WORLD ACCEPTANCE CORP

Previous wording

Among the key factors that could cause our actual financial results, performance or condition to differ from the expectations expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements are the following: recently enacted, proposed or future legislation and the manner in which it is implemented; changes in the U.S. tax code; the nature and scope of regulatory authority, particularly discretionary authority, that is or may be exercised by regulators, including, but not limited to, the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and individual state regulators having jurisdiction over the Company; the unpredictable nature of regulatory examinations, proceedings and litigation; employee misconduct or misconduct by third parties; uncertainties associated with management turnover and the effective succession of senior management; media and public characterization of consumer installment loans; labor unrest; the impact of changes in accounting rules and regulations, or their interpretation or application, which could materially and adversely affect the Company’s reported consolidated financial statements or necessitate material delays or changes in the issuance of the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements; the Company's assessment of its internal control over financial reporting; changes in interest rates; the impact of inflation; risks relating to the acquisition or sale of assets or businesses or other strategic initiatives, including increased loan delinquencies or net charge-offs, the loss of key personnel, integration or migration issues, the failure to achieve anticipated synergies, increased costs of servicing, incomplete records, and retention of customers; risks inherent in making loans, including repayment risks and value of collateral; cybersecurity threats or incidents, including the potential or actual misappropriation of assets or sensitive information, corruption of data or operational disruption and the costs of the associated response thereto; our dependence on debt and the potential impact of limitations in the Company’s amended revolving credit facility or other impacts on the Company's ability to borrow money on favorable terms, or at all; the timing and amount of revenues that may be recognized by the Company; changes in current revenue and expense trends (including trends affecting delinquency and charge-offs); the impact of extreme weather events and natural disasters; changes in the Company’s markets and general changes in the economy (particularly in the markets served by the Company).

Current wording

Among the key factors that could cause our actual financial results, performance or condition to differ from the expectations expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements are the following: recently enacted, proposed or future legislation and the manner in which it is implemented, including pursuant to policies of the new U.S. administration; changes in the U.S. tax code; the nature and scope of regulatory authority, particularly discretionary authority, that is or may be exercised by regulators, including, but not limited to, the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and individual state regulators having jurisdiction over the Company; the unpredictable nature of regulatory examinations, proceedings and litigation; employee misconduct or misconduct by third parties; uncertainties associated with management turnover and the effective succession of senior management; media and public characterization of consumer installment loans; labor unrest; the impact of changes in accounting rules and regulations, or their interpretation or application, which could materially and adversely affect the Company’s reported consolidated financial statements or necessitate material delays or changes in the issuance of the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements; the Company's assessment of its internal control over financial reporting; changes in interest rates; the impact of inflation; risks relating to the acquisition or sale of assets or businesses or other strategic initiatives, including increased loan delinquencies or net charge-offs, the loss of key personnel, integration or migration issues, the failure to achieve anticipated synergies, increased costs of servicing, incomplete records, and retention of customers; risks inherent in making loans, including repayment risks and value of collateral; cybersecurity threats or incidents, including the potential or actual misappropriation of assets or sensitive information, corruption of data or operational disruption and the costs of the associated response thereto; our dependence on debt and the potential impact of limitations in the Company’s amended revolving credit facility or other impacts on the Company's ability to borrow money on favorable terms, or at all; the timing and amount of revenues that may be recognized by the Company; changes in current revenue and expense trends (including trends affecting delinquency and charge-offs); the impact of extreme weather events and natural disasters; changes in the Company’s markets and general changes in the economy (particularly in the markets served by the Company).

Previous wording

Gross loans outstanding decreased to $1.296 billion as of September 30, 2024, a 6.1% decrease from the $1.380 billion of gross loans outstanding as of September 30, 2023. During the most recent quarter, gross loans outstanding increased 1.7%, from $1.275 million as of June 30, 2024, compared to a decrease of 1.3%, or $18.5 million, in the comparable quarter of the prior year. During the most recent quarter, we saw improvement in borrowing from new, former and existing customers compared to the same quarter of fiscal year 2024. Specifically, new, former and refinance loan customer volume during the quarter increased 20.8%, 11.5% and 2.9%, respectively, compared to the same quarter of fiscal year 2024. Our customer base decreased by 0.1% during the twelve-month period ended September 30, 2024, compared to a decrease of 9.4% for the comparable period ended September 30, 2023. During the three months ended September 30, 2024 our unique borrowers increased by 3.6% compared to an increase of 1.0% during the three months ended September 30, 2023. We continued to improve the gross yield to expected loss ratio for all new, former and refinance customer originations and will continue to monitor performance indicators and intend to adjust underwriting accordingly.

Current wording

Gross loans outstanding decreased to $1.38 billion as of December 31, 2024, a 1.4% decrease from the $1.40 billion of gross loans outstanding as of December 31, 2023. During the most recent quarter, gross loans outstanding increased sequentially 6.6%, or $85.6 million, from $1.30 billion as of September 30, 2024, compared to an increase of 1.5%, or $21.1 million, in the comparable quarter of the prior year. During the most recent quarter, we saw improvement in borrowing from new, former and existing customers compared to the same quarter of fiscal year 2024. Specifically, new, former and refinance loan customer volume during the quarter increased 22.6%, 13.9% and 1.5%, respectively, compared to the same quarter of fiscal year 2024. Our customer base increased by 3.7% during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2024, compared to a decrease of 2.4% for the comparable period ended December 31, 2023. During the three months ended December 31, 2024 our unique borrowers increased by 6.2% compared to an increase of 2.4% during the three months ended December 31, 2023. We continued to improve the gross yield to expected loss ratio for all new, former and refinance customer originations and will continue to monitor performance indicators and intend to adjust underwriting accordingly.

Previous wording

Net income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 increased to $22.1 million, a 37.6% increase from net income of $16.1 million for the same period of the prior year. Operating income, which is revenue less provision for credit losses and general and administrative expenses, increased by $4.9 million, or 14.7%, compared to the same period of the prior year.

Current wording

Net income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased to $13.4 million, a 19.7% decrease from net income of $16.7 million for the same period of the prior year. Operating income, which is revenue less provision for credit losses and general and administrative expenses, decreased by $3.9 million, or 12.5%, compared to the same period of the prior year.

Previous wording

Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $5.5 million, or 4.0%, to $131.4 million from $136.9 million for the same period of the prior year. Interest and fee income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $3.0 million, or 2.6%, from the same period of the prior year due to a decrease in loans outstanding. The large loan portfolio decreased from 56.7% of the overall portfolio as of September 30, 2023, to 52.1% as of September 30, 2024.

Current wording

Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2024 increased by $0.9 million, or 0.6%, to $138.6 million from $137.7 million for the same period of the prior year. Interest and fee income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 increased by $3.7 million, or 3.1%, from the same period of the prior year mostly due to an increase in interest yields.

Previous wording

Insurance and other income for the three months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $2.4 million, or 12.1%, from the same period of the prior year. Insurance income decreased by approximately $3.2 million, or 20.5%, during the three months ended September 30, 2024 when compared to the three months ended September 30, 2023. Insurance commissions decreased primarily due to a decrease in loans where our insurance products are available to our customer. Other income increased by $0.8 million.

Current wording

Insurance and other income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $2.8 million, or 14.9%, from the same period of the prior year. Insurance income decreased by approximately $2.0 million, or 14.1%, during the three months ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023. Insurance commissions decreased primarily due to a decrease in loans where our insurance products are available to our customer. The large loan portfolio decreased from 55.2% of the overall portfolio as of December 31, 2023, to 48.2% as of December 31, 2024. Other income decreased by $0.8 million primarily due to lower motor club sales driven by fewer large loan customers.

Previous wording

The provision for credit losses increased $6.2 million, or 15.3%, to $46.7 million from $40.5 million when comparing the second quarter of fiscal 2025 to the second quarter of fiscal 2024. The table below itemizes the key components of the CECL allowance and provision impact during the quarter.

Current wording

The provision for credit losses increased $3.5 million, or 8.5%, to $44.1 million from $40.6 million when comparing the third quarter of fiscal 2025 to the third quarter of fiscal 2024. The table below itemizes the key components of the CECL allowance and provision impact during the quarter.

Previous wording

The provision was negatively impacted by loan growth and an increase in expected loss rates during the quarter. Specifically, expected loss rates were negatively impacted by an increase in our 0-5 month customers, our riskiest customers, during the current quarter.

Current wording

The provision was negatively impacted by loan growth and a smaller decrease in expected loss rates during the quarter. Specifically, expected loss rates were negatively impacted by an increase in our 0-5 month customers, our riskiest customers, as a percentage of the portfolio during the current quarter.

Previous wording

Net charge-offs for the quarter increased $1.0 million, from $40.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 to $41.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average net loan receivables on an annualized basis increased from 16.1% in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 to 17.6% in the second quarter of fiscal 2025. The prior year quarter's net charge-offs benefited from a $4.9 million bulk sale of charge-offs from prior periods.

Current wording

Net charge-offs for the quarter decreased $6.0 million, from $48.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2024 to $42.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average net loan receivables on an annualized basis decreased from 19.1% in the third quarter of fiscal 2024 to 17.2% in the third quarter of fiscal 2025.

Previous wording

The Company's allowance for credit losses as a percentage of net loans was 12.0% at September 30, 2024 compared to 12.8% at September 30, 2023. Accounts that were 61 days or more past due on a recency basis decreased to 5.6% at September 30, 2024 compared to 5.9% at September 30, 2023.

Current wording

The Company's allowance for credit losses as a percentage of net loans was 11.4% at December 31, 2024 compared to 11.8% at December 31, 2023. Accounts that were 61 days or more past due on a recency basis decreased to 5.7% at December 31, 2024 compared to 5.8% at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

G&A expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $16.6 million, or 26.4%, from the corresponding period of the previous year. As a percentage of revenues, G&A expenses decreased from 46.0% during the three months ended September 30, 2023 to 35.3% during the three months ended September 30, 2024. G&A expenses per average open branch increased by 25.9% when comparing the two three-month periods. The change in G&A expense is explained in greater detail below.

Current wording

G&A expenses for the three months ended December 31, 2024 increased by $1.3 million, or 2.0%, from the corresponding period of the previous year. As a percentage of revenues, G&A expenses increased from 47.8% during the three months ended December 31, 2023 to 48.5% during the three months ended December 31, 2024. G&A expenses per average open branch increased by 3.3% when comparing the two three-month periods. The change in G&A expense is explained in greater detail below.

Previous wording

Personnel expense totaled $21.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, a $16.7 million, or 43.4%, decrease over the three months ended September 30, 2023. Salary expense decreased approximately $0.5 million, or 1.7%, during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2023. Our headcount as of September 30, 2024, decreased 6.7% compared to September 30, 2023. Benefit expense decreased approximately $1.1 million, or 12.2%, when comparing the quarterly periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. Incentive expense decreased $14.6 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2024. The decrease in incentive expense is mostly due to a decrease in share-based compensation as a result of an

Current wording

Personnel expense totaled $41.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, a $1.2 million, or 3.0%, increase over the three months ended December 31, 2023. Salary expense increased approximately $0.4 million, or 1.1%, during the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2023. Our headcount as of December 31, 2024, decreased 3.1% compared to December 31, 2023. Benefit expense decreased approximately $0.7 million, or 8.8%, when comparing the quarterly periods ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Incentive expense increased $1.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2024. The increase in incentive expense is mostly due to an increase in bonuses paid.

Previous wording

Occupancy and equipment expense totaled $12.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, a $0.1 million, or 0.7%, decrease over the three months ended September 30, 2023. Occupancy and equipment expense is generally a function of the number of branches the Company has open throughout the period.

Current wording

Occupancy and equipment expense totaled $12.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.2 million, or 1.7%, increase over the three months ended December 31, 2023. Occupancy and equipment expense is generally a function of the number of branches the Company has open throughout the period.

Previous wording

Advertising expense increased $0.6 million, or 25.9%, in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2024 due to increased spending on customer acquisition programs.

Current wording

Advertising expense increased $0.7 million, or 19.5%, in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2024 due to increased spending on customer acquisition programs.

Previous wording

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $1.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, a $103.5 thousand, or 9.7%, decrease over the three months ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $0.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.1 million, or 10.7%, decrease over the three months ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Other expense totaled $8.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, a $0.3 million, or 3.3%, decrease over the three months ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Other expense totaled $8.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.7 million, or 7.5%, decrease over the three months ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $2.1 million, or 16.6%, from the corresponding three months of the previous year. The decrease in interest expense was due to a 14.5% decrease in the average debt outstanding from $580.4 million to $496.0 million and a 0.6% decrease in the effective interest rate from 8.71% to 8.66%. The Company’s debt-to-equity ratio decreased from 1.4:1 at September 30, 2023 to 1.2:1 at September 30, 2024. The Company repurchased and extinguished $11.9 million of its Notes, net of $0.1 million unamortized debt issuance costs related to the extinguished debt, on the open market for a reacquisition price of $11.5 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2025.

Current wording

Interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $0.4 million, or 3.4%, from the corresponding three months of the previous year. The decrease in interest expense was due to a 5.8% decrease in the average debt outstanding from $567.1 million to $534.0 million and a 2.4% decrease in the effective interest rate from 8.6% to 8.4%. The Company’s debt-to-equity ratio decreased from 1.4:1 at December 31, 2023 to 1.3:1 at December 31, 2024. The Company repurchased and extinguished $15.6 million of its Notes, net of $0.1 million unamortized debt issuance costs related to the extinguished debt, on the open market for a reacquisition price of $15.6 million during the third quarter of fiscal 2025.

Previous wording

Other key return ratios for the three months ended September 30, 2024 included a 7.8% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 20.1% (both on a trailing 12-month basis), as compared to a 5.0% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 15.2% (both on a trailing 12-month basis) for the three months ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Other key return ratios for the three months ended December 31, 2024 included a 7.5% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 19.2% (both on a trailing 12-month basis), as compared to a 6.0% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 17.3% (both on a trailing 12-month basis) for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

The Company’s effective income tax rate decreased to 20.8% for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to 23.1% for the corresponding period of the previous year. The decrease is primarily due to the effects of pretax book earnings relative to the effects of various permanent items including a decrease in the disallowed executive compensation under Section 162(m) and the recognition of additional HTCs when compared to the prior year.

Current wording

The Company’s effective income tax rate increased to 16.4% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to 14.6% for the corresponding period of the previous year. The increase is primarily due to the effects of provision to return adjustments treated as discrete items in the prior year quarter, which were partially offset by pretax book earnings relative to the effects of various permanent items including a decrease in the disallowed executive compensation under Section 162(m) and the recognition of additional HTCs when compared to the prior year.

Previous wording

Gross loans outstanding decreased to $1.296 billion as of September 30, 2024, a 6.1% decrease from the $1.380 billion of gross loans outstanding as of September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Gross loans outstanding decreased to $1.38 billion as of December 31, 2024, a 1.4% decrease from the $1.40 billion of gross loans outstanding as of December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Net income for the six months ended September 30, 2024 increased to $32.1 million from the $25.6 million net income reported for the same period of the prior year. Operating income, which is revenue less provision for credit losses and general and administrative expenses, increased by $3.0 million, or 5.2%.

Current wording

Net income for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 increased to $45.5 million from the $42.3 million net income reported for the same period of the prior year. Operating income, which is revenue less provision for credit losses and general and administrative expenses, decreased by $0.9 million, or 1.0%.

Previous wording

Revenues decreased by $15.3 million, or 5.5%, to $260.9 million during the six months ended September 30, 2024 from $276.2 million for the same period of the prior year. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in average net loans outstanding.

Current wording

Revenues decreased by $14.4 million, or 3.5%, to $399.6 million during the nine months ended December 31, 2024 from $413.9 million for the same period of the prior year. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in average net loans outstanding.

Previous wording

Interest and fee income for the six months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $8.5 million, or 3.6%, from the same period of the prior year. Net loans outstanding at September 30, 2024 decreased by 5.2% over the balance at September 30, 2023. Average net loans outstanding decreased by 6.8% for the six months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the six-month period ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Interest and fee income for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $4.8 million, or 1.4%, from the same period of the prior year. Net loans outstanding at December 31, 2024 decreased by 0.8% over the balance at December 31, 2023. Average net loans outstanding decreased by 5.3% for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the nine-month period ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Insurance commissions and other income for the six months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $6.8 million, or 15.9%, from the same period of the prior year. Insurance commissions decreased by approximately $6.3 million, or 19.9%, during the six months ended September 30, 2024 when compared to the six months ended September 30, 2023. Other income decreased by $0.5 million. Sales of our motor club product decreased by $1.2 million as sales opportunities decreased with lower originations. This decrease was offset by a $0.8 million increase in revenue from the Company's tax preparation.

Current wording

Insurance commissions and other income for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $9.6 million, or 15.6%, from the same period of the prior year. Insurance commissions decreased by approximately $8.3 million, or 18.1%, during the nine months ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the nine months ended December 31, 2023. Insurance commissions decreased primarily due to a decrease in loans where our insurance products are available to our customer. Other income decreased by $1.3 million. Sales of our motor club product decreased by $2.0 million as sales opportunities decreased with lower originations. This decrease was offset by a $0.8 million increase in revenue from the Company's tax preparation.

Previous wording

The provision for credit losses increased $5.0 million, or 5.8%, to $92.1 million from $87.1 million when comparing the first two quarters of fiscal 2025 to the first two quarters of fiscal 2024. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average net loans receivable on an annualized basis increased from 16.5% in the first two quarters of fiscal 2024 to 17.0% in the first two quarters of fiscal 2025.

Current wording

The provision for credit losses increased $8.5 million, or 6.7%, to $136.2 million from $127.7 million when comparing the first three quarters of fiscal 2025 to the first three quarters of fiscal 2024. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average net loans receivable on an annualized basis decreased from 17.4% in the first three quarters of fiscal 2024 to 17.1% in the first three quarters of fiscal 2025.

Previous wording

G&A expenses for the six months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $23.3 million, or 17.8%, from the corresponding period of the previous year. As a percentage of revenues, G&A expenses decreased from 47.5% during the first six months of fiscal 2024 to 41.3% during the first six months of fiscal 2025. G&A expenses per average open branch decreased by 16.9% when comparing the two six-month periods. The change in G&A expense is explained in greater detail below.

Current wording

G&A expenses for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $22.0 million, or 11.2%, from the corresponding period of the previous year. As a percentage of revenues, G&A expenses decreased from 47.6% during the first nine months of fiscal 2024 to 43.8% during the first nine months of fiscal 2025. G&A expenses per average open branch decreased by 10.1% when comparing the two nine-month periods. The change in G&A expense is explained in greater detail below.

Previous wording

Personnel expense totaled $58.7 million for the six months ended September 30, 2024, a $21.5 million, or 26.8%, decrease over the six months ended September 30, 2023. Salary expense decreased approximately $0.8 million, or 1.3%, when comparing the six month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. Our headcount as of September 30, 2024, decreased 6.7% compared to September 30, 2023. Benefit expense decreased approximately $2.0 million, or 11.7%, when comparing the six month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. Incentive expense decreased $18.1 million, mostly due to the $18.5 million reversal of the expense associated with the $20.45 Performance Shares since the Company is no longer expected to achieve the target required to vest.

Current wording

Personnel expense totaled $99.8 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, a $20.3 million, or 16.9%, decrease over the nine months ended December 31, 2023. Salary expense decreased approximately $0.4 million, or 0.5%, when comparing the nine month periods ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Our headcount as of December 31, 2024, decreased 3.1% compared to December 31, 2023. Benefit expense decreased approximately $2.7 million, or 10.7%, when comparing the nine month periods ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Incentive expense decreased $16.2 million, mostly due to the $18.5 million reversal of the expense associated with the $20.45 Performance Shares during the second quarter of fiscal 2025.

Previous wording

Occupancy and equipment expense totaled $24.5 million for the six months ended September 30, 2024, a $0.5 million, or 2.2%, decrease over the six months ended September 30, 2023. Occupancy and equipment expense is generally a function of the number of branches the Company has open throughout the period. For the six months ended September 30, 2024, the average occupancy and equipment expense per branch totaled $23.4 thousand, a 0.3 thousand, or 1.3% decrease when compared to the six months ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Occupancy and equipment expense totaled $36.8 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.3 million, or 0.9%, decrease over the nine months ended December 31, 2023. Occupancy and equipment expense is generally a function of the number of branches the Company has open throughout the period.

Previous wording

Advertising expense totaled $4.5 million for the six months ended September 30, 2024, a $0.5 million, or 10.3%, decrease over the six months ended September 30, 2023 due to decreased spending on customer acquisition programs.

Current wording

Advertising expense totaled $8.9 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.2 million, or 2.4%, increase over the nine months ended December 31, 2023 due to increased spending on customer acquisition programs.

Previous wording

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $2.0 million for the six months ended September 30, 2024, a $0.2 million, or 7.8%, decrease over the six months ended September 30, 2023.

Current wording

Amortization of intangible assets totaled $2.9 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, a $0.3 million, or 8.8%, decrease over the nine months ended December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Interest expense for the six months ended September 30, 2024 decreased by $4.6 million, or 18.4%, from the corresponding six months of the previous year. The decrease in interest expense was due to a 16.1% decrease in the average debt outstanding, from $586.5 million to $492.3 million, and a $0.6 million increase in gain recognized on Notes repurchased and extinguished during the six months ended September 30, 2024. The Company repurchased and extinguished $33.7 million of its Notes, net of $0.3 unamortized debt issuance costs related to the extinguished debt, on the open market for a reacquisition price of $32.5 million, during the six months ended September 30, 2024.

Current wording

Interest expense for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 decreased by $5.0 million, or 13.6%, from the corresponding nine months of the previous year. The decrease in interest expense was due to a 12.6% decrease in the average debt outstanding, from $581.0 million to $507.5 million. The Company repurchased and extinguished $49.3 million of its Notes, net of $0.4 million unamortized debt issuance costs related to the extinguished debt, on the open market for a reacquisition price of $48.1 million, during the nine months ended December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

Other key return ratios for the first six months of fiscal 2025 included a 7.8% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 20.1% (both on a trailing 12-month basis), as compared to a 5.0% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 15.2% (both on a trailing 12-month basis) for the first six months of fiscal 2024.

Current wording

Other key return ratios for the first nine months of fiscal 2025 included a 7.5% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 19.2% (both on a trailing 12-month basis), as compared to a 6.0% return on average assets and a return on average equity of 17.3% (both on a trailing 12-month basis) for the first nine months of fiscal 2024.

Previous wording

In July 2020, the CFPB rescinded provisions of the Rule governing the ability to repay requirements. The payment requirements were scheduled to take effect in June 2022. However, on October 19, 2022, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled, in Community Financial Services Association of America v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, that the funding mechanism for the CFPB violates the appropriations clause of the U.S. Constitution, and as a result, vacated the Rule. On October 3, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court held oral argument to decide the constitutionality of the CFPB's funding mechanism. On May 16, 2024, the Supreme Court held that the funding mechanism for the CFPB complies with the appropriations clause of the U.S. Constitution, reversing the judgment of the Court of Appeals, and remanding the cause for further proceedings. To the extent that the Rule is reinstated and takes effect, any regulatory changes could have effects beyond those currently contemplated that could further materially and adversely impact our business and operations. Unless rescinded or otherwise amended, the Company will have to comply with the Rule’s payment requirements if it continues to allow consumers to set up future recurring payments online for certain covered loans such that it meets the definition of having a “leveraged payment mechanism” under the Rule. If the payment provisions of the Rule apply, the Company will have to modify its loan payment procedures to comply with the required notices and mandated timeframes set forth in the final rule.

Current wording

In July 2020, the CFPB rescinded provisions of the Rule governing the ability to repay requirements. The payment requirements were scheduled to take effect in June 2022. However, on October 19, 2022, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled, in Community Financial Services Association of America v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, that the funding mechanism for the CFPB violates the appropriations clause of the U.S. Constitution, and as a result, vacated the Rule. On October 3, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court held oral argument to decide the constitutionality of the CFPB's funding mechanism. On May 16, 2024, the Supreme Court held that the funding mechanism for the CFPB complies with the appropriations clause of the U.S. Constitution, reversing the judgment of the Court of Appeals, and remanding the cause for further proceedings. In June 2024, the CFPB announced that the Rule would go into effect on March 30, 2025. Such regulatory changes could have effects beyond those currently contemplated that could further materially and adversely impact our business and operations. Unless rescinded or otherwise amended, the Company will have to comply with the Rule’s payment requirements if it continues to allow consumers to set up future recurring payments online for certain covered loans such that it meets the definition of having a “leveraged payment mechanism” under the Rule. If the payment provisions of the Rule apply, the Company will have to modify its loan payment procedures to comply with the required notices and mandated timeframes set forth in the final rule.

Previous wording

The Company has historically financed and continues to finance its operations, acquisitions and branch expansion primarily through a combination of cash flows from operations and borrowings from its institutional lenders. As discussed below, the Company has also issued debt securities to finance its operations and repay a portion of its outstanding indebtedness. The Company has generally applied its cash flows from operations to fund its loan volume, fund acquisitions, repay long-term indebtedness, and repurchase its common stock. Net cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended September 30, 2024 was $102.1 million.

Current wording

The Company has historically financed and continues to finance its operations, acquisitions and branch expansion primarily through a combination of cash flows from operations and borrowings from its institutional lenders. As discussed below, the Company has also issued debt securities to finance its operations and repay a portion of its outstanding indebtedness. The Company has generally applied its cash flows from operations to fund its loan volume, fund acquisitions, repay long-term indebtedness, and repurchase its common stock. Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended December 31, 2024 was $163.2 million.

Previous wording

For the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company recognized a $0.4 million and $0.2 million gain on extinguishment, respectively. For the six months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company recognized a $1.2 million and $0.6 million gain on extinguishment, respectively. In accordance with ASC 470, the Company recognized the gain on extinguishment as a component of interest expense in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Current wording

The Company recognized a $50.0 thousand loss and a $0.5 million gain on extinguishment during the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. For each of the nine months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company recognized a $1.2 million gain on extinguishment. In accordance with ASC 470, the Company recognized the gain and loss on extinguishments as a component of interest expense in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Previous wording

The Company continues to believe stock repurchases are a viable component of the Company’s long-term financial strategy and an excellent use of excess cash when the opportunity arises. However, our revolving credit facility and the Notes limit share repurchases to up to 50% of consolidated adjusted net income for the period commencing January 1, 2019. As of September 30, 2024, subject to further approval from our Board of Directors, we could repurchase approximately $24.7 million of shares under the terms of our debt facilities. Additional share repurchases can be made subject to compliance with, among other things, applicable restricted payment covenants under the revolving credit facility and the Notes.

Current wording

The Company continues to believe stock repurchases are a viable component of the Company’s long-term financial strategy and an excellent use of excess cash when the opportunity arises. However, our revolving credit facility and the Notes limit share repurchases to up to 50% of consolidated adjusted net income for the period commencing January 1, 2019. As of December 31, 2024, subject to further approval from our Board of Directors, we could repurchase approximately $32.2 million of shares under the terms of our debt facilities (subject to further board approval). Additional share repurchases can be made subject to compliance with, among other things, applicable restricted payment covenants under the revolving credit facility and the Notes.

Previous wording

For the six months ended September 30, 2024 and fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, the Company’s effective interest rate, including the commitment fee and amortization of debt issuance costs, as it relates to the revolving credit facility was 10.1% annualized and 9.9%, respectively. At September 30, 2024, the unused amount available under the revolving credit facility was $313.6 million. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility mature on June 7, 2026.

Current wording

For the nine months ended December 31, 2024 and fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, the Company’s effective interest rate, including the commitment fee and amortization of debt issuance costs, as it relates to the revolving credit facility was 9.7% annualized and 9.9%, respectively. At December 31, 2024, the unused amount available under the revolving credit facility was $243.3 million. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility mature on June 7, 2026.

Previous wording

As of September 30, 2024, the Company's debt outstanding was $504.9 million, net of $1.7 million unamortized debt issuance costs related to the unsecured senior notes payable, and its shareholders' equity was $417.5 million resulting in a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.2:1.0. Management will continue to monitor the Company's debt-to-equity ratio and is committed to maintaining a debt level that will allow the Company to continue to execute its business objectives, while not putting undue stress on its consolidated balance sheet.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the Company's debt outstanding was $559.9 million, net of $1.4 million unamortized debt issuance costs related to the unsecured senior notes payable, and its shareholders' equity was $428.2 million resulting in a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.3:1.0. Management will continue to monitor the Company's debt-to-equity ratio and is committed to maintaining a debt level that will allow the Company to continue to execute its business objectives, while not putting undue stress on its consolidated balance sheet.

Previous wording

On May 15, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $20.0 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock, inclusive of the amount that remained available for repurchase under prior repurchase authorizations. As of September 30, 2024, the Company had $10.0 million in aggregate remaining repurchase capacity under its current share repurchase program. The timing and actual number of shares repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including the stock price, corporate and regulatory requirements, available funds, alternative uses of capital, restrictions under the revolving credit agreement, and other market and economic conditions. The Company’s stock repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

Current wording

On May 15, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $20.0 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock, inclusive of the amount that remained available for repurchase under prior repurchase authorizations. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $9.0 million in aggregate remaining repurchase capacity under its current share repurchase program. The timing and actual number of shares repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including the stock price, corporate and regulatory requirements, available funds, alternative uses of capital, restrictions under the revolving credit agreement, and other market and economic conditions. The Company’s stock repurchase program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

Previous wording

The Company continues to believe stock repurchases are a viable component of the Company’s long-term financial strategy and an excellent use of excess cash when the opportunity arises. Additional share repurchases can be made subject to compliance with, among other things, applicable restricted payment covenants under the revolving credit facility and the Notes. Our first priority is to ensure we have enough capital to fund loan growth. As of September 30, 2024, subject to further approval from our Board of Directors, we could repurchase approximately $24.7 million of shares under the terms of our debt facilities. To the extent we have excess capital, we may repurchase stock, if appropriate and as authorized by our Board of Directors.

Current wording

The Company continues to believe stock repurchases are a viable component of the Company’s long-term financial strategy and an excellent use of excess cash when the opportunity arises. Additional share repurchases can be made subject to compliance with, among other things, applicable restricted payment covenants under the revolving credit facility and the Notes. Our first priority is to ensure we have enough capital to fund loan growth. As of December 31, 2024, subject to further approval from our Board of Directors, we could repurchase approximately $32.2 million of shares under the terms of our debt facilities (subject to further board approval). To the extent we have excess capital, we may repurchase stock, if appropriate and as authorized by our Board of Directors.