EX-99 2 exh_991.htm EXHIBIT 99.1
Exhibit 99.1

 





FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION

 

 
INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 

 

 

 

 
Second Quarter
 
June 30, 2010
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (LOSS)
 
(Unaudited)
 
(in thousands of US dollars, except per share amounts) - in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the
 
United States of America
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Three months
   
Six months
 
 
 
ended June 30
   
ended June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 501,372     $ 425,344     $ 903,763     $ 786,353  
 
                               
Cost of revenues
    309,300       259,316       558,122       486,928  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    147,930       129,242       282,415       255,069  
Depreciation
    6,829       6,625       13,589       12,364  
Amortization of intangible assets
    5,258       4,732       10,009       11,253  
Goodwill impairment charge (note 5)
    -       -       -       29,583  
Acquisition-related items (note 6)
    348       -       (4,211 )     -  
Operating earnings (loss)
    31,707       25,429       43,839       (8,844 )
 
                               
Interest expense, net
    4,579       3,040       8,655       5,694  
Other expense (income), net (note 7)
    1,280       (963 )     2,912       (1,054 )
Earnings (loss) before income tax
    25,848       23,352       32,272       (13,484 )
Income tax (note 8)
    11,174       11,693       10,961       19,184  
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations
    14,674       11,659       21,311       (32,668 )
 
                               
Net earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax
    -       692       -       (3,229 )
Net earnings (loss)
    14,674       12,351       21,311       (35,897 )
 
                               
Non-controlling interest share of earnings (loss)
    3,924       2,812       8,272       (1,398 )
Non-controlling interest redemption increment (note 11)
    5,930       8,931       6,220       10,847  
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Company (note 12)
    4,820       608       6,819       (45,346 )
Preferred share dividends
    2,526       2,526       5,051       5,051  
Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders
  $ 2,294     $ (1,918 )   $ 1,768     $ (50,397 )
 
                               
Net earnings (loss) per common share (note 13)
                               
Basic
                               
Continuing operations
  $ 0.08     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.06     $ (1.62 )
Discontinued operations
    -       0.01       -       (0.10 )
 
  $ 0.08     $ (0.07 )   $ 0.06     $ (1.72 )
 
                               
Diluted
                               
Continuing operations
  $ 0.08     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.06     $ (1.62 )
Discontinued operations
    -       0.01       -       (0.10 )
 
  $ 0.08     $ (0.07 )   $ 0.06     $ (1.72 )
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
 
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
(in thousands of US dollars) - in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America
 
 
 
June 30, 2010
   
December 31, 2009
 
Assets
 
 
   
 
 
Current Assets
 
 
   
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 90,229     $ 99,778  
Restricted cash
    4,178       5,039  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $17,849 (December 31, 2009 - $18,307)
    237,524       214,285  
Income tax recoverable
    17,400       14,453  
Inventories
    10,763       9,458  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    19,505       23,480  
Deferred income tax
    15,804       15,800  
 
    395,403       382,293  
 
               
Other receivables
    5,321       6,269  
Other assets
    21,758       28,058  
Fixed assets
    79,181       75,939  
Deferred income tax
    15,122       12,152  
Intangible assets
    174,623       164,592  
Goodwill
    355,583       340,227  
 
    651,588       627,237  
 
  $ 1,046,991     $ 1,009,530  
 
               
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
               
Current Liabilities
               
Accounts payable
  $ 69,751     $ 61,788  
Accrued liabilities
    191,856       207,880  
Income taxes payable
    2,520       7,665  
Unearned revenues
    30,388       21,343  
Long-term debt - current (note 9)
    41,202       22,347  
Deferred income tax
    32       -  
 
    335,749       321,023  
 
               
Long-term debt - non-current (note 9)
    208,195       213,647  
Convertible debentures (note 9)
    77,000       77,000  
Other liabilities
    39,055       27,606  
Deferred income tax
    39,768       40,052  
 
    364,018       358,305  
Non-controlling interests (note 11)
    165,720       164,168  
 
               
Shareholders' equity
               
Preferred shares (note 15)
    144,307       144,307  
Common shares
    104,220       90,994  
Contributed surplus
    26,537       26,028  
Deficit
    (112,248 )     (114,016 )
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings
    18,688       18,721  
 
    181,504       166,034  
 
  $ 1,046,991     $ 1,009,530  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
(Unaudited)
 
(in thousands of US dollars, except share information) - in accordance with accounting principles generally
 
accepted in the United States of America
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Preferred shares
   
Common shares
   
 
   
 
   
Accumulated
   
 
 
 
 
Issued and
   
 
   
Issued and
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
other
   
Total
 
 
 
outstanding
   
 
   
outstanding
   
 
   
Contributed
   
 
   
comprehensive
   
shareholders'
 
 
 
shares
   
Amount
   
shares
   
Amount
   
surplus
   
Deficit
   
earnings
   
equity
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2008
    5,772,274     $ 144,307       29,333,484     $ 86,913     $ 25,899     $ (59,061 )   $ 1,083     $ 199,141  
Comprehensive loss
                                                               
   Net loss
    -       -       -       -       -       (35,897 )     -       (35,897 )
   Foreign currency
                                                               
      translation adjustments
    -       -       -       -       -       -       5,638       5,638  
      Less: amount attributable
                                                               
         to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (413 )     (413 )
   Unrealized gain on
                                                               
      available-for-sale equity
                                                               
      securities, net of income
                                                               
      tax of $51
    -       -       -       -       -       -       2,401       2,401  
Comprehensive loss
                                                            (28,271 )
NCI share of loss
    -       -       -       -       -       1,398       -       1,398  
NCI redemption increment
    -       -       -       -       -       (10,847 )     -       (10,847 )
Subsidiaries’ equity
                                                               
    transactions
    -       -       -       -       161       -       -       161  
 
                                                               
Subordinate Voting Shares:
                                                               
   Stock option expense
    -       -       -       -       1,008       -       -       1,008  
   Stock options exercised
    -       -       60,755       549       (207 )     -       -       342  
   Issued for purchase of NCI
    -       -       44,671       436       -       -       -       436  
Preferred Shares:
                                                               
   Dividends (note 15)
    -       -       -       -       -       (5,051 )     -       (5,051 )
Balance, June 30, 2009
    5,772,274     $ 144,307       29,438,910     $ 87,898     $ 26,861     $ (109,458 )   $ 8,709     $ 158,317  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
(Unaudited)
 
(in thousands of US dollars, except share information) - in accordance with accounting principles generally
 
accepted in the United States of America
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Preferred shares
   
Common shares
   
 
   
 
   
Accumulated
   
 
 
 
 
Issued and
   
 
   
Issued and
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
other
   
Total
 
 
 
outstanding
   
 
   
outstanding
   
 
   
Contributed
   
 
   
comprehensive
   
shareholders'
 
 
 
shares
   
Amount
   
shares
   
Amount
   
surplus
   
Deficit
   
earnings
   
equity
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Balance, December 31, 2009
    5,772,274     $ 144,307       29,624,910     $ 90,994     $ 26,028     $ (114,016 )   $ 18,721     $ 166,034  
Comprehensive earnings:
                                                               
   Net earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       21,311       -       21,311  
   Foreign currency
                                                               
      translation adjustments
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3       3  
      Less: amount attributable
                                                               
         to NCI
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (36 )     (36 )
Comprehensive earnings
                                                            21,278  
NCI share of earnings
    -       -       -       -       -       (8,272 )     -       (8,272 )
NCI redemption increment
    -       -       -       -       -       (6,220 )     -       (6,220 )
Subsidiaries’ equity
                                                               
    transactions
    -       -       -       -       260       -       -       260  
 
                                                               
Subordinate Voting Shares:
                                                               
   Stock option expense
    -       -       -       -       1,454       -       -       1,454  
   Stock options exercised
    -       -       228,750       4,150       (1,265 )     -       -       2,885  
   Tax benefit on options
                                                               
      exercised
    -       -       -       -       60       -       -       60  
   Issued for purchase of NCI
    -       -       381,414       9,076       -       -       -       9,076  
Preferred Shares:
                                                               
   Dividends (note 15)
    -       -       -       -       -       (5,051 )     -       (5,051 )
Balance, June 30, 2010
    5,772,274     $ 144,307       30,235,074     $ 104,220     $ 26,537     $ (112,248 )   $ 18,688     $ 181,504  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
(in thousands of US dollars) - in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
 
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
Cash provided by (used in)
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Operating activities
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings (loss)
  $ 14,674     $ 12,351     $ 21,311     $ (35,897 )
Net (earnings) loss from discontinued operations
    -       (692 )     -       3,229  
 
                               
Items not affecting cash:
                               
Depreciation and amortization
    12,087       11,357       23,598       23,617  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       -       -       29,583  
Deferred income tax
    (2,833 )     208       (3,226 )     2,426  
Other
    2,869       265       (4,493 )     1,116  
 
                               
Changes in non-cash working capital:
                               
Accounts receivable
    (25,489 )     (27,857 )     (15,599 )     (19,759 )
Inventories
    (700 )     200       (1,305 )     23  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    3,980       2,246       4,159       1,296  
Payables and accruals
    27,631       21,148       (19,037 )     (19,336 )
Unearned revenues
    6,425       2,574       9,009       4,413  
Other liabilities
    2,668       1,760       1,699       1,886  
Discontinued operations
    -       2,060       -       (5,952 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    41,312       25,620       16,116       (13,355 )
 
                               
Investing activities
                               
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (note 4)
    (2,031 )     (4,221 )     (4,463 )     (5,174 )
Purchases of fixed assets
    (8,827 )     (7,107 )     (15,120 )     (11,315 )
Other investing activities
    3,606       (6,325 )     4,276       (3,014 )
Discontinued operations
    -       (491 )     -       (474 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (7,252 )     (18,144 )     (15,307 )     (19,977 )
 
                               
Financing activities
                               
Increase in long-term debt
    39,970       42,579       45,191       89,107  
Repayment of long-term debt
    (29,786 )     (32,286 )     (34,786 )     (41,286 )
Purchases of non-controlling interests
    (17,143 )     (9,229 )     (17,188 )     (20,105 )
Proceeds received on exercise of options
    -       -       2,983       342  
Incremental tax benefit on stock options exercised
    -       -       60       -  
Dividends paid to preferred shareholders
    (2,526 )     (2,526 )     (5,051 )     (5,051 )
Distributions paid to non-controlling interests
    (2,666 )     (2,638 )     (4,051 )     (5,886 )
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
    (12,151 )     (4,100 )     (12,842 )     17,121  
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    (1,879 )     3,973       2,484       1,392  
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    20,030       7,349       (9,549 )     (14,819 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    70,199       56,756       99,778       79,642  
Amounts held by discontinued operations, beginning of period
    -       1,125       -       407  
 
    70,199       57,881       99,778       80,049  
 
                               
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
    90,229       65,230       90,229       65,230  
Amounts held by discontinued operations, end of period
    -       -       -       -  
 
  $ 90,229     $ 65,230     $ 90,229     $ 65,230  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
June 30, 2010
(Unaudited)
(in thousands of US dollars, except per share amounts)


1.           DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS – FirstService Corporation (the “Company”) is a provider of real estate-related services to commercial, institutional and residential customers in North America and various countries around the world.  The Company’s operations are conducted in three segments: Commercial Real Estate (“CRE”) Services, Residential Property Management and Property Services.  The Company operates as Colliers International within CRE; FirstService Residential Management, American Pool Enterprises and various regional brands within Residential Property Management; and Field Asset Services and several franchise brands within Property Services.

2.           SUMMARY OF PRESENTATION – These condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the Company in accordance with the disclosure requirements for the presentation of interim financial information pursuant to applicable Canadian securities law.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted in accordance with such disclosure requirements, although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information not misleading.  These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009.

These interim financial statements follow the same accounting policies as the most recent audited consolidated financial statements, except as noted below.  In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company as at June 30, 2010 and the results of operations and its cash flows for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2010.  All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation.  The results of operations for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2010.

3.           IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS - On January 1, 2010, the Company adopted new accounting standards for variable interest entities. The new guidance amends the consolidation guidance for variable interest entities, in particular: (i) to require ongoing reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity; (ii) to eliminate the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and (iii) to require enhanced disclosures that will provide more transparent information about involvement in a variable interest entity, if any. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.

4.           ACQUISITIONS – During the six months ended June 30, 2010, the Company completed two acquisitions in the CRE segment for cash consideration of $2,011, a note payable of $1,045 and contingent consideration of $14,844 (2009 - acquisitions were completed for cash consideration of $852, a note payable of $436 and contingent consideration of $176).

Certain vendors, at the time of acquisition, are entitled to receive contingent consideration if the acquired businesses achieve specified earnings levels during the one- to four-year periods following the dates of acquisition.  For acquisitions made after December 31, 2008, contingent consideration was recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition and totaled $15,793.  Such contingent consideration, if any, is paid in cash at the end of the contingency period.  The fair value recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as at June 30, 2010 was $15,645.

 
 

 
The contingent consideration on acquisitions completed before January 1, 2009 is recorded when the contingencies are resolved and the consideration is paid or becomes payable, at which time the Company records the fair value of the consideration paid or payable, including interest, if any, as additional costs of the acquired businesses.  The total contingent consideration recognized for the six month period ended June 30, 2010 was $20 (2009 - nil).  Contingent consideration paid during the six month period ended June 30, 2010 was $2,452 (2009 - $4,322) and the amount payable as at June 30, 2010 was nil (December 31, 2009- $2,432).

As at June 30, 2010, there was contingent consideration outstanding of up to a maximum of $45,100 (December 31, 2009 - $23,400) in respect of both pre- and post-January 1, 2009 acquisitions.  The contingencies will expire during the period extending to December 2014.

5.           GOODWILL IMPAIRMENT CHARGE – A test for goodwill impairment is required to be completed annually or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount.  The Company was required to perform goodwill impairment tests during the quarter ended March 31, 2009 due to a continuing deterioration of economic conditions negatively impacting the performance of the Company’s CRE operations.  The Company determined that there was impairment in the North American and Central Europe & Latin American reporting units within the CRE segment driven by adverse economic conditions and sharply reduced brokerage activity.  The fair values of the reporting units were determined using discounted cash flow models.  The amount of the impairment loss related to the two reporting units was $29,583 (net of income taxes of nil).
 
6.           ACQUISITION-RELATED ITEMS - Acquisition-related items are comprised of the following:

 
Three months ended
 
Six months ended
 
 
June 30
 
June 30
 
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Settlement of acquisition-related liability
  $ 82     $ -     $ (4,511 )   $ -  
Contingent consideration fair value adjustments
    173       -       36       -  
Transaction costs
    93       -       264       -  
 
  $ 348     $ -     $ (4,211 )   $ -  

The settlement of the acquisition-related liability was related to a potential sales tax liability of an acquired entity which became statute barred during the current period.
 
7.           OTHER EXPENSE (INCOME) - Other expense (income) is comprised of the following:
 
 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
 
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Loss (earnings) from equity method investments
  $ 1,229     $ (138 )   $ 2,890     $ (160 )
Gain on sale of available-for-sale securities
    -       (943 )     -       (943 )
Other
    51       118       22       49  
 
  $ 1,280     $ (963 )   $ 2,912     $ (1,054 )

8.           INCOME TAX – The provision for income tax for the six months ended June 30, 2010 reflected an effective tax rate of 34%, and was equivalent with the combined statutory rate of approximately 34%.  A valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets on net operating loss carry-forwards in the United States related to the current period was fully offset by: (i) the resolution of uncertain tax positions initially recognized on the acquisition of a business and (ii) the settlement of a liability initially recognized on the acquisition of a business in the amount of $4,511, which was not taxable, resulting in no impact on the effective tax rate.

 
 

 
During the three and six months ended June 30, 2010, the Company recognized a valuation allowance against deferred income tax assets in the amount of $2,572 and $6,470, respectively (2009 - $2,476 and $14,958, respectively).  The total valuation allowance as of June 30, 2010 was $40,664 (December 31, 2009 - $34,194).

9.           LONG-TERM DEBT – The Company has an amended and restated credit agreement with a syndicate of banks to provide a $225,000 committed senior revolving credit facility with a five year term ending September 7, 2012.  The revolving credit facility bears interest at 0.75% to 1.30% over floating reference rates, depending on certain leverage ratios.

The revolving credit facility and the Company’s three outstanding issues of Senior Notes rank equally in terms of seniority.  The Company has granted the lenders and Note-holders various security including the following: an interest in all of the assets of the Company including the Company’s share of its subsidiaries, an assignment of material contracts and an assignment of the Company’s “call” option with respect to shares of the subsidiaries held by non-controlling interests.

The covenants require the Company to maintain certain ratios including financial leverage, fixed charge coverage, interest coverage and net worth.  The Company is limited from undertaking certain mergers, acquisitions and dispositions without prior approval.

The Company was party to two interest rate swap agreements in respect of its 5.44% Senior Notes floating rate debt.  During the quarter, the Company settled both interest rate swap agreements for a cash gain in the amount of $669.  This gain is amortized over the remaining life of the underlying debt which has a final maturity of April 1, 2015.

The Company has issued and outstanding $77,000 principal amount of 6.50% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (“Convertible Debentures”) with a maturity date of December 31, 2014.  At the holder’s option, the Convertible Debentures may be converted at any time prior to maturity into Subordinate Voting Shares based on an initial conversion rate of approximately 35.7143 common shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Debentures (which represents an initial conversion price of $28.00 per share).  The Company may also, at its option, redeem the Convertible Debentures at any time on or after December 31, 2012.  Subject to specified conditions, the Company has the right to repay the outstanding principal amount of the Convertible Debentures, on maturity or redemption, through the issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares.  The Company also has the option to satisfy its obligation to pay interest through the issuance and sale of Subordinate Voting Shares.  The Convertible Debentures are unsecured and contain no financial ratio covenants.

10.           FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS – The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair values due to the short maturity of these instruments, unless otherwise indicated.  The following are estimates of the fair values of other financial instruments:

 
June 30, 2010
 
December 31, 2009
 
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
 
amount
 
value
 
amount
 
value
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Other receivables
  $ 5,321     $ 5,321     $ 6,269     $ 6,269  
Investment in Colliers International UK plc
    11,875       10,882       14,883       14,200  
Long-term debt
    249,397       269,661       235,994       255,468  
Convertible debentures
    77,000       79,888       77,000       77,000  
 
 
 

 
11.           NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS – The minority equity positions in the Company’s subsidiaries are referred to as non-controlling interests (“NCI”).  The NCI are considered to be redeemable securities.  Accordingly, the NCI is recorded at the greater of (i) the redemption amount or (ii) the amount initially recorded as NCI at the date of inception of the minority equity position.  This amount is recorded in the “mezzanine” section of the balance sheet, outside of shareholders’ equity.  Changes in the NCI amount are recognized immediately as they occur.  The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending NCI amounts:

 
 
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Balance, January 1
  $ 164,168     $ 196,765  
NCI share of earnings (loss)
    8,272       (1,398 )
NCI share of other comprehensive earnings
    36       413  
NCI redemption increment
    6,220       10,847  
Distributions paid to NCI
    (4,051 )     (5,886 )
Purchases of interests from NCI, net
    (26,069 )     (22,092 )
NCI recognized on business acquisitions
    17,144       318  
Balance, June 30
  $ 165,720     $ 178,967  

The Company has shareholders’ agreements in place at each of its non-wholly owned subsidiaries.  These agreements allow the Company to “call” the non-controlling interest at a price determined with the use of a formula price, which is usually equal to a fixed multiple of average annual net earnings before extraordinary items, income taxes, interest, depreciation, and amortization.  The agreements also have redemption features which allow the owners of the NCI to “put” their equity to the Company at the same price subject to certain limitations.  The formula price is referred to as the redemption amount and may be paid in cash or in Subordinate Voting Shares.  The redemption amount as of June 30, 2010 was $156,590.  If all put or call options were settled with Subordinate Voting Shares as at June 30, 2010, approximately 7,100,000 such shares would be issued.

12.         NET EARNINGS (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY – The following table sets out the net earnings (loss) attributable to the Company’s common shareholders:

 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
 
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
Amounts attributable to the Company:
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations
  $ 4,820     $ 244     $ 6,819     $ (42,392 )
Discontinued operations
    -       364       -       (2,954 )
Net earnings (loss)
    4,820       608       6,819       (45,346 )
Preferred shares share dividends
    2,526       2,526       5,051       5,051  
Net loss attributable to common shares
  $ 2,294     $ (1,918 )   $ 1,768     $ (50,397 )

13.         NET EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE – Earnings per share calculations cannot be anti-dilutive, therefore diluted shares are not used in the denominator when the numerator is in a loss position.  The following table reconciles the basic and diluted common shares outstanding:

 
Three months ended
 
Six months ended
 
(in thousands)
June 30
 
June 30
 
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Basic shares
  $ 30,110     $ 29,405     $ 29,903     $ 29,380  
Assumed exercise of Company stock options
    261       22       249       8  
Diluted shares
  $ 30,371     $ 29,427     $ 30,152     $ 29,388  
 
 
 

 
14.           STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Company stock option plan
The Company has a stock option plan for certain directors, officers and key full-time employees of the Company and its subsidiaries, other than its CEO.  Options are granted at the market price for the underlying shares on the date of grant.  Each option vests over a four-year term, expires five years from the date granted and allows for the purchase of one Subordinate Voting Share.  All Subordinate Voting Shares issued are new shares.  As at June 30, 2010, there were 825,750 options available for future grants (December 31, 2009 - 533,000).

Grants under the Company’s stock option plan are equity-classified awards.  There were 520,000 stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2010 (2009 - 316,000).  Stock option activity for the six months ended June 30, 2010 was as follows:
 
               
Weighted average
       
         
Weighted
   
remaining
       
   
Number of
   
average
   
contractual life
   
Aggregate
 
 
 
options
   
exercise price
   
(years)
   
intrinsic value
 
Shares issuable under options -
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Beginning of period
    1,655,000     $ 18.22              
Granted
    520,000       19.15    
 
   
 
 
Exercised
    (228,750 )     13.35    
 
   
 
 
Forfeited
    (12,750 )     16.23    
 
   
 
 
Shares issuable under options -
                 
 
   
 
 
End of period
    1,933,500     $ 19.06       2.94     $ 5,377  
Options exercisable - End of period
    867,300     $ 19.97       1.96     $ 1,725  
 
The amount of compensation expense recorded in the statement of earnings for the six months ended June 30, 2010 was $1,454 (2009 - $1,008).  As of June 30, 2010, there was $3,731 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards which is expected to be recognized over the next 4 years.  During the six month period ended June 30, 2010, the fair value of options vested was $2,129 (2009 - $1,858).

Subsidiary stock option plan
The Company has stock option plans at one of its subsidiaries.  The impact of potential dilution from these plans, if any, is reflected in the Company’s diluted earnings per common share.


15.           PREFERRED SHARES – A dividend of $0.4375 per Preferred Share, for the period March 31, 2010 to June 30, 2010, was paid on June 30, 2010.  Each Preferred Share has a stated amount of $25.00.  As at June 30, 2010, the Company may redeem each Preferred Share for $25.50 payable in cash, or alternatively the Company may convert each Preferred Share into Subordinate Voting Shares based on a price of $25.50.  The redemption or conversion price is scheduled to decline in annual increments of $0.25 such that the price will be fixed at $25.25 between August 1, 2010 and July 31, 2011 and $25.00 on and after August 1, 2011.  Holders of the Preferred Shares have no redemption or conversion rights.


16.           CONTINGENCIES – In the normal course of operations, the Company is subject to routine claims and litigation incidental to its business.  Litigation currently pending or threatened against the Company includes disputes with former employees and commercial liability claims related to services provided by the Company.  The Company believes resolution of such proceedings, combined with amounts set aside, will not have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or the results of operations.

 
 

 
17.           SEGMENTED INFORMATION – The Company has three reportable operating segments. The segments are grouped with reference to the nature of services provided and the types of clients that use those services.  The Company assesses each segment’s performance based on operating earnings or operating earnings before depreciation and amortization.  CRE provides commercial property brokerage and other advisory services to clients in North America and in various other countries around the world.  Residential Property Management provides property management and related property services to residential communities in the United States.  Property Services provides franchised and Company-owned property services to customers in the United States and Canada. Corporate includes the costs of operating the Company’s corporate head office.

OPERATING SEGMENTS
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
Commercial
 
Residential
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
Real Estate
 
Property
 
Property
 
 
 
 
 
 
Services
 
Management
 
Services
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Three months ended June 30
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
2010 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 217,143     $ 169,172     $ 115,019     $ 38     $ 501,372  
Operating earnings
    6,322       13,186       16,938       (4,739 )     31,707  
 
                                       
2009 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 142,570     $ 167,897     $ 114,833     $ 44     $ 425,344  
Operating (loss) earnings
    (6,773 )     13,955       20,331       (2,084 )     25,429  
 
                                       
 
Commercial
 
Residential
                         
 
Real Estate
 
Property
 
Property
                 
 
Services
 
Management
 
Services
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
 
 
                                       
Six months ended June 30
                                       
 
                                       
2010 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 371,228     $ 316,023     $ 216,431     $ 81     $ 903,763  
Operating earnings
    5,863       21,497       25,539       (9,060 )     43,839  
 
                                       
2009 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 261,059     $ 314,514     $ 210,715     $ 65     $ 786,353  
Operating (loss) earnings
    (58,489 )     22,683       31,894       (4,932 )     (8,844 )

GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
United States
 
Canada
 
Australia
 
Other
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Three months ended June 30
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
2010 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Revenues
  $ 354,717     $ 68,132     $ 38,652     $ 39,871     $ 501,372  
Total long-lived assets
    472,514       50,821       35,909       50,143       609,387  
 
                                       
2009 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 329,350     $ 41,910     $ 27,280     $ 26,804     $ 425,344  
Total long-lived assets
    422,446       68,290       33,912       45,223       569,871  
 
                                       
 
United States
 
Canada
 
Australia
 
Other
 
Consolidated
 
 
                                       
Six months ended June 30
                                       
 
                                       
2010 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 653,453     $ 110,109     $ 65,533     $ 74,668     $ 903,763  
 
                                       
2009 
                                       
Revenues
  $ 609,342     $ 80,764     $ 42,895     $ 53,352     $ 786,353  


 
 

 
FIRSTSERVICE CORPORATION

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
FOR THE SIX MONTH PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2010
(in US dollars)
July 30, 2010

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) should be read together with the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements of FirstService Corporation (the “Company” or “FirstService”) for the six month period ended June 30, 2010 and the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements, and MD&A, for the year ended December 31, 2009.  The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”).  All financial information herein is presented in United States dollars.

The Company has prepared this MD&A with reference to National Instrument 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations of the Canadian Securities Administrators (the "CSA").  Under the U.S./Canada Multijurisdictional Disclosure System, the Company is permitted to prepare this MD&A in accordance with the disclosure requirements of Canada, which requirements are different from those of the United States.  This MD&A provides information for the six month period ended June 30, 2010 and up to and including July 30, 2010.

Additional information about the Company, including the Company’s Annual Information Form, which is included in FirstService’s Annual Report on Form 40-F, can be found on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website at www.sec.gov.


Consolidated review

The operating results for our second quarter ended June 30, 2010 reflected significant increases in consolidated revenues and profitability, most notably through strong improvements in brokerage activity at our Commercial Real Estate (“CRE”) segment relative to the second quarter of 2009.

On April 16, 2010, we acquired a commercial real estate business operating in Chicago.  This acquisition establishes a regional hub for the US Midwest, and is expected to strengthen our US operations by increasing our capability to serve regional and national clients.  The acquired business generated approximately $30 million of revenues in the year prior to acquisition.

On July 27, 2010, we announced the acquisition of a residential property management business operating in New York City, which is complementary to our existing operations in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs.  The acquired business generated revenues of approximately $7 million in the year prior to acquisition.

We are the largest member of Colliers International, a global commercial real estate services organization operating under a common brand. In January 2010, the members of Colliers International voted to align the governance structure of the organization with the economic interests of the members, resulting in FirstService gaining control over the Colliers International brand. Gaining control over the brand was a significant strategic step that is expected to result in a more consistent brand identity around the world and in our clients receiving more consistent service delivery across markets.

Results of operations - three months ended June 30, 2010

Revenues for our second quarter were $501.4 million, 18% higher than the comparable prior year quarter.  Acquisitions contributed 3% to revenues, while the positive impact of foreign exchange relative to the US dollar increased revenues by 3%. Internally generated revenues, after considering the effects of acquisitions and foreign exchange, increased 12%.

Adjusted EBITDA (see “Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures” below) for the second quarter was $44.6 million versus $41.2 million reported in the prior year quarter.  Our Adjusted EBITDA margin was 8.9% of revenues versus

 
 

 
9.7% of revenues in the prior year quarter, primarily as a result of a significant increase in CRE segment revenues at a lower margin than the consolidated average.  The operating earnings for the quarter were $31.7 million, up from $25.4 million in the prior year period.  Operating earnings margin was 6.3% versus 6.0% in the prior year quarter, which was impacted favourably by acquisition-related items, offset in part by the change in revenue mix as described above.
 
Depreciation and amortization expense totalled $12.1 million for the quarter relative to $11.4 million for the prior year quarter.  Included in the current quarter was $0.7 million of incremental amortization related to recent acquisitions.

Net interest expense was $4.6 million versus $3.0 million recorded in the prior year quarter.  The average interest rate on debt during the quarter was 6.1%, up from 4.4% in the prior year quarter due to the issuance of $77 million of 6.5% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (“Convertible Debentures”) in November 2009, and a corresponding repayment of floating rate borrowings under our revolving credit facility.  The increase in interest expense was primarily attributable to the increase in average interest rate.

The consolidated income tax rate for the second quarter was 43%, relative to 50% of income before income tax and non-controlling interest in the prior year quarter. The current period rate, as well as the prior period rate, were impacted by valuation allowances with respect to deferred income tax assets in connection with operating loss carry-forwards (see discussion below). Absent the valuation allowances, the consolidated tax rate would have been 33% in the current quarter, relative to 39% in the prior year quarter.

Net earnings from continuing operations for the quarter were $14.7 million, versus $11.7 million in the prior year quarter.  The increase was attributable to improvements in operating earnings, offset by increased interest expense as described above and a reduction of other income.  Other income included a gain on sale of securities in the prior period relative to a loss from equity method investees in the current period, resulting in a variance of $2.2 million.

Our Commercial Real Estate segment generated $217.1 million of revenues during the second quarter, an increase of 52%, which included an 8% increase related to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations relative to the US dollar and a 7% increase related to recent acquisitions. Internal revenue growth measured in local currency was 37%, and was comprised primarily of increased brokerage activity.  Regionally, North America internal revenues were up 55% (46% on a local currency basis), Asia Pacific internal revenues were up 44% (33% on a local currency basis) and Central Europe & Latin America internal revenues were up 5% (5% on a local currency basis). Second quarter EBITDA was $13.1 million, versus $2.0 million in the year-ago period, with the increase attributable to operating leverage from higher revenues and savings from cost containment efforts undertaken during 2009.

The Residential Property Management segment reported revenues of $169.2 million for the second quarter, up 1% versus the prior year quarter.  Including the impact of recently completed acquisitions, internal revenues declined 1%. Decisions by certain clients to defer or cancel discretionary spending caused a decline in ancillary service revenues, particularly landscaping and swimming pool restoration. This was partially offset by an increase in contractual property management revenues.  Residential Property Management EBITDA was $16.5 million relative to $16.9 million in the prior year quarter.

Second quarter Property Services revenues were $115.0 million, roughly even versus $114.8 million in the prior year period, with increases in revenues at our consumer oriented franchise systems tempered by a modest decline in revenues at our property preservation and foreclosure services vendor network.  EBITDA for the quarter was $19.3 million versus $22.7 million in the prior year period, as a result of significant operating leverage from a surge in new client activity in early 2009 at the vendor network operation.

Quarterly corporate costs were $4.7 million, relative to $2.0 million in the prior year period.  The current period’s results were impacted by higher performance-based compensation accruals and the negative effect of foreign currency translation of Canadian dollar-denominated expenses.

Results of operations - six months ended June 30, 2010

Revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2010 were $903.8 million, 15% higher than the comparable prior year period.  Acquisitions contributed 2% to revenues, while the positive impact of foreign exchange relative to the US

 
 

 
dollar increased revenues by 3%. Internally generated revenues, after considering the effects of acquisitions and foreign exchange, increased 10%.
 
Year to date Adjusted EBITDA (see “Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures” below) was $64.6 million versus $53.6 million reported in the comparable prior year period.  Our Adjusted EBITDA margin was 7.2% of revenues versus 6.8% of revenues in the prior year period, primarily due to the return to profitability of the CRE segment.  The operating earnings for the period were $43.8 million, relative to a loss of $8.8 million in the prior year period, which was primarily attributable to a goodwill impairment charge in the CRE segment.  Our operating earnings margin was 4.9% versus a loss of 1.1% in the prior year period.

We recorded depreciation and amortization expense of $23.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2010, including $0.9 million in amortization related to recent acquisitions, relative to $23.6 million for the prior year period, which included a $1.5 million long lived asset impairment charge in the CRE segment.

We recorded a goodwill impairment charge in the amount of $29.6 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2009.  We were required to perform a goodwill impairment test during the quarter ended March 31, 2009 due to a continuing deterioration of economic conditions in our CRE operations.  In particular, we determined that there was impairment in the North American and Central Europe & Latin American reporting units within the CRE segment driven by adverse economic conditions, sharply reduced brokerage activity and a resulting decline in estimated future discounted cash flows in each of these reporting units.  If, in future periods, poor economic conditions and operating results persist, a further goodwill impairment charge may be necessary.

Net interest expense was $8.7 million versus $5.7 million recorded in the prior year period.  The average interest rate on debt during the period was 5.7%, up from 4.7% in the prior year period due to the issuance of $77 million of Convertible Debentures in November 2009, and a corresponding repayment of floating rate borrowings under our revolving credit facility.  Net indebtedness (defined as current and non-current long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents) at the end of the quarter was $236.2 million versus $251.6 million a year ago.

Our consolidated income tax rate was 34%, versus 143% of the loss before income tax and non-controlling interest in the prior year to date period.  The current period’s rate was impacted by a valuation allowance with respect to deferred income tax assets in connection with operating loss carry-forwards (see discussion below) fully offset by: (i) the resolution of uncertain tax positions initially recognized on the acquisition of a business and (ii) a gain on settlement of a contingent liability initially recognized on the acquisition of a business, which amounted to $4.5 million and was not taxable.  The tax rate in the prior year period was affected by a valuation allowance as well as a goodwill impairment charge which was not tax deductible.

Net earnings from continuing operations for the six month period were $21.3 million, versus a loss of $32.7 million in the prior year period.  The change was primarily attributable to the goodwill impairment charge and a deferred tax valuation allowance, both recognized during the prior year period.

The Commercial Real Estate segment reported revenues of $371.2 million during the six months ended June 30, 2010, an increase of 42%.  Of the revenue growth, 10% was attributable to favorable changes in foreign exchange rates, 4% was attributable to recent acquisitions, and 28% was attributable to internal growth.  Internal growth was comprised primarily of increased brokerage activity, but also included gains in property management, appraisal and project management.  Regionally, North America internal revenues were up 35% (20% on a local currency basis), Asia Pacific internal revenues were up 59% (41% on a local currency basis), and Central Europe & Latin America revenues were up 5% (5% on a local currency basis).  EBITDA for the six month period was $13.9 million, versus a loss of $9.4 million in the year-ago period, with the increase attributable to higher revenues and savings from cost containment efforts undertaken during 2009.

Our Residential Property Management segment reported revenues of $316.0 million for the six month period, up slightly versus the prior year period.  After considering recently completed acquisitions, internal revenues declined 1%.  Work delays caused by snow cover in the mid-Atlantic states, as well as decisions by some clients to defer or cancel discretionary spending, caused a decline in ancillary service revenues including landscaping and swimming pool restoration.  This was partially offset by an increase in contractual property management revenues.  Residential Property Management EBITDA was $28.1 million relative to $28.4 million in the prior year period.

 
 

 
For the six month period, Property Services revenues were $216.4 million, an increase of 3% over the prior year period.  The revenue increase was attributable equally to the segment’s consumer-oriented franchise operations, and the residential property preservation and foreclosure services vendor network.  EBITDA for the period was $30.2 million versus $36.2 million in the one year ago period, as a result of significant operating leverage from a surge in new client activity in early 2009 at the vendor network operation.

Corporate costs for the six month period were $9.0 million, relative to $4.8 million in the prior year period.  The current period’s results were impacted by higher performance-based compensation accruals and the negative effect of foreign currency translation of Canadian dollar-denominated expenses.

Deferred income tax valuation allowance

We have incurred net operating losses for tax purposes in our CRE operations during the past three years.  The accounting impact of such losses is the recognition of deferred tax assets representing the future benefit of the tax loss carry-forwards.  As a result of uncertainty surrounding the realization of the benefit of the tax loss carry-forwards, a valuation allowance was recognized against the deferred income tax assets.  During the six months ended June 30, 2010, we recognized a valuation allowance in the amount of $6.5 million (2009 - $15.0 million).  The total valuation allowance as of June 30, 2010 was $40.7 million (December 31, 2009 - $34.2 million).  The most significant factor leading to the determination that a valuation allowance was necessary is uncertainty in the near-term outlook for taxable income in our North American CRE operations.  The operating losses have a remaining statutory carry-forward period of 17 to 20 years.

Summary of quarterly results (unaudited)

The following table sets forth FirstService’s unaudited quarterly consolidated results of operations data for each of the eight most recent quarters. The information in the table below has been derived from FirstService’s unaudited interim consolidated financial statements that, in management’s opinion, have been prepared on a consistent basis and include all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of information.  The information below is not necessarily indicative of results for any future quarter.

Quarter
    Q1       Q2       Q3       Q4  
(in thousands of US$, except per share amounts)
                               
 
                               
YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2010
                               
Revenues
  $ 402,391     $ 501,372                  
Operating earnings
    12,132       31,707                  
Net earnings (loss) per common share:
                               
Basic
    (0.02 )     0.08                  
Diluted
    (0.02 )     0.08                  
 
                               
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
                               
Revenues
  $ 361,009     $ 425,344     $ 451,080     $ 465,789  
Operating earnings (loss)
    (34,273 )     25,429       28,143       18,882  
Net earnings (loss) per common share:
                               
Basic
    (1.65 )     (0.07 )     0.16       (0.32 )
Diluted
    (1.65 )     (0.07 )     0.16       (0.32 )
 
                               
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
                               
Revenues
                  $ 450,051     $ 417,860  
Operating earnings
                    35,442       12,410  
Net earnings (loss) per common share:
                               
Basic
                    2.68       (1.36 )
Diluted
                    2.68       (1.36 )
 
                               
OTHER DATA
                               
Adjusted EBITDA - 2010
  $ 20,066     $ 44,578                  
Adjusted EBITDA - 2009
    12,419       41,183     $ 43,511     $ 35,954  
Adjusted EBITDA - 2008
                    47,451       29,797  

 
 

 
Seasonality and quarterly fluctuations

Certain segments of the Company's operations are subject to seasonal variations. The seasonality of the service lines noted below results in variations in quarterly revenues and operating margins. Variations can also be caused by acquisitions or dispositions, which alter the consolidated service mix.

The CRE segment generates peak revenues and earnings in the month of December followed by a low in January and February as a result of the timing of closings on commercial real estate brokerage transactions. Revenues and earnings during the balance of the year are relatively even. These brokerage operations comprise approximately 24% of consolidated revenues.

The demand for exterior painting (Property Services segment) and swimming pool management in the northern United States and Canada (Residential Property Management segment) is highest during late spring, summer and early fall and very low during winter. These operations generate most of their annual revenues and earnings between April and September and comprise approximately 5% of consolidated revenues.

Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net earnings from continuing operations before non-controlling interest share of earnings, income taxes, interest, depreciation, amortization, goodwill impairment charges, acquisition-related accounting items, stock-based compensation expense and cost containment expense.  The Company uses EBITDA to evaluate its own operating performance and as an integral part of its planning and reporting systems. Additionally, the Company uses EBITDA in conjunction with discounted cash flow models to determine its overall enterprise valuation and to evaluate acquisition targets. The Company believes EBITDA is a reasonable measure of operating performance because of the low capital intensity of its service operations.  The Company believes EBITDA is a financial metric used by many investors to compare companies, especially in the services industry.  EBITDA is not a recognized measure of financial performance under GAAP in the United States, and should not be considered as a substitute for operating earnings, net earnings or cash flow from operating activities, as determined in accordance with GAAP.  The Company's method of calculating EBITDA may differ from other issuers and accordingly, EBITDA may not be comparable to measures used by other issuers.  A reconciliation of net earnings from continuing operations to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA appears below.

 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
(in thousands of US$)
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations
  $ 14,674     $ 11,659     $ 21,311     $ (32,668 )
Income tax
    11,174       11,693       10,961       19,184  
Other expense (income)
    1,280       (963 )     2,912       (1,054 )
Interest expense, net
    4,579       3,040       8,655       5,694  
Operating earnings (loss)
    31,707       25,429       43,839       (8,844 )
Depreciation and amortization
    12,087       11,357       23,598       23,617  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       -       -       29,583  
EBITDA
    43,794       36,786       67,437       44,356  
Acquisition-related items
    348       -       (4,211 )     -  
Stock-based compensation expense
    436       1,534       1,418       3,171  
Cost containment
    -       2,863       -       6,075  
Adjusted EBITDA
  $ 44,578     $ 41,183     $ 64,644     $ 53,602  

Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations is defined as diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations plus the effect, after income tax, of: (i) the non-controlling interest redemption increment recognized in connection with the accounting standards on non-controlling interests (“NCI”); (ii) amortization expense related to intangible assets recognized in connection with acquisitions; (iii) goodwill impairment charges; (iv) acquisition-related items, including the settlement of an acquisition-related liability, transaction costs and contingent consideration fair value adjustments; (v) stock-based compensation expense; (vi) cost containment expense and (vii) deferred income tax valuation allowances related to tax loss carry-forwards.  The Company

 
 

 
believes adjusted earnings per share is a useful measure of operating performance because it enhances the comparability of operating results from period to period.  This is not a recognized measure of financial performance under GAAP, and should not be considered as a substitute for diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations, as determined in accordance with GAAP.  The Company's method of calculating this measure may differ from other issuers and, accordingly, this measure may not be comparable to measures used by other issuers.  A reconciliation appears below.
 
 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
(in thousands of US$)
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders
  $ 2,294     $ (1,918 )   $ 1,768     $ (50,397 )
Non-controlling interest redemption increment
    5,930       8,931       6,220       10,847  
Company share of net (earnings) loss from
                               
discontinued operations, net of tax
    -       (364 )     -       2,954  
Acquisition-related items
    348       -       (4,211 )     -  
Amortization of intangible assets
    5,258       4,732       10,009       11,253  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       -       -       29,583  
Stock-based compensation expense
    436       1,534       1,418       3,171  
Cost containment
    -       2,863       -       6,075  
Realized gain on available-for-sale securities
    -       (943 )     -       (943 )
Income tax on adjustments
    (1,964 )     (2,906 )     (3,953 )     (6,653 )
Deferred income tax valuation allowance
    2,572       2,476       6,470       14,958  
Non-controlling interest on adjustments
    (415 )     (770 )     1,123       (4,709 )
Adjusted net earnings from continuing operations
  $ 14,459     $ 13,635     $ 18,844     $ 16,139  
 
                               
 
 
 
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
(in US$)
 
June 30
   
June 30
 
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net earnings (loss) per common share from continuing
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
operations
  $ 0.08     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.06     $ (1.62 )
Non-controlling interest redemption increment
    0.19       0.30       0.20       0.37  
Acquisition-related items
    0.01       -       (0.07 )     -  
Amortization of intangible assets, net of tax
    0.11       0.09       0.21       0.23  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       -       -       0.93  
Stock-based compensation expense, net of tax
    0.01       0.03       0.03       0.06  
Cost containment, net of tax
    -       0.06       -       0.13  
Realized gain on available-for-sale securities
    -       (0.02 )     -       (0.02 )
Deferred income tax valuation allowance
    0.08       0.08       0.20       0.47  
Adjusted diluted net earnings per common share
                               
from continuing operations
  $ 0.48     $ 0.46     $ 0.63     $ 0.55  

 
 

 
Liquidity and capital resources

Net cash provided by operating activities for the six month period ended June 30, 2010 was $16.1 million, versus $13.4 million used in the prior year period ($7.4 million used excluding discontinued operations).  The increase in operating cash flow from continuing operations of $23.5 million was attributable to improvements in earnings and the net working capital position.  We believe that cash from operations and other existing resources will continue to be adequate to satisfy the ongoing working capital needs of the Company.

Net indebtedness as at June 30, 2010 was $236.2 million, versus $213.2 million at December 31, 2009.  Net indebtedness is calculated as the current and non-current portion of long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents.  The change in indebtedness resulted primarily from purchases of non-controlling interests and fixed assets.  We are in compliance with the covenants within our financing agreements as at June 30, 2010 and, based on our outlook for the balance of the year, we expect to remain in compliance with these covenants.  We had $114.3 million of available un-drawn credit as of June 30, 2010, and a further $50.0 million available under an accordion provision subject to lender approval.

In May 2010, we terminated two interest rate swap agreements to exchange the fixed interest rate on the Company’s $100 million 5.44% senior notes for a floating rate based on LIBOR plus a spread, for cash proceeds of $0.7 million.  The interest rate swaps were being accounted for as fair value hedges.  The gain of $0.7 million on the disposal is being amortized to earnings over the remaining term of the senior notes.  We had no interest rate swaps in place as of June 30, 2010.

For the six months ended June 30, 2010, capital expenditures were $15.1 million.  Significant purchases included information technology systems in the CRE segment.  Based on our current operations, capital expenditures for the year ending December 31, 2010 are expected to be approximately $30.0 million.

In relation to acquisitions completed during the past three years, we have outstanding contingent consideration totalling $45.1 million as at June 30, 2010 ($23.4 million as at December 31, 2009) assuming all contingencies are satisfied and payment is due in full.  On pre-January 1, 2009 acquisitions, the amount of the contingent consideration is not recorded as a liability unless the outcome of the contingency is resolved and additional consideration is paid or payable and is recorded as additional costs of the acquired businesses. On post-December 31, 2008 acquisitions, the contingent consideration liability is recognized at fair value upon acquisition and is updated to fair value each quarter. The contingent consideration is based on achieving specified earnings levels, and is paid or payable at the end of the contingency period, which extends to December 2014.  We estimate that, based on current operating results, approximately 50% of the contingent consideration outstanding as of June 30, 2010 will ultimately be paid.

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as at June 30, 2010:

Contractual obligations
 
Payments due by period
 
(in thousands of US$)
 
 
   
Less than
   
 
   
 
   
After
 
 
 
Total
   
1 year
   
1-3 years
   
4-5 years
   
5 years
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Long-term debt
  $ 246,063     $ 39,283     $ 127,758     $ 65,097     $ 13,925  
Convertible debentures
    77,000       -       -       77,000       -  
Capital lease obligations
    3,334       1,919       1,380       35       -  
Operating leases
    190,836       47,912       78,164       42,235       22,525  
 
                                       
Total contractual obligations
  $ 517,233     $ 89,114     $ 207,302     $ 184,367     $ 36,450  

At June 30, 2010, we had commercial commitments totaling $13.6 million comprised of letters of credit outstanding due to expire within one year.  We are required to make semi-annual payments of interest on our senior notes and Convertible Debentures at a weighted average interest rate of 6.2%.

 
 

 
Non-controlling interests

In most operations where managers, employees or brokers are also minority owners, the Company is party to shareholders’ agreements.  These agreements allow us to “call” the minority position at a value determined with the use of a formula price, which is in most cases equal to a multiple of trailing two-year average earnings, less debt.  Minority owners may also “put” their interest to the Company at the same price, with certain limitations including (i) the inability to “put” more than 50% of their holdings in any twelve-month period and (ii) the inability to “put” any holdings for at least one year after the date of our initial acquisition of the business or the date the minority shareholder acquired the stock, as the case may be.  The total value of the minority shareholders’ interests (the “redemption amount”), as calculated in accordance with shareholders’ agreements, was as follows.

 
 
June 30
   
December 31
 
(in thousands of US$)
 
2010
   
2009
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Commercial Real Estate
  $ 38,619     $ 22,174  
Residential Property Management
    60,033       66,621  
Property Services
    57,938       67,992  
 
  $ 156,590     $ 156,787  

The amount recorded on our balance sheet under the caption “non-controlling interests” is the greater of: (i) the redemption amount (as above) or (ii) the amount initially recorded as NCI at the date of inception of the minority equity position.  As at June 30, 2010, the NCI recorded on the balance sheet was $165.7 million.  The purchase prices of the NCI may be paid in cash or in Subordinate Voting Shares of FirstService.

Off-balance sheet arrangements
We do not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements other than those disclosed in notes 13, 19 and 20 to the December 31, 2009 audited consolidated financial statements.

Critical accounting policies and estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions with respect to the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  These estimates and assumptions are based upon management’s historical experience and are believed by management to be reasonable under the circumstances. Such estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an ongoing basis and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ significantly from these estimates.  Our critical accounting policies and estimates have been reviewed and discussed with our Audit Committee.  There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates from those disclosed in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Recently adopted accounting standards
On January 1, 2010, we adopted new accounting standards for variable interest entities. The new guidance amends the consolidation guidance for variable interest entities, in particular: (i) to require ongoing reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity; (ii) to eliminate the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and (iii) to require enhanced disclosures that will provide more transparent information about involvement in a variable interest entity, if any. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.

Impact of IFRS
On January 1, 2011, many Canadian companies will be required to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).  In 2004, in accordance the rules of the CSA, the Company elected to report exclusively using U.S. GAAP.  Under the rules of the CSA, the Company is permitted to continue preparing its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP and, as a result, is not adopting IFRS on January 1, 2011.


 
 

 
Financial instruments
We use financial instruments as part of our strategy to manage the risk associated with interest rates and currency exchange rates.  We do not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Outstanding share data
The authorized capital of the Company consists of an unlimited number of preference shares, issuable in series, of which are authorized an unlimited number of 7% Cumulative Preference Shares, Series 1 (the “Preferred Shares”), an unlimited number of Subordinate Voting Shares and an unlimited number of Multiple Voting Shares.  The holders of Subordinate Voting Shares are entitled to one vote in respect of each Subordinate Voting Share held at all meetings of the shareholders of the Company.  The holders of Multiple Voting Shares are entitled to twenty votes in respect of each Multiple Voting Share held at all meetings of the shareholders of the Company.  The holders of the Preferred Shares are not entitled, except as otherwise provided by law or in the conditions attaching to the preference shares as a class, to receive notice of, attend or vote at any meeting of the shareholders of the Company. Each Multiple Voting Share is convertible into one Subordinate Voting Share at any time at the election of the holders thereof. The Preferred Shares are redeemable for cash or convertible into Subordinate Voting Shares at the option of the Company at any time as set out in the Articles of the Company.

The Company also has outstanding $77,000,000 principal amount of Convertible Debentures. The Convertible Debentures mature on December 31, 2014 and accrue interest at the rate of 6.50% per annum payable semi-annually in arrears on June 30 and December 31 in each year, commencing June 30, 2010. At the holder’s option, the Convertible Debentures may be converted into Subordinate Voting Shares of FirstService at any time prior to the close of business on the earlier of the business day immediately preceding either the maturity date and the date specified by FirstService for redemption of the Convertible Debentures. The conversion price is $28.00 for each Subordinate Voting Share, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances. The Convertible Debentures will not be redeemable before December 31, 2012. On and after December 31, 2012 and prior to December 31, 2013, the Convertible Debentures may be redeemed in whole or in part from time to time at FirstService’s option, provided that the volume weighted average trading price of the Subordinate Voting Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (converted into a US dollar equivalent) during the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day preceding the date on which the notice of the redemption is given is not less than 125% of the conversion price. On and after December 31, 2013 and prior to the maturity date, FirstService may, at its option, redeem the Convertible Debentures, in whole or in part, from time to time at par plus accrued and unpaid interest. Subject to specified conditions, FirstService has the right to repay the outstanding principal amount of the Convertible Debentures, on maturity or redemption, through the issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares. FirstService also has the option to satisfy its obligation to pay interest through the issuance and sale of Subordinate Voting Shares. A summary of additional terms of the Convertible Debentures is set out in the section entitled “Description Of The Securities Being Distributed” contained in the Company’s prospectus dated November 3, 2009 qualifying the distribution of the Convertible Debentures, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

As of the date hereof, the Company has outstanding 28,909,380 Subordinate Voting Shares, 1,325,694 Multiple Voting Shares and 5,772,274 Preferred Shares.  In addition, as at the date hereof: (a) 1,933,500 Subordinate Voting Shares are issuable upon exercise of options granted under the Company stock option plan; and (b) 2,750,000 Subordinate Voting Shares are issuable upon conversion or redemption or in respect of repayment at maturity of the outstanding Convertible Debentures (using the conversion price of $28.00 for each Subordinate Voting Share), with a maximum of 3,871,290 Subordinate Voting Shares being issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Debentures following certain “change of control” transactions.  On April 14, 2010, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the Company stock option plan increasing the total number of Subordinate Voting Shares available for future grants under the plan by 800,000, bringing the total availability to 825,750.  During the six month period ended June 30, 2010, the Company did not repurchase any Subordinate Voting Shares or Preferred Shares under its Normal Course Issuer Bid.

Canadian tax treatment of preferred dividends
For the purposes of the enhanced dividend tax credit rules contained in the Income Tax Act (Canada) and any corresponding provincial and territorial tax legislation, all dividends (and deemed dividends) paid by us to Canadian residents on our Preferred Shares are designated as “eligible dividends”.  Unless stated otherwise,

 
 

 
all dividends (and deemed dividends) paid by us hereafter are designated as “eligible dividends” for the purposes of such rules.
 
Changes in internal controls over financial reporting
There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the six month period ended June 30, 2010 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal controls over financial reporting.

Forward-looking statements
This MD&A contains forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “project,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs with respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management. Forward-looking statements involve significant known and unknown risk and uncertainties. Many factors could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors which may cause such differences include, but are not limited to, those set out below and those set out in detail in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Information Form, which is included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 40-F:

Economic conditions, especially as they relate to credit availability and consumer spending.
Commercial real estate property values, vacancy rates, and general conditions of financial liquidity for real estate transactions.
Extreme weather conditions impacting demand for our services or our ability to perform those services.
Economic deterioration impacting our ability to recover goodwill and other intangible assets.
Ability to generate cash from our businesses to fund future acquisitions and meet our debt obligations.
The effects of changes in foreign exchange rates in relation to the US dollar on our Canadian dollar, Australian dollar and Euro denominated revenues and expenses.
Risks arising from any regulatory review and litigation.
Changes in government policies at the federal, state/provincial or local level that may adversely impact our businesses.

We caution that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all possible factors, as other factors could adversely affect our results, performance or achievements. The reader is cautioned against undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the assumptions underlying our forward-looking statements are reasonable, any of the assumptions could prove inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance that the results contemplated in such forward-looking statements will be realized.  The inclusion of such forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the future events, plans or expectations contemplated by the Company will be achieved.  We note that past performance in operations and share price are not necessarily predictive of future performance.  We disclaim any intention and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement even if new information becomes available, as a result of future events or for any other reason.

Additional information
Additional information regarding the Company, including our Annual Information Form, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.