Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our Common Stock traded on the Nasdaq Global Market until June 29, 2011 when our Common Stock started trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market, under the symbol “SIEB.”
The closing sale price of our Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq Capital Market on March 14, 2022 was $2.00 per share. As of March 14, 2022, there were 84 holders of record of our Common Stock based on information provided by our transfer agent. The number of stockholders of record does not reflect the number of individual or institutional stockholders that beneficially own our stock because most stock is held in the name of nominees. Based on information available to us, we believe there are approximately 4,731 beneficial holders of our Common Stock as of March 14, 2022.
Dividend Policy
Our Board of Directors periodically considers whether to declare dividends. In considering whether to pay such dividends, our Board of Directors will review our earnings, capital requirements, economic forecasts and such other factors as are deemed relevant. Some portion of our earnings will be retained to provide capital for the operation and expansion of our business.
Share Price Volatility
Since our Common Stock started trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market, our Common Stock has been relatively thinly traded and at times been subject to price volatility. From January 1, 2021 to January 28, 2021, the average close price of our Common Stock was $3.94 per share. On January 29, 2021, the price increased to a high of $18.50 per share and approximately 34 million shares were traded. From February 1, 2021 to February 28, 2021, the average close price was $5.60 per share. The average daily trading volume from March 1, 2021 to March 1, 2022 was approximately 271,000 shares. We have not experienced any material changes in our financial condition or results of operations that explain such price volatility or trading volume.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
Plan Category
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a))
(a)
(b)
(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
—
NA
3,000,000
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
—
NA
NA
Total
—
NA
3,000,000
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
On November 16, 2021, we issued 1,449,525 shares of our common stock to Tigress in consideration of an equity interest in Tigress pursuant to a certain contribution agreement, by and among Siebert, RISE, and Tigress. The common stock was issued pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Refer to Note 10 – “Equity Method Investment in Related Party” for more detail.
On August 18, 2021, we amended our common stock purchase agreement with OpenHand Holdings, Inc. (“OpenHand”), dated January 31, 2021, and, pursuant to the amendment, cancelled 329,654 shares of our common stock that we issued to OpenHand pursuant to the original stock purchase agreement. Refer to Note 11 – “Investments, Cost” for more detail.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 19
On January 31, 2021, Siebert and OpenHand entered into a stock purchase agreement whereby Siebert acquired an interest of 5% of OpenHand common stock for consideration of a total of $2,231,000 consisting of $850,000 in cash and 329,654 restricted shares of Siebert’s common stock valued at $1,381,000 or $4.19 per share. The common stock was issued pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Refer to Note 11 – “Investments, Cost” for more detail.
On November 10, 2020, Siebert issued 150,000 shares of its restricted common stock to each of Anthony Palmeri and Gerard Losurdo, each an employee of MSCO, as part of their employment agreements. Mr. Palmeri and Mr. Losurdo each paid Siebert approximately $400,000 for their shares, which was equal to 70% of the closing price of Siebert’s common stock as reported on Nasdaq on November 9, 2020. The common stock issued to Mr. Palmeri and Mr. Losurdo was subject to a three-year restriction on transfer commencing on the day of issuance. The issuance of common stock was approved by unanimous written consent of Siebert’s board of directors. The common stock was issued to Mr. Palmeri and Mr. Losurdo as part of their employment agreements in accordance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4) and pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Refer to Note 17 – “Employee Stock Purchases” for more detail.
On April 21, 2020, we entered into an agreement with InvestCloud pursuant to which InvestCloud acquired 193,906 shares of our restricted common stock. The common stock was issued on May 12, 2020 at a per share price of $5.81 (Siebert’s share price as of the close of May 12, 2020) for a total of $1.1 million for professional services to integrate InvestCloud’s software into Siebert’s existing platforms as well as its Robo-Advisor. The common stock was issued pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Refer to Note 5 – “Prepaid Service Contract” for more detail.
Effective January 1, 2020, we acquired the remaining 85% of StockCross’ outstanding shares in exchange for 3,298,774 shares of our common stock, and StockCross was merged with and into MSCO. The common stock was issued pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Refer to Note 3 – “Acquisitions” for more detail.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 20
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSIONS AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and the related notes included in Part II, Item 8 - Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition to our historical consolidated financial information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include those discussed below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in Part I, Item 1A - Risk Factors.
Overview
We are a financial services company and provide a wide variety of financial services to our clients. We operate in the following business lines through our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries:
•
Retail brokerage business through Muriel Siebert & Co., Inc. (“MSCO”), a Delaware corporation and broker-dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) and the Commodity Exchange Act of 1936, and member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”), and the National Futures Association (“NFA”). MSCO engages in the business of providing brokerage services for retail customers and trading securities for its own account.
•
Investment advisory services through Siebert AdvisorNXT, Inc. (“SNXT”), a New York corporation registered with the SEC as a Registered Investment Adviser (“RIA”) under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. SNXT engages in providing investment advisory services to retail and high net worth clients.  
•
Insurance services through Park Wilshire Companies, Inc. (“PW”), a Texas corporation and licensed insurance agency. PW provides insurance agency services to retail and institutional accounts.
•
Robo-advisory technology development through Siebert Technologies, LLC (“STCH”), a Nevada limited liability company.
•
Prime brokerage services through RISE Financial Services, LLC (“RISE”), formerly known as WPS Prime Services, LLC (“WPS”), a Delaware limited liability company and a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and NFA. RISE is a woman-owned and operated financial services firm that offers a comprehensive suite of prime brokerage services aligned with the growing mission-driven Environmental Social and Governance (“ESG”) initiatives of institutional investors.   
•
StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd. (“STXD”), an inactive subsidiary headquartered in Bermuda.
Results in the businesses in which we operate are highly correlated to general economic conditions and, more specifically, to the direction of the U.S. equity and fixed-income markets. Market volatility, overall market conditions, interest rates, economic, political, and regulatory trends, and industry competition are among the factors which could affect us and which are unpredictable and beyond our control. These factors affect the financial decisions made by market participants who include investors and competitors, impacting their level of participation in the financial markets. In addition, in periods of reduced financial market activity, profitability is likely to be adversely affected because certain expenses remain relatively fixed, including salaries and related costs, as well as portions of communications costs and occupancy expenses. Accordingly, earnings for any period should not be considered representative of earnings to be expected for any other period.
COVID-19
Impact
Overview
The World Health Organization declared the spread of COVID-19 a worldwide pandemic in March 2020. The COVID‑19 pandemic has adversely impacted the economic environment, leading to lower interest rates across the curve and heightened volatility in the financial markets. We are actively monitoring the impact of COVID-19 and the possible effects of the roll-out of various vaccines on our business, financial condition, liquidity, operations, employees, clients and business partners.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 21
Financial Impact
In the first quarter of 2020, the Federal Reserve cut the federal funds target overnight rate to near zero. This decline in interest rates led to a decrease in our revenue from interest, marketing and distribution fees, and may continue to have a negative impact on these revenue streams in the near future.
The primary financial impact on Siebert from the COVID-19 pandemic for both the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 was lower interest revenue resulting from lower benchmark interest rates beginning in the first quarter of 2020.
Management Response
Operations
In response to the pandemic and for the protection of our employees, clients and business partners, we implemented remote work arrangements for nearly 100% of our employees, restricted business travel and temporarily closed some of our branch offices. With our ability to meet a vast majority of our clients' needs through our technology-based platforms and services, these arrangements did not materially affect our ability to maintain our business operations. As of the date of this Report we have reopened all of our branch offices.
Expense Reduction
As of the date of this Report, we are actively involved in contract negotiations with key vendors to reduce many of our fixed costs. In addition, we successfully transitioned certain branch offices out of legacy office space into more cost-efficient locations resulting in savings related to rent and occupancy expense. We do not believe any of the changes described above will have a negative impact on the operations or financials of our business.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The situation surrounding COVID-19 has not materially impacted our liquidity position or future outlook as we have been able to meet all obligations and believe we will be able to do so in the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
We note that the ultimate impact of COVID-19 on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows is dependent on future developments, including the duration of the pandemic and the possible effects of the roll-out of various vaccines, which are uncertain and cannot be predicted at this time. We are currently monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will continue to respond to meet the demands of our clients as well as protect our employees.
Significant Events
Purchase of Office Building in Miami
On December 30, 2021, we acquired a commercial office building and associated property located at 653 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL (“Miami office building”) for approximately $6.8 million. The Miami office building contains approximately 12,000 square feet of office space and will be used as one of our primary operating centers.
Transaction with Tigress Holdings, LLC
On November 16, 2021, we entered into an agreement with Tigress, a Delaware limited liability company. As part of the agreement, (i) Tigress transferred to us limited liability company membership interests representing twenty-four percent (24%) of the outstanding membership interests in Tigress; and (ii) we transferred to Tigress limited liability company membership interests representing twenty-four percent (24%) of the outstanding membership interests of RISE and 1,449,525 shares of Siebert common stock. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we recognized $172,000 from our equity method investment in Tigress, which is within the line item titled, “Earnings of equity method investment in related party” on the statements of income.
Tigress Financial Partners is a disabled and woman-owned financial services firm providing institutional and high net worth investors with expertise in investment banking, capital markets, research, corporate advisory and global trade execution services, asset management and global wealth management. Tigress Financial Partners serves as a strategic diversity partner to corporate issuers, bookrunners, hedge funds and private equity firms.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 22
Relaunch of RISE Financial Services, LLC
As part of the transaction with Tigress, WPS Prime Services, LLC was renamed to RISE Financial Services, LLC, and Tigress’ founder, Cynthia DiBartolo, will continue as CEO of Tigress, and assumed the position as CEO of RISE. Gloria E. Gebbia, one of Siebert’s and RISE’s directors, assumed the position of Chief Impact Officer at RISE. Ms. DiBartolo was appointed to Siebert’s and RISE’s Board of Directors and Ms. Gebbia was appointed to Tigress’ Board of Directors.
RISE relaunched its business as a woman-owned and operated prime brokerage with a specific emphasis on aligning the mission-driven initiatives with the technological needs of institutional customers.
While we believe our expertise and industry relationships will enable us to execute our new strategic direction, our business plan for RISE is new and untested, and it is uncertain whether our efforts will attract the prime brokerage customers and revenue necessary to compete in a new market for prime customers. Any failure to adapt to these evolving trends may reduce our revenue or operating margins and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Arrangements with JonesTrading and Goldman Sachs
On August 30, 2021, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC ("GSCO") notified RISE that its clearing arrangement with RISE will be terminated.
Due to the termination of RISE’s clearing arrangement with GSCO, substantially all the revenue producing customers of RISE have transitioned to other prime service providers. Revenue from customers that have transitioned to other prime service providers was approximately $12.6 million and $13.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Pre-tax income from these customers was approximately $1.8 million and $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
As a result of this development, we recorded a full impairment of the RISE customer relationships intangible asset of $699,000 and RISE collected its clearing deposit from GSCO of approximately $2 million as of December 31, 2021. In addition, RISE’s institutional customer assets under management were significantly reduced in the year ended December 31, 2021.
On October 7, 2021, RISE signed an agreement with JonesTrading Institutional Services, LLC (“JonesTrading”) to transfer certain customers of RISE to JonesTrading. In exchange, JonesTrading agreed to pay RISE a percentage of the net revenue produced by those clients less any related expenses. The percentage paid to RISE related to this agreement will decline every year and the arrangement will end in October 2024. For the year ended December 31, 2021, this agreement resulted in a net expense of $22,000 as RISE was in the process of transitioning certain customers to JonesTrading. We do not anticipate the revenue related to this agreement will offset the reduction in revenue from customers that have transitioned to other prime service providers.
Contract with NFS
Effective August 1, 2021, MSCO entered into an amendment to its clearing agreement with NFS that, among other things, extends the term of their arrangement for an additional four-year period commencing on August 1, 2021 and ending July 31, 2025. As part of this agreement, we received a one-time business development credit of $3 million, and NFS will pay us four annual credits of $100,000, which are recorded within the line item “Deferred contract incentive” on the statements of financial condition. The business development credit and annual credits will be recognized as contra expense over four years and one year, respectively, in the line item “Clearing fees, including execution costs” on the statements of income. These credits reduced our expenses for clearing fees, including executions, by $354,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021, and we anticipate an annual expense reduction of approximately $850,000 for the years thereafter through the end of the agreement.
OpenHand
On January 31, 2021, we entered into a stock purchase agreement with OpenHand Holdings, Inc. (“OpenHand”) whereby we acquired an interest of 5% of OpenHand common stock for consideration of a total of $2,231,000 consisting of $850,000 in cash and 329,654 restricted shares of our common stock valued at $1,381,000 or $4.19 per share. We intended to develop a subscription-based brokerage platform with OpenHand, providing zero-commission trading for equity and option transactions and crediting its members daily with rebates of revenues generated by the clients, less operational expenses.
The value of our restricted stock was determined using the thirty-day trading average. We agreed to register the shares issued to OpenHand by filing a selling shareholder registration statement. We also received an option to purchase an additional 7.5% of OpenHand for approximately $4.5 million, based upon a $60 million valuation of OpenHand. This option expires 18 months after the launch of the OpenHand platform.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 23
On August 18, 2021, we agreed with OpenHand to terminate our working relationship. In connection therewith, Siebert and OpenHand amended and restated their January 31, 2021 stock purchase agreement to provide that we would pay $850,000 in cash in exchange for 2% of the outstanding common stock of OpenHand as of January 31, 2021, and receive a 15-month option to purchase an additional 2% of the outstanding common stock of OpenHand at an exercise price equal to a company valuation of $42.5 million. The parties agreed to rescind OpenHand’s purchase of the 329,654 restricted shares of our common stock.
StockCross Acquisition
Overview
Established in 1971, StockCross was one of the largest privately-owned brokerage firms in the nation and its operations consisted primarily of market making, fixed-income products distribution, online and broker-assisted equity trading, securities lending, and equity stock plan services.
In January 2019, we acquired approximately 15% ownership of StockCross. Effective January 1, 2020, we acquired the remaining 85% of StockCross’ outstanding shares in exchange for 3,298,774 shares of our common stock, and StockCross was merged with and into MSCO. As of January 1, 2020, the business and operations of StockCross became part of MSCO, and all clearing and other services provided by StockCross were performed by MSCO.
StockCross Highlights
We have completed the merger of StockCross into MSCO and the acquired business lines have added new revenue streams and supplemented existing ones within MSCO. In addition, the nature of StockCross’ self-clearing business line requires the presentation of various assets and corresponding liabilities on the statements of financial condition.
Operationally, the merger resulted in the expansion of our client services areas and provided additional resources for the combined client base without any material loss of clients during the transition. Further, at the time of acquisition, StockCross added approximately $1.5 billion in retail customer net worth and approximately 30,000 retail accounts to Siebert.
Effective March 16, 2021, MSCO received approval to become an IRA nonbank custodian and trustee. MSCO successfully completed the custodian conversion from StockCross, and MSCO continues to offer IRA services to its clients.
Client Account and Activity Metrics
The following tables set forth metrics we use in analyzing our client account and activity trends for the periods indicated.
Client Account Metrics – Total Assets Under Management
As of December 31,
2021
2020
Total assets under management (in billions)
$
17.3
$
16.2
•
Total assets under management represents the total of our retail and institutional customer net worth
Client Account Metrics – Retail Customers
As of December 31,
2021
2020
Retail customer net worth (in billions)
$
16.8
$
14.6
Retail customer margin debit balances (in billions)
$
0.5
$
0.5
Retail customer credit balances (in billions)
$
0.8
$
0.7
Retail customer money market fund value (in billions)
$
0.8
$
0.8
Retail customer accounts
115,380
110,699
•
Retail customer net worth represents the total value of securities and cash in the retail customer accounts after deducting margin debits
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 24
•
Retail customer margin debit balances represents credit extended to our customers to finance their purchases against current positions
•
Retail customer credit balances represents client cash held in brokerage accounts
•
Retail customer money market fund value represents all retail customers accounts invested in money market funds
•
Retail customer accounts represents the number of retail customers
Client Account Metrics – Institutional Customers
As of December 31,
2021
2020
Institutional customer net worth (in billions)
$
0.5
$
1.6
•
Institutional customer net worth represents the total value of securities and cash in the institutional customer accounts after deducting margin debits and short positions.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 25
Client Activity Metrics
Year Ended December 31,
2021
2020
Total retail trades
472,540
471,662
•
Total retail trades represent client trades through our subsidiary MSCO
Statements of Income and Financial Condition
Overview
The following table sets forth metrics we use in analyzing our financial performance for the periods indicated:
Year Ended December 31,
2021
2020
Revenue
$
67,507,000
$
54,872,000
Income before provision for income taxes
$
6,754,000
$
3,196,000
Net income available to common stockholders
$
5,063,000
$
2,975,000
Statements of Income for the Year Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Revenue
Commissions and fees for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $18,252,000 and decreased by $1,927,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to a loss in institutional customers due to the termination of GSCO’s clearing agreement with RISE.
Interest, marketing and distribution fees for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $12,897,000 and decreased by $1,298,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to the reduction of 12b-1 fees from money market funds and lower interest received on bank deposits from our retail customers of an aggregate of approximately $2 million. This decrease was partially offset by an increase of approximately $0.7 million in interest revenue from institutional customers that have since transitioned to other prime brokerages.
Principal transactions for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $15,647,000 and increased by $3,797,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to strong market conditions during 2021.
Market making for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $5,897,000 and increased by $3,855,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to favorable market conditions during 2021.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 26
Stock borrow / stock loan for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $11,864,000 and increased by $7,819,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to the addition of key personnel, expansion of our stock locate revenues, and additional securities lending and locate counterparty relationships. The increase in this business line was a significant component of the increase in our income before provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2021 from the corresponding period in the prior year.
Advisory fees for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $1,668,000 and increased by $526,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to overall expansion of the advisory business line and favorable market conditions.
Other income for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $1,282,000 and decreased by $137,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to a reduction in foreign exchange volumes and a decrease in institutional custody fees.
Operating Expenses
Employee compensation and benefits for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $36,424,000 and increased by $7,922,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to increased commission payouts corresponding to the increase in principal transactions, market making, and stock borrow / stock loan revenue in 2021. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in commissions payouts from RISE related to the loss of institutional customers.
Clearing fees, including execution costs for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $4,817,000 and decreased by $290,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to the recognition of the business development credit and annual credits from NFS as contra expense in 2021.
Technology and communications expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $4,762,000 and increased by $140,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to an increase in software licenses and technology support services.
Other general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $3,686,000 and increased by $1,322,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to an increase in regulatory fees and exchange fees related to incremental trading volumes and counterparties, as well as an increase in office expenses and insurance cost.
Data processing expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $2,849,000 and increased by $52,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to an increase in our service bureau costs.
Rent and occupancy expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $1,930,000 and decreased by $837,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to a decrease in rent from our transition out of legacy office space into more cost-efficient locations as well as the termination of certain leases within RISE.
Professional fees for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $2,695,000 and decreased by $169,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to a decrease in legal fees.
Depreciation and amortization expenses for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $1,445,000 and decreased by $121,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to the full impairment of the RISE customer relationships intangible asset in August 2021.
Referral fees for the year ended December 31, 2021 were $1,213,000 and increased by $475,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to RISE entering into a referral fee arrangement with a significant customer in 2021.
Impairment loss for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $699,000 and increased by $699,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to the impairment of the RISE customer relationships intangible asset due to the termination of RISE’s clearing arrangement with GSCO.
Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $361,000 and increased by $12,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, primarily due to a full year of interest on the line of credit with East West Bank in 2021, partially offset by a reduction in notes payable related party in 2021.
Advertising expense for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $44,000 and increased by $44,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, due to an increase in various promotional expenses.
Earnings of Equity Method Investment in Related Party
Earnings of equity method investment in related party for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $172,000 and increased by $172,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year, due to the Company recognizing its proportional earnings from Tigress for 2021.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 27
Provision For Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $1,721,000 and increased by $1,500,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year. Refer to Note 19 – “Income Taxes” for additional detail.
Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
We are the majority owner of RISE, as such, operate and control all of the business and affairs of RISE and consolidate RISE’s financial results into our financial statements. As of December 31, 2021, we held approximately 76% ownership interest in RISE, and Tigress held 24% ownership interest in RISE. We reflect Tigress’ ownership of RISE as a noncontrolling interest in our financial statements. The net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests for the two months and the year ended December 31, 2021 was $30,000, and increased by $30,000 from the corresponding period in the prior year.
Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2021 and 2020
Assets
Assets as of December 31, 2021 were $1,404,235,000 and increased by $31,248,000 from December 31, 2020, primarily due to an increase in securities borrowed. In addition, there was an increase in property related to the purchase of the Miami office building and our equity method investment in Tigress; however, these were substantially offset by a decrease in receivables from customers and receivables from broker-dealers and clearing organizations.
Liabilities
Liabilities as of December 31, 2021 were $1,353,729,000 and increased by $18,728,000 from December 31, 2020, primarily due to an increase in securities loaned, debt from the mortgage with East West Bank, as well as the deferred contract incentive from NFS.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
In terms of the overall performance of the business in relation to liquidity, for the periods presented, we have had strong operating cash flows despite lower interest rates and the effects of COVID-19. We also have had sufficient cash flows to meet liquidity needs and believe our ability to generate cash flows will continue into the foreseeable future.
As of December 31, 2021, we had a variety of sources of borrowing capability such as a short-term overnight demand borrowing with BMO Harris Bank, notes payable to Gloria E. Gebbia, and a line of credit and a mortgage with East West Bank.
The indicators of our liquidity are cash and cash equivalents, and as of the date of this Report, there are no known or material events that would require us to use large amounts of our liquid assets to cover expenses. As of December 31, 2021, we had a sufficient amount of remaining availability on our various credit lines to facilitate incremental capital needs.
We believe that our operating cash flows, cash and cash equivalents, borrowing capacity, and overall access to capital markets are sufficient to fund our operating, investing and financing requirements for the next twelve months.
Shelf Registration Statement
On February 18, 2022, we filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 that was declared effective on March 2, 2022 by the SEC for the potential offering, issuance and sale by us of up to $100.0 million of our Common Stock, preferred stock, warrants to purchase our Common Stock and/or preferred stock, units consisting of all or some of these securities and subscription rights to purchase all or some of these securities. The registration statement was filed in reliance on General Instruction I.B.6 of Form S-3, which imposes a limitation on the maximum amount of securities that we may sell pursuant to the registration statement during any twelve-month period. Assuming we remain subject to General Instruction I.B.6, at the time we sell securities pursuant to the registration statement, the amount of securities to be sold plus the amount of any securities we have sold during the prior twelve months in reliance on Instruction I.B.6 may not exceed one-third of the aggregate market value of our outstanding Common Stock held by non-affiliates as of a day during the 60 days immediately preceding such sale as computed in accordance with Instruction I.B.6. Whether we sell securities under the registration statement will depend on a number of factors, including the market conditions at that time, our cash position at that time and the availability and terms of alternative sources of capital.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 28
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Our cash and cash equivalents are unrestricted and are used primarily to fund our working capital needs. Our cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 were approximately $3.8 million and $3.6 million, respectively.
Net Capital, Reserve Accounts, Segregation of Funds, and Other Regulatory Requirements
MSCO is subject to the Uniform Net Capital Rules of the SEC (Rule 15c3-1) and the Customer Protection Rule (15c3-3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and maintains capital and segregated cash reserves in excess of regulatory requirements. Requirements under these regulations may vary; however, MSCO has adequate reserves and continency funding plans in place to sufficiently meet any regulatory requirements. In addition to net capital requirements, as a self-clearing broker-dealer, MSCO is subject to cash deposit and collateral requirements with clearing houses, such as the DTCC and the Options Clearing Corporation, which may fluctuate significantly from time to time based upon the nature and size of clients’ trading activity and market volatility.
RISE, as a member of FINRA, is subject to the SEC Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1. This rule requires the maintenance of minimum net capital and that the ratio of aggregate indebtedness to net capital, both as defined, shall not exceed 15 to 1 and that equity capital may not be withdrawn, or cash dividends paid if the resulting net capital ratio would exceed 10 to 1. RISE is also subject to the CFTC's minimum financial requirements which require that RISE maintain net capital, as defined, equal to the greater of its requirements under Regulation 1.17 under the Commodity Exchange Act or Rule 15c3-1.
MSCO can transfer funds to Siebert as long as it maintains its liquidity and regulatory capital requirements. RISE can transfer funds to its shareholders, of which Siebert is entitled to its proportional ownership interest, as long as RISE maintains its liquidity and regulatory capital requirements. For the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, MSCO and RISE had sufficient net capital to meet their respective liquidity and regulatory capital requirements. Refer to Note 20 – “Capital Requirements” for more detail on our capital requirements.
Sources of Liquidity
Mortgage with East West Bank
On December 30, 2021, we entered into a mortgage with East West Bank for approximately $4 million to finance part of the purchase of the Miami office building.
Our obligations under the mortgage are secured by a lien on the Miami office building and the term of the loan is ten years. The repayment schedule will utilize a 30-year amortization period, with a balloon on the remaining amount due at the end of ten years. The agreement contains certain financial and non-financial covenants, and as of December 31, 2021, we have an unused commitment of $338,000 with East West Bank which we intend to use for the build out of the Miami office building. Refer to Note 13 – “Long-Term Debt” for additional detail on this agreement.
Future remaining annual minimum principal payments for the mortgage with East West Bank as of December 31, 2021 were as follows:
Amount
2022
$
—
2023
70,000
2024
78,000
2025
81,000
2026
84,000
Thereafter
3,737,000
Total
$
4,050,000
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 29
Line of Credit with East West Bank
On July 22, 2020, we entered into a loan and security agreement with East West Bank. In accordance with the terms of this agreement, we have the ability to borrow term loans in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $10 million during the two-year period after July 22, 2020. The agreement contains certain financial and non-financial covenants, and our obligation under the agreement is guaranteed pursuant to a guarantee agreement by and among, John J. Gebbia, Gloria E. Gebbia and a trust for which they are mutually co-trustees.
As of December 31, 2021, we have drawn down a $5.0 million term loan under this agreement which has an outstanding balance of $3.7 million. We have an additional $5.0 million remaining to draw down from this line of credit. Both lending agreements with East West Bank are considered senior debt facilities. Refer to Note 13 – “Long-Term Debt” for additional detail on this agreement.
Future remaining annual minimum principal payments for the line of credit with East West Bank as of December 31, 2021 were as follows:
Amount
2022
$
998,000
2023
998,000
2024
1,661,000
Total
$
3,657,000
Notes Payable – Related Party
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, we had $7 million and $5.2 million, respectively, in notes payable to Gloria E. Gebbia. As of December 31, 2021, these notes payable have maturity dates in 2022 and we have sufficient liquidity to meet all maturities of these notes. Refer to Note 14 – “Notes Payable - Related Party” for additional detail.
Overnight Financing
As of December 31, 2021, we had an available line of credit for short term overnight demand borrowing of up to $15 million with BMO Harris Bank. As of December 31, 2020, we had $15 million line of credit with BMO Harris Bank and a $15 million line of credit with Texas Capital Bank, the latter of which was not renewed as of December 31, 2021. The removal of this line of credit was the result of Texas Capital Bank exiting the business line and did not impact our ability to meet liquidity requirements.
As of December 31, 2021, we had no outstanding loan balance and there were no commitment fees or other restrictions on this line of credit. MSCO utilizes customer or firm securities as a pledge for short-term borrowing needs.
Statements of Cash Flows
The total changes in our statements of cash flows are not necessarily indicative of the ongoing results of our business as we have customer assets and liabilities on our statements of financial condition.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, we had positive operating cash flow. We had investing cash outflows related to the purchase of the Miami office building, equity of OpenHand, software assets and miscellaneous office facilities. We had financing cash inflow related to the mortgage from East West Bank to finance part of the purchase of the Miami office building as well as an incremental notes payable from Gloria E. Gebbia.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, we had positive operating cash flow and a minor investing cash outflow related to software development. We had a financing cash inflow for the line of credit secured with East West Bank and for the shares issued for employee stock purchases, which was partially offset by a financing cash outflow for the maturation of a portion of the notes payable from Gloria E. Gebbia.
Our cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2021 were approximately $3.8 million and increased from the same period in the prior year. There is an estimated $700,000 in build out costs for the Miami office building that will be incurred in 2022, of which approximately 50% will be financed by East West Bank. We believe we will have sufficient cash flows to fund our operations for the foreseeable future.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 30
Leases
As of December 31, 2021, the remaining balance of our lease payments for 2022 for operating leases with initial terms of greater than one year was $1.3 million. The remaining balance of the lease payments for these leases after 2022 was $1.8 million. Refer to Note 9 – “Leases” for more detail on our lease arrangements and corresponding disclosures.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We enter into various transactions to meet the needs of customers, conduct trading activities, and manage market risks and are, therefore, subject to varying degrees of market and credit risk.
In the normal course of business, our customer activities involve the execution, settlement, and financing of various customer securities transactions. These activities may expose us to off-balance sheet risk in the event the customer or other broker is unable to fulfill its contracted obligations and we are forced to purchase or sell the financial instrument underlying the contract at a loss.
Our customer securities activities are transacted on either a cash or margin basis. In margin transactions, we extend credit to our customers, subject to various regulatory and internal margin requirements, collateralized by cash and securities in the customers' accounts. In connection with these activities, we execute and clear customer transactions involving the sale of securities not yet purchased, substantially all of which are transacted on a margin basis subject to individual exchange regulations. As of December 31, 2021, we had margin loans extended to customers of approximately $0.6 billion, of which $84.2 million is within the line item “Receivables from customers” on the statements of financial condition.
Such transactions may expose us to off-balance sheet risk in the event margin requirements are not sufficient to fully cover losses that customers may incur. In the event the customer fails to satisfy obligations, we may be required to purchase or sell financial instruments at prevailing market prices to fulfill the customer's obligations.
We seek to control the risks associated with our customer activities by requiring customers to maintain margin collateral in compliance with various regulatory requirements and internal guidelines which meet or exceed regulatory requirements. We monitor required margin levels daily and pursuant to such guidelines, require customers to deposit additional collateral or to reduce positions when necessary.
Our customer financing and securities settlement activities may require us to pledge customer securities as collateral in support of various secured financing sources such as bank loans and securities loaned. In the event the counterparty is unable to meet its contractual obligation to return customer securities pledged as collateral, we may be exposed to the risk of acquiring the securities at prevailing market prices in order to satisfy customer obligations. We seek to mitigate this risk by monitoring the market value of securities pledged on a daily basis and by requiring adjustments of collateral levels in the event of excess market exposure. In addition, we establish credit limits for such activities and continuously monitor compliance.
Our securities lending transactions are subject to master netting agreements with other broker-dealers; however, amounts are presented gross in the statements of financial condition. We further mitigate risk by using a program with a clearing organization which guarantees the return of cash to us as well as using industry standard software to ensure daily changes to market value are continuously updated and any changes to collateralization are immediately covered.
There were no material losses for unsettled customer transactions for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Uncertain Tax Positions
We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the authoritative guidance issued under ASC 740-10, which addresses the determination of whether tax benefits claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return should be recorded in the financial statements. We may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. ASC 740-10 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods and disclosure requirements.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 31
As of December 31, 2021, we recorded an uncertain tax position of $2,418,000 related to various tax matters. As of December 31, 2020, we recorded an uncertain tax position of $1,105,000 related primarily to our 2017 to 2019 amended tax returns, as the anticipated tax refunds exceed the amount that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold.
We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits on the provision for income taxes line item in the statements of income. Accrued interest and penalties would be included on the related tax liability line in the statements of financial condition.
Long Term Contracts
Contract with NFS
Effective August 1, 2021, MSCO entered into an amendment to its clearing agreement with NFS that, among other things, extends the term of their arrangement for an additional four-year period commencing on August 1, 2021 and ending July 31, 2025. As part of this agreement, we received a one-time business development credit of $3 million, and NFS will pay us four annual credits of $100,000 over the term of the agreement. The amendment also provides for an early termination fee; however, as of December 31, 2021, we do not expect to terminate the contract with NFS before the end of the contract term. Refer to Note 15 – “Deferred Contract Incentive” and Note 22 – “Commitments, Contingencies and Other” for additional detail.
Prepaid Service Contract
We entered into an agreement with InvestCloud for development work related to our online platform. As part of this agreement, we have an obligation to pay for the license fees associated with the InvestCloud Platform for a three-year term. Refer to Note 5 – “Prepaid Service Contract” for additional detail.
Related Party Disclosures
During the course of business, we enter into various agreements and transactions with related parties. Refer to Note 24 – “Related Party Disclosures” for additional detail.
Fair Value Measurements
We have securities that are valued using the fair value framework under ASC 820 within our assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2021 and 2020. The majority of these assets are level 1 U.S. government securities and equity securities and level 2 equity securities in the line item “Securities owned, at fair value” on the statements of financial condition. The liabilities consist of relatively small amounts of level 2 equity securities in the line item “Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value.” Refer to Note 6 – “Fair Value Measurements” for additional detail.
Impairment
We have concluded as of December 31, 2021 that there has been no impairment to the carrying value of Siebert’s goodwill and tangible assets. However, due to the termination of RISE’s clearing arrangement with GSCO, substantially all of the revenue producing customers of RISE have transitioned to other prime service providers. The forecasted revenue associated with RISE’s historical customer base was determined to be minimal. As such, we determined that the RISE customer relationships intangible asset was fully impaired, resulting in an impairment loss of $699,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021. Refer to Note 12 – “Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net” for additional information.
Segment
We concluded as of December 31, 2021, Siebert is comprised of a single operating segment based on the factors related to management’s decision-making framework as well as management evaluating performance and allocating resources based on assessments of Siebert from a consolidated perspective.
Subsequent Events
From January 31, 2022 to the date of this Report, RISE issued and Siebert sold membership interests in RISE to certain employees, directors, and affiliates of RISE and Siebert. This amount represented, as of the date of this Report, an aggregate of 7% of the total issued and outstanding membership interests in RISE.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 32
Transaction with Hedge Connection
On January 21, 2022, RISE entered into an agreement with Hedge Connection, Inc. (“Hedge Connection”), a Florida corporation and a woman-owned fintech company founded by Lisa Vioni that provides capital introduction software solutions for the prime brokerage industry.
Pursuant to the agreement, Hedge Connection transferred to RISE common stock representing twenty percent (20%) of the outstanding post-closing issued and outstanding capitalization in Hedge Connection and an option from Ms. Vioni to acquire 100% of the remaining interest in Hedge Connection at fair value market at the time of the option exercise, provided such valuation of Hedge Connection is not less than $5 million for a consideration of $1,000,000. This consideration is to be paid in three cash installments over 180 days totaling $600,000 as well as approximately 3.33% of the issued and outstanding membership interests of RISE.
In addition, RISE acquired a technology license agreement from Hedge Connection to use its capital introduction software, Fintroz, for an annual license fee of $250,000, Ms. Vioni provided RISE with the right to appoint one director to the Board of Directors of Hedge Connection, and Ms. Vioni was appointed to the Board of Directors of RISE as well as to the position of President of RISE Prime – Capital Introduction, a division of RISE.
Shelf Registration Statement
On February 18, 2022, Siebert filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC, File No. 333-262895, pursuant to General Instruction I.B.6 to Form S-3 (the “Baby Shelf Rule”), that was declared effective on March 2, 2022 (the “Registration Statement”). Siebert may from time to time sell any combination of the securities described in the Registration Statement in one or more offerings up to an aggregate offering price of $100.0 million; provided, however, at the time Siebert sells securities pursuant to the Registration Statement, the amount of securities to be sold plus the amount of any securities it has sold during the prior twelve months in reliance on General Instruction I.B.6 may not exceed one-third of the aggregate market value of Siebert’s outstanding Common Stock held by non-affiliates as of a day during the 60 days immediately preceding such sale as computed in accordance with Instruction I.B.6 while Siebert remains subject to the Baby Shelf Rule.
Other Items
On September 17, 2021, Siebert’s shareholders approved the Siebert Financial Corp. 2021 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) at Siebert’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The Plan provides for the grant of stock options, restricted stock, and other equity awards of Siebert’s common stock to employees, officers, consultants, directors, affiliates, and other service providers of Siebert. There are 3 million shares reserved under the Plan, and Siebert issued no securities under the Plan for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Legal and Regulatory Matters
We are party to certain claims, suits and complaints arising in the ordinary course of business. All of the below legal matters are related to activities related to operations of StockCross Financial Services, Inc. (“StockCross”), prior to our acquisition of StockCross on January 1, 2020.
On July 14, 2021, StockCross entered into a Letter of Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent with FINRA in connection with alleged excessive trading and suitability violations by a registered representative of StockCross in a customer’s account, supervisory failures to comply with supervisory requirements relating to certain equity and options and stock lending transactions, and certain record keeping requirements. Pursuant to the consent, we agreed to a censure, pay a fine of $250,000, and made an undertaking to retain an independent consultant to conduct a comprehensive review of our compliance with suitability rules in connection with solicited equity and options transactions, as well as possession-or-control requirements in connection with the firm’s stock loan business. As of December 31, 2021, this legal matter has been resolved and we paid $250,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021, which is within the line item “Other general and administrative” in the statement of income.
On July 9, 2021, StockCross entered into a Consent Order with the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation in connection with alleged supervisory failures relating to the sale of Unit Investment Trusts to six customers. Pursuant to the consent order, we agreed to desist and refrain from violations of California law relating to supervision by broker-dealers, to make a payment of $100,000 to the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation for administrative costs, and to offer restitution of commissions of approximately $315,000 in aggregate to the six customers. We paid $100,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021 related to this legal matter, which is within the line item “Other general and administrative” in the statements of income. As of December 31, 2021, this legal matter has been resolved and the six customers rejected the offer of restitutions.
For activity related to operations of StockCross prior to our acquisition of StockCross, FINRA’s Division of Enforcement is currently investigating UIT transactions that were executed by StockCross that the enforcement staff believes were terminated early. We believe that many of these transactions were UIT transactions that were the subject of our prior settlements with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the State of California. All of these transactions occurred prior to our acquisition of StockCross on January 1, 2020. Management cannot at this time assess either the duration or the likely outcome or consequences of the FINRA investigation. Nevertheless, FINRA has the authority to impose sanctions on us or require that it make offers of restitution to other customers who FINRA believes incurred sales charges in early liquidations of UITs. No assurances can be given that a mutual settlement with FINRA regarding the investigation can be reached or that any amount paid in settlement will not be material.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 33
As of December 31, 2021, all other legal matters are without merit or involve amounts which would not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial position.
New Accounting Standards
We have determined that all accounting standards and policies adopted in the year ended December 31, 2021 did not have a material impact on our financial statements. Refer to Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” for additional detail.
Critical Accounting Policies
Overview
We generally follow accounting policies standard in the brokerage industry and believe that our policies appropriately reflect our financial position and results of operations. Our management team makes significant estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities included in the consolidated financial statements. The estimates relate primarily to revenue and expense items in the normal course of business as to which we receive no confirmations, invoices, or other documentation, at the time the books are closed for a period. We use our best judgment, based on our knowledge of revenue transactions and expenses incurred, to estimate the amount of such revenue and expenses. We are not aware of any material differences between the estimates used in closing our books for the last five years and the actual amounts of revenue and expenses incurred when we subsequently receive the actual confirmations, invoices or other documentation.
Our financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires us to make judgments and estimates that may have a significant impact on our financial results. We believe that the following areas are particularly subject to management's judgments and estimates and could materially affect our results of operations and financial position. Refer to Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” for additional detail on our significant accounting policies.
Revenue recognition
We have appropriate revenue recognition policies for each our revenue streams. Refer to Note 16 – “Revenue Recognition” for additional detail on our revenue recognition policies.
Estimates of effective income tax rates, uncertain tax positions, deferred income taxes and related valuation allowances.
We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, we determine deferred tax assets and liabilities on the basis of the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities by using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
We recognize deferred tax assets to the extent that we believe that these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If we determine that we would be able to realize deferred taxes in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, we would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.
We record uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 on the basis of a two-step process in which (1) we determine whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 34
We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits on the provision for income taxes line in the statements of income. Accrued interest and penalties would be included on the related tax liability line in the statements of financial condition.
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill is recognized as a result of business combinations and represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets acquired.
The valuation of goodwill and acquired intangible assets requires significant judgment and estimates by management. For example, the valuation of certain intangible assets required management’s estimates of future earnings and cash flows as well as judgment in determining market approaches. The useful life of the finite lived intangible assets was determined based on management's estimate of the period over which those intangible assets were expected to provide economic benefit. Management applies judgment in conducting impairment testing for goodwill and intangible assets, including estimates of fair value based on the income or market approach and estimates required to determine the useful lives of finite lived intangible assets.
We test goodwill and all intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable, or at least annually. If our estimates of fair value change due to future events differing significantly from the forecasts used to determine fair value or there are changes in our business or other factors, we will assess the amount of impairment and recognize it in our financial statements during that reporting period.
We also evaluate the useful life of finite lived intangible assets on an annual basis to determine if events or trends warrant a change in estimate of the useful life. Changes in the estimated useful lives of finite lived intangible assets could result in the recognition of an impairment or a change in the remaining life of these assets.
We have concluded that as of December 31, 2021, there has been no impairment to the carrying value of Siebert’s goodwill; however, there has been an impairment of $699,000 to the RISE customer relationships intangible asset for the year ended December 31, 2021 due to the termination of GSCO’s clearing arrangement with RISE.
Refer to Note 2 – “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 12 – “Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net” for additional detail.
Accruals for contingent liabilities
Accruals for contingent liabilities related to legal and regulatory claims as well as employee healthcare expenses under our self-insured plan reflect an estimate of probable losses. In making such estimates for legal and regulatory claims, we consider many factors, including the progress of the matter, prior experience and the experience of others in similar matters, available defenses, insurance coverage, indemnification provisions and the advice of legal counsel and other experts. In making such estimates for employee healthcare expenses, we consider many factors, including trends of our health insurance expenses and our insurance reserve limits. We believe that our present insurance coverage and reserves are sufficient to cover currently estimated exposures, but there can be no assurance that we will not incur liabilities in excess of recorded reserves or in excess of our insurance limits. Significant judgment is required in making these estimates, and the actual cost may be materially different than the estimated costs. Refer to Note 22 – “Commitments, Contingencies and Other” for additional detail.
Allowance for credit losses
Management adopted CECL for Siebert which changed the methodology for estimating the allowance for credit losses from an incurred loss model to current expected loss model. Management applied quantitative and qualitative assessments in determining the risk characteristics and pooling different assets that are carried at amortized cost. Management applied the collateral maintenance practical expedient for the secured receivables and fully reserved the unsecured assets that are greater than 90 days past due. Adoption of CECL did not have a material impact on the financial statements due to the existing credit management policies and short-term nature of the assets.
Siebert 2021 Form-10K 35