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Here is an interesting company for possible M&A
LifeQuotes.com (NASDAQ:QUOT) as of now a money losing company. $2.4m in rev 1st Q 2010, $789k loss .12 EPS......BUT $24M CASH ON HAND......
I just heard a QHealth commercial on talk radio. I think it was a station out of Ft Wayne Indiana, possibly Indianapolis. That is a first for me.
Alliance Healthcard operates that plan. Here is link to disclaimer where it is stated.
http://www.qhealth.com/AHC/disclaimer_text.html
Not sure how much they make per card but QHealth sells them for only $19.95 per month, the same as an Alliance Healthcard sells for. QHealth really pushes the more expensive "Premium Package" which Alliance will sell for half the price.
QHealth is a marketing firm which Access runs the billing, compliance and provider network to. The company prefers these kinds of vehicles to sell services, they are better for APNC's bottom line.
Access is running The Medicine Shoppes discount card. Found local news article touting it from March 2010, so it is fairly new.
I remember CEO talking about a nationwide rollout of a pharamacy card, this is what he must have been talking about. Looks like 708 stores nationwide. That could be a nice surprise in this Q numbers.
The Medicine Shoppe is committed to quality customer service
http://newsitem.com/news/business/the-medicine-shoppe-is-committed-to-quality-customer-service-1.649847
Consumer Confusion Triggers Crackdown By States On Discount Health Plans
http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Stories/2010/April/28/Consumer-Confusion-Triggers-State-Crackdown-On-Discount-Health-Plans.aspx
Careington is taking a public relations beating. Careington is much larger than APNC, I see this as a nice way for APNC to capture some marketshare in the more legit plans that are sold along with traditional health insurance.
Insurint accquired by Connecture Inc.
APNC's Insurance Marketing Division uses Insurint's platform for their agents.
PR telling about deal. http://www.connecture.com/pressreleases.aspx?z=1&a=120
Details on sale from Health Benefits Direct 10k:
InsWeb considering two acquisitions
Sacramento Business Journal - by Kelly Johnson Staff writer
I post this only to make the point how undervalued APNC is. INSW is bascially a few websites that quote health, life, auto, P&C and other insurance. They are a giant lead factory for agents. Sitting at same valuation as APNC. My problem is that INSW spent $23m in 2009 just trying to drive people to its websites.
We got 3 on bid at 1.17, the most support I think I've ever seen. I am anxiosly waiting next Q numbers, I don't expect a surprise.
I want improvement on the Rent A Center unemployment payouts, and at least an even number of policies in force for the insurance marketing division.
APNC.. $0.16..
I added again @ $1.16 and still have a few left on the order if anyone want's to take a wack at it.. hank
I also can't help but wonder looking at Dearborns parent company Health Care Service Company, if they would be interested in adding Access Plans to it subsidiary list.
http://www.hcsc.com/about-hcsc/plans-affiliates.html
Colorado Bankers is changing name to Dearborn National.
http://www.dearbornnational.com/index.html
The insurance marketing division sells a few Colorado products.
I believe they are going through a new company for their Rent A Center benefits. That was referenced in their last confernece call, CEO said it would be a nice cost saver.
http://www.enjoyaccess.com/memberweb/NewLogin.asp?GroupID=2135
I hate the lack of Press Releases with company, there has to be things going on to tell us about. I think only putting out PR's to release financials is not the best way to keep investors confident everything is chugging along.
RENN Global Entrepreneurs Fund, Inc. Announces the Annual Meeting and RENN Investor Conference
Six Unique Emerging Growth Companies Will Present Investment Opportunities
RENN Capital Group, Inc. On Monday April 19, 2010, 9:00 am EDT
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--RENN Global Entrepreneurs Fund, Inc. will hold its Annual Meeting and RENN Investor Conference on Friday, May 14, 2010, in the Wedgwood Ballroom at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas, Texas. A continental breakfast will be served starting at 7:30 a.m., with the Annual Meeting beginning at 8:00 a.m., followed by the RENN Investor Conference, and concluding with a lunch buffet.
The conference will feature presentations by the management of six unique emerging growth companies from our portfolio:
Access Plans, Inc. (OTCBB:APNC - News) is an international marketing company providing a broad range of consumer discount membership plans and insurance. Program components range from discounts on medical, dental and pharmacy to groceries, restaurants, travel, automotive and a host of others, and can also include specialty insurance and product service. The Company’s plans are sold to consumers primarily through retail, rent-to-own, financial and consumer finance clients. Access Plans provides turnkey programs including design and fulfillment of marketing pieces and collateral support material, network support, customer service, regulatory compliance, and billing. The Company also manages America’s Health Care Plans (AHCP), one of the largest independent agent networks in the country for the marketing of individual major medical health insurance.
Global Axcess Corp. (OTC:GAXC - News) is the sixth largest non-bank ATM company in the U.S., a $15 billion global industry. It is one of the only ATM companies in the country to offer a full line of ATM solutions. The Company’s expertise in the unattended retail self-service kiosk market and its growing and profitable ATM business is being augmented by the Company’s growing DVD kiosk business. The Company’s goal is to leverage its ability to deploy, manage, maintain and process transactions by utilizing a wider range of self-service kiosks. Founded in 2001, with headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, the Company’s mission is to enhance its position as the leading independent provider of unattended retail and self-service kiosk services in the United States.
PHC, Inc. dba Pioneer Behavioral Health (NYSE Amex:PHC) is a national healthcare company which, through wholly owned subsidiaries, provides psychiatric services to individuals who have behavioral health disorders including alcohol and drug dependency and to individuals in the gaming and transportation industries. Our subsidiaries operate substance abuse treatment facilities in Utah and Virginia, four outpatient psychiatric facilities in Michigan, two outpatient psychiatric facilities in Nevada and two inpatient psychiatric facilities in Michigan. It provides management, administrative and help-line services through contracts with major railroads, a call center contract with Wayne County, Michigan, and a smoking cessation contract with a major government contractor.
SearchMedia Holdings, Limited (NYSE Amex:IDI) is a leading nationwide multi-platform media company and one of the largest operators of integrated outdoor billboard and in-elevator advertising networks in China. SearchMedia currently operates a network of over 1,500 high-impact billboards with over 500,000 square feet of surface display area and one of China’s largest networks of in-elevator advertisement panels consisting of approximately 125,000 frames in 50 cities throughout China. Additionally, SearchMedia operates a network of large-format light boxes in concourses of eleven major subway lines in Shanghai. SearchMedia’s core outdoor billboard and in-elevator platforms are complemented by its subway advertising platform, which together enable it to provide multi-platform, "one-stop-shop" services for its local, national and international advertising clients.
SinoHub, Inc. (NYSE Amex:SIHI) provides a Web-based supply chain management (SCM) platform that is open to third parties and connects critical facets of the electronics industry:
Design
Manufacturing
Component Purchasing
Finished Product Distribution
SCM platform offers a free, open and seamless network for design houses, manufacturers, suppliers and product resellers operating in China’s booming electronics industry. Through the SCM platform, SinoHub generates sales of electronic components throughout China and of mobile phones internationally.
Skystar Bio-Pharmaceutical Co. (NASDAQ:SKBI - News) is a China-based developer and distributor of veterinary healthcare and medical care products. Skystar has four product lines (veterinary medicines, micro-organisms, vaccines and feed additives) and over 170 products. The Company is also currently developing a new line of vaccines and medicines for the nascent aquaculture (fish-farming) market in China. Skystar strategic sales and distribution networks cover 29 provinces throughout China. Additionally the Company is the only China-based pure-play veterinary healthcare and medical care product developer to be listed on a U.S. exchange.
Forward-Looking Statements
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation and current income by investing in emerging growth companies. This report contains forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of the Fund with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Although the Fund believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual future results or events may vary materially from those described herein. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For additional information, please visit http://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rencapital.com&esheet=6251680&lan=en_US&anchor=www.rencapital.com&index=1&md5=d56e0825d4f0f834174c347998fd85e9.
“The Entrepreneurial Difference”
Contact:
Investors:RENN Capital Group, Inc.Kathryn Semon, 214-891-8294
On April 13, 2010, Access Plans, Inc. announced the departure of Michael Shiomos from his position and employment as the President of its insurance marketing division and subsidiary, America’s Health Care/Rx Plan Agency, Inc., effective on April 13, 2010.
Via 8-k just released.
He was put there on August 18th 2009. Hopefully however they replace him with brings something new to the table. That division was made profitable, revenue was flat.
Story out of USAToday, does not effect Access Plans, actually a large competitor runs HealthCareOne and it was shut down.
States fret over health insurance scams
Aetna Hit With Penalty, Suspended From Signing Up New Medicare Members
http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/Daily-Reports/2010/April/12/Aetna-Medicare-Penalty.aspx
APNC's insurance marketing division does not sell Aetna Medicare Supplements.
Could help them sell their Loyal American product.
http://www.ahcpsales.com/brochure_senior_products.html
America Seniors Assocation
http://www.americanseniors.org/
I have heard conservative talk radio commercials for this discount card. Some big ones, Mark Levin, Dick Morris outright promoting it.
Their benefit package is nothing special. I contacted management at Access Plans, they responded.
A "conservative" alternative to the AARP, sounds like $$$ to me. If they would put together a solid nationwide discount benefits package, they could probably sell a few million of these.
My hope is Access Plans can offer them that comprehensive package. More to follow.
Health Insurers Stop Offering New Coverage to Small Businesses and Individuals in Massachusetts in Battle Over Rates
Via-http://globaleconomicanalysis.blogspot.com/2010/04/health-insurers-stop-offering-new.html
YIKES!! That is what happens when you have the govt trying to micromanage a business that when they run (Medicare & Medicaid) care not about making it profitable.
APNC is included in the SwingTrade Portfolio which is located here:
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=48708579
Health reform requires marketers to rethink their approach
Read more: http://www.fiercehealthcare.com/story/health-reform-requires-marketers-rethink-their-approach/2010-04-07#ixzz0kSlNRRjz
Not sure why market does not give them fair valuation. The numbers are absolutely there.
Top line might not be to hot, they have proven ability to pull off M&A transactions that have doubled revenue and been accretive to earnings. The top management have said they are always looking for candidates in last two CC calls.
Bottom line can have significant improvement based on the Rent A Center deal and general unemployment trends improving. Even just steady unemployment helps out, since customers only get 4 months of payment waivers, every month they steady, equals less payouts.
That has been hurting them to the tune of $1m a quarter.
They put up a new product. Colorado Bankers PayCheck Protection Plus.
Brochure on it.
http://www.ahcpsales.com/pdf/CBL%20PPP_%20IN,%20TN,%20SD.pdf
They seem to be ramping up the supplemental insurance. They are obsiously much, much cheaper than traditional, but cutting more of these policies gives them just a little more top line growth. Also longer retention rates, which is always good for the agent.
Hi tajitj, this one has better perspectives than NHPR. MUCH better future ahead, IMHO
Discount Healthcare Plans -7 Tips For Finding the Best One
http://healthcoverage.narios.com/discount-healthcare-plans-7-tips-for-finding-the-best-one/
Nice article for once.
They are about to introduce a new proprietary plan from World Insurance.
What I like about those plans, 3 year premium guarantee. So with all the talk about premium hikes, a plan like this could be very attractive.
http://www.ahcpsales.com/brochure_wscs.html
Found a good healthcare reform blog from a broker. He has some good reading
http://alankatz.wordpress.com/
BIG "I" DISAPPOINTED WITH HEALTH CARE BILL PASSED BY THE HOUSE TODAY
Bill adds tax burdens to small business and fails to solve real health care crisis
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 21, 2010 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”), today expressed their disappointment with the health care reform bill that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. The House approved the Senate-passed bill and also approved a "reconciliation" bill that made changes agreed to by President Obama and Democrats in both the House and Senate.
“The Big ‘I’ is greatly disappointed that after months of negotiations, hearings, debates and votes in multiple Senate and House committees we seem to be back on square one: a bill that does little to stem the skyrocketing cost of health care and will be financed on the backs of small business during one of the most delicate financial periods in American history,” says Robert Rusbuldt, Big “I” president & CEO. “We are equally disappointed that the Democratic leadership is using a procedural end-around, the reconciliation process, to make such major policy changes to what amounts to nearly 18% of our nation's economy."
In order to finance the government-run health insurance plan, a .9% Medicare surtax would be imposed on some individuals as well as small businesses that file as individuals. The legislation would also impose a new 3.9% tax on nonwage income for these same individuals and successful small businesses.
“A tax increase, especially during today's tough economic climate, will put many small businesses in the untenable position of deciding between job cuts, employee pay cuts, or shutting their doors,” says Charles Symington, Big “I” senior vice president of government affairs. “Health care reform should not be financed on the backs of small businesses that are struggling to make ends meet in this very difficult economic time.”
The legislation proposes to spend $940 billion of taxpayer dollars over ten years and yet does almost nothing to rein in the skyrocketing healthcare costs that threaten our nation's economic future. In particular, there is no meaningful attempt at medical malpractice reform, an issue that the Big "I" has strongly supported Congress addressing in order to help bring healthcare costs down.
“It is also critical to note that the health care bill that passed today fails to bend the cost curve for health insurance consumers, including millions of small businesspeople,” continues Symington. “Health care reform must first and foremost address the rising costs of health insurance and this bill does nothing in this regard. As the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) acknowledges: under this bill, small businesses will see little to no decrease in their monthly premiums and individuals will see an increase of 10-13%.”
Founded in 1896, the Big “I” is the nation’s oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing a network of more than 300,000 agents, brokers and their employees nationally. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. Independent agents and brokers offer all lines of insurance—property, casualty, life, health, employee benefit plans and retirement products. Web address: www.independentagent.com.
Verizon records $970mn costs under US healthcare bill
http://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/blog/will-high-risk-insurance-pools-really-help
Will high risk insurance pools really help?
http://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/blog/will-high-risk-insurance-pools-really-help
Dental insurance or discount plan?
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/dental-insurance-or-discount-plan.aspx
By Tamara E. Holmes • Bankrate.com
Dental care is expensive, making dental insurance almost mandatory if you want a healthy mouth.
But Medicare doesn't include a dental insurance plan, and many employers either do not provide dental insurance or they are scaling back their offerings, leaving consumers to pay for dental care on their own. As a result, many consumers are going without. A 2009 poll by Harris Interactive and HealthDay found that 30 percent of U.S. adults with health insurance did not visit a dentist because of the prohibitive costs. Of those who were uninsured, more than half required dental care, but costs kept them away.
If your employer doesn't offer dental insurance, you can buy an individual policy, paying anywhere from $225 to $396 per year in premiums. However, another alternative is the discount dental plan, a membership-based network offering discounted dental services from select providers.
Analyzing the differences
With dental insurance, consumers typically pay a monthly premium and a deductible before insurance kicks in, but even after the deductible, "policies vary widely on co-pay requirements. Some policies have no co-pay while others require the consumer to pay a substantial portion," says Lou Geremia, president of InsureMe.com.
Dental insurance plans also often come with a coverage cap, meaning consumers are only insured for about $1,200 to $1,500 per year. Once the dental patient exceeds that amount, he or she pays out of pocket. Consumers who go the insurance route also get the benefit of oversight from their state department of insurance, which could prove helpful if they have insurance complaints.
With discount dental plans, consumers typically pay an enrollment fee and an annual fee of about $80 to $120 per year and get access to discounted services from member providers. Discounts can range anywhere from 10 percent to 60 percent, says Buddy Johnson, chief executive officer of DentalPlans.com, a discount dental plan provider. Because there are no deductibles or caps to worry about, consumers aren't limited by the number of services they receive in a given year, and there's also no paperwork to fill out for reimbursements. For those seeking cosmetic services, discount dental plans may be the way to go since they often cover cosmetic dentistry, while insurance plans typically don't.
When it comes to selecting an insurance plan or a discount dental plan, some of the same rules apply.
"Because the differences between plans are so great, it is important for the consumer to completely research and understand what services are covered before signing anything. It is also important to verify that any preferred dentist is part of the plan selected," says Geremia.
Here is an interesting company. AccessOne Med Card, Inc.
Basically partner with hospitals to help them manage their patients who owe them money. Offfering cheap financing for people who big debts. Could be scary, could make alot of money, have to see.
GE gave them $25m in funding, so it might be a worthy idea.
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20090729006282/en/GE-Capital-Agents-25-Million-Credit-Facility
New Reg for Kansas
Concerning discount cards, filing requirements
SB 508 requires any healthcare card supplier who sells discount cards in Kansas to file an annual notice with the Secretary of State of intention to sell the discount card and submit the surety bond required by law to the Secretary of State. The legislation also requires suppliers to obtain approval of the surety bond by the Attorney General and file a copy of the bond and proof of renewal with the Secretary of State with the annual notice. The bill takes effect upon its publication in the Kansas Statute Book.
Discount medical plans come under state scrutiny
Regulators report more complaints as companies target a larger uninsured population
http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2010/03/08/bisb0308.htm
It is fairly negative report, Access Plans is not mentioned. They are one of the largest and I think weeding out some of these smaller guys can be a benefit for us. Access Plans also offers one of the cheaper cards out there. $20 is priced under the names mentioned in article.
APNC also has the money to comply with all the new regulations, these others don't.
Another card ran by Access
http://www.qhealth.com/
I never realized they also operated this one, it is right near the top on certain google searches and the marketer who owns it, pays for advertising on google.
I am seeing a shift in their America's Health Care Plan division. I think the major medical health insurance market will be effectively dried up. With the exchanges that cap commissions, the individual market will be very unworthy of the insurance agents time and effort.
I see AHCP really pushing supplemental insurance ei critical illness, accident, think AFLAC.
When the Federal govt starts sudsidizing peoples major medical health insurance, you are giving the supplemental forms of insurance a huge window. It is something everyone should have and it is very inexpensive.
Check out the new look site.
http://ahcpsales.com/
My hope is right now they are in the works with someone like Rent A Center, allowing the sale of these very cheap forms of insurance to their customers. That could be a double or triple of their revenue from rent to owns business.
Here is link to the BestCare Plus Program that APNC runs.
http://www.bestwayrto.com/plus/
Good youtube video describing benefits of dental discount plans vs dental insurance.
APNC..$1.16
First let me compliment you on your APNC board.. I am going thru the stocks that I hold and need further DD on and it looks like you have done my work for me.. I mainly post on VMC Motherboard along with others who are Value Micro Caps nuts..
Most of us are retired bankers, brokers of those that invest full time.. We have as a group a large position in APNC and as mine is about 28K,, it is far from the largest position within the group.. My main Board is Hank's Trading and if you click onto my handle you will see where my posts are made.. Again job well done and I will post a link to our board..hank
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/board.aspx?board_id=3251
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/board.aspx?board_id=3251
America's Health Care Plan division has a little sales incentive going on. A luxury yacht vacation.
http://www.ahcpsales.com/caribbean_dreamin.html
Not a bad idea, I am sure it will motivate enough agents to tick up sales.
They are probably sitting at around $7 million in cash right now.
That is over .30 per share in cash.
Something is going to give here.
Along with a stabilizing unemployment picture, that could be a nice surprise in 2nd Q.
Access Plans Reports Fiscal 2010 First Quarter Results
Operating Income up 35%; EPS of $0.04
http://www.b2i.us/profiles/investor/ResLibraryView.asp?ResLibraryID=35937&GoTopage=1&Category=1137&BzID=1595
NORMAN, OK--(Marketwire - 02/03/10) - Access Plans, Inc. (OTC.BB:APNC - News), a leading membership and insurance marketing company, today announced financial results for its fiscal 2010 first quarter ended December 31, 2009. The results reflect the Company's acquisition of Access Plans USA, completed on April 1, 2009, including a higher share count resulting from the transaction.
Revenues for the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $13.3 million compared to $5.7 million in the prior-year period primarily as a result of the acquired Access Plans USA operations. Operating income increased 35% to $1.6 million versus $1.2 million in the prior-year period, which reflected the impact of the acquired Access Plans USA operations, and improved sequential profitability in the Company's Wholesale Plans Division.
Despite the improvement in operating income, net income for the period was $0.9 million versus $1.0 million last year. The decline related to an increase in the Company's tax rate to 39.5% in the fiscal 2010 first quarter versus 34% in the prior-year period as well as to a deferred tax benefit recognized last year. On a per share basis, earnings were $0.04 versus $0.06 per diluted share in last year's first quarter which reflected the increased number of shares outstanding as well as the deferred tax benefit. As a result of the Access Plans USA acquisition in April 2009, the Company had 20.5 million weighted average shares outstanding at December 31, 2009, versus 14.8 million shares at the end of last year's first quarter. The share count at the end of the fiscal 2010 first quarter also reflects the Company's repurchase of approximately 1.9 million shares during the period as a condition of a legal settlement.
"With most of the immediate cost savings realized from the acquired Access Plans operations, we shifted our emphasis in the quarter to positioning our businesses for sustainable, long-term growth," commented Danny Wright, Chief Executive Officer. "Our Wholesale Plans Division has benefited from moderating unemployment and offers us significant opportunity to leverage our installed customer base and introduce new product and service offerings, including individual healthcare programs. Within our Retail Plans Division, recent wins and solid execution are expected to drive top-line performance while an anticipated reduction in network costs resulting from a change in provider should enhance segment profitability. Lastly, the acquired Insurance Marketing Division, which has reached profitability under our ownership, offers us a tremendous growth platform as we focus on reenergizing the agent network and delivering the right products to the most compelling geographic markets."
Wholesale Plans
Revenues for the Wholesale Plans Division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased 8% to $5.2 million, or 39% of total revenue, versus $4.8 million in the prior-year period. Revenue growth was attributable primarily to the addition of new accounts as well as improved acceptance rates with existing partners. While gross margin declined 18% on a year-over-year basis due to higher involuntary unemployment expenses, this waiver expense on a sequential basis improved by $0.4 million as the number of new waivers filed continues to moderate and customers reach their maximum allowed benefits under the program. As a result, gross margin nearly doubled on a sequential basis from the fiscal 2009 fourth quarter to $1.2 million in the recent period. Operating income in the fiscal 2010 first quarter was $0.7 million versus $1.0 million in the prior-year period.
Retail Plans
Revenues for the Retail Plans Division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $3.9 million, or 29% of total revenues, prior to inter-company eliminations, versus $2.1 million in the prior-year period. The increase was attributable primarily to the acquired Access Plans USA operations which expanded the Company's discount health membership offerings. Operating income for the division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $0.9 million compared to $0.5 million in the prior-year period. During the period, results benefited from a solid contribution from fees related to our involvement with a national Rx plan. As previously announced, the Company signed two new contracts in the first quarter which are both now active and expected to contribute meaningfully to segment revenue in the second half of fiscal 2010.
Insurance Marketing
Insurance Marketing Division revenues in the fiscal 2010 first quarter were $5.5 million, or 41% of total revenues, versus $5.8 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The sequential decline was due to seasonality as well as the discontinuation of a carrier's plan. Operating income was $0.3 million versus $0.4 million in the fiscal 2009 fourth quarter. The Insurance Marketing Division comprises the America's Health Care Plans (AHCP) operations acquired as part of the Access Plans USA acquisition. As a result, there are no comparable results from the prior-year period.
Other Matters
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash totaled $5.7 million at December 31, 2009 versus $4.6 million at September 30, 2009. Stockholders' equity reached $11.9 million at December 31, 2009.
Conference Call and Webcast Information
Access Plans will host a conference call today, February 3, at 10:00 a.m. ET. To access the conference call, please dial 877-869-3847 (U.S.) or 201-689-8261 (international) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. The conference call will also be available via live webcast under the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.accessplans.com, or click here to access the webcast directly.
If you are unable to listen to the live call, a replay will be available through February 10, 2010, and can be accessed by dialing 877-660-6853 (U.S.) or 201-612-7415 (international). Callers will be prompted for replay account number 355# followed by conference ID number 343587#. An archived version of the webcast will also be available under the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.accessplans.com.
About Access Plans, Inc.
Access Plans, Inc. (OTC.BB:APNC - News) is a leading membership and insurance marketing company with three complementary distribution channels offering multiple opportunities for growth. The Wholesale Plans Division specializes in turnkey, private label membership benefit plans offered through retail outlets including rent-to-own centers. The Retail Plans Division markets healthcare-related discount products and services to consumers through third-party marketers. Program components in both membership plan divisions range from medical, dental and pharmacy discounts to grocery, restaurant, automotive, travel and other consumer discounts. The Insurance Marketing Division comprises America's Health Care Plans (AHCP), one of the nation's largest independent agent networks for distributing individual major medical health insurance. For more information, please visit: www.accessplans.com.
Rent-to-Own Buying Group Sees Evidence of Strong 2010
After a tough 2009, there is talk among independent rent-to-own and retail dealers that a corner has been turned. "Purchasing patterns indicate a solid first and second quarter," James MacAlpine, executive director of RentDirect Nationwide told RTO Online Sunday.
MacAlpine went further, predicting that the 4th quarter of 2010 will be the strongest since 2007, driven primarily by demand for the next big thing in technology. "LED and 3D will begin to really take hold in the second half of 2010." MacAlpine noted that fresh demand for LED and 3D also represents a welcome opportunity for increasing APU.
Appliance sales have leveled off after a period of decline and furniture is beginning to move again. "This (Q1 2010) will be the best quarter ever in the 30 year history of our company," said Lynn Reed, owner of The Appliance Center in Salina Kansas.
Reed began seeing signs of a turnaround in mid 2009, reporting year over year increases every month since August. Appliance Center offers customers both retail and rent-to-own options. Reed says the split is 55% retail and 45% rental. See our exclusive profile of Lynn and Jan Reed.
Nationwide Marketing Group, parent company of RentDirect, kicked off it's PrimeTime! buying show at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas Sunday with inspirational speaker Kris Kuester and Sand Animation Artist Mark Demel.
Robert Weisner, executive vice president of Nationwide, announced during his address that Nationwide Marketing Group will be named Energy Star Retailer of the Year. Energy Star ratings are becoming increasingly important to cost-conscious consumers. Weisner said the award will give a competitive advantage to Nationwide members.
Attendance at this PrimeTime! is high - 3,300 people representing 825 independent retail and rental dealers registered for the event, the second highest attendance in a decade according to Weisner. See full attendance breakdown below.
Over 140 rent-to-own dealers representing 110 companies will attend PrimeTime!, the highest number on record. MacAlpine credits aggressive vendor specials and improved member communication for the increase in attendance. Nationwide held a series of conference calls and webinars in the months leading up to this week's show to better inform dealers of new programs and specials.
RTO Online will broadcast a continuous live video feed from the PrimeTime! tradeshow floor Monday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM and Tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Video will be available on our homepage. Please check www.rtoonline.com for updates.
Attendance Breakdown:
Total individuals registered for the show - 33000
Total member dealer companies represented - 825
PrimeTime! University
Total number of individuals registered for PTU - 1990
Total number of PTU courses - 12
RentDirect
Total member dealers - 140
Total companies represented - 110
SEN
Total member dealers - 240
Total companies represented - 200
A couple of form 4's filed. A few directors are buying in this price range.
The numbers and consistancy are there, price will follow.
Benefit Marketing Solutions, Inc. (BMS), the recognized leader in membership programs for the rent-to-own industry and other retail markets, today announced the promotion of David L. Kaye to Vice President—Sales and Marketing.
BMS is a subsidiary of Access Plans, a leading membership and insurance marketing company.
Kaye has been Vice President of Account Development for BMS since 2007. His experience with membership programs began in 1989, and he has been involved with specialty financial and insurance products since 1980. He has an MBA in Finance and a BBA degree in Business, both from the University of Miami. Kaye also possesses the insurance industry wide designation of Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and is a Florida resident licensed agent for Life, Health, Property, Casualty and Warranty insurance. Kaye resides in Miami, Florida, and is married to Vivian Lezama Kaye.
They have two children, David Edward (married and in this 2nd year of Law School) and Megan Kristine (graduate student in Sports Administration).
"David is an integral part of BMS’ success and growth," said Susan Matthews, president of BMS. "His knowledge of our industry is exceptional, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in developing new market opportunities and further enhancing our quality relationships with our clients."
About Benefit Marketing Solutions:
Benefit Marketing Solutions is an industry leader in developing and successfully implementing membership programs since 1989. BMS programs include a wide range of consumer benefits, discounts and protection and are currently being marketed in thousands of locations across the United States. BMS provides the rent-to-own market opportunities to enhance their customers’ experience and improve their bottom line. Our commitment to our customers is our hallmark. We work with all our accounts to make sure their membership programs succeed. Our support system includes experienced people working behind the scenes in claims, customer service, and marketing – all there to ensure seamless execution of membership programs. For more information, please visit: www.benefitmarketingsolutions.com.
About Access Plans, Inc.
Access Plans, Inc. (OTC BB:APNC.OB) is a leading membership and insurance marketing company with three complementary distribution channels offering multiple opportunities for growth. The Wholesale Plans Division specializes in turnkey, private label membership benefit plans offered through retail outlets including rent-to-own centers. The Retail Plans Division markets healthcare-related discount products and services to consumers through third-party marketers. Program components in both membership plan divisions range from medical, dental and pharmacy discounts to grocery, restaurant, automotive, travel and other consumer discounts. The Insurance Marketing Division comprises America's Health Care Plans (AHCP), one of the nation's largest independent agent networks for distributing individual major medical health insurance. For more information, please visit: www.accessplans.com.
Via RTOHQ.com
http://rtohq.com/03090apro-benefit-marketing-promotes-kaye-to-vp-of-sales-and-marketing.html
A director bought 10,000 @ 1.09 in Form 4 just filed.
If he feels they are worth buying at this PPs, I am going to get some more.
Rent-A-Center Earnings: Higher Income Consumers Now Rent to Own
http://industry.bnet.com/retail/10006964/rent-a-center-earnings-higher-income-consumers-now-rent-to-own/
Rent-A-Center (RCII), a chain mostly known for renting appliances and furniture to low-income consumers, often at very high interest rates, sees an uptick in the average income of its customer. And though fourth-quarter revenue dipped, the retailer recorded a 22 percent profit increase and upped its guidance for 2010, showing that its model can more than weather the recession.
With a jobless rate that doesn’t look like it will turn around any time soon and less Americans able to pay off their credit-card bills, it’s not surprising that consumers are turning to an outfit like Rent-A-Center. When someone needs a new couch, they need a new couch, and if credit cards aren’t an option and cash is tight, the rent-to-own prospect is a hard-to-resist option, even in the face of reportedly high interest rates and other fees.
“We continue to see a higher income consumer relative to average income levels a few years ago, most likely driven by the credit tightening in traditional retail,” said Rent-A-Center President and COO Mitch Fadel, speaking during the company’s fourth-quarter conference call. This might also indirectly help the fact that average weekly delinquencies on payments at the retailer are the lowest in six years, as Fadel cited.
Management also said indirectly that further consumer strife could create more demand for Rent-A-Center. Said Chairman and CEO Mark Speese: “As consumers find themselves with fewer options and are faced with the uncertainty of the future, believe more and more come to appreciate the flexibility and convenience of our program.”
Rent-A-Center does not only provide customers with furniture, appliances and electronics. The company also has a financial-services arm that offers short-term loans, debit cards and other products. Management must see a demand for that aspect of the business because it plans to add the services to 50 stores this year, up from the 353 units in which they are currently offered. It is also adding 25 to 30 new stores to its portfolio of just over 3,000 locations in North America.
Rent-A-Center is obviously gearing up for a successful year in which the company, already the leader in its sector of retail, will gain new customers, grow its services and reap profits. Unfortunately, if its projections are correct, the consumer is in for another rough one.
Store image by Flickr user benchalida’s photostream.
Another solid quarter. Listening to conference call, it sounds as if the network cost reductions were done after Q end. Also two new deals should provide some growth in coming Q. They have a solid base here.
Any stabilization in unemployment trends means their bottom line improves greatly.
.28 in cash per share
900,000k net income, .04 EPS
13.3m revenue
Access Plans Reports Fiscal 2010 First Quarter Results
NORMAN, OK -- (Marketwire) -- 02/03/10 --
Access Plans, Inc. (OTCBB: APNC), a leading membership and insurance marketing company, today announced financial results for its fiscal 2010 first quarter ended December 31, 2009. The results reflect the Company's acquisition of Access Plans USA, completed on April 1, 2009, including a higher share count resulting from the transaction
Revenues for the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $13.3 million compared to $5.7 million in the prior-year period primarily as a result of the acquired Access Plans USA operations. Operating income increased 35% to $1.6 million versus $1.2 million in the prior-year period, which reflected the impact of the acquired Access Plans USA operations, and improved sequential profitability in the Company's Wholesale Plans Division
Despite the improvement in operating income, net income for the period was $0.9 million versus $1.0 million last year. The decline related to an increase in the Company's tax rate to 39.5% in the fiscal 2010 first quarter versus 34% in the prior-year period as well as to a deferred tax benefit recognized last year. On a per share basis, earnings were $0.04 versus $0.06 per diluted share in last year's first quarter which reflected the increased number of shares outstanding as well as the deferred tax benefit. As a result of the Access Plans USA acquisition in April 2009, the Company had 20.5 million weighted average shares outstanding at December 31, 2009, versus 14.8 million shares at the end of last year's first quarter. The share count at the end of the fiscal 2010 first quarter also reflects the Company's repurchase of approximately 1.9 million shares during the period as a condition of a legal settlement
"With most of the immediate cost savings realized from the acquired Access Plans operations, we shifted our emphasis in the quarter to positioning our businesses for sustainable, long-term growth," commented Danny Wright, Chief Executive Officer. "Our Wholesale Plans Division has benefited from moderating unemployment and offers us significant opportunity to leverage our installed customer base and introduce new product and service offerings, including individual healthcare programs. Within our Retail Plans Division, recent wins and solid execution are expected to drive top-line performance while an anticipated reduction in network costs resulting from a change in provider should enhance segment profitability
Lastly, the acquired Insurance Marketing Division, which has reached profitability under our ownership, offers us a tremendous growth platform as we focus on reenergizing the agent network and delivering the right products to the most compelling geographic markets."
Wholesale Plans
Revenues for the Wholesale Plans Division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased 8% to $5.2 million, or 39% of total revenue, versus $4.8 million in the prior-year period. Revenue growth was attributable primarily to the addition of new accounts as well as improved acceptance rates with existing partners. While gross margin declined 18% on a year-over-year basis due to higher involuntary unemployment expenses, this waiver expense on a sequential basis improved by $0.4 million as the number of new waivers filed continues to moderate and customers reach their maximum allowed benefits under the program. As a result, gross margin nearly doubled on a sequential basis from the fiscal 2009 fourth quarter to $1.2 million in the recent period. Operating income in the fiscal 2010 first quarter was $0.7 million versus $1.0 million in the prior-year period
Retail Plans
Revenues for the Retail Plans Division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $3.9 million, or 29% of total revenues, prior to inter-company eliminations, versus $2.1 million in the prior-year period. The increase was attributable primarily to the acquired Access Plans USA operations which expanded the Company's discount health membership offerings
Operating income for the division in the fiscal 2010 first quarter increased to $0.9 million compared to $0.5 million in the prior-year period. During the period, results benefited from a solid contribution from fees related to our involvement with a national Rx plan. As previously announced, the Company signed two new contracts in the first quarter which are both now active and expected to contribute meaningfully to segment revenue in the second half of fiscal 2010
Insurance Marketing
Insurance Marketing Division revenues in the fiscal 2010 first quarter were $5.5 million, or 41% of total revenues, versus $5.8 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. The sequential decline was due to seasonality as well as the discontinuation of a carrier's plan. Operating income was $0.3 million versus $0.4 million in the fiscal 2009 fourth quarter. The Insurance Marketing Division comprises the America's Health Care Plans (AHCP) operations acquired as part of the Access Plans USA acquisition. As a result, there are no comparable results from the prior-year period
Other Matters
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash totaled $5.7 million at December 31, 2009 versus $4.6 million at September 30, 2009. Stockholders' equity reached $11.9 million at December 31, 2009
Conference Call and Webcast Information
Access Plans will host a conference call today, February 3, at 10:00 a.m
ET. To access the conference call, please dial 877-869-3847 (U.S.) or 201-689-8261 (international) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. The conference call will also be available via live webcast under the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.accessplans.com, or click here to access the webcast directly
If you are unable to listen to the live call, a replay will be available through February 10, 2010, and can be accessed by dialing 877-660-6853 (U.S.) or 201-612-7415 (international). Callers will be prompted for replay account number 355# followed by conference ID number 343587#. An archived version of the webcast will also be available under the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, www.accessplans.com
About Access Plans, Inc
Access Plans, Inc. (OTCBB: APNC) is a leading membership and insurance marketing company with three complementary distribution channels offering multiple opportunities for growth. The Wholesale Plans Division specializes in turnkey, private label membership benefit plans offered through retail outlets including rent-to-own centers. The Retail Plans Division markets healthcare-related discount products and services to consumers through third-party marketers. Program components in both membership plan divisions range from medical, dental and pharmacy discounts to grocery, restaurant, automotive, travel and other consumer discounts. The Insurance Marketing Division comprises America's Health Care Plans (AHCP), one of the nation's largest independent agent networks for distributing individual major medical health insurance. For more information, please visit: www.accessplans.com
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Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash totaled $5.2 million at March 31st 2010
Feb 03, 2010 Access Plans Reports Fiscal 2010 First Quarter Results | |
Jan 29, 2010 Access Plans, Inc. Schedules Fiscal 2010 First Quarter Conference Call | |
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Dec 11, 2009 Access Plans Reports Fiscal 2009 Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results | |
Dec 07, 2009 Alliance HealthCard, Inc. Changes Corporate Name to Access Plans, Inc.; Stock Symbol to Change | |
Nov 05, 2009 Alliance HealthCard, Inc. Announces Officer Promotions | |
Aug 18, 2009 Alliance HealthCard, Inc. Names Michael Shiomos President of AHCP, Its Insurance Marketing Division | |
Aug 13, 2009 Alliance HealthCard Reports Fiscal 2009 Third Quarter Results | |
May 14, 2009 Alliance HealthCard Reports Results for Second Fiscal Quarter 2009 | |
Apr 01, 2009 |
Feb 12, 2009 Alliance HealthCard Reports 19% Revenue Growth, 50% Increase in Net Income and Earnings per Share of $.06 for Quarter | |
Dec 30, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Reports 2008 Fourth Quarter and Year-End Financial Results | |
Nov 14, 2008 Alliance HealthCard, Inc. Announces Acquisition of Access Plans USA, Inc. | |
Aug 28, 2008 Susan Matthews, Alliance HealthCard EVP of Sales and Marketing Named Association of Progressive Rental Organizations' 2008 Vendor of the Year | |
Aug 27, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Announces the Move of Its Headquarters to Norman, Oklahoma | |
Aug 25, 2008 DentalPlans.com Adds Alliance HealthCard to Its Extensive Selection | |
Jul 31, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Reports Fiscal 2008 Third Quarter Results | |
May 06, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Reports Fiscal 2008 Second Quarter Results Company Reports Record Revenues with Operating Income Growth of 268% | |
Apr 28, 2008 ALLIANCE HEALTHCARD ANNOUNCES MAY 6, 2008 CONFERENCE CALL TO DISCUSS RESULTS FOR SECOND QUARTER FY 2008 | |
Feb 13, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Reports Fiscal 2008 First Quarter Results Gross Profit Increased 123% With Revenue 30% Higher Compared to Prior Year | |
Jan 22, 2008 Alliance HealthCard to Present in New York City at Friedland Investment Undiscovered Equities Conference | |
Jan 15, 2008 Alliance HealthCard Reports 2007 Fourth Qtr. and Year-End Financial Results | |
Nov 06, 2007 Alliance HealthCard Signs Agreement for Acquisition of HealthExtras Supplemental Benefits Business Unit | |
Aug 01, 2007 Alliance HealthCard Reports First Combined Operating Results with Benefit Marketing Solutions (BMS) | |
May 16, 2007 Alliance HealthCard 2Q Profit Rises 57 Percent | |
Mar 01, 2007 Alliance HealthCard Completes Merger with Benefit Marketing Solutions |
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