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

 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

 

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the quarterly period ended July 31, 20172018
 OR
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 For the transition period from _________ to _________

 

Commission File Number 001-09097

 

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Delaware 31-1095548
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
   
7720 Paragon Road, Dayton, Ohio 45459
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

(937) 276-3931

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.               Yesx  Noo

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).              Yesx  Noo

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “smaller reporting“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated fileroAccelerated filerx
Non-accelerated filer   o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)Smaller reporting companyo
 Emerging growth companyo

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yeso  Nox

At the close of business on September 5, 20174, 2018 the registrant had 6,566,7696,351,739 shares of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, outstanding.

 

 
 

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

INDEX

 

Page

Page
PART I.FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
    
Item 1.Financial Statements  
    
 Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets 3
 Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations 4
 Consolidated Condensed Statements of Equity 5
 Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows 6
 Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements 7
    
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 2024
    
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 2837
    
Item 4.Controls and Procedures 29
38
    
PART II.OTHER INFORMATION  
    
Item 1.Legal Proceedings 2938
    
Item 1A.Risk Factors 3038
    
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 3238
    
Item 3.Defaults upon Senior Securities 3239
    
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures 3239
    
Item 5.Other Information 3239
    
Item 6.Exhibits 3239
2

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.Financial Statements

 

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets

Unaudited

 

 July 31,
2017
 January 31,
2017
 
(In Thousands) July 31, January 31, 
 (In Thousands)  2018 2018 
Assets           
Current assets:                
Cash and cash equivalents $185,997  $188,576  $73,761  $190,988 
Short-term investments  111,969    
Restricted cash  379   130   778   354 
Accounts receivable  10,938   11,901   14,648   12,913 
Inventory  22,091   17,057   25,171   20,755 
Refundable income taxes  1,527   1,070   8,371   6,612 
Prepaid expenses and other  7,535   6,959   7,716   7,412 
Deferred taxes, net  -   824 
Total current assets  228,467   226,517   242,414   239,034 
Property and equipment, net  187,545   182,761   190,823   197,827 
Other assets  6,720   6,913   7,816   7,454 
Equity method investments  36,665   37,833   35,117   34,549 
Total assets $459,397  $454,024  $476,170  $478,864 
                
Liabilities and equity:                
Current liabilities:                
Accounts payable, trade $11,251  $9,171  $11,595  $8,149 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities  7,442   13,348   10,555   13,716 
Total current liabilities  18,693   22,519   22,150   21,865 
Long-term liabilities:                
Deferred taxes  40,848   41,135   13,768   21,706 
Other long-term liabilities  2,260   2,096   4,004   3,367 
Total long-term liabilities  43,108   43,231   17,772   25,073 
Equity:                
REX shareholders’ equity:                
Common stock  299   299   299   299 
Paid-in capital  146,851   145,767   148,212   146,923 
Retained earnings  515,692   508,207   566,626   547,913 
Treasury stock  (313,658)  (313,838)  (329,999)  (313,643)
Total REX shareholders’ equity  349,184   340,435   385,138   381,492 
Noncontrolling interests  48,412   47,839   51,110   50,434 
Total equity  397,596   388,274   436,248   431,926 
Total liabilities and equity $459,397  $454,024  $476,170  $478,864 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

3

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations

Unaudited

 

 Three Months
Ended
 Six Months
Ended
 
 Three Months
Ended
July 31,
 Six Months
Ended
July 31,
  July 31, July 31, 
 2017 2016 2017 2016  2018 2017 2018 2017 
      
 (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)  (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts) 
                         
Net sales and revenue $108,744  $115,707  $221,887  $215,929  $128,757  $108,744  $249,577  $221,887 
Cost of sales  97,963   98,423   198,617   190,223   119,358   97,963   229,327   198,617 
Gross profit  10,781   17,284   23,270   25,706   9,399   10,781   20,250   23,270 
Selling, general and administrative expenses  (4,779)  (5,206)  (10,181)  (9,233)  (6,110)  (4,779)  (10,663)  (10,181)
Equity in income of unconsolidated affiliates  137   1,186   837   1,419   874   137   1,571   837 
(Loss) gain on sale of investment  (13)  -   (13)  192 
Gain on disposal of property and equipment, net  13   185   13   185 
Interest and other income  334   97   549   257   696   334   1,350   549 
Income before income taxes  6,473   13,546   14,475   18,526   4,859   6,473   12,508   14,475 
Provision for income taxes  (2,302)  (4,517)  (4,692)  (6,031)
Benefit (provision) for income taxes  5,631   (2,302)  8,334   (4,692)
Net income  4,171   9,029   9,783   12,495   10,490   4,171   20,842   9,783 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests  (1,230)  (853)  (2,298)  (1,481)  (1,273)  (1,230)  (2,129)  (2,298)
Net income attributable to REX common shareholders $2,941  $8,176  $7,485  $11,014  $9,217  $2,941  $18,713  $7,485 
                                
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic and diluted  6,593   6,586   6,592   6,590   6,466   6,593   6,517   6,592 
                                
Basic and diluted net income per share attributable to REX common shareholders $0.45  $1.24  $1.14  $1.67  $1.43  $0.45  $2.87  $1.14 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

4

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Equity

Unaudited

(In Thousands)

 REX Shareholders      REX Shareholders         
 Common Shares            

Common Shares
Issued

  

Treasury

  

Paid-in

  

Retained

  

Noncontrolling

  

Total

 
 Issued Treasury Paid-in Retained Noncontrolling Total  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount  Capital  Earnings  Interests  Equity 
 Shares Amount Shares Amount Capital Earnings Interests Equity                                 
Balance at January 31, 2018  29,853  $299   23,287  $(313,643) $146,923  $547,913  $50,434  $431,926 
                                
Net income                      18,713   2,129   20,842 
                                
Treasury stock acquired          228   (16,648)              (16,648)
                                
Capital contributions                          246   246 
                                
Issuance of equity awards and stock based compensation expense          (13)  292   1,289           1,581 
                                
Noncontrolling interests distribution and other                    (1,699)  (1,699)
                                
Balance at July 31, 2018  29,853  $299   23,502  $(329,999) $148,212  $566,626  $51,110  $436,248 
                                                 
Balance at January 31, 2017  29,853  $299   23,292  $(313,838) $145,767  $508,207  $47,839  $388,274   29,853  $299   23,292  $(313,838) $145,767  $508,207  $47,839  $388,274 
                                                                
Net income                      7,485   2,298   9,783                       7,485   2,298   9,783 
                                                                
Issuance of equity awards and stock based compensation expense          (5)  180   1,084           1,264           (5)  180   1,084           1,264 
                                                                
Noncontrolling interests distribution and other  -   -   -   -   -   -   (1,725)  (1,725)                    (1,725)  (1,725)
                                                                
Balance at July 31, 2017  29,853  $299   23,287  $(313,658) $146,851  $515,692  $48,412  $397,596   29,853  $299   23,287  $(313,658) $146,851  $515,692  $48,412  $397,596 
                                
Balance at January 31, 2016  29,853  $299   23,204  $(309,754) $144,844  $475,874  $44,496  $355,759 
                                
Net income                      11,014   1,481   12,495 
                                
Treasury stock acquired          88   (4,353)              (4,353)
                                
Stock based compensation expense          -   258   877           1,135 
                                
Noncontrolling interests distribution and other  -   -   -   -   -   -   (2,096)  (2,096)
                                
Balance at July 31, 2016  29,853  $299   23,292  $(313,849) $145,721  $486,888  $43,881  $362,940 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

5

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

Unaudited

 

(In Thousands) Six Months Ended 
 Six Months Ended
July 31,
  July 31, 
 2017 2016  2018 2017 
 (In Thousands)    
Cash flows from operating activities:                
Net income including noncontrolling interests $9,783  $12,495  $20,842  $9,783 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                
Depreciation and amortization  9,955   9,748 
Depreciation  12,033   9,955 
Income from equity method investments  (837)  (1,419)  (1,571)  (837)
Dividends received from equity method investee  2,005   1,504   1,003   2,005 
Gain on disposal of real estate and property and equipment, net  (13)  (185)
Loss (gain) on sale of investment  13   (192)
Accrued interest income  (815)   
Deferred income tax  537   -   (7,938)  537 
Stock based compensation expense  350   40   443   350 
Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment  104   (13)
Loss on sale of investment     13 
Changes in assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivable  886   (4,250)  (1,735)  886 
Inventories  (5,034)  (6,455)  (4,416)  (5,034)
Other assets  (953)  2,989   (2,443)  (953)
Accounts payable, trade  1,678   (3,087)  4,002   1,678 
Other liabilities  (4,828)  169   (1,262)  (4,828)
Net cash provided by operating activities  13,542   11,357   18,247   13,542 
Cash flows from investing activities:                
Capital expenditures  (14,366)  (9,334)  (5,813)  (14,366)
Restricted cash  (249)  (56)
Restricted investments and deposits  100   409 
Proceeds from sale of investment  64   2,275 
Proceeds from sale of real estate and property and equipment, net  42   1,028 
Purchase of short-term investments  (111,154)   
Other  13   12   18   219 
Net cash used in investing activities  (14,396)  (5,666)  (116,949)  (14,147)
Cash flows from financing activities:                
Treasury stock acquired  (16,648)   
Dividend payments to and purchases of stock from noncontrolling interests holders  (1,725)  (2,096)  (1,699)  (1,725)
Treasury stock acquired  -   (4,709)
Capital contributions from minority investor  246    
Net cash used in financing activities  (1,725)  (6,805)  (18,101)  (1,725)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents  (2,579)  (1,114)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period  188,576   135,765 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $185,997  $134,651 
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash  (116,803)  (2,330)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period  191,342   188,706 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $74,539  $186,376 
                
Non cash investing activities – Accrued capital expenditures $744  $1,350  $469  $744 
Non cash financing activities – Stock awards accrued $281  $-  $335  $281 
Non cash financing activities – Stock awards issued $1,195  $1,095  $1,473  $1,195 
        
Reconciliation of total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash:        
        
Cash and cash equivalents $73,761  $185,997 
Restricted cash  778   379 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $74,539  $186,376 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

6

REX AMERICAN RESOURCES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

July 31, 20172018

 

Note 1.Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

 

The consolidated condensed financial statements included in this report have been prepared by the Company, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and include, in the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary to state fairly the information set forth therein. Any such adjustments were of a normal recurring nature. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. Financial information as of January 31, 20172018 included in these financial statements has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 20172018 (fiscal year 2016)2017). It is suggested that these unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2017.2018. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year.

 

Basis of Consolidation – The consolidated condensed financial statements in this report include the operating results and financial position of REX American Resources Corporation and its wholly and majority owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The Company consolidates the results of its four majority owned subsidiaries. The Company includes the results of operations of One Earth Energy, LLC (“One Earth”) in its Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations on a delayed basis of one month.month as One Earth has a fiscal year end of December 31.

 

Nature of Operations – TheIn the third quarter of fiscal year 2017, the Company began reporting the results of its refined coal operation as a new segment as a result of the August 10, 2017 acquisition of an entity that operates ina refined coal facility (see Note 4). Prior to the acquisition, the Company had one reportable segment, alternative energy,ethanol. Beginning with the third quarter of fiscal year 2017, the Company has two reportable segments: i) ethanol and by-products and ii) refined coal. Within the ethanol and by-products segment, the Company has equity investments in three ethanol limited liability companies, two of which are majority ownership interests. Within the refined coal segment, the Company has a majority equity interest in one refined coal limited liability company.

 

Note 2.Accounting Policies

 

The interim consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s fiscal year 20162017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.10-K and the adoption of new accounting standards described at the end of this footnote. While management believes that the procedures followed in the preparation of interim financial information are reasonable, the accuracy of some estimated amounts is dependent upon facts that will exist or calculations that will be accomplished at fiscal year-end. Examples of such estimates include accrued liabilities, such as management bonuses, and the provision for income taxes. Any adjustments pursuant to such estimates during the quarter were of a normal recurring nature. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

7

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes bank deposits as well as short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

Revenue Recognition

 

TheFor ethanol and by-products segment sales, the Company recognizes sales from the production of ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil when title transfers toobligations under the terms of the respective contracts with customers are satisfied; this occurs with the transfer of control of products, generally upon shipment from the ethanol plant or upon loading of the rail car used to transport the products. For refined coal segment sales, the Company recognizes sales of refined coal when obligations under the term of the contract with its customer are satisfied; this occurs when title and control of the product transfers to its customer, generally upon the coal leaving the refined coal plant. Refined coal sales are recorded net of the cost of coal as the Company purchases the coal feedstock from the customer to which the processed refined coal is sold.

 

Cost of Sales

 

Cost of sales includes depreciation, costs of raw materials, inbound freight charges, purchasing and receiving costs, inspection costs, other distribution expenses, warehousing costs, plant management, certain compensations costs, and general facility overhead charges.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

The Company includes non-production related costs such as professional fees, selling charges and certain payroll in selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

Financial Instruments

 

Certain of the forward grain purchase and ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil sale contracts are accounted for under the “normal purchases and normal sales” scope exemption of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, “Derivatives and Hedging” (“ASC 815”) because these arrangements are for purchases of grain that will be delivered in quantities expected to be used by the Company and sales of ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil quantities expected to be produced by the Company over a reasonable period of time in the normal course of business. During fiscal year 2015, the Company began to carry a portion of its forward grain purchase contracts at fair value.

 

The Company uses derivative financial instruments (exchange-traded futures contracts) to manage a portion of the risk associated with changes in commodity prices, primarily related to corn. The Company monitors and manages this exposure as part of its overall risk management policy. As such, the Company seeks to reduce the potentially adverse effects that the volatility of these markets may have on its operating results. The Company may take hedging positions in these commodities as one way to mitigate risk. While the Company attempts to link its hedging activities to purchase and sales activities, there are situations in which these hedging activities can themselves result in losses. The Company does not hold or issue

8

derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The changes in fair value of these derivative financial instruments are recognized in current period earnings as the Company does not use hedge accounting.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company applies an effective tax rate to interim periods that is consistent with the Company’s estimated annual effective tax rate as adjusted for discrete items impacting the interim periods. The Company’s estimated annual effective tax rate does not reflectincludes the impact of its refined coal operation and the expected federal income tax credits to be earned, beginning inAugust 10, 2017, the third quarterdate of fiscal year 2017the refined coal acquisition (see Note 16)4). The Company provides for deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their

8

respective tax basis and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The Company provides for a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The Company paid income taxes of approximately $6.5$0.5 million and $1.0approximately $6.5 million during the six months ended July 31, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively. The Company received nocompany did not receive any refunds of income taxes during the six months ended July 31, 20172018 and 2016.2017.

 

As of July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017,2018, total unrecognized tax benefits were approximately $2.0$2.8 million and $1.9$2.0 million, respectively. Accrued penalties and interest were approximately $0.3 million and $0.2$0.4 million at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017, respectively.2018. If the Company were to prevail on all unrecognized tax benefits recorded, the provision for income taxes would be reduced by approximately $1.3$2.8 million. In addition, the impact of penalties and interest would also benefit the effective tax rate. Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits are recorded within income tax expense. On a quarterly basis, the Company accrues for the effects of open uncertain tax positions and the related potential penalties and interest.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or market on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventory includes direct production costs and certain overhead costs such as depreciation, property taxes and utilities related to producing ethanol and related co-products.by-products and refined coal. Inventory is permanently written down for instances when cost exceeds estimated net realizable value; such write-downs are based primarily upon commodity prices as the market value of inventory is often dependent upon changes in commodity prices. There were no significant permanent write-downs of inventory at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017.2018. Fluctuations in the write-down of inventory generally relate to the levels and composition of such inventory at a given point in time. The components of inventory are as follows as of the dates presented (amounts in thousands):

 

  July 31,
2017
  January 31,
2017
 
       
Ethanol and other finished goods $4,302  $5,262 
Work in process  3,074   2,359 
Grain and other raw materials  14,715   9,436 
Total $22,091  $17,057 

  July 31,
2018
  January 31,
2018
 
Ethanol and other finished goods $8,193  $8,402 
Work in process  2,975   2,824 
Grain and other raw materials  14,003   9,529 
Total $25,171  $20,755 
9

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment is recorded at cost.cost or the fair value on the date of acquisition (for property and equipment acquired in a business combination). Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method. Estimated useful lives are 155 to 40 years for buildings and improvements, and 2 to 20 years for fixtures and equipment.

 

In accordance with ASC 360-10 “Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets”, the carrying value of long-lived assets is assessed for recoverability by management when changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable, based on an analysis of undiscounted future expected cash flows from the use and ultimate disposition of the asset. There were no impairment charges in the first six months of fiscal years 20172018 or 2016.2017. Impairment charges have historically resulted from the

9

Company’s management performing cash flow analysis and have represented management’s estimate of the excess of net book value over fair value.

 

The Company tests for recoverability of an asset group by comparing its carrying amount to its estimated undiscounted future cash flows. If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, the Company recognizes an impairment charge for the amount by which the asset group’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, if any. The Company generally determines the fair value of the asset group using a discounted cash flow model based on market participant assumptions (for income producing asset groups) or by obtaining appraisals based on the market approach and comparable market transactions (for non-income producing asset groups).

Investments

 

The method of accounting applied to long-term investments, whether consolidated, equity or cost, involves an evaluation of the significant terms of each investment that explicitly grant or suggest evidence of control or influence over the operations of the investee and also includes the identification of any variable interests in which the Company is the primary beneficiary. The Company consolidates the results of two majority owned subsidiaries, One Earth and NuGen Energy, LLC (“NuGen”). The results of One Earth are included on a delayed basis of one month lag as One Earth has a fiscal year end of December 31. NuGen has the same fiscal year as the parent, and therefore, there is no lag in reporting the results of NuGen. The Company accounts for investments in a limited liability company in which it has a less than 20% ownership interest using the equity method of accounting when the factors discussed in ASC 323, “Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures” are met. The excess of the carrying value over the underlying equity in the net assets of equity method investees is allocated to specific assets and liabilities. Any unallocated excess is treated as goodwill and is recorded as a component of the carrying value of the equity method investee. Investments in businesses that the Company does not control but for which it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial matters are accounted for using the equity method. The Company accounts for its investment in Big River Resources, LLC (“Big River”) using the equity method of accounting and includes the results on a delayed basis of one month as Big River has a fiscal year end of December 31.

 

The Company periodically evaluates its investments for impairment due to declines in market value considered to be other than temporary. Such impairment evaluations include general economic and company-specific evaluations. If the Company determines that a decline in market value is other than temporary, then a charge to earnings is recorded in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations and a new cost basis in the investment is established.

10

Short-term investments are considered held to maturity, and, therefore are carried at amortized historical cost.

 

Comprehensive Income

 

The Company has no components of other comprehensive income, and therefore, comprehensive income equals net income.

 

Accounting Changes and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

In March 2016,Effective February 1, 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issuedCompany adopted the amended guidance in ASC Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”, which requires revenue recognition to reflect the transfer of promised goods or services to customers and replaces existing revenue recognition guidance. See Note 3 for a further discussion of adopting this amended guidance.

Effective February 1, 2018, the Company prospectively adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-09,“ASU” 2016-15Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment AccountingStatement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-09”). This standard simplifiesprovides guidance on eight specific cash flow issues. The cash flow issues covered by this ASU are: 1) debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; 2) settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the accounting treatmenteffective interest rate of the borrowing; 3) contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; 4) proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; 5) proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; 6) distributions received from equity method investees; 7) beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and 8) separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle for excess tax benefitsdistributions received from equity method investees in the Statement of Cash Flows. The adoption of this standard did not affect the consolidated condensed financial statements and deficiencies, forfeitures,related disclosures.

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Effective February 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-18 “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash”. This standard requires that the statements of cash flows explain the changes in the combined total of restricted and unrestricted cash balances. Amounts generally described as restricted cash will be combined with unrestricted cash and cash flow considerations related to share-based compensation.equivalents when reconciling the beginning and end of period balances on the statements of cash flows. The Company adopted this standard February 1, 2017. The adoptionretrospectively. Therefore, the beginning period balance of ASU 2016-09 did not impactcash and cash equivalents as of January 31, 2017 was increased by $130,000, the Company’s consolidated financial statementsend of period balance of cash and related disclosures.cash equivalents as of July 31, 2017 was increased by $379,000 and the beginning period balance of cash and cash equivalents as of January 31, 2018 was increased by $354,000 to reflect the respective restricted cash amounts.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases“Leases”. This standard requires that virtually all leases will be recognized by lessees on their balance sheet as a right-of-use asset and a corresponding lease liability, including leases currently accounted for as operating leases. The Company will be required to adopt this standard effective February 1, 2019. The related leases are currently accounted for as operating leases (see Note 5). This standard requires a modified retrospective transition approach and allows for early adoption. In July 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update,Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements, which provides an option to apply the transition provisions of the new standard at the adoption date instead of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements.

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The Company has not completed its analysis of the effect of adopting this guidance but it does expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on its Consolidated Balance Sheet related to the right to useright-of-use asset and lease obligation liability to be recognized upon adoption of this guidance.guidance in addition to requiring expanded disclosures in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The related leases are currently accounted for as operating leases (see Note 3).Company expects to complete its analysis of the impact of adopting this guidance during the second half of fiscal year 2018. 

 

TheNote 3.Net Sales and Revenue

On February 1, 2018, the Company will be required to adoptadopted the amended guidance in ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”, which requires revenue recognitionand all related amendments and applied it to reflectall contracts utilizing the transfermodified retrospective method. There were no adjustments to the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheet as of promised goods or services to customers and replaces existing revenue recognition guidance. The updated standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The FASB had deferred the required adoption of the amended guidance by one year, from February 1, 2017 to February 1, 2018. The Company is progressing in its evaluation2018 as a result of adopting this guidance but it does not expect the adoption of this accounting guidance. Therefore, comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. Furthermore, there was no impact related to the adoption of this accounting guidance to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements with respect to measurementthe Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations or Balance Sheets for the three and recognition of revenue.six months ended July 31, 2018. The Company expects to adopt this guidance using the modified prospective method. The Company is still evaluating the impact of adopting this accounting guidance to be immaterial on disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.an ongoing basis.

 

In November 2015,The Company recognizes sales of products when obligations under the FASB issued ASU 2015-17 “Balance Sheet Classificationterms of Deferred Taxes”, (“ASU 2015-17”)the respective contracts with customers are satisfied. This occurs with the transfer of control of products, generally upon shipment from the ethanol plant or upon loading of the rail car used to transport the products. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for transferring goods. Sales, value add and other taxes the Company collects concurrent with revenue producing activities are excluded from net sales and revenue.

The majority of the Company’s sales have payment terms ranging from 5 to 10 days after transfer of control. The Company has determined that sales contracts do not generally include a significant financing component. The Company has not historically, and does not intend to, enter into sales contracts in which requirespayment is due from a customer prior to transferring product to the customer. Thus, the Company does not record unearned revenue.

The Company elected, pursuant to the new accounting guidance, to recognize the cost for shipping and handling activities that occur after the customer obtains control of the promised goods as fulfillment activities and not when performance obligations are met.

See Note 17 for disaggregation of net sales and revenue by operating segment and by product.

Note 4.Business Combinations

On August 10, 2017, the Company, through a particular tax-paying component95.35% owned subsidiary, purchased the entire ownership interest of an entity and withinthat owns a particular tax jurisdiction, all deferred tax liabilities and assets shall be offset and presented as a single noncurrent amount.refined coal facility. The Company prospectively adoptedbegan operating its refined coal facility immediately after the amended guidance effective February 1,acquisition. The Company expects that the revenues from the sale of refined coal produced in the facility will be subsidized by federal production tax credits through November 2021, subject to meeting qualified emissions reductions as governed by Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code.

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The impact on the combined results of operations of the Company and the refined coal entity, on a pro forma basis, as though the companies had been combined as of the beginning of fiscal year 2017, is as follows:

Cost of sales would have increased by approximately $692,000 and approximately $1,385,000 for the quarter and six months ended July 31, 2017, respectively. This pro forma increase is a result of increased depreciation expense as if the refined coal entity was consolidated during the six months ended July 31, 2017. Prior periods were not retrospectively adjusted.Selling, general and administrative expenses would have increased by approximately $2,510,000 for the six months ended July 31, 2017. These pro forma adjustments are a result of transaction costs occurring (on a pro forma basis) during the first quarter of fiscal year 2017. The adoptionprovision for income taxes would have decreased by approximately $263,000 for the quarter ended July 31, 2017 and approximately $1,480,000 for the six months ended July 31, 2017. Net income attributable to REX common shareholders would have decreased by approximately $409,000 and approximately $2,303,000 for the quarter and six months ended July 31, 2017, respectively. Basic and diluted net income per share attributable to REX common shareholders would have decreased by approximately $0.06 per share and approximately $0.35 for the quarter and six months ended July 31, 2017, respectively.

The results of ASU 2015-17 did not affectthe Company’s refined coal operations (approximately $0.8 million of net sales and revenue and approximately $9.9 million of net income attributable to REX common shareholders, or retained earningsincluding the income tax benefit of estimated Section 45 credits to be earned) have been included in the presented periods.consolidated financial statements subsequent to the acquisition date and are included in the Company’s refined coal segment.

 

The purchase price was $12,049,000, which was paid in cash. The acquisition was recorded by allocating the total purchase price to the assets acquired, based on their estimated fair values at the acquisition date. The purchase price allocation is based on the final fair value assessment results of a valuation analysis. The income approach was used to determine the fair values of assets acquired. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired at the acquisition date (amounts in thousands):

Inventory $49 
Property, plant and equipment  12,000 
Total assets acquired and purchase price $12,049 

Transaction costs totaled approximately $2.5 million during fiscal year 2017. The Company does not expect to incur additional transaction costs from this acquisition.

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Note 3.5.Leases

 

At July 31, 2017,2018, the Company has lease agreements, as lessee, for rail cars and a natural gas pipeline. All of the leases are accounted for as operating leases. The following table is a summary of future minimum rentals on such leases (amounts in thousands):

 

Years Ended January 31, Minimum
Rentals
 
    
Remainder of 2018 $3,556 
2019  6,910 
2020  5,379 
2021  3,580 
2022  2,948 
Thereafter  1,622 
Total $23,995 
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Years Ended January 31, Minimum
Rentals
 
     
Remainder of 2019 $3,919 
2020  6,873 
2021  4,817 
2022  4,164 
2023  2,582 
Thereafter  5,532 
Total $27,887 

Note 4.6.Fair Value

 

The Company applies ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures”Disclosures, (“ASC 820”), which provides a framework for measuring fair value underaccounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.America. This accounting standard defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.

 

The Company determines the fair market values of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established by ASC 820 which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values which are provided below. The Company carries certain cash equivalents, investments and derivative instruments at fair value.

 

The fair values of derivative assets and liabilities traded in the over-the-counter market are determined using quantitative models that require the use of multiple market inputs including interest rates, prices and indices to generate pricing and volatility factors, which are used to value the position. The predominance of market inputs are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including brokers, market transactions and third-party pricing services. Estimation risk is greater for derivative asset and liability positions that are either option-based or have longer maturity dates where observable market inputs are less readily available or are unobservable, in which case interest rate, price or index scenarios are extrapolated in order to determine the fair value. The fair values of derivative assets and liabilities include adjustments for market liquidity, counterparty credit quality, the Company’s own credit standing and other specific factors, where appropriate. The fair values of property and equipment are determined by using various models that discount future expected cash flows.

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To ensure the prudent application of estimates and management judgment in determining the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities, investments and property and equipment, various processes and controls have been adopted, which include: (i) model validation that requires a review and approval for pricing, financial statement fair value determination and risk quantification; and (ii) periodic review and substantiation of profit and loss reporting for all derivative instruments. Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at July 31, 20172018 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

 

  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Fair Value 
             
Commodity futures (1) $-  $136  $-  $136 
Forward purchase contract asset (4)  -   237   -   237 
Investment in cooperative (2)  -   -   333   333 
Total assets $-  $373  $333  $706 
                 
Forward purchase contract liability (3) $-  $158  $-  $158 
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  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Fair Value 
                 
Investment in cooperative (2) $  $  $333  $333 
Total assets $  $  $333  $333 
                 
Commodity futures (3) $  $152  $  $152 
Forward purchase contract liability (4)     1,724      1,724 
Total liabilities $  $1,876  $  $1,876 

Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at January 31, 20172018 are summarized below (amounts in thousands):

 

 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value 
                         
Commodity futures (1) $-  $45  $-  $45 
Forward purchase contract asset (4)  -   163   -   163 
Forward purchase contracts asset (1) $  $72  $  $72 
Investment in cooperative (2)  -   -   333   333         333   333 
Total assets $-  $208  $333  $541  $  $72  $333  $405 
                                
Commodity futures (3) $  $87  $  $87 
Forward purchase contract liability (3)(4) $-  $136  $-  $136      34      34 
Total liabilities $  $121  $  $121 

 

(1) Commodity futures areThe forward purchase contract asset is included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” on the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

(2) The investment in cooperative is included in “Other assets” on the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

(3) The forward purchase contract liability isCommodity futures are included in “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” on the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

(4) The forward purchase contract assetliability is included in “Prepaid“Accrued expenses and other current assets”liabilities” on the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

 

The Company determined the fair value of the investment in cooperative by using a discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows. Inputs used in the analysis include the face value of the allocated equity amount, the projected term for repayment based upon a historical trend and a risk adjusted discount rate based on the expected compensation participants would demand because of the uncertainty of the future cash flows. The inherent risk and uncertainty associated with unobservable inputs could have a significant effect on the actual fair value of the investment.

 

There were no assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at July 31, 20172018 or January 31, 2017.2018. As discussed in Note 4, the Company estimated the fair values of refined coal assets acquired using the income approach. This estimated fair value is a level 3 measurement.

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Note 5.7.Property and Equipment

 

The components of property and equipment are as follows for the periods presented (amounts in thousands):

 

  July 31,
2017
  January 31,
2017
 
       
Land and improvements $20,965  $20,951 
Buildings and improvements  23,259   23,203 
Machinery, equipment and fixtures  261,772   255,348 
Construction in progress  9,359   1,046 
   315,355   300,548 
Less:  accumulated depreciation  (127,810)  (117,787)
Total $187,545  $182,761 
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  July 31,
2018
  January 31,
2018
 
       
Land and improvements $21,095  $21,074 
Buildings and improvements  23,598   23,272 
Machinery, equipment and fixtures  293,509   288,832 
Construction in progress  2,589   3,155 
   340,791   336,333 
Less: accumulated depreciation  (149,968)  (138,506)
Total $190,823  $197,827 

Note 6.8.Other Assets

The components of other assets are as follows for the periods presented (amounts in thousands):

 

 July 31,
2017
 January 31,
2017
  July 31,
2018
 January 31,
2018
 
             
Real estate taxes refundable $5,923  $5,923  $7,099  $6,719 
Deposits  55   155      5 
Other  742   835   717   730 
Total $6,720  $6,913  $7,816  $7,454 

 

Real estate taxes refundable represent amounts due One Earth associated with refunds of previously paid taxes in connection with a tax increment financing arrangement with local taxing authorities. Deposits are with utility and other vendors.

 

Note 7.9.Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

The components of accrued expenses and other current liabilities are as follows for the periods presented (amounts in thousands):

 

  July 31,
2017
  January 31,
2017
 
       
Accrued utility charges $2,088  $2,414 
Accrued payroll and related items  1,344   4,279 
Accrued real estate taxes  1,049   2,716 
Accrued income taxes  37   2,120 
Other  2,924   1,819 
Total $7,442  $13,348 

  July 31,
2018
  January 31,
2018
 
         
Accrued payroll and related items $1,543  $5,108 
Accrued utility charges  2,162   2,639 
Accrued real estate taxes  1,570   2,678 
Accrued income taxes  47   61 
Other  5,233   3,230 
Total $10,555  $13,716 
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Note 8.10.Revolving Lines of Credit

 

Effective April 1, 2016, One Earth and NuGen Energy, LLC (“NuGen”) each entered into $10.0 million revolving loan facilities that matured April 1, 2017. During the second quarter of fiscal year 2017, One Earth and NuGen renewed the revolving loan facilities, which now mature June 1, 2018.2019 as extended. Neither One Earth nor NuGen had outstanding borrowings on the revolving loans during the six months ended July 31, 20172018 and 2016.2017.

 

Note 9.11.Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company is exposed to various market risks, including changes in commodity prices (raw materials and finished goods). To manage risks associated with the volatility of these natural business exposures, the Company enters into commodity agreements and forward purchase (corn) and sale (ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil) contracts. The Company does not purchase or sell derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The Company does not purchase or sell

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derivative financial instruments for which a lack of marketplace quotations would require the use of fair value estimation techniques.

 

The following table provides information about the fair values of the Company’s derivative financial instruments (that are not accounted for under the “normal purchases and normal sales” scope exemption of ASC 815) and the line items on the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets in which the fair values are reflected (in thousands):

 

 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives 
 Asset Derivatives
Fair Value
 Liability Derivatives
Fair Value
  Fair Value Fair Value 
 July 31,
2017
 January 31,
2017
 July 31,
2017
 January 31,
2017
  July 31,
2018
 January 31,
2018
 July 31,
2018
 January 31,
2018
 
                  
Commodity futures (1) $136  $45  $-  $-  $  $  $152  $87 
Forward purchase contracts (2)  237   163   158   136      72   1,724   34 
Total $373  $208  $158  $136  $  $72  $1,876  $121 

 

(1) Commodity futures are included in prepaidaccrued expenses and other current assets.liabilities. These contracts are short/sell positions for approximately 1.94.9 million and 0.72.5 million bushels of corn at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017,2018, respectively.

 

(2) Forward purchase contracts assets are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets while forward purchase contracts liabilities are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities. These contracts are for purchases of approximately 10.311.5 million and 5.311.7 million bushels of corn at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017,2018, respectively.

 

As of July 31, 2017,2018, all of the derivative financial instruments held by the Company were subject to enforceable master netting arrangements. The Company’s accounting policy is to offset positions and amounts owed or owing with the same counterparty. As of July 31, 2017,2018, the gross positions of the enforceable master netting agreements are not significantly different from the net positions presented in the table above. Depending on the amount of an unrealized loss on a derivative contract held by the Company, the counterparty may require collateral to secure the Company’s derivative contract position. As of July 31, 2017,2018, the Company was required to maintain collateral with the counterparty in the amount of approximately $379,000$778,000 to secure the Company’s derivative liability position.

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See Note 46 which contains fair value information related to derivative financial instruments.

 

Gains(Losses) or gains on the Company’s derivative financial instruments of approximately $853,000$(405,000) and $1,136,000approximately $853,000 for the second quarters of fiscal years 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, were included in cost of sales on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations. Gains on the Company’s derivative financial instruments of approximately $977,000$160,000 and $1,625,000approximately $977,000 for the first six months of fiscal years 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively, were included in cost of sales on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations.

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Note 10.12.Investments

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s equity method investment at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 20172018 (dollars in thousands):

 

Entity Ownership
Percentage
 Carrying Amount
July 31, 2017
 Carrying Amount
January 31, 2017
 Ownership Percentage Carrying Amount
July 31, 2018
 Carrying Amount
January 31, 2018
 
                  
Big River 9.7% $36,665 $37,833  10.3% $35,117  $34,549 

 

Undistributed earnings of the Company’s equity method investee totaled approximately $16.6$15.1 million and $17.8$14.5 million at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017,2018, respectively. The Company received dividends from its equity method investee of approximately $2.0$1.0 million and $1.5approximately $2.0 million during the first six months of fiscal years 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively.

 

Summarized financial information for the Company’s equity method investee is presented in the following table for the periods presented (amounts in thousands):

 

 Three Months Ended
July 31,
 Six Months Ended
July 31,
  Three Months Ended
 July 31,
 Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
 2017 2016 2017 2016  2018 2017 2018 2017 
                  
Net sales and revenue $212,070  $210,974  $404,569  $394,545  $212,092  $212,070  $404,035  $404,569 
Gross profit $11,582  $17,057  $19,764  $22,928  $10,648  $11,582  $24,339  $19,764 
Income from continuing operations $1,411  $12,216  $8,618  $14,620  $8,468  $1,411  $15,232  $8,618 
Net income $1,411  $12,216  $8,618  $14,620  $8,468  $1,411  $15,232  $8,618 
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Big River has debt agreements that limit amounts Big River can pay inThe following table summarizes the form of dividends or advances to owners. The restricted net assets of Big RiverCompany’s held-to-maturity securities at July 31, 20172018 (dollars in thousands):

  Amortized
Cost
  Gross Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
 
             
United States Treasury Bills $111,969  $36  $111,933 

As of July 31, 2018, the contractual maturities of these investments were less than one year. Yield to maturity rates vary between 1.6% and 1.8%.

The Company had no held-to-maturity investments as of January 31, 2017 are approximately $279.5 million and $278.7 million, respectively.

On June 1, 2015, Patriot Holdings, LLC (“Patriot”) and a subsidiary of CHS Inc. (“CHS”) completed a merger that resulted in CHS acquiring 100% of the ownership interest in Patriot. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, the Company received proceeds of approximately $2.3 million as partial payment for certain escrow holdbacks and adjustments to the purchase price. As a result, the Company recognized approximately $0.2 million as gain on sale of investment during the first quarter of fiscal year 2016. The Company does not expect any further proceeds or gain/loss on sale of investment to be significant.2018.

 

Note 11.13.Employee Benefits

 

The Company maintains the REX 2015 Incentive Plan, approved by its shareholders, which reserves a total of 550,000 shares of common stock for issuance pursuant to its terms. The plan provides for the granting of shares of stock, including options to purchase shares of common stock, stock

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appreciation rights tied to the value of common stock, restricted stock, and restricted stock unit awards to eligible employees, non-employee directors and consultants. Since plan inception, the Company has only granted restricted stock awards. The Company measures share-based compensation grants at fair value on the grant date, adjusted for estimated forfeitures. The Company records noncash compensation expense related to liability and equity awards in its consolidated financial statements over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. At July 31, 2017, 511,1742018, 489,430 shares remain available for issuance under the Plan. As a component of their compensation, restricted stock has been granted to directors at the closing market price of REX common stock on the date of the grant.predetermined grant date. In addition one third of executives’ incentive compensation is payable by an award of restricted stock based on the then closing market price of REX common stock.stock on the predetermined grant date.

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At July 31, 2018 and January 31, 2017,2018, unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock was approximately $321,000$275,000 and $214,000,$233,000, respectively. The following table summarizestables summarize non-vested restricted stock award activity for the six months ended July 31, 20172018 and 2016:2017:

 

 Six Months Ended July 31, 2017 
   
 Non-Vested
Shares
 Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
(000’s)
 Weighted
Average Remaining
Vesting Term
(in years)
 
       
Non-Vested at January 31, 2017  23,350  $1,386   2 
Granted  14,156   1,370     
Forfeited  -   -     
Vested  8,091   481     
            
Non-Vested at July 31, 2017  29,415  $2,275   2 
    Six Months Ended July 31, 2018 
 Six Months Ended July 31, 2016        
      Weighted Weighted 
 Non-Vested
Shares
 Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
(000’s)
 Weighted
Average Remaining
Vesting Term
(in years)
    Average  Grant Average  Remaining 
        Non-Vested Date Fair Value Vesting Term 
Non-Vested at January 31, 2016  3,168  $200   2 
 Shares (000’s) (in years) 
            
Non-Vested at January 31, 2018  29,415  $2,275   2 
Granted  21,502   1,269       21,745   1,622     
Forfeited  -   -               
Vested  1,320   83       13,124   963     
                        
Non-Vested at July 31, 2016  23,350  $1,386   3 
Non-Vested at July 31, 2018  38,036  $2,934   2 

  Six Months Ended July 31, 2017 
          
     Weighted  Weighted 
     Average  Grant  Average  Remaining 
  Non-Vested  Date Fair Value  Vesting Term 
  Shares  (000’s)  (in years) 
             
Non-Vested at January 31, 2017  23,350  $1,386   2 
Granted  14,156   1,370     
Forfeited          
Vested  8,091   481     
             
Non-Vested at July 31, 2017  29,415   2,275   2 

The above tables include 34,148 and 24,711 non-vested shares at July 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which are included in the number of weighted average shares outstanding used to determine basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to REX common shareholders. Such shares are treated, for accounting purposes, as being fully vested at the grant date as they were granted to recipients who were retirement eligible at the time of grant.

 

Note 1214. Income Taxes

 

The effective tax rate on consolidated pre-tax income was 35.6%(115.9)% and 33.3%35.6% for the three months ended July 31, 20172018 and 2016,2017, respectively. The effective tax rate on consolidated pre-tax income was (66.6) % and 32.4% for the six months ended July 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively The fluctuation in the rate results primarily from the production tax credits the Company expects to receive associated with its refined coal segment, lower tax rates as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“the Tax Act”) and expected research and experimentation federal tax credits to be claimed and earned in fiscal year 2018.

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32.4% and 32.6%The Company records its tax provision/benefit based on an estimated annual effective rate adjusted for the six months ended July 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.items recorded discretely. The fluctuation in theestimated annual effective tax rate primarily relates toincludes the impact of noncontrolling interests. The Company expects the effective tax rate, forrefined coal operation and the remainder of fiscal year 2017, to be significantly lower than the current year to date levels as the Company expects to earnexpected federal income tax credits to be earned in fiscal year 2018.

The Tax Act signed into law on December 22, 2017, reduced the federal corporate income tax rate to 21% effective January 1, 2018. The Tax Act also made numerous other changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, permitting full expensing of qualified property acquired after September 27, 2017, expanding prior limitations of the deductibility of certain executive compensation and eliminating the corporate alternative minimum tax.

The SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin 118 (“SAB 118”), which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. In recognition of the inherent complexities associated with accounting for the effects of the Tax Act, SAB 118 provides a measurement period of up to one year from enactment of the Tax Act for companies to complete the accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act. Although the Company’s accounting for the tax effects of the Tax Act are not yet complete, at January 31, 2018, the Company made a preliminary estimate of the effect of the tax rate reduction on the existing deferred tax balances and recorded a tax benefit of approximately $14,362,000 to remeasure the deferred tax liability at the new 21% rate. The Company will continue to refine the calculation as additional analysis is completed, which will include a final determination of the deferred tax balances at January 31, 2018 after the Company’s federal income tax return is filed, and as further guidance is provided by the Internal Revenue Service.

Through its refined coal operation, (see Note 16).the Company earns production tax credits pursuant to IRC Section 45. The credits can be used to reduce future income tax liabilities for up to 20 years.

 

The Company files a U.S. federal income tax return and various state income tax returns. In general, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state or local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years ended January 31, 20102013 and prior. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, is as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

 Six Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
 2017 2016  2018 2017 
          
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of period $2,096  $987  $2,325  $2,096 
Changes for prior years’ tax positions  164   171   832   164 
Changes for current year tax positions  -   -       
Unrecognized tax benefits, end of period $2,260  $1,158  $3,157  $2,260 

The Company expects to claim research and experimentation credits in the current year and certain prior years. In connection with this, the Company has increased the amount of unrecognized tax benefits.

 

Note 13.15.Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is involved in various legal actions arising in the normal course of business. After taking into consideration legal counsels’ evaluations of such actions, management is of the opinion that their outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

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One Earth and NuGen have combined forward purchase contracts for approximately 11.411.5 million bushels of corn, the principal raw material for their ethanol plants. They expect to take delivery of the grain through October 2017.December 2018.

One Earth and NuGen have combined forward purchase contracts for approximately 1,936,000 Mmbtu (million british thermal units) of natural gas. They expect to take delivery of the natural gas through March 2019.

 

One Earth and NuGen have combined sales commitments for approximately 67.817.9 million gallons of ethanol, approximately 79,00062,000 tons of distillers grains and approximately 11.710.2 million pounds of non-food grade corn oil. They expect to deliver a majority of the ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil through December 2017.

18

Note 14.Net Sales and RevenueSeptember 2018.

 

The following table summarizes sales for each product and service group forrefined coal entity has various agreements (site license, operating agreements, etc.) containing payment terms based upon production of refined coal under which the periods presented (amountsCompany is required to pay various fees. These fees totaled approximately $5.1 million in thousands):the first six months of fiscal year 2018.

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
Product or Service Category 2017  2016  2017  2016 
             
Ethanol $88,785  $90,933  $180,257  $168,564 
Dried distillers grains  13,472   18,946   28,622   36,000 
Non-food grade corn oil  4,726   4,738   9,318   8,584 
Modified distillers grains  1,748   983   3,667   2,547 
Other  13   107   23   234 
Total $108,744  $115,707  $221,887  $215,929 

 

Note 15.16.Related-Party Transactions

During the second quarters of fiscal yearyears 2018 and 2017, and 2016, One Earth and NuGen purchased approximately $36.5$45.2 million and approximately $36.0$36.5 million, respectively, of corn from minority equity investors and board members of those subsidiaries. Such purchases totaled approximately $78.7$91.4 million and approximately $80.4$78.7 million for the six months ended July 31, 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively. One Earth purchases all of its corn from an equity investor which acts as a grain origination agent for One Earth. The Company had amounts payable to related parties for corn purchases of approximately $1.6$1.4 million and $1.7$0.9 million at July 31, 20172018 and January 31, 2017,2018, respectively.

During the three months and six months ended July 31, 2018, the Company recognized commission expense of approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, payable to the minority investor in the refined coal entity. The Company did not recognize any commission expense during the first six months of fiscal year 2017. The commission expense is associated with the refined coal acquisition. The Company had accrued liabilities and accounts payable related to the commission expense of approximately $1.5 million at July 31, 2018 and January 31, 2018, respectively.

 

Note 16. Subsequent Event17. Segment Reporting

 

On August 10, 2017, the Company, through a 95.35% owned subsidiary, purchased the entire ownership interest of a refined coal facility for approximately $12 million in cash. The facility is in operation and will begin affecting the Company’s financial results duringIn the third quarter of fiscal year 2017. The2017, the Company expects thatbegan reporting the revenues from the saleresults of its refined coal produced in the facility will be subsidized by federal production tax credits, subject to meeting qualified emissions reductionsoperations as governed by Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code.

The impact on the combined results of operations of the Company and the refined coal facility, on a pro forma basis,new segment as though the companies had been combined as of the beginning of fiscal year 2017 is insignificant as the refined coal facility has been inactive for several years up until the Company’s acquisition.

The Company expects to complete its analysis of transaction costs related to the acquisitiona result of the refined coal facilityacquisition (see Note 4.) The Company has two segments: ethanol and by-products and refined coal. Historical amounts have been reclassified to conform to the estimated fair valuecurrent year segment reporting presentation. The Company evaluates the performance of assets acquired and liabilities assumed during the third quarter of fiscal year 2017.each reportable segment based on net income attributable to REX common shareholders.

1922

The following table summarizes segment and other results and assets (amounts in thousands):

  Three Months Ended  Six Months Ended 
  July 31,  July 31, 
  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Net sales and revenue:                
Ethanol and by-products $128,491  $108,744  $249,171  $221,887 
Refined coal1  266      406    
Total net sales and revenue $128,757  $108,744  $249,577  $221,887 

1The Company records sales in the refined coal segment net of the cost of coal as the Company purchases the coal feedstock from the customer to which refined coal is sold.

Segment gross profit (loss):                
Ethanol and by-products $13,669  $10,781  $27,215  $23,270 
Refined coal  (4,270)     (6,965)   
Total gross profit $9,399  $10,781  $20,250  $23,270 

Income (loss) before income taxes:                
Ethanol and by-products $10,077  $7,330  $21,086  $16,253 
Refined coal  (4,788)     (7,647)   
Corporate and other  (430)  (857)  (931)  (1,778)
Total income (loss) before income taxes $4,859  $6,473  $12,508  $14,475 

Benefit (provision) for income taxes:                
Ethanol and by-products $(2,029) $(2,675) $(3,449) $(5,380)
Refined coal  7,597      11,596    
Corporate and other  63   373   187   688 
Total benefit (provision) for income taxes $5,631  $(2,302) $8,334  $(4,692)

Segment profit (loss):                
Ethanol and by-products $6,561  $3,419  $15,150  $8,561 
Refined coal  3,018      4,289    
Corporate and other  (362)  (478)  (726)  (1,076)
Net income attributable to REX common shareholders $9,217  $2,941  $18,713  $7,485 

Assets:  July 31,
2018
   January 31,
2018
         
Ethanol and by-products $402,728  $384,997         
Refined coal  10,052   12,165         
Corporate and other  63,390   81,702         
Total assets $476,170  $478,864         
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  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
   2018   2017   2018   2017 
Sales of products, ethanol and by-products segment:                
Ethanol $100,289  $88,785  $192,182  $180,257 
Dried distillers grains  21,059   13,472   41,143   28,622 
Non-food grade corn oil  5,075   4,726   10,055   9,318 
Modified distillers grains  2,043   1,748   5,760   3,667 
Other  25   13   31   23 
Total $128,491  $108,744  $249,171  $221,887 
                 
Sales of products, refined coal segment:                
Refined coal $266  $  $406  $ 

Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Ethanol and By-Products

At July 31, 2017, we had2018, investments in our ethanol business include equity investments in three ethanol limited liability companies, in two of which we have a majority ownership interest in.interest. The following table is a summary of ethanol gallons shipped at our plants:

 

EntityTrailing 12
Months
Ethanol
Gallons
Shipped
REX’s
Current
Effective
Ownership
Interest
REX’s
Current
Effective
Ownership
Interest
Current Effective
Ownership of
Trailing 12
Months Ethanol
Gallons Shipped
One Earth Energy, LLC120.5134.8 M75.0%90.475.1%101.2 M
NuGen Energy, LLC131.4138.4 M99.5%130.799.5%137.7 M
Big River Resources, LLC:   
Big River Resources W Burlington, LLC107.1108.6 M9.7%10.410.3%11.2 M
Big River Resources Galva, LLC123.7128.5 M9.7%12.010.3%13.2 M
Big River United Energy, LLC129.2129.8 M5.4%7.05.7%7.4 M
Big River Resources Boyceville, LLC57.257.3 M9.7%5.510.3%5.9 M
Total669.1697.4 M 256.0276.6 M

 

Our ethanol operations and the results thereof are highly dependent on commodity prices, especially prices for corn, ethanol, distillers grains, non-food grade corn oil and natural gas. As a result of price volatility for these commodities, our operating results can fluctuate substantially. The price and availability of corn is subject to significant fluctuations depending upon a number of factors that affect commodity prices in general, including crop conditions, weather, federal policy and foreign trade. Because the market price of ethanol is not always directly related to corn prices (for example, crude and other energy prices, the export market demand for ethanol and the results of federal policy decisions can impact ethanol prices), at times ethanol prices may lagnot follow movements in corn prices and, in an environment of

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higher corn prices or lower ethanol prices, reduce the overall margin structure at the plants. As a result, at times, we may operate our plants at negative or marginallyminimally positive operating margins.

 

We expect our ethanol plants to produce approximately 2.8 gallons of denatured ethanol for each bushel of grain processed in the production cycle. We refer to the actual gallons of denatured ethanol produced per bushel of grain processed as the realized yield. We refer to the difference between the price per gallon of ethanol and the price per bushel of grain (divided by the realized yield) as the “crush spread”. Should the crush spread decline, it is possible that our ethanol plants will generate operating results that do not provide adequate cash flows for sustained periods of time. In such cases, production at the ethanol plants may be reduced or stopped altogether in order to minimize variable costs at individual plants. We also expect our ethanol plants to produce approximately 15.515.0 pounds of distillers grains and 0.70.8 pounds of non-food grade corn oil for each bushel of grain processed.

 

We attempt to manage the risk related to the volatility of commodity prices by utilizing forward grain purchase, and forward ethanol, distillers grains and corn oil sale contracts and commodity futures agreements as management deems appropriate. We attempt to match quantities of these sale contracts with an appropriate quantity of grain purchase contracts over a given period of time when we can obtain an

20

adequate gross margin resulting from the crush spread inherent in the contracts we have executed. However, the market for future ethanol sales contracts generally lags the spot market with respect to ethanol price. Consequently, we generally execute fixed price contracts for no more than four months into the future at any given time and we may lock in our corn or ethanol price without having a corresponding locked in ethanol or corn price for short durations of time. As a result of the relatively short period of time our fixed price contracts cover, we generally cannot predict the future movements in the crush spread for more than four months; thus, we are unable to predict the likelihood or amounts of future income or loss from the operations of our ethanol facilities. We utilize derivative financial instruments, primarily exchange traded commodity future contracts, in conjunction with certain of our grain procurement activities.

 

Refined Coal

On August 10, 2017, we purchased the entire ownership interest of an entity that owns a refined coal facility, through a 95.35% owned subsidiary, for approximately $12.0 million. We began operating the refined coal facility immediately after the acquisition. We expect that the revenues from the sale of refined coal produced in the facility will be subsidized by federal production tax credits through November 2021, subject to meeting qualified emissions reductions as governed by Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code. In order to maintain compliance with Section 45 of the Internal Revenue Code, we are required to test every six months, through an independent laboratory, the effectiveness of our operations with respect to emissions reductions. Annually, the IRS publishes the amount of federal income tax credit earned per ton of refined coal produced and sold. We expect to earn credits at the rate of $7.03 per ton of refined coal produced and sold during calendar year 2018.

The refined coal facility is located at the site of a utility-owned electrical generating power station, which is our refined coal operation’s sole customer. We expect refined coal production and sales amounts to vary with the demand requirements of the utility company, increasing during periods of colder and hotter weather conditions in the areas the utility company serves. We have contracted with an experienced third party to operate and maintain the refined coal facility and to provide us with management reporting and operating data as required. We do not have any employees on site at the refined coal facility.

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Future Energy

 

During fiscal year 2013, we entered into a joint venture with Hytken HPGP, LLC (“Hytken”) to file and defend patents for eSteam technology relating to heavy oil and oil sands production methods, and to commercially exploit the technology to generate license fees, royalty income and development opportunities. The patented technology is an enhanced method of heavy oil recovery involving zero emissions downhole steam generation. We own 60% and Hytken owns 40% of the entity named Future Energy, LLC.LLC (“Future Energy”).

 

We have agreed to fund direct patent expenses relating to patent applications and defense, annual annuity fees and maintenance on a country by country basis, with the right to terminate funding and transfer related patent rights to Hytken. We may also fund, through loans, all costs relating to new intellectual property, consultants, and future research and development, pilot field tests and equipment purchases for commercialization stage of the patents. To date, we have paid approximately $1.8$1.9 million cumulatively for our ownership interest, patent and other expenses. We have not yet tested or proven the commercial feasibility of the technology.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

During the three months ended July 31, 2017,2018, we did not change any of our critical accounting policies as disclosed in our 20162017 Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 27, 2017.29, 2018.

 

Fiscal Year

 

All references in this report to a particular fiscal year are to REX’s fiscal year ended January 31. For example, “fiscal year 2017”2018” means the period February 1, 20172018 to January 31, 2018.2019.

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Results of Operations

For a detailed analysis of period to period changes, see the segment discussion that follows this section as that discussion reflects how management views and monitors our business.

 

Comparison of Three and Six Months Ended July 31, 20172018 and 20162017

The following table summarizes selected data from our consolidated operations for the periods presented:

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
  2017  2016  2017  2016 
             
Average selling price per gallon of ethanol $1.45  $1.49  $1.45  $1.41 
Gallons of ethanol sold (in millions)  61.3   60.9   124.7   119.7 
Average selling price per ton of dried distillers grains $95.39  $134.81  $97.81  $130.12 
Tons of dried distillers grains sold  141,233   140,541   292,635   276,662 
Average selling price per pound of non-food grade corn oil $0.29  $0.29  $0.28  $0.27 
Pounds of non-food grade corn oil sold (in millions)  16.5   16.4   33.1   32.2 
Average selling price per ton of modified distillers grains $41.00  $56.60  $41.47  $58.54 
Tons of modified distillers grains sold  42,632   17,370   88,434   43,517 
Average cost per bushel of grain $3.38  $3.73  $3.47  $3.63 
Average cost of natural gas (per mmbtu) $3.30  $2.71  $3.52  $2.96 

 

Net sales and revenue in the quarter ended July 31, 20172018 were approximately $108.7$128.8 million compared to approximately $115.7$108.7 million in the prior year’s second quarter, representing a decreasean increase of approximately $7.0$20.1 million. The increase was primarily caused by higher sales in our ethanol and by-products segment of approximately $19.7 million. Net sales and revenue in the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 were approximately $221.9$249.6 million compared to approximately $215.9$221.9 million in the in the first six months of fiscal year 2016,2017, representing an increase of approximately $6.0$27.7 million. The following table summarizesincrease was primarily caused by higher sales in our ethanol and by-products segment of our consolidated operations for each major product and service group for the periods presented (amounts in thousands):approximately $27.3 million.

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
Product Category 2017  2016  2017  2016 
             
Ethanol $88,785  $90,933  $180,257  $168,564 
Dried distillers grains  13,472   18,946   28,622   36,000 
Non-food grade corn oil  4,726   4,738   9,318   8,584 
Modified distillers grains  1,748   983   3,667   2,547 
Other  13   107   23   234 
Total $108,744  $115,707  $221,887  $215,929 
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Ethanol sales decreased from approximately $90.9 million inGross profit for the second quarter of fiscal year 20162018 was approximately $9.4 million (7.3% of net sales and revenue) which was approximately $1.4 million lower compared to approximately $10.8 million of gross profit (9.9% of net sales and revenue) for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Gross profit for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 increased by approximately $2.9 million compared to the prior year second quarter as a result of operations in the ethanol and by-products segment and decreased by approximately $4.3 million as a result of operations in the refined coal segment. Gross profit for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $20.3 million (8.1% of net sales and revenue) which was approximately $3.0 million lower compared to approximately $23.3 million of gross profit (10.5% of net sales and revenue) for the first six months of fiscal year 2017. Gross profit for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 increased by approximately $3.9 million compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017 as a result of operations in the ethanol and by-products segment and decreased by approximately $7.0 million as a result of operations in the refined coal segment.

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were approximately $6.1 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018, which was approximately $1.3 million higher compared to approximately $4.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. The increase was primarily related to an increase in incentive compensation expenses associated with higher quarterly profitability in fiscal year 2018 and freight related charges. SG&A expenses were approximately $10.7 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2018, which was approximately $0.5 million higher compared to approximately $10.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017. The increase was primarily related to an increase in freight related charges in fiscal year 2018.

During the second quarters of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, we recognized income of approximately $0.9 million and $0.1 million, respectively, from our equity investment in Big River, which is included in our ethanol and by-products segment results. Such income was approximately $1.6 million and $0.8 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2018 and 2017, respectively. Big River’s results in fiscal year 2017 were negatively impacted by an asset impairment charge which reduced our equity method income by approximately $0.5 million. Big River has interests in four ethanol production plants that shipped approximately 424 million gallons in the trailing twelve months ended July 31, 2018 and has an effective ownership of ethanol gallons shipped for the same period of approximately 366 million gallons. Big River’s operations also include agricultural elevators. Due to the inherent volatility of commodity prices within the ethanol industry, we cannot predict the likelihood of future operating results from Big River being similar to historical results.

Interest and other income was approximately $0.7 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 versus approximately $0.3 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Interest and other income was approximately $1.4 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 versus approximately $0.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017. Income has increased as yields on our excess cash have improved compared to fiscal year 2017.

As a result of the foregoing, income before income taxes was approximately $4.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 versus approximately $6.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Income before income taxes was approximately $12.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 versus approximately $14.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017.

27

Our effective tax rate was approximately (115.9)% and 35.6% for the second quarters of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively, and approximately (66.6)% and 32.4% for the first six months of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively. The fluctuation in the rate results primarily from the production tax credits we expect to receive associated with our refined coal segment and from the research and experimentation credits we expect to receive associated with our ethanol and by-products segment. In addition the fluctuation in the rate also was impacted by the Tax Act, which reduced the federal income tax rate on corporations from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. We record our tax provision/benefit based on an estimated annual effective rate adjusted for items recorded discretely.

As a result of the foregoing, net income was approximately $10.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 compared to approximately $4.2 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Net income was approximately $20.8 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 compared to approximately $9.8 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017.

Income related to noncontrolling interests was approximately $1.3 million and approximately $1.2 million during the second quarters of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively, and was approximately $2.1 million and approximately $2.3 million during the first six months of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively. These amounts represent the other owners’ share of the income or loss of NuGen, One Earth, the refined coal entity and Future Energy.

As a result of the foregoing, net income attributable to REX common shareholders for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $9.2 million, an increase of approximately $6.3 million from approximately $2.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. Net income attributable to REX common shareholders for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $18.7 million, an increase of approximately $11.2 million from approximately $7.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017.

Business Segment Results

In the third quarter of fiscal year 2017, we began reporting the results of our refined coal operations as a new segment as a result of the acquisition of a refined coal entity (see Note 3.) We have two segments: ethanol and by-products and refined coal. Historical amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year segment reporting presentation. We evaluate the performance of each reportable segment based on segment profit. Segment profit excludes indirect interest income and certain other items that are included in net income determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Segment profit includes realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments and the provision/benefit for income taxes.

The following sections discuss the results of operations for each of our business segments and corporate and other. Amounts in the corporate and other category include activities that are not separately reportable or related to a segment.

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The following table summarizes segment and other results (amounts in thousands):

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
  2018   2017   2018   2017 
Net sales and revenue:                
Ethanol and by-products $128,491  $108,744  $249,171  $221,887 
Refined coal1  266      406    
Total net sales and revenue $128,757  $108,744  $249,577  $221,887 

1We record sales in the refined coal segment net of the cost of coal as we purchase the coal feedstock from the customer to which refined coal is sold.

Segment gross profit (loss):            
Ethanol and by-products $13,669  $10,781  $27,215  $23,270 
Refined coal  (4,270)     (6,965)   
Total gross profit $9,399  $10,781  $20,250  $23,270 
                 
Income (loss) before income taxes:                
Ethanol and by-products $10,077  $7,330  $21,086  $16,253 
Refined coal  (4,788)     (7,647)   
Corporate and other  (430)  (857)  (931)  (1,778)
Total income (loss) before income taxes $4,859  $6,473  $12,508  $14,475 
                 
Benefit (provision) for income taxes:                
Ethanol and by-products $(2,029) $(2,675) $(3,449) $(5,380)
Refined coal  7,597      11,596    
Corporate and other  63   373   187   688 
Total benefit (provision) for income taxes $5,631  $(2,302) $8,334  $(4,692)
                 
Segment profit (loss):                
Ethanol and by-products $6,561  $3,419  $15,150  $8,561 
Refined coal  3,018      4,289    
Corporate and other  (362)  (478)  (726)  (1,076)
Net income attributable to REX common shareholders $9,217  $2,941  $18,713  $7,485 

Ethanol and by-Products

The ethanol and by-products segment includes the consolidated financial results of One Earth and NuGen, our equity investment in Big River and certain administrative expenses.

29

The following table summarizes sales from One Earth and NuGen by product group (amounts in thousands):

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
  2018  2017  2018  2017 
Sales of products, ethanol and by-products segment:            
Ethanol $100,289  $88,785  $192,182  $180,257 
Dried distillers grains  21,059   13,472   41,143   28,622 
Non-food grade corn oil  5,075   4,726   10,055   9,318 
Modified distillers grains  2,043   1,748   5,760   3,667 
Other  25   13   31   23 
Total $128,491  $108,744  $249,171  $221,887 

The following table summarizes selected operating data from One Earth and NuGen:

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
  2018  2017  2018  2017 
             
Average selling price per gallon of ethanol $1.38  $1.45  $1.35  $1.45 
Gallons of ethanol sold (in millions)  72.7   61.3   141.9   124.7 
Average selling price per ton of dried distillers grains $148.98  $95.39  $143.28  $97.81 
Tons of dried distillers grains sold  141,354   141,233   287,148   292,635 
Average selling price per pound of non-food grade corn oil $0.24  $0.29  $0.24  $0.28 
Pounds of non-food grade corn oil sold (in millions)  21.2   16.5   41.4   33.1 
Average selling price per ton of modified distillers grains $63.72  $41.00  $67.81  $41.47 
Tons of modified distillers grains sold  32,053   42,632   84,939   88,434 
Average cost per bushel of grain $3.60  $3.38  $3.55  $3.47 
Average cost of natural gas (per mmbtu) $2.86  $3.30  $3.16  $3.52 

Ethanol sales increased from approximately $88.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 primarily a result of a $0.04 decrease in the price per gallon sold. Dried distillers grains sales decreased fromto approximately $18.9$100.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2016 to2018, primarily a result of a 19% increase in gallons sold, which was partially offset by a $0.07 decline in the price per gallon sold. The volume increase was a result of our recent capacity expansion efforts. Dried distillers grains sales increased from approximately $13.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 to approximately $21.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2018, primarily a result of a $39.42 decline$53.59 increase in the price per ton sold. Management believes the decline in the selling price results primarily from the ongoing uncertainty of Chinese imports of domestic dried distillers grains as the China Ministry of Commerce had announced an anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigation in January 2016 and has imposed an anti-dumping tariff and a countervailing duty on U.S. dried distillers grains exports to China. In a final ruling in January 2017, China increased the dried distillers grains anti-dumping duty to a range of 42.2% up to 53.7% and the dried distillers grains countervailing duty to a range of 11.2% up to 12.0%. In addition, Vietnam suspended imports of U.S dried distillers grains and this has also contributed to the decline in DDG prices. Non-food grade corn oil sales increased from approximately $4.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 were consistent with sales in the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. Modified distillers grains sales increased fromto approximately $1.0$5.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2016 to2018, primarily a result of a 28% increase in pounds sold, which was partially offset by a $0.05 decline in the price per pound sold. Modified distillers grains sales increased from approximately $1.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 to approximately $2.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2018, primarily a result of a 145%$22.72 increase in tonsthe price per ton sold, which was partially offset by a decline of $15.6025% decrease in the price per tontons sold.

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Ethanol sales increased from approximately $168.6 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2016 to approximately $180.3 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2017 primarily a result of an increase of 5.0 million gallons sold and a $0.04 increase in the price per gallon sold. Dried distillers grains sales decreased fromto approximately $36.0$192.2 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2016 to2018, primarily a result of an increase of 17.2 million gallons sold, which was partially offset by a $0.10 decrease in the price per gallon sold. The volume increase was a result of our recent capacity expansion efforts.Dried distillers grains sales increased from approximately $28.6 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2017 primarily a result of a $32.31 decline in the price per ton sold. The decline in selling price was partially offset by a 6% increase in tons sold. Management believes the decline in the selling price results from the same reasons as described in the preceding paragraph. Non-food grade corn oil sales increased fromto approximately $8.6$41.1 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2016 to2018, primarily a result of a $45.47 increase in the price per ton sold. Non-food grade corn oil sales increased from approximately $9.3 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2017 primarily a result of slight increases in the price per pound sold and quantities sold. Modified distillers grains sales increased fromto approximately $2.5$10.1 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2016 to2018, primarily a result of a 25% increase in pounds sold, which was partially offset by a $0.04 decline in the price per pound sold. Modified distillers grains sales increased from approximately $3.7 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2017 to approximately $5.8 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2018, primarily a result of a 103%$26.34 increase in tonsthe price per ton sold, which was partially offset by a decline of $17.074% decrease in the price per tontons sold.

 

We expect that sales in future periods will be based upon the following (One Earth and NuGen only):

 

ProductAnnual Sales Quantity
  
Ethanol260 million to 280300 million gallons
Dried distillers grains590,000 to 620,000630,000 tons
Non-food grade corn oil6570 million to 8090 million pounds
Modified distillers grains170,000 to 200,000225,000 tons

 

This expectation assumes that One Earth and NuGen will continue to operate at orslightly above historical production levels, as we seek to benefit from our recently completed plant expansion projects, which is dependent upon market conditions, plant profitability and efficient plant operations. We may vary the crush spread realized.amounts of ethanol, dried and modified distillers grains and corn oil production, and thus, the resulting sales, based upon market conditions. NuGen hasand One Earth have received the EPA pathway approval and hashave permits to increase itseach of their production levels to 150 million gallons annually. One Earth has received the EPA pathway approval and has permits to increase its production levels to 131

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million gallons annually. We are working on debottlenecking the plants and plan to increase production levels over time dependent on industry conditions, plant profitability and the completion of capacity expansion projects. We may vary the amounts of dried and modified distillers grains production, and resulting sales, based upon market conditions.

 

Gross profit for the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 was approximately $10.8$13.7 million (9.9%(10.6% of net sales and revenue), which was approximately $6.5$2.9 million lowerhigher compared to approximately $17.3$10.8 million of gross profit (14.9%(9.9% of net sales and revenue) for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016.2017. The crush spread for the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 was approximately $0.24$0.13 per gallon of ethanol sold compared to the second quarter of fiscal year 20162017 which was approximately $0.20$0.24 per gallon of ethanol sold. The declineincrease of approximately $5.5$7.6 million in sales of dried distillers grains compared to the second quarter of fiscal year 2016 negatively2017 positively affected gross profit. Management believes this decline results primarily fromThe volume of ethanol sold during the continued uncertainty regarding future Chinese and Vietnamese importssecond quarter of U. S produced distillers grains.fiscal year 2018 compared to the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 positively impacted gross profit by approximately $1.5 million. Grain accounted for approximately 75%77% ($73.288.5 million) of our cost of sales during the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 compared to approximately 79%75% ($77.673.2 million) during the second quarter of fiscal year 2016.2017. Natural gas accounted for approximately 5% ($5.35.2 million) of our cost of sales during the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 compared to approximately 4%5% ($4.25.3 million) during the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. Plant related repairs and maintenance expense was approximately $2.0 million higher in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 compared to the second quarter of fiscal year 2016.2017.

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Gross profit for the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 was approximately $23.3$27.2 million (10.5%(10.9% of net sales and revenue), which was approximately $2.4$3.9 million lowerhigher compared to approximately $25.7$23.3 million of gross profit (11.9%(10.5% of net sales and revenue) for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. The crush spread for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $0.13 per gallon of ethanol sold compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017 which was approximately $0.23 per gallon of ethanol soldsold. The increase of approximately $12.5 million in sales of dried distillers grains compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017 positively affected gross profit. The increase of approximately $0.16 per gallon$2.1 million in sales of modified distillers grains compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017 positively affected gross profit. The volume of ethanol sold during the first six months of fiscal year 2016. The decline of approximately $7.4 million in sales of dried distillers grain2018 compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2016 negatively affected2017 positively impacted gross profit.profit by approximately $2.2 million. In addition, corn oil sales positively impacted gross profit in the first six months of fiscal year 2018 by approximately $0.7 million compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017. Grain accounted for approximately 76%77% ($150.9171.7 million) of our cost of sales during the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 compared to approximately 78%76% ($148.7150.9 million) during the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. Natural gas accounted for approximately 6%5% ($11.311.5 million) of our cost of sales during the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 compared to approximately 5%6% ($9.111.3 million) during the first six months of fiscal year 2016. Given the inherent volatility in ethanol, distillers grains, non-food grade corn oil, grain and natural gas prices, we cannot predict the likelihood that the spread between ethanol, distillers grains, non-food grade corn oil and grain prices in future periods will be consistent compared to historical periods. Plant related repairs and maintenance expense was approximately $1.6 million higher in the first six months of fiscal year 2017 compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2016. We expect gross profit, in future periods, to be negatively impacted by our refined coal operation (see Note 16) as the refined coal operation is expected to generate a pre-tax operating loss.2017.

 

We attempt to match quantities of ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil salesales contracts with an appropriate quantity of grain purchase contracts over a given period of time when we can obtain a satisfactory margin resulting from the crush spread inherent in the contracts we have executed. However, the market for future ethanol sales contracts generally lags the spot market with respect to ethanol price. Consequently, we generally execute fixed price sales contracts for no more than four months into the future at any given time and we may lock in our corn or ethanol price without having

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a corresponding locked in ethanol or corn price for short durations of time. As a result of the relatively short period of time our contracts cover, we generally cannot predict the future movements in the crush spread for more than four months. Based on existing contracts at the end of the second quarter of fiscal year 2017, none2018, approximately 5% of our forecasted ethanol, approximately 10%8% of our forecasted distillers grains and approximately 15%13% of our forecasted non-food grade corn oil production duringfor the next 12 months have been sold under fixed-price contracts. The effect of a 10% adverse change in the price of ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil from the current pricing would result in a decrease in annual revenues of approximately $48.4$47.7 million for the remaining forecasted sales. Similarly, approximately 1%9% of our estimated corn usage for the next 12 months was subject to fixed-price contracts.contracts at the end of the second quarter of fiscal year 2018. The effect of a 10% adverse change in the price of corn from the current pricing would result in an increase in annual cost of goods sold of approximately $34.2$32.8 million for the remaining forecasted grain purchases. Approximately 2%At the end of the second quarter, approximately 28% of our estimated natural gas usage for the next 12 months was subject to fixed-price contracts. The effect of a 10% adverse change in the price of natural gas from the current pricing would result in an increase in annual cost of goods sold of approximately $2.0$1.4 million for the remaining forecasted natural gas purchases.

 

Selling, general and administrativeSG&A expenses for the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 were consistent withapproximately $4.9 million, which were approximately $1.2 million higher compared to the second quarter of fiscal year 2016 amount. Such2017 amount of $3.7 million. A majority of the increase was related to an increase in incentive compensation expenses

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associated with higher quarterly profitability in fiscal year 2018 and freight related charges. SG&A expenses were approximately $10.2$8.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 20172018, which were approximately $0.4 million higher compared to approximately $9.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016. The2017 amount of $8.1 million. A majority of the increase is primarilyresults from higher freight related to higher rail car lease charges as our fleet of rail cars ages and requires more repairs. We expect selling, general and administrative expenses to remain consistent within fiscal year 2016 results in future periods, with the exception of variability of incentive compensation which is based upon Company profitability.2018 compared to fiscal year 2017.

 

During the second quarters of fiscal years 20172018 and 2016,2017, we recognized income of approximately $0.1$0.9 million and $1.2$0.1 million, respectively, from our equity investment.investment in Big River, which is included in our ethanol and by-products segment results. Such income was approximately $0.8$1.6 million and $1.4$0.8 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2018 and 2017, and 2016, respectively. Big River has interests in four ethanol production plants and has an effective ownership of ethanol gallons shipped in the trailing twelve months ended July 31, 2017 of approximately 353 million gallons. Big River’s results in fiscal year 2017 have beenwere negatively impacted by an asset impairment charge which reduced our equity method income by approximately $0.5 million. Big River has interests in four ethanol production plants that shipped approximately 424 million gallons in the trailing twelve months ended July 31, 2018 and has an effective ownership of ethanol gallons shipped for the same period of approximately 366 million gallons. Big River’s operations also include agricultural elevators. Due to the inherent volatility of commodity prices within the ethanol industry, we cannot predict the likelihood of future operating results from Big River being similar to historical results.

 

On June 1, 2015 Patriot and a subsidiary of CHS Inc. (“CHS”) completed a merger that resulted in CHS acquiring 100% of the ownership interest in Patriot. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, we received proceeds of approximately $2.3 million as partial payment for certain escrow holdbacks and adjustments to the purchase price related to the merger between Patriot and CHS. As a result, we recognized approximately $0.2 million as gain on sale of investment during the first quarter of fiscal year 2016. We do not expect any further proceeds or gain/loss on sale of investment to be significant.

Gain on disposal of property and equipment of approximately $0.2 million during the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2016 relate to two real estate properties sold. No such properties were sold during the first six months of fiscal year 2017.

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Interest and other income was approximately $0.3$0.4 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 versus approximately $0.1 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016.2017. Interest and other income was approximately $0.5$0.8 million for the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 versus approximately $0.3$0.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. The income has increased as yields on our excess cash have improved compared to fiscal year 2016.2017.

The provision for income taxes was approximately $2.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 compared to approximately $2.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. The provision for income taxes was approximately $3.4 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2018 compared to approximately $5.4 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2017. The segment tax rate in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018 was lower compared to the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2017 as a result of the reduction in corporate tax rates in connection with the Tax Act and from the research and experimentation credits we expect to earn in fiscal year 2018 (and claim by filing amended returns for prior years).

Income related to noncontrolling interests was approximately $1.5 million and approximately $1.2 million during the second quarters of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively. Income related to noncontrolling interests was approximately $2.5 million and approximately $2.3 million during the first six months of fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively. These amounts represent the other owners’ share of the income of NuGen and One Earth.

Segment profit for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $6.6 million, which was approximately $3.2 million higher compared to the prior year second quarter profit of approximately $3.4 million. Segment profit for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $15.2 million, which was approximately $6.6 million higher compared to the first six months of fiscal year 2017 profit of approximately $8.6 million. The increase from fiscal year 2017 results is primarily related to increased gross profit and a lower provision for income taxes.

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Refined Coal

The refined coal segment includes the consolidated financial results of our refined coal entity and certain administrative expenses. We acquired the refined coal entity during the third quarter of fiscal year 2017.

The following table summarizes sales from refined coal operations by product group (amounts in thousands):

  Three Months Ended
July 31,
  Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
Sales of products, refined coal segment: 2018  2017  2018  2017 
                 
Refined coal $266  $  $406  $ 

1 We record sales in the refined coal segment net of the cost of coal as we purchase the coal feedstock from the customer to which refined coal is sold.

Refined coal sales were approximately $0.3 million and approximately $0.4 million in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018, respectively. We expect future period sales to vary depending on fluctuations in demand from the site host utility which generally change based upon weather conditions in the geographic markets the utility serves.

Gross loss was approximately $4.3 million and approximately $7.0 million in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018, respectively. We expect future period gross loss to vary similar to the sales fluctuations described above. Based on the agreements in place that govern the operation, sales and purchasing activities of the refined coal plant, we expect the refined coal operation to continue operating at a gross loss. We expect that the ongoing losses will be subsidized by federal production income tax credits.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were approximately $0.5 million and approximately $0.7 million in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018, respectively. We expect future period expenses to be less than $1.0 million per quarter.

Loss related to noncontrolling interests was approximately $0.2 million and approximately $0.3 million in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018, respectively. This amount represents the other owners’ share of the pre-tax loss of refined coal operations.

The benefit for income taxes was approximately $7.6 million in the second quarter of fiscal year and was approximately $11.6 million in the first six months of fiscal year 2018. The refined coal segment tax benefit is comprised of an estimated statutory benefit of its pre-tax losses and an estimated benefit from the Section 45 tax credits we expect to earn from producing and selling refined coal.

 

As a result of the foregoing, income before income taxesincluding the benefit of federal tax credits associated with refined coal production and sales, segment profit for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2018 was approximately $6.5$3.0 million and approximately $4.3 million, respectively.

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Corporate and Other

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 were approximately $0.7 million, which was approximately $0.3 million lower compared to approximately $1.0 million of expenses for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017. These expenses for the first six months of fiscal year 2018 were approximately $1.5 million, which was approximately $0.6 million lower compared to approximately $2.1 million of expenses for the first six months quarter of fiscal year 2017. The decrease is primarily related to higher professional expenses incurred during the second quarter and first six months of fiscal year 2017 associated with due diligence and other efforts related to researching the refined coal operations prior to our refined coal acquisition.

Interest and other income was approximately $0.3 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 20172018 versus approximately $13.5$0.2 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. Income before2017. Such income taxes was approximately $14.5$0.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 20172018 versus approximately $18.5$0.3 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. The income has increased as yields on our excess cash have improved compared to fiscal year 2017.

 

Our effective tax rateLiquidity and Capital Resources

Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately 35.6% and 33.3% for the second quarters of fiscal years 2017 and 2016, respectively, and 32.4% and 32.6% for the first six months of fiscal years 2017 and 2016, respectively. We expect our effective tax rate, for the remainder of fiscal year 2017, to be significantly lower than the current year to date levels as we expect to earn federal income tax credits from our refined coal operation (see Note 16).

As a result of the foregoing, net income was approximately $4.2 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 compared to approximately $9.0 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. Net income was approximately $9.8$18.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 20172018, compared to net cash provided of approximately $12.5$13.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.

Income related to noncontrolling interests was approximately $1.2 million and approximately $0.9 million during2017. For the second quartersfirst six months of fiscal years 2017year 2018, cash was provided by net income of approximately $20.8 million, adjusted for non-cash items of approximately $2.2 million, which consisted of depreciation, income from equity method investments, accrued interest income, the deferred income tax provision and 2016, respectively,stock based compensation expense. An increase in the balance of accounts receivable used cash of approximately $1.7 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of customer shipments and payments. An increase in the balance of inventories used cash of approximately $4.4 million, which was approximately $2.3 million and approximately $1.5 millionprimarily a result of the timing of receipt of raw materials as we took advantage of purchasing opportunities that existed during the first six months of fiscal years 2017 and 2016, respectively. These amountsrepresentyear 2018. An increase in refundable income taxes used cash of approximately $1.8 million, which was primarily a result of recognizing the owners’ (other than us) sharebenefit of an expected filing of an amended income tax return to claim a refund for prior years. An increase in the income or lossbalance of NuGen, One Earth and Future Energy.

Asaccounts payable provided cash of approximately $4.0 million, which was primarily a result of the foregoing, net income attributable to REX common shareholders fortiming of inventory receipts and vendor payments. A decrease in the second quarterbalance of fiscal year 2017 wasapproximately $2.9 million, a decreaseother liabilities used cash of approximately $5.3$1.3 million fromapproximately $8.2 million for the second quarterwhich was primarily a result of fiscal year 2016. Net income attributable to REX common shareholders for the first six monthspayments of fiscal year 2017 wasapproximately $7.5 million, a decrease of approximately $3.5 million fromapproximately $11.0 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016. The decrease from fiscal year 2016 results is primarily related to reduced dried distillers grains pricing, increased natural gas costsincentive compensation and increased repairs and maintenance expenditures.

Liquidity and Capital Resourcesreal estate taxes.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $13.5 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017, compared to approximately $11.4 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. For the first six months of fiscal year 2017, cash was provided by net income of approximately $9.8 million, adjusted for non-cash items of approximately $10.0 million, which consisted of depreciation and amortization, income from equity method investments, the deferred income tax provision and stock based compensation expense. Big River paid dividends to REX of approximately $2.0 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2017. A decrease in the balance of accounts receivable provided cash of approximately $0.9 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of customer shipments and

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payments. An increase in the balance of inventories used cash of approximately $5.0 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of receipt of raw materials as we took advantage of purchasing opportunities that existed during the first six months of fiscal year 2017. An increase in the

35

balance of other assets used cash of approximately $1.0 million, which was primarily a result of income tax payments and normal variations in various asset balances. An increase in the balance of accounts payable provided cash of approximately $1.7 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of inventory receipts and vendor payments. A decrease in the balance of other current liabilities used cash of approximately $4.8 million which was primarily a result of payments of incentive compensation and real estate taxes.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $11.4 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016. For the first six months of fiscal year 2016, cash was provided by net income of approximately $12.5 million, adjusted for non-cash items of approximately $8.0 million, which consisted of depreciation and amortization, income from equity method investments, gain on disposal of real estate and property and equipment, net, gain on sale of investment and stock based compensation expense. We received dividends from Big River of approximately $1.5 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2016. An increase in the balance of accounts receivable used cash of approximately $4.3 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of customer shipments and payments. An increase in the balance of inventories used cash of approximately $6.5 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of receipt of raw materials as we took advantage of purchasing opportunities that existed during the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. A decrease in the balance of other assets provided cash of approximately $3.0 million, as overpayments of income taxes were more than sufficient to offset estimates of our current year liabilities. A decrease in the balance of accounts payable used cash of approximately $3.1 million, which was primarily a result of the timing of inventory receipts and vendor payments.

At July 31, 2017,2018, working capital was approximately $209.8$220.3 million, compared to approximately $204.0$217.2 million at January 31, 2017.2018. The ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 12.210.9 to 1 at July 31, 20172018 and 10.1 to 1 at January 31, 2017.2018.

 

Cash of approximately $14.4$116.9 million was used in investing activities for the first six months of fiscal year 2017,2018, compared to approximately $5.7$14.1 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2017. During the first six months of fiscal year 2018, we had capital expenditures of approximately $5.8 million, the majority of which were plant capacity expansion projects at the One Earth and NuGen ethanol plants. We expect to spend between $4.0 million and $6.0 million during the remainder of fiscal year 2018 on various capital projects. During the first six months of fiscal year 2018, we used cash of approximately $111.2 million for the purchase of United States treasury bills to increase the interest income we receive on our excess cash balances. The treasury bills mature during the third quarter of fiscal year 2018. Depending on investment options available, we may elect to retain the funds, or a portion thereof, in cash investments, short-term investments or long-term investments.

Cash of approximately $14.1 million was used in investing activities for the first six months of fiscal year 2017. During the first six months of fiscal year 2017, we had capital expenditures of approximately $14.4 million, the majority of which was plant capacity expansion projects at the One Earth and NuGen ethanol plants. We expect to spend between $5.0 million and $7.0 million during the remainder of fiscal year 2017 on various capital projects.

 

Cash of approximately $5.7 million was used in investingfinancing activities totaled approximately $18.1 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2018 compared to approximately $1.7 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017. During the first six months of fiscal year 2016,2018, we had capital expendituresused cash of approximately $9.3$16.6 million primarily related to improvements at the One Earth and NuGen ethanol plants.purchase approximately 228,000 shares of our common stock in open market transactions. We will continue to monitor opportunities to purchase our common stock based upon our stock price performance. During the first six months of fiscal year 2016,2018, we receivedused cash of approximately $2.3$1.7 million as partial payment for certain escrow holdbacksto purchase shares from and adjustmentspay dividends to the purchase price related to the salenoncontrolling members of our equity investment in Patriot. We received approximately $1.0 million of proceeds from the sale of two real estate properties duringOne Earth. During the first six months of fiscal year 2016.2018, we received approximately $0.2 million in capital contributions from the minority investor in the refined coal entity. We expect to continue to receive these capital contributions in the future as we expect the minority investor to continue funding its proportionate share of refined coal operating losses.

 

Cash used in financing activities totaled approximately $1.7 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2017 compared to approximately $6.8 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016. During the first six

27

months of fiscal year 2017, wewhich was used cash of approximately $1.7 million to purchase shares from and pay dividends to noncontrolling members of One Earth.

 

Cash used in financing activities totaled approximately $6.8 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2016. During the first six months of fiscal year 2016, we used cash of approximately $4.7 million to purchase approximately 95,000 shares of our common stock in open market transactions. During the first six months of fiscal year 2016, we used cash of approximately $2.1 million to purchase shares from and pay dividends to noncontrolling members of One Earth and NuGen.

We are investigating various uses offor our excess cash.cash and short-term investments. We have a stock buyback program, and given our current authorization level, can repurchase atotal of approximately 155,000427,000 shares.We also plan to seek and evaluate investment opportunities including energy related, agricultural or other ventures we believe fit our investment criteria. On August 10, 2017 we purchased a refined coal company for approximately $12.0 million (see Note 16).criteria in addition to investing in highly liquid short-term securities.

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Effective April 1, 2016, One Earth and NuGen each entered into $10.0 million revolving loan facilities that matured April 1, 2017. One Earth and NuGen renewed the revolving loan facilities, which mature June 1, 2018, during the second quarter of fiscal year 2017.2019 as extended. Neither One Earth nor NuGen had outstanding borrowings on the revolving loans during the six months ended July 31, 2017.2018. These agreements do not contain any financial covenants.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Form 10-Q contains or may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements can be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or “continue” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. Readers are cautioned that there are risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those referred to in such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risk factors set forth from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and include among other things: the impact of legislative changes, the price volatility and availability of corn, distillers grains, ethanol, non-food grade corn oil, gasoline, natural gas, our ethanol and refined coal plants operating efficiently and according to forecasts and projections, changes in the international, national or regional economies, weather, results of income tax audits, changes in income tax laws or regulations and the effects of terrorism or acts of war. The Company does not intend to update publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are set forth in Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 20172018 (File No. 001-09097).

 

Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We are exposed to the impact of market fluctuations associated with commodity prices as discussed below.

 

We manage a portion of our risk with respect to the volatility of commodity prices inherent in the ethanol industry by using forward purchase and sale contracts. At July 31, 2017,2018, One Earth and NuGen combined have forward purchase contracts for approximately 11.411.5 million bushels of corn, the principal

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raw material for their ethanol plants. One Earth and NuGen expect to take delivery of the corn through October 2017.December 2018. At July 31, 2017,2018, One Earth and NuGen have combined sales commitments for approximately 67.817.9 million gallons of ethanol, approximately 79,00062,000 tons of distillers grains and approximately 11.710.2 million pounds of non-food grade corn oil. One Earth and NuGen expect to deliver the majority of the ethanol, distillers grains and non-food grade corn oil through December 2017. NoneSeptember 2018. Approximately 5% of our forecasted ethanol sales duringfor the next 12 months have been sold under fixed-price contracts. As a result, theThe effect of a 10% adverse move in the price of ethanol from the current pricing would result in a decrease in annual revenues of approximately $40.0$37.0 million. Approximately 10%8% of our forecasted distillers grains sales duringfor the next 12 months have been sold under fixed-price contracts. As a result, theThe effect of a 10% adverse move in the price of distillers grains from the current pricing would result in a decrease in annual revenues of approximately $6.4$9.0 million. Approximately 15%13% of our forecasted non-food grade corn oil sales duringfor the next 12 months have been sold under fixed-price contracts. As a result, theThe effect of a 10% adverse

37

move in the price of non-food grade corn oil from the current pricing would result in a decrease in annual revenues of approximately $1.9$1.7 million. Similarly, approximately 1%9% of our estimated corn usage for the next 12 months was subject to fixed-price contracts. As a result, theThe effect of a 10% adverse move in the price of corn from the current pricing would result in an increase in annual cost of goods sold of approximately $34.2$32.8 million. Approximately 2%28% of our estimated natural gas usage for the next 12 months was subject to fixed-price contracts. As a result, theThe effect of a 10% adverse move in the price of natural gas from the current pricing would result in an increase in annual cost of goods sold of approximately $2.0$1.4 million.

 

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

 

Our management evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.Legal Proceedings

 

We are not party to any legal proceedings that we believe would, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

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Item 1A.Risk Factors

 

During the quartersix months ended July 31, 2017,2018, there have been no material changes to the risk factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2017, except as follows:2018.

 

Risks Relating to our Refined Coal Investment

Our refined coal investments are subject to various risks and uncertainties.

We have purchased a company to produce refined coal that we believe qualifies to earn tax credits under IRC Section 45 through November 2021. Our ability to generate returns and avoid write-offs in connection with this investment is subject to various risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties as set forth below.

Availability of the tax credits under IRC Section 45. Our ability to claim tax credits under IRC Section 45 depends upon the operation in which we have purchased satisfying certain ongoing conditions set forth in IRC Section 45. Furthermore, the tax credits could be reduced or completely eliminated as a result of changes in income tax laws and/or regulations.

The IRS could ultimately determine that the purchase of the refined coal facility and/or its operations have not satisfied, or have not continued to satisfy, the conditions set forth in IRC Section 45. Additionally, Congress could modify income tax laws and remove the tax credits retroactively. As the refined coal operation is expected to generate pre-tax losses, the unavailability of the tax credits for any reason could have a material impact on our results of operations.

IRC Section 45 phase out provisions. IRC Section 45 contains phase out provisions based upon the market price of coal, such that, if the price of coal rises to specified levels, we could lose some or all of the tax credits we expect to receive from this operation.

Business risks. The refined coal operation receives tax credits by selling its refined coal to an unrelated party. The unrelated party is not obligated to continue purchasing refined coal. If the unrelated party ceases to purchase refined coal from us, this would cause us to attempt to move our refined coal plant to a different location, which could require us to invest additional capital, or to find a different user to purchase our refined coal. In addition, we may not be able to find a suitable location to move our refined coal plant to or find a different user to purchase our refined coal in a timely manner. A reduction or cessation of refined coal sales could have a material impact on our results of operations.

Market demand for coal. When the price of natural gas and/or oil declines relative to that of coal, some users of coal may choose to burn natural gas or oil instead of coal. Market demand for coal may also decline as a result of an economic slowdown. Sustained low natural gas prices may also cause users of coal to phase out or close existing coal using operations. If users of coal burn less coal or eliminate the use of coal there would be less need for our product.

Environmental concerns regarding coal.Environmental concerns about greenhouse gases, toxic wastewater discharges and the potential hazardous nature of coal combustion waste could lead to regulations that discourage the burning of coal. Such regulations could mandate that electric power generating companies purchase a minimum amount of power from renewable energy sources such as wind,

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hydroelectric, solar and geothermal. This could result in utilities burning less coal, which would reduce the generation of tax credits.

 •The refined coal operation in which we have invested and the by-products from such operations may result in environmental and product liability claims and environmental compliance costs.The construction and operation of the refined coal operation are subject to Federal, state and local laws, regulations and potential liabilities arising under or relating to the protection or preservation of the environment, natural resources and human health and safety. Such laws and regulations generally require the operations and/or the utilities at which the operations are located to obtain and comply with various environmental registrations, licenses, permits, inspections and other approvals. Such laws and regulations also impose liability, without regard to fault or the legality of a party’s conduct, on certain entities that are considered to have contributed to, or are otherwise involved in, the release or threatened release of hazardous substances into the environment. Such hazardous substances could be released as a result of burning refined coal in a number of ways, including air emissions, waste water, and by-products such as fly ash. One party may, under certain circumstances, be required to bear more than its share or the entire share of investigation and cleanup costs at a site if payments or participation cannot be obtained from other responsible parties. We may be exposed to the risk of becoming liable for environmental damage we may have had little, if any, involvement in creating. Such risk remains even after production ceases at an operation to the extent the environmental damage can be traced to the types of chemicals or compounds used or operations conducted in connection with the use of refined coal.

No assurances can be given that contractual arrangements and precautions taken to ensure assumption of these risks by facility owners or operators will result in that facility owner or operator accepting full responsibility for any environmental damage. It is also not uncommon for private claims by third parties alleging contamination to also include claims for personal injury, property damage, diminution of property or similar claims. Furthermore, many environmental, health and safety laws authorize citizen suits, permitting third parties to make claims for violations of laws or permits and force compliance. Our insurance may not cover all environmental risk and costs or may not provide sufficient coverage in the event of an environmental claim. If significant uninsured losses arise from environmental damage or product liability claims, or if the costs of environmental compliance increase for any reason, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 •Operation of the refined coal operation.We rely on an unrelated third party to operate the refined coal operation. Should the third party fail to perform or underperform in the operation, management or regulatory compliance of the facility, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected as we are not experienced in operating a refined coal facility.

 •Utilization of tax credits.If we do not generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the tax credits earned by our refined coal operation, we could incur write-offs of the related tax attributes which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, this could adversely reduce our liquidity reserves as we expect to incur operating losses sustained by the refined coal operation.

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Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Dividend Policy

 

REX did not pay dividends in the current or prior years. We currently have no restrictions on the payment of dividends. OurNone of our consolidated and unconsolidated ethanol subsidiaries have certain restrictions on their ability to pay dividends to us. During the first six months of fiscal year 2017,2018, One Earth paid dividends to REX of approximately $5.1 million. During the first six months of fiscal year 2017,2018, NuGen did not pay dividends.

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  Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities    
       
Period Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
  Average
Price
Paid per
Share
  Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
  Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs (1)
 
May 1-31, 2018  6,884  $73.41   6,884   522,309 
June 1-30, 2018  7,126   72.78   7,126   515,183 
July 1-31, 2018  88,002   73.82   88,002   427,181 
Total  102,012  $73.72   102,012   427,181 

(1)On March 20, 2018, our Board of Directors increased our share repurchase authorization by an additional 500,000 shares.  At July 31, 2018, a total of 427,181 shares remained available to purchase under this authorization.  

 

Item 3.Defaults upon Senior Securities

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 5.Other Information

 

None

 

Item 6.Exhibits

 

The following exhibits are filed with this report:

 

 10(a) First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated June 2, 2015 between Rex Radio and Television, Inc. and Stuart A. Rose
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10(b)First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated June 2, 2015 between Rex Radio and Television, Inc. and Zafar Rizvi
10(c)First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated June 2, 2015 between Rex Radio and Television, Inc. and Douglas L. Bruggeman
31Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications
   
 32Section 1350 Certifications
   
 101The following information from REX American Resources Corporation Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31, 2017, 2018, formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations, (iii) Consolidated Condensed Statements of Equity, (iv) Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows and (v) Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.
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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 REX American Resources Corporation
 Registrant

 

Signature Title Date
     

/s/ Zafar Rizvi

(Zafar Rizvi)

 Chief Executive Officer and President
 (Zafar Rizvi)(Chief Executive Officer) September 6, 20175, 2018
     

/s/ Douglas L. Bruggeman

(Douglas L. Bruggeman)

  Vice President, Finance and Treasurer
(Douglas L. Bruggeman)(Chief Financial Officer) September 6, 20175, 2018
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