compliance, and terminating the employees who had primary responsibility for monitoring and reporting its net capital.  The Company is unable to determine whether and to what extent any governmental and/or self-regulatory organizations may seek to discipline the subsidiary concerning this matter.  Such disciplinary actions could include fines, a suspension of such subsidiary’s operations and/or rescission of revenues relating to the period of non-compliance, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the subsidiary's results of operations and financial condition.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company’s subsidiaries are defendants in litigation and arbitration proceedings and may be subject to unasserted claims or arbitrations primarily in connection with their activities as securities broker-dealers or as a result of services provided in connection with securities offerings. Such litigation and claims may involve substantial or indeterminate amounts and are in varying stages of legal proceedings. When the Company believes that it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated, the Company includes an estimate of such amount in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Upon final resolution, amounts payable may differ materially from amounts accrued. The Company had accrued liabilities in the amount of approximately $68 at June 30, 2011 and $286 at December 31, 2010 for these matters. For other pending matters, the Company is unable to estimate a range of possible loss; however, in the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel, the ultimate resolution of these matters should not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

7.
Off-Balance-Sheet Risk and Concentration of Credit Risk
 
Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad do not carry accounts for customers or perform custodial functions related to customers’ securities. They introduce all of their customer transactions, which are not reflected in these financial statements, to their clearing broker, which maintains cash and the customers’ accounts and clears such transactions. Also, the clearing broker provides the clearing and depository operations for proprietary securities transactions. These activities may expose the Company to off-balance-sheet risk in the event that customers do not fulfill their obligations to the clearing broker, as each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad has agreed to indemnify the clearing broker for any resulting losses. Each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad continually assesses risk associated with each customer who is on margin credit and records an estimated loss when management believes collection from the customer is unlikely.

The clearing operations for the Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad securities transactions are provided by one clearing broker, a large financial institution. At June 30, 2011, a significant percentage of securities owned and amounts due from clearing brokers reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition are positions held at, and amounts due from, this one clearing broker. The Company is subject to credit risk should this clearing broker be unable to fulfill its obligations.
 
 
10

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
In the normal course of its business, Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad may enter into transactions in financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These financial instruments consist of financial futures contracts, written equity index option contracts and securities sold, but not yet purchased. As of June 30, 2011, Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad were not contractually obligated for any equity index or financial futures contracts; however, Ladenburg and Triad sold securities that they do not own and will therefore be obligated to purchase such securities at a future date. These obligations have been recorded in the statements of financial condition at market values of the related securities and Ladenburg and Triad will incur a loss if the market value of the securities increases subsequent to June 30, 2011.

The Company and its subsidiaries maintain cash in bank deposit accounts, which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant credit risk on cash.

8.
Shareholders’ Equity

Repurchase Program

In March 2007, the Company’s board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to 2,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, depending on market conditions. The repurchase program is funded using approximately 15% of the Company’s EBITDA, as adjusted. As of June 30, 2011, 1,599,156 shares had been repurchased for $2,450 under the program, including 475,886 and 585,962 shares repurchased in the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively.

Stock Compensation Plans

On March 2, 2011, the Company granted to employees and directors options to purchase an aggregate of 3,300,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $1.28 per share. The options, which expire on March 2, 2021, vest in four equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date. The Company valued the options at $3,131 (fair value of $.95 per option) using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. 

In April 2011, the Company granted to employees and consultants ten year options to purchase an aggregate of 455,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at exercise prices ranging from $1.10 to $1.28 per share and vesting periods ranging from two to four years. The Company valued the options at $364 (weighted average fair value of $.80 per option) using the Black Scholes option pricing model.

As of June 30, 2011, there was $6,001 of unrecognized compensation cost for stock-based compensation, of which $3,121 related to the 2011 grants described above. This cost is expected to be recognized over the vesting periods of the options, which on a weighted-average basis are approximately 1.49 years for all grants and approximately 3.49 years for the 2011 grants.

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the six months ended June 30, 2011 was $48.

9.
Per Share Data

Basic net income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding.  The dilutive effect of common shares potentially issuable under outstanding options, warrants and restricted shares is included in diluted earnings per share.  The computations of basic and diluted per share data were as follows:

   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2011
   
2010
 
Net income (loss)
  $ 200     $ (2,229 )   $ 609     $ (6,632 )
Basic weighted-average shares
    183,048,031       170,744,411       183,199,813       169,326,908  
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Common stock options
    2,221,995             1,891,950        
Warrants to purchase common stock
    1,650,705             1,456,110        
Restricted shares
     85,185             111,205        
Dilutive potential common shares
    3,957,885             3,459,265        
Weighted average common shares outstanding and dilutive potential common shares
    187,005,916       170,744,411       186,659,078       169,326,908  
Net income (loss) per share:
                               
Basic and diluted
  $   0.00     $ (0.01 )   $ 0.00     $ (0.04 )
 
 
11

 
 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, options, warrants and restricted shares to purchase 20,121,396 and 30,574,290 common shares, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted income (loss) per share as the effect would be anti-dilutive.

10.
Segment Information

The Company has three operating segments. The Ladenburg segment includes the investment banking, sales and trading and asset management services and investment activities conducted by Ladenburg and LTAM. The independent brokerage and advisory services segment includes the broker-dealer and investment advisory services provided by Investacorp and Triad to their independent contractor financial advisors. The Premier segment includes the trust services provided by Premier.

Segment information for the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 was as follows:

   
Ladenburg
   
Independent
Brokerage and
Advisory Services
   
Premier
   
Corporate
   
Total
 
                               
2011
                             
Revenues
  $ 13,185     $ 46,485     $ 647     $  (86 )(1)   $ 60,231  
Pre-tax income (loss)
    525       1,852       (36 )     (1,820 )(2)     521  
Identifiable assets
    26,064       78,919       2,839       1,738       109,560  
Depreciation and amortization
    267       572       39       17       895  
Interest
    1       9             810       820  
Capital expenditures
    12       50       11             73  
Non-cash compensation
    353       122       25       627       1,127  
                                         
2010
                                       
Revenues
  $ 11,575     $ 35,914           $  95 (1)   $ 47,584  
Pre-tax (loss) income
    (657 )     604             (1,988 )(2)     (2,041 )
Identifiable assets
    21,277       71,256             803       93,336  
Depreciation and amortization
    446       555             17       1,018  
Interest
    4       4             928       936  
Capital expenditures
    6       12                   18  
Non-cash compensation     536       485             584       1,605  

Segment information for the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 was as follows:

   
Ladenburg
   
Independent
Brokerage and
Advisory Services
   
Premier
   
Corporate
   
Total
 
                               
2011
                             
Revenues
  $ 28,451     $ 87,894     $ 1,344     $  (256 )(1)   $ 117,433  
Pre-tax income (loss)
    2,102       3,044       19       (3,889 )(2)     1,276  
Identifiable assets
    26,064       78,919       2,839       1,738       109,560  
Depreciation and amortization
    533       1,143       78       34       1,788  
Interest
    82       15             1,551       1,648  
Capital expenditures
    21       73       15             109  
Non-cash compensation
    609       231       51       1,193       2,084  
                                         
2010
                                       
Revenues
  $ 22,197     $ 69,303           $    55 (1)   $ 91,555  
Pre-tax (loss) income
    (2,440 )     448             (4,213 )(2)     (6,205 )
Identifiable assets
    21,277       71,256             803       93,336  
Depreciation and amortization
    889       1,111             34       2,034  
Interest
    9       14             1,869       1,892  
Capital expenditures
    88       35                   123  
Non-cash compensation     1,007       1,088             1,270       3,365  
 
 
(1)
Includes consolidation and elimination entries
 
(2)
Includes interest, compensation, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses.
 
 
12

 
 
Item 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview
 
We are engaged in investment banking, equity research, institutional sales and trading, independent brokerage and advisory services, asset management services and trust services through our principal subsidiaries, Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc. (“Ladenburg”), Investacorp Inc. (collectively with related companies, “Investacorp”), Triad Advisors, Inc. (“Triad”),  Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management Inc. (“LTAM”) and Premier Trust, Inc. (“Premier"). We are committed to establishing a significant presence in the financial services industry by meeting the varying investment needs of our corporate, institutional and retail clients.

Ladenburg is a full service broker-dealer that has been a member of the New York Stock Exchange since 1879. It provides its services principally for middle market and emerging growth companies and high net worth individuals through a coordinated effort among corporate finance, capital markets, asset management, brokerage and trading professionals.

Investacorp is an independent broker-dealer and registered investment advisor that has been serving the independent financial advisor community since 1978. Investacorp’s national network of independent contractor financial advisors primarily serves retail clients. Investacorp’s independent financial advisors are located in approximately 283 offices in 42 states.

Triad is an independent broker-dealer and registered investment advisor that offers a broad range of products, services and total wealth management solutions to independent contractor financial advisors located nationwide. Triad’s independent financial advisors primarily serve retail clients. Triad was founded in 1998 and its independent financial advisors are located in approximately 255 offices in 38 states.

LTAM is a registered investment advisor. LTAM offers various asset management products utilized by Ladenburg Premiers clients, as well as clients of Investacorp’s and Triad’s financial advisors.

Premier, a Nevada trust company, provides wealth management services, including trust administration, estate and financial planning and custody services.  We acquired Premier in September 2010.

Through our acquisitions of Investacorp and Triad, we have become a significant presence in the independent broker-dealer space. During the past decade, this has been one of the fastest growing segments of the financial services industry. With combined revenues of approximately $88 million for the six months ended June 30, 2011 and approximately 1,000 financial advisors for Investacorp and Triad, we have become one of the approximately 25 largest independent broker-dealers in the United States. We believe that we have the opportunity through acquisitions and recruiting to significantly expand our market share in this segment over the next several years. Our goal remains as a public financial services company to marry the more recurring and predictable revenue and cash flows of our independent broker-dealer business with Ladenburg’s traditional investment banking, capital markets, institutional equity and related businesses. Ladenburgs businesses are generally more volatile and subject to the cycles of the capital markets than our independent broker-dealer subsidiaries, but they have historically enjoyed strong operating margins in good market conditions.

Each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad is subject to regulation by, among others, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation.  Premier is subject to regulation by the Nevada Department of Business and Industry Financial Institutions Division.

Ladenburg’s private client services and institutional sales departments serve approximately 11,000 accounts nationwide and LTAM provides investment management services to numerous individuals and institutions. At June 30, 2011, Investacorp’s approximately 400 financial advisors served approximately 153,000 accounts nationwide and Investacorp had approximately $8.3 billion in client assets. Triad’s approximately 600 financial advisors served approximately 125,000 accounts nationwide and had approximately $13.9 billion in client assets at June 30, 2011. On a consolidated basis, total client assets exceeded $23.0 billion at June 30, 2011.

 
 
13

 
 
Recent Developments

Acquisition Strategy

We continue to explore opportunities to grow our businesses, including through potential acquisitions of other securities and investment banking firms, both domestically and internationally. These acquisitions may involve payments of material amounts of cash, the incurrence of material amounts of debt, which may increase our leverage, or the issuance of significant amounts of our equity securities, which may be dilutive to our existing shareholders. We cannot assure you that we will be able to complete any such potential acquisitions on acceptable terms or at all or, if we do, that any acquired business will be profitable. We also may not be able to integrate successfully acquired businesses into our existing business and operations.

Critical Accounting Policies

There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies set forth in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.  Please refer to those sections for disclosures regarding the critical accounting policies related to our business.

Results of Operations
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 
The following discussion provides an assessment of our results of operations, capital resources and liquidity and should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report.  The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of Ladenburg, Investacorp, Triad, Premier and our other subsidiaries.

   
Three months ended June 30,
   
Six months ended June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2011
   
2010
 
Total revenues
  $ 60,231     $ 47,584     $ 117,433     $ 91,555  
Total expenses
    59,710       49,625       116,157       97,760  
Pre-tax income (loss)
    521       (2,041 )     1,276       (6,205 )
Net income (loss)
    200       (2,229 )     609       (6,632 )
                                 
Reconciliation of EBITDA, as adjusted, to net income (loss):
                               
EBITDA, as adjusted
  $ 3,348     $ 1,512     $ 6,766     $ 1,410  
Add:
                               
Interest income
    15       13       30       (18 )
Less:
                               
Interest expense
    (820 )     (936 )     (1,648 )     (1,892 )
Income tax expense
    (321 )     (188 )     (667 )     (427 )
Depreciation and amortization
    (895 )     (1,018 )     (1,788 )     (2,034 )
Non-cash compensation
    (1,127 )     (1,605 )     (2,084 )     (3,365 )
Clearing conversion expense
          (7 )           (306 )
Net income (loss)
  $ 200     $ (2,229 )   $ 609     $ (6,632 )
 

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, adjusted for gains or losses on sales of assets, non-cash compensation expense, and clearing conversion expense is a key metric we use in evaluating our financial performance. EBITDA is considered a non-GAAP financial measure as defined by Regulation G promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. We consider EBITDA, as adjusted, important in evaluating our financial performance on a consistent basis across various periods. Due to the significance of non-cash and non-recurring items, the use of EBITDA, as adjusted, enables our Board of Directors and management to monitor and evaluate our business on a consistent basis.  We use EBITDA, as adjusted, as a primary measure, among others, to analyze and evaluate financial and strategic planning decisions regarding future operating investments and potential acquisitions. We believe that EBITDA, as adjusted, eliminates items that are not indicative of our core operating performance, such as expenses related to Investacorp’s conversion to a single clearing firm as part of a new seven-year clearing agreement, or do not involve a cash outlay, such as stock-related compensation. Our presentation of EBITDA, as adjusted, should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items or by non-cash items, such as non-cash compensation, which is expected to remain a key element in our long-term incentive compensation program.  EBITDA, as adjusted, should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, pre-tax income, net income and cash flows from operating activities.

 
 
14

 

Second quarter 2011 EBITDA, as adjusted, was $3,348, an increase of $1,836 from second quarter 2010 EBITDA, as adjusted, of $1,512, primarily because of increased revenues in the 2011 period.  For the six months ended June 30, 2011, EBITDA, as adjusted, was $6,766, an increase of $5,356 from the EBITDA, as adjusted, of $1,410 for the six months ended June 30, 2010, primarily because of increased revenues in the 2011 period.

Segment Description

We have three operating segments:
 
 
·
Ladenburg – includes the investment banking, sales and trading and asset management services and investment activities conducted by Ladenburg and LTAM.
 
 
·
Independent brokerage and advisory services – includes the broker-dealer and investment advisory services provided by Investacorp and Triad to their independent contractor registered representatives.
 
 
·
Premier – includes the trust services provided by Premier.
 
   
Three months ended
June 30,
   
Six months ended
June 30,
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
2011
   
2010
 
Revenues:
       
 
   
 
       
Ladenburg
  $ 13,185     $ 11,575     $ 28,451     $ 22,197  
Independent brokerage and advisory services
    46,485       35,914       87,894       69,303  
Premier
    647             1,344        
Corporate
    (86 )     95       (256 )     55  
Total revenues
  $ 60,231     $ 47,584     $ 117,433     $ 91,555  
                                 
Pre-tax income (loss):
                               
Ladenburg
  $ 525     $ (657 )   $ 2,102     $ (2,440 )
Independent brokerage and advisory services
    1,852       604       3,044       448  
Premier
    (36 )           19        
Corporate
    (1,820 )     (1,988 )     (3,889 )     (4,213 )
Total pre-tax income (loss)
  $ 521     $ (2,041 )   $ 1,276     $ (6,205 )

In our independent brokerage and advisory services segment, Triad and Investacorp had revenues of $28,465 and $18,020, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to $20,504 and $15,410, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2010.  Triad and Investacorp had revenues of $53,917 and $33,977, respectively, for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to $39,353 and $29,950, respectively, for the six months ended June 30, 2010.

Three months ended June 30, 2011 versus three months ended June 30, 2010

For the quarter ended June 30, 2011, we had net income of $200 compared to a net loss of $2,229 for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, primarily due to increased revenue and reduced non-cash compensation expense in the 2011 period.

Our total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2011 increased $12,647 (27%) from the 2010 period, primarily as a result of increased commissions of $4,471, increased advisory fees of $4,350, and increased investment banking revenue of $3,894.  Improved market conditions as compared to the 2010 period benefited our businesses.

Our total expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2011 increased by $10,085 (20%) from the 2010 period, primarily as a result of an increase in commissions and fees expense of $9,191 and an increase in compensation and benefits expense of $1,565, partially offset by a decrease in non-cash compensation expense of $478.

The $4,471 (17%) increase in commissions revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2011, as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to improved market conditions and recruitment of higher-producing financial advisors in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment.

 
 
15

 
 
The $4,350 (34%) increase in advisory fee revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2011, as compared to the 2010 period, was due to higher average assets under management at LTAM, Triad and Investacorp, resulting from the addition of new accounts and appreciation in total assets due to improved market conditions.  Total average assets under management increased 30% at June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period.
 
The $3,894 (59%) increase in investment banking revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2011, as compared to the 2010 period, was primarily due to an increase in capital raising fees of $3,762, resulting from an increase in yield-based equities offerings, partially offset by a decrease in PIPE offerings.  Our investment banking revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2011 was derived from Ladenburg’s capital raising activities, including underwritten public offerings and private placements, and strategic advisory services. Revenue from underwritten public offerings was $8,202 for the 2011 period, as compared to $3,933 for the 2010 period. Private placement revenue was $1,138 for the second quarter of 2011, including $586 in warrants received as investment banking fees, as compared to $1,554 for the 2010 period, including $356 in warrants received as investment banking fees.

The $467 (290%) decrease in principal transactions for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to losses in the fair value of securities received as underwriting consideration.

The $404 (16%) increase in other income for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to a total increase in direct investment marketing allowances received from product sponsor programs and conference revenue of $410 in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment.

The $9,191 (32%) increase in commissions and fees expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was directly correlated to the increase in commissions and advisory fees revenue in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment. Commissions and fees expense comprises compensation payments earned by the registered representatives who serve as independent contractors in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment.  These payments to the independent contractor registered representatives are calculated based on a percentage of revenues and vary by product.  Accordingly, when the independent contractor registered representatives increase their business, both our revenues and expenses increase since they earn additional compensation based on the revenue produced.

The $1,565 (14%) increase in compensation and benefits expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to a $1,638 increase in Ladenburg’s bonus expense which was directly related to the increase in investment banking revenue, a $402 increase from the addition of Premier, and a $147 increase in bonus and salary expense in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment, partially offset by a $470 decrease in  producers’ compensation in our Ladenburg segment, which was directly correlated to revenue production by such persons.

The $478 (30%) decrease in non-cash compensation expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to a number of large stock option grants made in 2006 that fully vested in the latter part of 2010.  The resulting decrease in expense related to these grants was $674.

The $96 (5%) decrease in brokerage, communication and clearance fees expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to decreases in brokerage and clearance fees in our Ladenburg segment.  While brokerage, communication and clearance fee expense is directly correlated with brokerage activity, we have benefited and expect to continue to benefit from reduced clearing and execution expenses under our clearing agreements.

The $33 (4%) increase in rent and occupancy, net of sublease revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to an increase in Investacorp expense of $50 due to the relocation of its headquarters, and $20 from the addition of Premier, partially offset by a decrease in Ladenburg expense due to the closing of two offices.

The $81 (8%) decrease in professional services expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 was primarily due to a decrease of $71 in legal, audit, tax and consulting expense.  We expect higher levels of professional services expense in the second half of 2011.
 
 
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The $116 (12%) decrease in interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was a result of reduced average loan balances and average interest rates.  An approximate $31,515 average debt balance was outstanding for the second quarter of 2011, as compared to an average debt balance outstanding of approximately $34,900 for the 2010 period.  The average interest rate was 10.3% for the second quarter of 2011 as compared to 11.2% for the 2010 period.

The $123 (12%) decrease in depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to the decrease in intangible assets related to Ladenburg of $155, partially offset by the addition of Premier expense of $32.

The $190 (6%) increase in other expense for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period is primarily attributable to increases in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment of $118 for conference expenses and $98 from the addition of Premier.

We incurred income tax expense of $321 for the three months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to $188 for the 2010 period. After consideration of all the evidence, both positive and negative, management has determined that a valuation allowance at June 30, 2011 was necessary to fully offset the deferred tax assets based on the likelihood of future realization. Our deferred income tax liabilities increased by approximately $202 during the second quarter of 2011 due to goodwill amortization for tax purposes. The tax rate for the 2011 period represents the actual effective tax rate for such period, which the Company believes represents the best estimate of the annual effective tax rate. The rate reflects the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards to offset taxable income and a $202 deferred tax provision related to goodwill which is amortized for tax purposes. The balance of the tax provision principally represents alternative minimum taxes for federal and state purposes. The income tax rate for the 2010 period did not bear a customary relationship to the effective tax rate, primarily as a result of the increase in the valuation allowance in the 2010 period.

Six months ended June 30, 2011 versus six months ended June 30, 2010

Our net income for the six months ended June 30, 2011 was $609 compared to a net loss of $6,632 for the six months ended June 30, 2010. The increase in net income of $7,241 was attributable to an increase in advisory fees revenue, commission revenue and investment banking revenue, partially offset by an increase in commission and fees expense and compensation and benefits expense.
 
Our total revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2011 increased $25,878 (28%) from the 2010 period, primarily as a result of increased commissions of $7,202, increased advisory fees of $9,251 increased investment banking revenue of $10,241, increased other income of $340, partially offset by decreased principal transactions of $1,182.
     
Our total expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2011 increased by $18,397 (19%) from the 2010 period, primarily as a result of an increase in commissions and fees expense of $16,137 and an increase in compensation and benefits expense of $4,369, partially offset by a decrease in non-cash compensation expense of $1,281, a decrease in other expenses of $326, a decrease in depreciation and amortization expense of $246 and a decrease in interest expense of $244.
   
The $7,202 (14%) increase in commissions revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to improved market conditions and recruitment of higher-producing financial advisors in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment.

The $9,251 (39%) increase in advisory fee revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was due to higher average assets under management at LTAM, Triad and Investacorp resulting from the addition of new accounts and appreciation in total assets due to improved market conditions, and improved margins.  Total average assets under management increased 40% at June 30, 2011 as compared to June 30, 2010.

The $10,241 (90%) increase in investment banking revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to an increase in capital raising fees of $10,951, resulting from an increase in yield-based equities offerings and PIPE offerings, partially offset by a decrease in strategic advisory services of $710.  Our investment banking revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2011 was derived from Ladenburg’s capital raising activities, including underwritten public offerings and private placements, and strategic advisory services. Revenue from underwritten public offerings was $17,164 for the 2011 period, as compared to $6,767 for the 2010 period. Private placement revenue was $3,088 for the 2011period, including $1,322 in warrants received as investment banking fees, as compared to $2,384 for the 2010 period, including $522 in warrants received as investment banking fees.  Strategic advisory services revenue was $1,156 for the 2011 period, as compared to $1,866 for the 2010 period.

 
 
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The $1,182 (909%) decrease in principal transactions for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period is primarily attributable to losses in the fair value of securities received as underwriting consideration.

The $340 (8%) increase in other income for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to an increase in income in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment, which had a $338 increase in direct investment marketing allowances received from product sponsor programs and miscellaneous trading services of $155, partially offset by a decrease in our Ladenburg segment of $135 received in the settlement of a claim in the 2010 period.
    
The $16,137 (29%) increase in commissions and fees expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was directly correlated to the increase in commissions and advisory fees revenue in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment. Commissions and fees expense comprises compensation payments earned by the registered representatives who serve as independent contractors in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment.  These payments to the independent contractor registered representatives are calculated based on a percentage of revenues and vary by product.  Accordingly, when the independent contractor registered representatives increase their business, both our revenues and expenses increase since they earn additional compensation based on the revenue produced.

The $4,369 (20%) increase in compensation and benefits expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to a $3,532 increase in Ladenburg’s bonus expense which was directly related to the increase in investment banking revenue,  a $797 increase from the addition of Premier, a $263 increase in bonus and salary expense in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment, partially offset by a $277 decrease in producers’ compensation in our Ladenburg segment, which was directly correlated to revenue production by such persons.

The $1,281 (38%) decrease in non-cash compensation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to a number of large stock option grants made in 2006 that fully vested in the latter part of 2010.  The resulting decrease in expense related to these grants was $1,370.

The $81 (5%) increase in rent and occupancy, net of sublease revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily attributable to an increase in Investacorp expense of $92 due to the relocation of its headquarters, and $39 from the addition of Premier, partially offset by a decrease in Ladenburg expense due to the closing of two offices.

The $162 (8%) decrease in professional services expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to a decrease of $152 in legal, audit, tax and consulting expense.
   
The $244 (13%) decrease in interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was a result of reduced average loan balances and average interest rates.  An approximate $32,151 average debt balance was outstanding for the first half of 2011, as compared to an average debt balance outstanding of approximately $35,594 for the 2010 period.  The average interest rate was 10.1% for the second quarter of 2011 as compared to 10.7% for the 2010 period.

The $246 (12%) decrease in depreciation and amortization expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period was primarily due to the decrease in intangible assets related to Ladenburg of $310, partially offset by the addition of Premier expense of $62.

The $326 (6%) decrease in other expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to the 2010 period is primarily attributable to decreases in our independent brokerage and advisory services segment of $306 for expenses related to the conversion of client accounts to one clearing firm in 2010, $98 for fees related to transitioning new independent registered representatives in 2010 and a $134 decrease in the Company’s advertising expense, partially offset by an increase of $194 from the addition of Premier.
 
 
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We incurred income tax expense of $667 for the six months ended June 30, 2011 as compared to $427 for the 2010 period. After consideration of all the evidence, both positive and negative, management has determined that a valuation allowance at June 30, 2011 was necessary to fully offset the deferred tax assets based on the likelihood of future realization. Our deferred income tax liabilities increased by approximately $409 during the first half of 2011 due to goodwill amortization for tax purposes. The tax rate for the 2011 period represents the actual effective tax rate for such period, which the Company believes represents the best estimate of the annual effective tax rate. The rate reflects the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards to offset taxable income and a $409 deferred tax provision related to goodwill which is amortized for tax purposes. The balance of the tax provision principally represents alternative minimum taxes for federal and state purposes. The income tax rate for the 2010 period did not bear a customary relationship to the effective tax rate, primarily as a result of the increase in the valuation allowance in the 2010 period.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Approximately 33% and 29% of our total assets at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively, consisted of cash and cash equivalents, securities owned and receivables from our clearing broker and other broker-dealers, all of which fluctuate, depending upon the levels of customer business and trading activity. Receivables from broker-dealers, which are primarily from clearing brokers, turn over rapidly. The total assets or the individual components of total assets may vary significantly from period to period because of changes relating to economic and market conditions, and proprietary trading strategies.

Each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad is subject to the SEC’s net capital rules. Therefore, they are subject to certain restrictions on their respective uses of capital and their related liquidity. At June 30, 2011, Ladenburg’s regulatory net capital, as defined, of $6,960 exceeded minimum capital requirements of $250, by $6,710. At June 30, 2011, Investacorp’s regulatory net capital, as defined, of $2,079, exceeded minimum capital requirements of $317, by $1,762. At June 30, 2011, Triad’s regulatory net capital, as defined, of $3,682 exceeded minimum net capital requirements of $540 by $3,142. Failure to maintain the required net capital may subject Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad to suspension or expulsion by FINRA, the SEC and other regulatory bodies and ultimately may require their liquidation. The net capital rule also prohibits the payment of dividends, redemption of stock and prepayment or payment of principal of subordinated indebtedness if net capital, after giving effect to the payment, redemption or prepayment, would be less than specified percentages of the minimum net capital requirement. Compliance with the net capital rule could limit Ladenburg’s operations that require the intensive use of capital, such as underwriting and trading activities, and also could restrict our ability to withdraw capital from our subsidiaries, which in turn, could limit our ability to pay dividends and repay debt.

Premier, chartered by the state of Nevada, is subject to regulation by the Nevada Department of Business and Industry Financial Institutions Division.  Under Nevada law, Premier must maintain stockholder’s equity of at least $1,000.  At June 30, 2011, Premier had stockholder’s equity of $2,159.

Our primary sources of liquidity include cash flows from operations and borrowings under our $30,000 revolving credit agreement with an affiliate of Dr. Phillip Frost, our chairman and principal shareholder. Borrowings under the $30,000 revolving credit agreement bear interest at a rate of 11% per annum, payable quarterly. At June 30, 2011, $21,950 was outstanding under the revolving credit agreement. During 2011, we increased our borrowing under the revolving credit agreement by a net amount of $5,000. We may repay outstanding amounts or re-borrow amounts under our revolving credit facility at any time prior to the amended maturity date of August 25, 2016, without penalty. We believe our existing assets and funds available under our $30,000 revolving credit facility provide adequate funds for continuing operations at current activity levels. We are currently in compliance with all debt covenants in our debt agreements.

Cash used in operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2011 was $1,160, which primarily consisted of increases in receivables from our clearing broker, other broker-dealers, other receivables, net and other assets, partially offset by decreases in securities owned, our net income of $509 adjusted for non-cash expenses and increases in securities sold, commission and fees payable, partially offset by a decrease in accrued liabilities.  For the six months ended June 30, 2010, cash used in operating activities was $2,878, which primarily consisted of increases in securities owned and receivables from other broker-dealers, partially offset by decreases in other receivables, net, other assets, our net loss of $6,632 adjusted for non-cash expenses and accrued liabilities.

Investing activities used $59 for the six months ended June 30, 2011, primarily due to the purchase of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements, partially offset by a decrease in restricted assets related to returned escrowed deposits from arrangements with Investacorp’s former clearing brokers. For the six months ended June 30, 2010, investing activities provided $27, primarily due to a decrease in restricted assets due to Investacorp’s receipt of an escrowed deposit upon the termination of a clearing agreement with one of its clearing brokers, partially offset by purchase of furniture, equipment and leasehold improvements.
 
 
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Financing activities provided $3,482 for the six months ended June 30, 2011, from $5,000 borrowed under our revolving credit facility and the issuance of common stock upon option exercises and under our employee stock purchase plan, partially offset by repayments of notes payable and common stock repurchases.  For the six months ended June 30, 2010, financing activities provided $3,122, primarily due to the private equity offering and the issuance of common stock upon option exercises and under our employee stock purchase plan, partially offset by repayments under our revolving credit facility, repayments of notes payable and common stock repurchases.

At June 30, 2011, we were obligated under several non-cancelable lease agreements for office space, which provide for future minimum lease payments aggregating approximately $24,664 through 2016, exclusive of escalation charges. We have subleased vacant space under subleases which entitle us to receive rents aggregating approximately $18,851 through such date.

In connection with the Triad acquisition, we issued a $5,000 promissory note to Triad’s former shareholders. The note bears interest at a rate of 2.51% per annum, payable quarterly, and matures in August 2011. The outstanding balance of this note at June 30, 2011 was $427.

In connection with the Premier acquisition, we issued a $1,161 promissory note to a subsidiary of Premier’s former shareholder.  The note bears interest at 6.5% per annum, payable quarterly, and matures in September 2015.  The outstanding balance of this note at June 30, 2011 was $1,010.
 
We intend to finance future acquisitions, if any, through a combination of our available cash resources, borrowings and, in appropriate circumstances, additional issuances of equity and/or debt securities. Any future acquisitions could have a significant effect on our financial position and could materially reduce our liquidity

In March 2007, our board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to 2,500,000 shares of our common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions. The repurchase program is being funded using approximately 15% of our EBITDA, as adjusted. As of June 30, 2011, 1,599,156 shares had been repurchased for $2,450 under the program.
 
Off-Balance-Sheet Risk and Concentration of Credit Risk

Each of Ladenburg, Investacorp and Triad, as guarantor of its customer accounts to its clearing broker, is exposed to off-balance-sheet risk in the event that its customers do not fulfill their obligations to the clearing broker. Also, to the extent Ladenburg, Investacorp or Triad maintain a short position in any securities, they are exposed to off-balance-sheet market risk, since their ultimate obligation to repurchase securities to close their short positions may exceed the amount recognized in the financial statements.

Please see Note 7 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.

Market Risk

Market risk generally represents 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, equity and commodity prices, changes in the implied volatility of interest rates, foreign exchange rates, equity and commodity prices and also changes in the credit ratings of either the issuer or its related country of origin. Market risk is inherent to both derivative and non-derivative financial instruments and, accordingly, the scope of our market risk management procedures extends beyond derivatives to include all market-risk sensitive financial instruments.

Current and proposed underwriting, corporate finance, merchant banking and other commitments are subject to due diligence reviews by our senior management, as well as professionals in the appropriate business and support units involved. Credit risk related to various financing activities is reduced by the industry practice of obtaining and maintaining collateral. We monitor our exposure to counterparty risk through the use of credit exposure information, the monitoring of collateral values and the establishment of credit limits.

We maintain inventories of trading securities. At June 30, 2011, the fair market value of our inventories was $2,517 in long positions and $1,758 in short positions.  We performed an entity-wide analysis of our financial instruments and assessed the related market risk. Based on this analysis, we do not expect that the market risk associated with our financial instruments at June 30, 2011 will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
 
 
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Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

We and our representatives may from time to time make oral or written “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including any statements that may be contained in the foregoing discussion in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this report and in other filings with the SEC and in our reports to shareholders, which reflect our expectations or beliefs with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and, in connection with the “safe-harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, we have identified under “Risk Factors” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of us.

Results actually achieved may differ materially from expected results included in these forward-looking statements as a result of these or other factors. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which such statements are made. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of us.
   
Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Market Risk” is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) are our controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report, and, based on that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that these controls and procedures were effective as of such date.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
 
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II.
OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Please see Note 6 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.

Item 1A.
RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in Part 1, Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

Item 2.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

This table shows information regarding our purchases of our common stock during the second quarter of 2011.
 
 
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Period
 
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
   
Average Price
Paid
per Share
   
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs
   
Maximum
Number
of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs(1)
 
April 1 to April 30, 2011
    52,918     $ 1.24       52,918       1,323,812  
May 1 to May 31, 2011
    422,968       1.21       422,968       900,844  
June 1 to June 30, 2011
                      900,844  
Total
    475,886     $ 1.22       475,886          
 
(1)
In March 2007, our board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to 2,500,000 shares of our common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions. The repurchase program is funded using approximately 15% of our EBITDA, as adjusted. Since inception through June 30, 2011, 1,599,156 shares have been repurchased under the program.
 
Item 6. EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.
 
Description
31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 .*
31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
32.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
32.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
101.INS  
XBRL Instance Document.*
101.SCH  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.*
101.CAL  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.*
101.DEF  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase.*
101.LAB  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.*
101.PRE  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.*
 
* Filed herewith.
 
 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
LADENBURG THALMANN FINANCIAL
 
SERVICES INC.
 
(Registrant)
   
Date:  August 5, 2011
By:
/s/ Brett H. Kaufman
   
Brett H. Kaufman
   
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
   
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 
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