10-Q
 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
 
 Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016
or
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission File Number: 001-34516
Cowen Group, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
27-0423711
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
599 Lexington Avenue
New York, New York
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
10022
(Zip Code)
(646) 562-1000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes Q    No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).   Yes  Q  No o 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filer Q
 
Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o    No Q
APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:
As of April 29, 2016 there were 106,206,765 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.
 



Table of Contents

Item No.
 
 
Page No.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 





2




Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
We have made statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (including in “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”) that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking terms such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “possible,” “potential,” “intend,” “seek” or “continue,” the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology or similar expressions. In addition, our management may make forward-looking statements to analysts, representatives of the media and others. These forward-looking statements represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events (many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control) and are predictions only, based on our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In particular, you should consider the risks contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 as well as Item 1A of this periodic report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016.
Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. We undertake no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements after the date of this filing to conform our prior statements to actual results or revised expectations.
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are presented for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. The Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2015 were audited.




3

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
(unaudited)
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
Assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
67,046

 
$
158,485

Cash collateral pledged
10,157

 
10,085

Securities owned, at fair value
627,767

 
610,234

Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
45,725

 
39,618

Other investments
166,785

 
140,647

Receivable from brokers
122,542

 
117,757

Fees receivable, net of allowance
41,172

 
34,413

Due from related parties
34,395

 
39,659

Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $29,457 and $29,953, respectively
37,684

 
27,231

Goodwill
58,361

 
58,361

Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $29,438 and $28,301, respectively
24,526

 
25,663

Deferred tax asset, net
146,459

 
143,560

Other assets
43,442

 
71,531

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
12,348

 
13,934

Securities owned, at fair value
40,523

 
32,000

Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
125

 

Other investments
394,478

 
263,818

Other assets
1,401

 
663

Total Assets
$
1,874,936

 
$
1,787,659

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
$
412,810

 
$
257,159

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
25,134

 
21,183

Payable to brokers
23,837

 
131,789

Compensation payable
26,262

 
150,403

Notes payable and other debt
90,081

 
68,565

Convertible debt
124,251

 
122,401

Fees payable
1,746

 
5,638

Due to related parties
234

 
329

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
55,607

 
52,233

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Due to related parties
1

 
3

Contributions received in advance
2,600

 
850

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
1,367

 

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
2

 

Payable to brokers
2,315

 

Capital withdrawals payable

 
78

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
831

 
124

Total Liabilities
767,078

 
810,755

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 11)

 

Redeemable non-controlling interests
324,938

 
186,911

Stockholders' equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share: 10,000,000 shares authorized, 120,750 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2016 (aggregate liquidation preference of $120,750,000) and 120,750 shares issued and outstanding as of as of December 31, 2015 (aggregate liquidation preference of $120,750,000), respectively
1

 
1

Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 250,000,000 shares authorized, 142,716,734 shares issued and 106,078,205 outstanding as of March 31, 2016 and 140,120,392 shares issued and 105,604,658 outstanding as of December 31, 2015, respectively (including 497,570 restricted shares, respectively)
1,167

 
1,167

Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share: 250,000,000 authorized, no shares issued and outstanding

 

Additional paid-in capital
908,462

 
902,554

(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings
18,231

 
23,627

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(3
)
 

Less: Class A common stock held in treasury, at cost, 36,638,529 and 34,515,734 shares, respectively
(144,938
)
 
(137,356
)
Total Stockholders' Equity
782,920

 
789,993

Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
$
1,874,936

 
$
1,787,659

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

4


Table of Contents

Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Revenues
 
 
 
Investment banking
$
26,147

 
$
65,233

Brokerage
50,935

 
35,454

Management fees
11,030

 
10,384

Incentive income
1,111

 
2,372

Interest and dividends
3,653

 
3,083

Reimbursement from affiliates
3,887

 
3,642

Other revenues
2,725

 
668

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Interest and dividends
1,076

 
244

Other revenues
475

 
14

Total revenues
101,039

 
121,094

Expenses
 
 
 
Employee compensation and benefits
63,181

 
95,864

Floor brokerage and trade execution
7,791

 
5,903

Interest and dividends
7,310

 
5,779

Professional, advisory and other fees
5,594

 
5,128

Service fees
2,184

 
1,886

Communications
4,139

 
3,642

Occupancy and equipment
8,005

 
6,828

Depreciation and amortization
3,067

 
2,138

Client services and business development
7,040

 
6,470

Other expenses
5,812

 
4,810

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Interest and dividends
1,120

 
209

Professional, advisory and other fees
302

 
90

Floor brokerage and trade execution
22

 
10

Other expenses
372

 
49

Total expenses
115,939

 
138,806

Other income (loss)
 
 
 
Net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments
3,188

 
38,991

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions
(2,692
)
 
4,720

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
3,102

 
397

Net gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions
(13
)
 
(31
)
Total other income (loss)
3,585

 
44,077

Income (loss) before income taxes
(11,315
)
 
26,365

Income tax expense (benefit)
(3,320
)
 
6,947

Net income (loss)
(7,995
)
 
19,418

Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
(4,297
)
 
2,720

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc.
(3,698
)
 
16,698

Preferred stock dividends
1,698

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. common stockholders
$
(5,396
)
 
$
16,698

Weighted average common shares outstanding:
 
 
 

Basic
106,364

 
112,053

Diluted
106,364

 
118,590

Earnings (loss) per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.15

Diluted
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.14

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

5


Table of Contents


Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)





 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
$
(7,995
)
 
 
 
 
 
$
19,418

   Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation
 
 
(3
)
 
 
 
 
 
(2
)
 
 
   Total other comprehensive income, net of tax
 
 
 
 
(3
)
 
 
 
 
 
(2
)
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
$
(7,998
)
 
 
 
 
 
$
19,416


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

6


Table of Contents

Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
(dollars in thousands, except share data)
(unaudited)

 
Common Shares Outstanding
 
Common Stock
 
Preferred Shares Outstanding
 
Preferred Stock
 
Treasury Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in Capital
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Retained Earnings/ (Accumulated deficit)
 
Total Stockholders' Equity
 
Redeemable Non-controlling Interest
Balance, December 31, 2015
105,604,658

 
$
1,167

 
120,750

 
$
1

 
$
(137,356
)
 
$
902,554

 
$

 
$
23,627

 
$
789,993

 
$
186,911

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
(3,698
)
 
(3,698
)
 
(4,297
)
Foreign currency translation

 

 

 

 

 

 
(3
)
 

 
(3
)
 

Capital contributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
217,633

Capital withdrawals

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
(2,267
)
Deconsolidation of entity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
(73,042
)
Restricted stock awards issued
2,596,342

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of treasury stock, at cost
(2,122,795
)
 

 

 

 
(7,582
)
 

 

 

 
(7,582
)
 

Preferred stock dividends (See Note 13)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
(1,698
)
 
(1,698
)
 

Income tax effect from share based compensation

 

 

 

 

 
(515
)
 

 

 
(515
)
 

Amortization of share based compensation

 

 

 

 

 
6,423

 

 

 
6,423

 

Balance, March 31, 2016
106,078,205

 
$
1,167

 
$
120,750

 
$
1

 
$
(144,938
)
 
$
908,462

 
$
(3
)
 
$
18,231

 
$
782,920

 
$
324,938

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common Shares Outstanding
 
Common Stock
 
Preferred Shares Outstanding
 
Preferred Stock
 
Treasury Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in Capital
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Retained Earnings/ (Accumulated deficit)
 
Total Stockholders' Equity
 
Redeemable Non-controlling Interest
Balance, December 31, 2014
111,691,199

 
$
1,160

 
$

 
$

 
$
(79,771
)
 
$
772,296

 
$
17

 
$
(16,027
)
 
$
677,675

 
$
86,076

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
16,698

 
16,698

 
2,720

Foreign currency translation

 

 

 

 

 

 
(2
)
 

 
(2
)
 

Capital contributions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
3,379

Capital withdrawals

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
(6,210
)
Restricted stock awards issued
1,367,618

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of treasury stock, at cost
(1,889,920
)
 

 

 

 
(9,982
)
 

 

 

 
(9,982
)
 

Income tax effect from share based compensation

 

 

 

 

 
1,536

 

 

 
1,536

 
 
Amortization of share based compensation

 

 

 

 

 
4,162

 

 

 
4,162

 

Balance, March 31, 2015
111,168,897

 
$
1,160

 
$

 
$

 
$
(89,753
)

$
777,994


$
15


$
671

 
$
690,087

 
$
85,965

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

7


Table of Contents

Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(7,995
)
 
$
19,418

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
3,067

 
2,138

Amortization of debt issuance costs
291

 
291

Amortization of debt discount
1,665

 
1,524

Tax benefit (expense) from share-based payment arrangements
(515
)
 
1,536

Share-based compensation
6,423

 
4,162

Deferred tax benefit
(2,384
)
 
3,663

Deferred rent obligations
107

 
351

Net loss on disposal of fixed assets

 
31

Contingent liability adjustment
(2,135
)
 

Purchases of securities owned, at fair value
(1,293,147
)
 
(1,026,453
)
Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value
1,263,611

 
1,252,567

Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
1,068,580

 
525,223

Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
(910,751
)
 
(592,564
)
Net (gains) losses on securities, derivatives and other investments
(2,836
)
 
(38,661
)
Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Purchases of securities owned, at fair value
(7,355
)
 

Proceeds from sales of securities owned, at fair value
878

 

Proceeds from sales of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
2,049

 

Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
(855
)
 

Purchases of other investments
(212,028
)
 
(985
)
Proceeds from sales of other investments
855

 
4,845

Net realized and unrealized (gains) losses on investments and other transactions
245

 
(4,769
)
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
 
 
 
Cash collateral pledged
(72
)
 
(617
)
Securities owned, at fair value, held at broker-dealer
8,004

 
13,164

Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
(6,106
)
 
(7,076
)
Securities borrowed

 
676,100

Receivable from brokers
(4,785
)
 
(24,843
)
Fees receivable, net of allowance
(6,759
)
 
(19,588
)
Due from related parties
5,264

 
2,377

Other assets
(11,257
)
 
(3,565
)
Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
1,586

 
(142
)
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
(125
)
 

Other assets
(738
)
 
750

Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
 
 
 
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value, held at broker-dealer
(6,141
)
 
16,039

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
3,951

 
2,896

Securities loaned

 
(682,493
)
Payable to brokers
(107,952
)
 
(107,903
)
Compensation payable
(128,152
)
 
(70,004
)
Fees payable
(3,892
)
 
15,352

Due to related parties
(95
)
 
(76
)
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
3,841

 
(3,438
)
Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Contributions received in advance
1,750

 

Payable to brokers
2,314

 

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
2

 

Due to related parties
265

 

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
707

 
67

Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities
$
(340,620
)
 
$
(40,683
)
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

Cowen Group, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(dollars in thousands)
(unaudited)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
(continued)
2016
 
2015
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of other investments
$
(16,187
)
 
$
(5,760
)
Payment to acquire loan held for investment (see Note 18)

 
(15,000
)
Proceeds from sales of other investments
5,937

 
35,050

Proceeds from loans held for investment
39,200

 

Purchase of fixed assets
(12,383
)
 
(301
)
Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities
16,567

 
13,989

Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Borrowings on notes and other debt
22,072

 
2,140

Repayments on notes and other debt
(660
)
 
(1,030
)
Income tax effect from share-based payment arrangements
(515
)
 
1,536

Purchase of treasury stock
(3,571
)
 
(7,205
)
Cash paid to acquire net assets (contingent liability payment)

 
(108
)
Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in operating entities
(2,267
)
 
(4,457
)
Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
Capital contributions by redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds
217,633

 
3,379

Capital withdrawals to redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds
(78
)
 
(2,404
)
Net cash provided by / (used in) financing activities
232,614

 
(8,149
)
Change in cash and cash equivalents
(91,439
)
 
(34,843
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
158,485

 
129,509

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
67,046

 
$
94,666

 
 
 
 
Supplemental non-cash information
 
 
 
Purchase of treasury stock, at cost, through net settlement (see Note 13)
$
4,012

 
$
2,777

Preferred stock dividends declared (See Note 13)
$
1,698

 
$

Net assets of deconsolidated entities
$
73,309

 
$












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

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Table of Contents

Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
1. Organization and Business
Cowen Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation formed in 2009, is a diversified financial services firm and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, “Cowen,” “Cowen Group” or the “Company”), provides alternative investment management, investment banking, research, sales and trading and prime brokerage services through its two business segments: alternative investment and broker-dealer. The Company's alternative investment segment, includes hedge funds, private equity structures, registered investment companies and listed vehicles. The Company's broker-dealer segment offers research, sales and trading, prime brokerage and investment banking services to companies and primarily institutional investor clients. Our primary target sectors are healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, information and technology services, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), and energy and transportation sectors.
2. Acquisitions and Divestitures
Acquisitions
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company completed two acquisitions. On September 1, 2015, the Company completed its acquisition of all of the outstanding interests in Concept Capital Markets, LLC ("Concept") offering prime brokerage services and outsourced trading. On October 1, 2015 the Company completed its acquisition of all of the outstanding interests in Conifer Securities, LLC ("Conifer") representing the prime brokerage services division of Conifer Financial Services LLC. Following the acquisitions Concept was renamed Cowen Prime Services LLC ("Cowen Prime") and Conifer was renamed Cowen Prime Services Trading LLC ("Cowen Prime Trading"). Both are registered broker-dealers (members Financial Industry Regulatory Authority "FINRA" and Securities Industry Protection Corporation "SIPC").
The acquisitions were accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP"). As such, the results of operations for Concept and Conifer are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations since the dates of the respective acquisitions and the assets acquired, liabilities assumed and the resulting goodwill were recorded at their fair values within their respective line items on the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition.
The Company is currently in the process of finalizing the valuation for certain acquired assets of Concept and Conifer; therefore, the fair value measurements and goodwill are preliminary and subject to measurement period adjustments. The allocation of the purchase price to the net assets acquired will be finalized as necessary, up to one year after the acquisitions' respective closing dates, as the information becomes available. Both of the acquisitions were not deemed material individually but were material in the aggregate.
Included in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2016 are revenues of $11.4 million and net income of $1.8 million (excluding corporate allocated expenses) related to the Concept and Conifer combined results of operations.
The following unaudited supplemental pro forma information presents consolidated financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2015 as if the acquisitions were completed as of the beginning of that period. This supplemental pro forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and is not intended to be indicative of what the Company's results would have been had the acquisitions been completed on January 1, 2015, nor does it purport to be indicative of any future results.
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands, 
except per share data)
 
(unaudited)
Revenues
$
132,363

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. common stockholders
16,547

 
 
Net income per common share:
 
  Basic
$
0.15

  Diluted
$
0.14


10


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

3. Significant Accounting Policies
a. Basis of Presentation
These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with US GAAP as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") through Accounting Standards Codification as the source of authoritative accounting principles in the preparation of financial statements, and include the accounts of the Company, its operating and other subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive, controlling general partner interest. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated on consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in these accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, as further discussed below, are not subject to the consolidation provisions with respect to their own controlled investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.
The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Funds in which the Company has a controlling financial interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below. Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds that are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.
b.
Principles of consolidation
The Company consolidates all entities that it controls through a majority voting interest or otherwise, including those funds in which the Company either directly or indirectly has a controlling financial interest. In addition, the Company consolidates all variable interest entities for which it is the primary beneficiary.
The Company adopted the new accounting pronouncement regarding consolidation accounting using the modified retrospective method with an effective adoption date of January 1, 2016. The modified retrospective method did not require the restatement of prior year periods. The adoption of the new accounting pronouncement also resulted in a reclassification of certain entities which were previously considered voting interest entities and will now be considered variable interest entities.
In accordance with these standards, the Company presently consolidates five funds for which it acts as the general partner and investment manager. As of March 31, 2016 the Company consolidated the following funds: Ramius Enterprise LP (“Enterprise LP”), Ramius Merger Fund LLC (the "Merger Fund"), Cowen Private Investments LP ("Cowen Private"), Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Fund ("Archview Feeder Fund") and Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Master Fund ("Archview Master Fund") (collectively the "Consolidated Funds").
The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.
Voting Operating EntitiesVOEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently and (ii) the equity holders at risk have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance.
Under US GAAP, the usual condition for a controlling financial interest in a VOE is ownership of a majority voting interest. Accordingly, the Company consolidates all VOEs in which it owns a majority of the entity's voting shares or units.
In connection with the adoption, the Company reevaluated all of its investment products for consolidation. As of January 1, 2016, the Company deconsolidated Quadratic Fund LLC ("Quadratic LLC") as the Company did not hold a significant voting interest in the fund. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, the net income of Quadratic LLC were not material to the Company's condensed consolidated statements of financial condition or statements of operations. The adoption of the new accounting pronouncement also resulted in a reclassification of certain entities for which the Company was presumed to have control and will now be VIEs.
Variable Interest Entities—VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a VOE. In accordance with US GAAP, an enterprise must consolidate all VIEs of which it is the primary beneficiary. Under the US GAAP consolidation model for VIEs, an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE's economic performance, and (2) has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE, is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The Company reconsiders whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE by performing a periodic qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the VIE that includes a review of, among other things, its capital structure, contractual agreements between the Company and the VIE, the economic interests that create or absorb variability, related party relationships and the design of the VIE. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the total net assets of the consolidated VIEs were $452.1 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The VIEs act as investment managers or are investment companies that are managed by the Company. The VIEs are financed through their operations and/or loan agreements with the Company.
As of March 31, 2016 the Company holds variable interests in Ramius Enterprise Master Fund Ltd (“Enterprise Master”) and Ramius Merger Master Fund Ltd ("Merger Master") (collectively the “Unconsolidated Master Funds”) through the Consolidated Funds. Investment companies, which account for their investments under the specialized industry accounting guidance for investment companies prescribed under US GAAP, are not subject to the consolidation provisions for their investments. Therefore, the Company has not consolidated the Unconsolidated Master Funds.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company also sponsors various other entities that it has determined to be VIEs. These VIEs are primarily funds and real estate entities for which the Company serves as the general partner, managing member and/or investment manager with decision-making rights.
The Company does not consolidate the Unconsolidated Master Funds or real estate entities that are VIEs as it has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary in each instance. Fund investors are entitled to all of the economics of these VIEs with the exception of the management fee and incentive income, if any, earned by the Company. The Company's involvement with funds and real estate entities that are unconsolidated VIEs is limited to providing investment management services in exchange for management fees and incentive income. Although the Company may advance amounts and pay certain expenses on behalf of the funds and real estate entities that it considers to be VIEs, it does not provide, nor is it required to provide, any type of substantive financial support to these entities outside of regular investment management services (see Note 5 for additional disclosures on VIEs).
Equity Method InvestmentsFor operating entities over which the Company exercises significant influence but which do not meet the requirements for consolidation as outlined above, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company's investments in equity method investees are recorded in other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company's share of earnings or losses from equity method investees is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
The Company evaluates its equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The difference between the carrying value of the equity method investment and its estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge when the loss in value is deemed other than temporary.
OtherIf the Company does not consolidate an entity, apply the equity method of accounting or account for an investment under the cost method, the Company accounts for such entities (primarily, all securities of such entity which are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term as trading securities) in accordance with US GAAP, at fair value with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Retention of Specialized AccountingThe Consolidated Funds and certain other consolidated companies are investment companies and apply specialized industry accounting for investment companies. The Company has retained this specialized accounting for these funds pursuant to US GAAP. The Company reports its investments on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition at their estimated fair value, with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions. Accordingly, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect different accounting policies for investments depending on whether or not they are held through a consolidated investment company. In addition, the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries, Cowen and Company, LLC ("Cowen and Company"), ATM Execution LLC ("ATM Execution"), Cowen International Limited ("CIL"), Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK"), Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading apply the specialized industry accounting for brokers and dealers in securities also prescribed under US GAAP. The Company also retains specialized accounting in consolidation.
c.
Use of estimates
The preparation of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires the management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the fair value of securities and other investments, the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements, the accounting for goodwill and identifiable intangible assets and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates.
d.
Valuation of investments and derivative contracts
US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has
the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including
inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,
if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this
category requires significant management judgment or estimation.
Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument.
The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.
The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments into three categories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.
The Company has the option to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in earnings each period. The election is made on an instrument by instrument basis at initial recognition of an asset or liability or upon an event that gives rise to a new basis of accounting for that instrument.  The Company has elected the fair value option for its investments through Cowen Investments, LLC and certain investments it holds though its operating companies.  This option has been elected because the Company believes that it is consistent with the manner in which the business is managed as well as the way that financial instruments in other parts of the business are recorded. 
SecuritiesSecurities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

obligations, ETF's, mutual funds and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.
Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans and restricted equities, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.
Derivative contractsDerivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps and options where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.
Other investmentsOther investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:
i.
Portfolio funds—Portfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment. In accordance with US GAAP, investments which are valued using NAV per share as a practical expedient are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy.
ii.
Real estate investments—Real estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.
Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.
The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.
See Notes 5 and 6 for further information regarding the Company's investments, including equity method investments, and fair value measurements.
e.
Fixed Assets
Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation or amortization. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of their useful life or lease term. When the Company commits to a plan to abandon fixed assets or leasehold improvements before the end of its original useful life, the estimated depreciation or amortization period is

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

revised to reflect the shortened useful life of the asset. Other fixed assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.
Operating lease assets, related to our aviation business, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and are depreciated to estimated residual value using the straight-line method over the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset. Assets received at the end of the lease are marked to the lower of cost or fair value with the adjustment recorded in other income.
Asset
Depreciable Lives
 
Principal Method
Telephone and computer equipment
3-8 years
 
Straight-line
Computer software
3-7 years
 
Straight-line
Furniture and fixtures
5-8 years
 
Straight-line
Leasehold improvements
5-15 years
 
Straight-line
Capitalized lease asset
5 years
 
Straight-line
Airplanes
15-20 years
 
Straight-line
Modifications to airplanes
4-10 years
 
Straight-line
f.
Debt
Long-term debt is carried at the principal amount borrowed net of any discount/premium. The discount is accreted to interest expense using the effective interest method over the remaining life of the underlying debt obligations. Accrued but unpaid coupon interest is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company adopted a new accounting pronouncement, during the first quarter of 2016, which reclassified the unamortized debt issuance costs in our previously reported condensed consolidated statements of financial condition from other assets to a direct reduction from the carrying amount of the debt. Notes payable and other debt and convertible debt as of December 31, 2015 was previously presented as $195.7 million. Due to the retrospective application notes payable and other debt and convertible debt is now presented as $191.0 million as of December 31, 2015.
g.    Deferred rent
Deferred rent primarily consists of step rent, allowances from landlords and valuing the Company's lease properties in accordance with US GAAP. Step rent represents the difference between actual operating lease payments due and straight-line rent expense, which is recorded by the Company over the term of the lease, including the build-out period. This amount is recorded as deferred rent in the early years of the lease, when cash payments are generally lower than straight-line rent expense, and reduced in the later years of the lease when payments begin to exceed the straight-line expense. Landlord allowances are generally comprised of amounts received and/or promised to the Company by landlords and may be received in the form of cash or free rent. These allowances are part of the negotiated terms of the lease. The Company records a receivable from the landlord and a deferred rent liability when the allowances are earned. This deferred rent is amortized into income (through lower rent expense) over the term (including the pre-opening build-out period) of the applicable lease, and the receivable is reduced as amounts are received from the landlord. Liabilities resulting from valuing the Company's leased properties acquired through business combinations are quantified by comparing the current fair value of the leased space to the current rental payments on the date of acquisition. Deferred rent, included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is $11.9 million and $12.0 million, respectively. Deferred rent asset, included in other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively.
h.     Insurance-related contracts
Premiums for insurance-related contracts are earned over the coverage period. In most cases, premiums are recognized as revenues ratably over the term of the contract with unearned premiums computed on a monthly basis. For each of its contracts, the Company determines if the contract provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk, in accordance with US GAAP. If the Company determines that a contract does not expose it to a reasonable possibility of a significant loss from insurance risk, the Company records the contract under the deposit method of accounting with any net amount receivable reflected as an asset in other assets, and any net amount payable reflected as a liability within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.
The liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses are recorded at the estimated ultimate payment amounts, including reported losses.  Estimated ultimate payment amounts are based upon (1) reports of losses from policyholders, (2) individual case estimates and (3) estimates of incurred but not reported losses.

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses are charged to earnings after deducting amounts recovered and estimates of recoverable amounts and are included in other expenses on the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Costs of acquiring new policies, which vary with and are directly related to the production of new policies, have been deferred to the extent that such costs are deemed recoverable from future premiums or gross profits. Such costs include commissions and allowances as well as certain costs of policy issuance and underwriting and are included within other assets on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.
i.    Recently issued accounting pronouncements
In March 2016, as part of its simplification initiative, the FASB issued a new accounting pronouncement which simplified the requirements for share based payments. The guidance among other things covers the income tax consequences and classification of excess tax benefit and tax withholding on the statement of cash flows. For public business entities, the guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance which amends and supersedes the revenue recognition requirements and most industry-specific guidance and creates a single source of revenue guidance.  The new guidance outlines the principles an entity must apply to measure and recognize revenue and related cash flows.  The guidance also provides a model for the measurement and recognition of gains and losses on the sale of certain non-financial assets. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017.  In July 2015, the FASB confirmed a deferral of the effective date by one year, with early adoption on the original effective date permitted.  In March and April 2016, the FASB issued new guidance to clarify the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations and identifying performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In March 2016, as part of its simplification initiative, the FASB issued a new accounting pronouncement which eliminates the requirement that when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence, an investor must adjust the investment, results of operations, and retained earnings retroactively on a step-by step basis as if the equity method had been in effect during all previous periods that the investment had been held. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. Therefore, upon qualifying for the equity method of accounting, no retroactive adjustment of the investment is required. The guidance is effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In March 2016, the FASB issued two amendments relating to Derivatives and Hedging. The amendments clarify that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument under Topic 815 does not, in and of itself, require de-designation of that hedging relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. The Second amendment relates to Contingent Put and call option in a debt instrument and clarify the requirements for assessing whether contingent call (put) options that can accelerate the payment of principal on debt instruments are clearly and closely related to their debt hosts when assessed under the current guidance. For public business entities the guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition and its disclosures.
In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance which amends and supersedes its previous guidance regarding leases. The new guidance requires the lessee to recognize the right to use assets and lease liabilities that arise from leases and present them in its statement of financial condition. The recognition of these lease assets and lease liabilities represents an improvement over previous GAAP, which did not require lease assets and lease liabilities to be recognized for most leases. The recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee have not significantly changed from previous GAAP. There continues to be a differentiation between finance leases and operating leases. However, the principal difference from previous guidance is that the lease assets and lease liabilities arising from operating leases should be recognized in the statement of financial condition. For public business entities the guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition and its disclosures.
In January 2016, as a joint project with International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), the FASB issued a new accounting pronouncement to address certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments in the update made improvements to US GAAP for equity investments and investments carried at

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

amortized cost. The guidance also simplify the impairment assessment for equity investments and clarify the need for valuation allowance on deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities. For public business entities the guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on the Company’s financial condition and its disclosures.   
4. Cash Collateral Pledged
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company pledged cash collateral in the amount of $10.2 million and $10.1 million, respectively, which relates to letters of credit issued to the landlords of the Company's premises in New York City, Boston and San Francisco (See Note 12).
5. Investments of Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds
a.
Operating Entities
Securities owned, at fair value
Securities owned, at fair value are held by the Company and are considered held for trading. Substantially all equity securities are pledged to the clearing brokers under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations.
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, securities owned, at fair value consisted of the following:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
U.S. Government securities (a)
$
3,774

 
$
3,016

Preferred stock (b)
23,696

 
25,563

Common stocks (b)
589,359

 
516,108

Convertible bonds (c)
250

 
819

Corporate bonds (d)
6,853

 
47,192

Warrants and rights
2,731

 
3,059

Mutual funds (e)
1,104

 
14,477

 
$
627,767

 
$
610,234

(a)
As of March 31, 2016, maturities ranged from June 2016 to February 2017 with interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%. As of December 31, 2015, maturities ranged from January 2016 to August 2016 with interest rates ranged between 0% to 5.95%.
(b)
Included in preferred stocks and common stocks are investments in securities for which the Company has elected the fair value option with the fair value of $4.8 million and $2.7 million, respectively, at March 31, 2016 and $7.7 million and $7.4 million, respectively, at December 31, 2015. These investments were acquired in connection with merchant banking transactions.
(c)
As of March 31, 2016, the maturity was March 2018 with an interest rate of 8%. As of December 31, 2015, maturities ranged from July 2016 to March 2018 with interest rates ranged between 8% to 10.00%.
(d)
As of March 31, 2016, maturities ranged from August 2017 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.48% to 7.25%. As of December 31, 2015, maturities ranged from March 2016 to February 2046 and interest rates ranged between 3.25% to 9.00%.
(e)
Included in this amount as of December 31, 2015, are investments in affiliated funds of $13.4 million all of which was liquidated during the three months ended March 31, 2016.
Receivable on and Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
The Company's direct involvement with derivative financial instruments includes futures, currency forwards, equity swaps, and options. The Company's derivatives trading activities exposes the Company to certain risks, such as price and interest rate fluctuations, volatility risk, credit risk, counterparty risk, foreign currency movements and changes in the liquidity of markets.
Upon issuance of the Company's cash convertible unsecured senior notes ("Convertible Notes") (See Note 12), the Company recognized the embedded cash conversion option at fair value of $35.7 million which is valued as of March 31, 2016

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

at $20.9 million and is included in payable for derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Also, on the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into a separate cash convertible note economic hedge transaction (the "Hedge Transaction") with a counterparty (the “Option Counterparty”) whereby, the Company purchased a cash settled option contract with terms identical to the conversion option embedded in the Convertible Notes and simultaneously sold an equity settled warrant with a higher strike price. The Hedge Transaction is expected to reduce the Company’s exposure to potential cash payments in excess of the principal amount of converted notes that the Company may be required to make upon conversion of the Convertible Notes. The Company paid a premium of $35.7 million for the option under the Hedge Transaction and received a premium of $15.2 million for the equity settled warrant transaction, for a net cost of $20.5 million. The Hedge Transaction is valued at $20.9 million as of March 31, 2016 and is included in receivable on derivative contracts in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition. Aside from the initial premium paid, the Company will not be required to make any cash payments under the Hedge Transaction and could be entitled to receive an amount of cash from the Option Counterparty generally equal to the amount by which the market price per share of common stock exceeds the strike price of the Hedge Transaction during the relevant valuation period. The warrants cover 28,048,786 shares of the Company's Class A common stock and have an initial exercise price of $7.18 per share. The warrants expire over a period of 80 trading days beginning on November 14, 2018. The warrant transaction could have a dilutive effect to the extent that the market value per share of the Company’s Class A common stock exceeds the applicable strike price of the warrants.
The Company's long and short exposure to derivatives is as follows:
Receivable on derivative contracts
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
Number of contracts / Notional Value
 
Fair value
 
Number of contracts / Notional Value
 
Fair value
 
(dollars in thousands)
Futures
$
17,143

 
$
1,289

 
$
9,416

 
$
189

Currency forwards
$
56,569

 
154

 
$
67,862

 
659

Equity swaps
$
21,012

 
811

 
$
118,488

 
2,327

Options other (a)
334,903

 
38,978

 
289,433

 
31,456

Foreign currency options
$
280,507

 
4,493

 
$
283,797

 
4,987

 
 
 
$
45,725

 
 
 
$
39,618

(a) Includes index, equity, commodity future and cash conversion options.
Payable for derivative contracts
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
Number of contracts / Notional Value
 
Fair value
 
Number of contracts / Notional Value
 
Fair value
 
(dollars in thousands)
Futures
$
15,401

 
$
1,834

 
$
11,995

 
$
101

Currency forwards
$
43,658

 
426

 
$
44,156

 
463

Equity and credit default swaps
$
7,236

 
156

 
$
7,605

 
71

Options other (a)
15,775

 
22,718

 
16,632

 
20,548

 
 
 
$
25,134

 
 
 
$
21,183

(a) Includes index, equity, commodity future and cash conversion options.

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The following tables present the gross and net derivative positions and the related offsetting amount, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross amounts not offset in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition
 
 
 
Gross amounts recognized
 
Gross amounts offset on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (a)
 
Net amounts included on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
 
Financial instruments
 
Cash Collateral pledged (b)
 
Net amounts
 
(dollars in thousands)
As of March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
$
45,725

 
$

 
$
45,725

 
$

 
$
7,305

 
$
38,420

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
25,134

 

 
25,134

 

 
582

 
24,552

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
39,618

 

 
39,618

 

 
9,339

 
30,279

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
21,183

 

 
21,183

 

 
534

 
20,649

(a)
Includes financial instruments subject to enforceable master netting provisions that are permitted to be offset to the extent an event of default has occurred.
(b)
Includes the amount of collateral held or posted.
The realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to derivatives trading activities were $2.4 million and $2.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are included in other income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Pursuant to the various derivatives transactions discussed above, except for the cash convertible note hedge (see Note 12) and exchange traded derivatives, the Company is required to post/receive collateral. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, collateral consisting of $13.2 million and $27.1 million of cash, respectively, is included in receivable from brokers and payable to brokers on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 all derivative contracts were with multiple major financial institutions.
Other investments
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, other investments included the following:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value
$
118,599

 
$
113,281

(2) Equity method investments
47,893

 
27,067

(3) Lehman claims, at fair value
293

 
299

 
$
166,785

 
$
140,647








19


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

(1) Portfolio Funds, at fair value
The Portfolio Funds, at fair value as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, included the following:

As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015

(dollars in thousands)
HealthCare Royalty Partners (a)(*)
$
12,251

 
$
12,127

HealthCare Royalty Partners II (a)(*)
7,176

 
6,006

Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP (b)
4,000

 
4,170

Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP (c)(*)
21,287

 
20,369

Starboard Partners Fund LP (d)(*)
9,396

 
14,036

Starboard Leaders Fund LP (e)(*)
1,209

 
1,080

Formation8 Partners Fund I, L.P. (f)
20,950

 
19,454

Eclipse Ventures Fund I, L.P. (formerly Formation8 Partners Hardware Fund I, L.P.) (g)
1,733

 
1,101

RCG LV Park Lane LLC (h) (*)
575

 
809

RCGL 12E13th LLC (i) (*)
458

 
609

RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. (i) (*)
18,170

 
18,147

RCG LPP SME Co-Invest, L.P. (j) (*)
2,468

 
2,468

Quadratic Fund LLC (k) (*)
4,865

 

Other private investment (l) (*)
7,534

 
6,909

Other affiliated funds (m)(*)
6,527

 
5,996

 
$
118,599

 
$
113,281

* These portfolio funds are affiliates of the Company.
The Company has no unfunded commitments regarding the portfolio funds held by the Company except as noted in Note 11.
(a)
HealthCare Royalty Partners, L.P. and HealthCare Royalty Partners II, L.P. are private equity funds and therefore distributions will be made when cash flows are received from the underlying investments, typically on a quarterly basis.
(b)
Orchard Square Partners Credit Fund LP has a quarterly redemption policy with a 60 day notice period and a 4% penalty on redemptions of investments of less than a year in duration.
(c)
Starboard Value and Opportunity Fund LP permits quarterly withdrawals upon 90 days notice.
(d)
Starboard Partners Fund LP permits redemptions on a semi-annual basis on 180 days prior written notice subsequent to an initial two year lock up.
(e)
Starboard Leaders Fund LP does not permit withdrawals, but instead allows terminations with respect to capital commitments upon 30 days prior written notice at any time following the first anniversary of an investors initial capital contribution.
(f)
Formation8 Partners Fund I, L.P. is a private equity fund which invests in early stage and growth transformational information and energy technology companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.
(g)
Eclipse Ventures Fund I, L.P. (Formerly Formation8 Partners Hardware Fund I, L.P.) is a private equity fund which invests in early stage and growth hardware companies. Distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.
(h)
RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired, at a discount, the mortgage notes on a portfolio of multifamily real estate properties located in Birmingham, Alabama.  RCG LV Park Lane LLC is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.
(i)
RCGL 12E13th LLC and RCG Longview Debt Fund V, L.P. are real estate private equity structures and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

(j)
RCG LPP SME Co-Invest, L.P. is a single purpose entity formed to participate in a joint venture which acquired two fully entitled residential development sites in the New York City metro area. RCG LPP SME Co-Invest, L.P. is a private equity structure and therefore distributions will be made when the underlying investments are liquidated.
(k)
Quadratic Fund LLC permits redemptions on a 30 days prior written notice.
(l)
Other private investment represents the Company's closed end investment in a portfolio fund that invests in a wireless broadband communication provider in Italy.
(m)
The majority of these funds are affiliates of the Company or are managed by the Company and the investors can redeem from these funds as investments are liquidated.
(2)
Equity method investments
Equity method investments include investments held by the Company in several operating companies whose operations primarily include the day to day management of a number of real estate funds, including the portfolio management and administrative services related to the acquisition, disposition, and active monitoring of the real estate funds' underlying debt and equity investments. The Company's ownership interests in these equity method investments range from 20% to 55%. The Company holds a majority of the outstanding ownership interest (i.e., more than 50%) in RCG Longview Partners II, LLC. The operating agreement that governs the management of day-to-day operations and affairs of this entity stipulates that certain decisions require support and approval from other members in addition to the support and approval of the Company. As a result, all operating decisions made in this entity requires the support of both the Company and an affirmative vote of a majority of the other managing members who are not affiliates of the Company. As the Company does not possess control over any of these entities, the presumption of consolidation has been overcome pursuant to current accounting standards and the Company accounts for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Also included in equity method investments are the investments in (a) HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners and (b) Starboard Value (and certain related parties) which serves as an operating company whose operations primarily include the day to day management (including portfolio management) of several activist hedge funds and related managed accounts and c) Surf House Ocean Views Holdings, LLC which is a joint venture in a real estate development project. The Company recorded no impairment charges in relation to its equity method investments for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.
The following table summarizes equity method investments held by the Company:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Debt Fund IV Management, LLC
$
331

 
$
331

RCG Longview Debt Fund V Partners, LLC
5,278

 
4,655

HealthCare Royalty GP, LLC
999

 
989

HealthCare Royalty GP II, LLC
1,215

 
1,017

HealthCare Royalty GP III, LLC
86

 
88

HealthCare Overflow Fund GP, LLC
50

 

Surf House Ocean Views Holdings, LLC
13,000

 

Starboard Value LP
22,805

 
15,769

RCG Longview Management, LLC
710

 
656

RCG Urban American, LLC
120

 
120

RCG Urban American Management, LLC
379

 
379

RCG Longview Equity Management, LLC
114

 
114

Urban American Real Estate Fund II, LLC
1,211

 
1,211

RCG Kennedy House, LLC
359

 
304

Other
1,236

 
1,434

 
$
47,893

 
$
27,067

 
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company's share of losses in its equity method investment in RCG Longview Partners II, LLC has exceeded the carrying amount recorded in this investee. These amounts are included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, as general partner to a real estate fund, has reversed previously recorded incentive income allocations and has recorded a current clawback obligation to the limited partners in the fund. This obligation is due to a change in unrealized value of the fund on which there have previously been distributed carried interest realizations; however, the

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

settlement of a potential obligation is not due until the end of the life of the respective fund. As the Company is obligated to return previous distributions it received from RCG Longview Partners II, LLC, it has continued to record its share of gains/losses in the investee including reflecting its share of the clawback obligation in the amount of $6.2 million.
The Company's income (loss) from equity method investments was $4.6 million and $14.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
(3)
Lehman Claims, at fair value
Lehman Brothers International (Europe) (“LBIE”), through certain affiliates, was a prime broker to the Company, and the Company held cash and cash equivalent balances with LBIE. On September 15, 2008, LBIE was placed into administration (the “Administration”) in the United Kingdom and, as a result, the assets held by the Company in its LBIE accounts were frozen at LBIE. The assets which the Company believed were held at LBIE at the time of Administration (the “Total Net Equity Claim”) consisted of $1.0 million, which represented an unsecured claim against LBIE. The total amounts received to date in respect of the Company’s unsecured claim against LBIE are approximately $1.0 million, representing 100.0% of its agreed claim. The Company may receive further distributions in respect of its claim, but the amount and timing of these distributions remains uncertain. The Company does not expect future distributions to be material.
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value represent obligations of the Company to deliver a specified security at a contracted price and, thereby, create a liability to purchase that security at prevailing prices. The Company's liability for securities to be delivered is measured at their fair value as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. However, these transactions result in off-balance sheet risk, as the Company's ultimate cost to satisfy the delivery of securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value may exceed the amount reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Substantially all equity securities and options are pledged to the clearing broker under terms which permit the clearing broker to sell or re-pledge the securities to others subject to certain limitations. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value consisted of the following:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks
$
412,750

 
$
257,101

Corporate bonds (a)
60

 
58

 
$
412,810

 
$
257,159

(a)
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the maturity was January 2026 with an interest rate of 5.55%.
Variable Interest Entities
The total assets and liabilities of the variable interest entities for which the Company has concluded that it holds a variable interest, but for which it is not the primary beneficiary, are $5.4 billion and $1.0 billion as of March 31, 2016 and $3.1 billion and $473.3 million as of December 31, 2015, respectively. In addition, the maximum exposure relating to these variable interest entities as of March 31, 2016 was $483.8 million, and as of December 31, 2015 was $327.8 million, all of which is included in other investments, at fair value in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The exposure to loss primarily relates to the Consolidated Feeder Funds' investment in their Unconsolidated Master Funds and the Company's investment in unconsolidated investment companies.








22


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

b.
Consolidated Funds
Securities owned, at fair value
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, securities owned, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds consisted of the following:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
     Preferred stock
$
28,000

 
$
32,000

     Common stocks
7,100

 

     Corporate bonds (a)
4,218

 

     Term Loan
1,205

 

 
$
40,523

 
$
32,000

(a) As of March 31, 2016, maturities ranged from March 2017 to May 2049 and interest rates ranged between 3.25% and 14.37%.
Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
As of March 31, 2016, securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds consisted of the following:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
(dollars in thousands)
     Common stocks
$
352

     Corporate bonds (a)
1,015

 
$
1,367

(a) As of March 31, 2016, maturities ranged from September 2019 to March 2025 and interest rates ranged between 4.38% and 9.25%.
Receivable on derivative contracts
As of March 31, 2016, receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds are comprised of:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards
$
2

Equity swaps
61

Options
62

 
$
125

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
As of March 31, 2016, payable for derivative contracts, at fair value, held by the Consolidated Funds are comprised of currency forwards of $2.0 thousand.
Other investments, at fair value
Investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, investments in Portfolio Funds, at fair value, included the following:

As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015

(dollars in thousands)
Investments of Enterprise LP
$
113,696

 
$
111,075

Investments of Merger Fund
280,782

 
74,348

Investments of Quadratic LLC

 
78,395


$
394,478

 
$
263,818


23


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Consolidated portfolio fund investments of Enterprise LP    
Enterprise LP operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Enterprise Master's shareholders are Enterprise LP and RCG II Intermediate Fund, L.P. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Enterprise LP's investment of $113.7 million and $111.1 million in Enterprise Master as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. On May 12, 2010, the Company announced its intention to close Enterprise Master. Prior to this announcement, strategies utilized by Enterprise Master included merger arbitrage and activist investing, investments in distressed securities, convertible hedging, capital structure arbitrage, equity market neutral, investments in private placements of convertible securities, proprietary mortgages, structured credit investments, investments in mortgage backed securities and other structured finance products, investments in real estate and real property interests, structured private placements and other relative value strategies. Enterprise Master had broad investment powers and maximum flexibility in seeking to achieve its investment objective. Enterprise Master was permitted to invest in equity securities, debt instruments, options, futures, swaps, credit default swaps and other derivatives. As Enterprise Master winds down its positions, it will return capital to its investors. There are no unfunded commitments at Enterprise LP.
Consolidated portfolio fund investments of Merger Fund    
The Merger Fund operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Ramius Merger Master Ltd's ("Merger Master") shareholders are Merger Fund and Ramius Merger Fund Ltd. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Merger Fund's investment of $280.8 million and $74.3 million in Merger Master as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The Merger Master’s investment objective is to achieve consistent absolute returns while emphasizing the preservation of investor capital. The Merger Master seeks to achieve these objectives by taking a fundamental, research-driven approach to investing, primarily in the securities of issuers engaged in, or subject to, announced (or unannounced but otherwise anticipated) extraordinary corporate transactions, which may include, but are not limited to, mergers, acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, tender offers, hostile takeover bids, sale processes, exchange offers, and recapitalizations. Merger Master invests in the securities of one or more issuers engaged in or subject to such extraordinary corporate transactions. Merger Master typically seeks to derive a profit by realizing the price differential, or “spread,” between the market price of securities purchased or sold short and the market price or value of securities realized in connection with the completion or termination of the extraordinary corporate transaction, or in connection with the adjustment of market prices in anticipation thereof, while seeking to minimize the market risk associated with the aforementioned investment activities. Merger Master will, depending on markets conditions, generally focus the majority of its investment program on announced transactions. If the investment manager of Merger Master considers it necessary, it may either alone or as part of a group, also initiate shareholder actions seeking to maximize value. Such shareholder actions may include, but are not limited to, re-orienting management’s focus or initiating the sale of the company (or one or more of its divisions) to a third party. There are no unfunded commitments at Merger Fund.
Consolidated portfolio fund investments of Quadratic Fund LLC     
Quadratic LLC operates under a “master-feeder” structure, whereby Quadratic Master Fund Ltd's ("Quadratic Master") shareholders are Quadratic Fund LLC and Quadratic Fund Ltd. The consolidated investments in Portfolio Funds include Quadratic Fund LLC's investment of $78.4 million in Quadratic Master as of December 31, 2015. Quadratic LLC was deconsolidated on January 1, 2016 (See Note 3). The Quadratic Master’s investment objective is to achieve attractive, risk-adjusted rates of return through the use of proprietary fundamental global macro and options/swaptions based strategies. Quadratic Master’s strategy is primarily executed via options and swaptions.
Indirect Concentration of the Underlying Investments Held by Consolidated Funds
From time to time, either directly or indirectly through its investments in the Consolidated Funds, the Company may maintain exposure to a particular issue or issuer (both long and/or short) which may account for 5% or more of the Company's equity. Based on information that is available to the Company as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company assessed whether or not its interests in an issuer for which the Company's pro-rata share exceeds 5% of the Company's equity. There were no indirect concentrations that exceed 5% of the Company's equity as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
Underlying Investments of Unconsolidated Funds Held by Consolidated Funds
Enterprise Master and Merger Master
Enterprise LP's investment in Enterprise Master represents Enterprise LP's proportionate share of Enterprise Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Enterprise Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Enterprise LP has recorded. Merger Fund's investment in Merger Master represents Merger Fund's proportionate share of Merger Master's net assets; as a result, the investment balances of Merger Master reflected below may exceed the net investment which Merger Fund has recorded. The following tables present summarized investment information for the

24


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

underlying investments and derivatives held by Enterprise Master and Merger Master as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Securities owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
Common stock
736

 
724

Preferred stock
1,478

 
1,484

Restricted stock
124

 
124

Rights

 
321

Trade claims
128

 
128

 
$
2,466

 
$
2,781

Receivable/(Payable) on derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Enterprise Master
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
Description
(dollars in thousands)
Currency forwards
$

 
$
(4
)
 
$

 
$
(4
)
Portfolio Funds, owned by Enterprise Master, at fair value
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
Strategy
 
(dollars in thousands)
RCG Longview Equity Fund, LP*
Real Estate
 
$
7,407

 
$
7,635

RCG Longview II, LP*
Real Estate
 
702

 
698

RCG Longview Debt Fund IV, LP*
Real Estate
 
3,042

 
3,577

RCG Soundview, LLC*
Real Estate
 
452

 
452

RCG Urban American Real Estate Fund, L.P.*
Real Estate
 
307

 
312

RCG Special Opportunities Fund, Ltd*
Multi-Strategy
 
85,435

 
81,544

RCG Energy, LLC *
Energy
 

 
1,189

RCG Renergys, LLC*
Energy
 
1

 
1

Other Private Investments
Various
 
10,472

 
10,515

Other Real Estate Investments (*)
Real Estate
 
5,045

 
5,753

 
 
 
$
112,863

 
$
111,676

*
Affiliates of the Company.
Merger Master
Securities owned by Merger Master, at fair value

As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015

(dollars in thousands)
Common stocks
$
814,309

 
$
157,429

Corporate bonds (a)

 
492

 
$
814,309

 
$
157,921

(a)
As of December 31, 2015, the maturity was June 2024 with an interest rate of 5.25%.
Securities sold, not yet purchased, by Merger Master, at fair value
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, Merger Master held common stock, sold not yet purchased, of $581.3 million and $73.8 million, respectively.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Merger Master
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
Description
(dollars in thousands)
Options
$
16,582

 
$
1,275

Currency forwards
24

 
235

Equity swaps
1,289

 
1,001

 
$
17,895

 
$
2,511

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value, owned by Merger Master
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
Description
(dollars in thousands)
Options
$
1,293

 
$
563

Currency forwards
21

 

Equity swaps
283

 
30

 
$
1,597

 
$
593


26


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

6. Fair Value Measurements for Operating Entities and Consolidated Funds
The following table presents the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition by caption and by level within the valuation hierarchy as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
 
Assets at Fair Value as of March 31, 2016
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Operating Entities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Securities owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US Government securities
$
3,774

 
$

 
$

 
$
3,774

Preferred stock
6,669

 
3,381

 
13,646

 
23,696

Common stocks
580,184

 
2,910

 
6,265

 
589,359

Convertible bonds

 

 
250

 
250

Corporate bonds

 
6,853

 

 
6,853

Warrants and rights
226

 

 
2,505

 
2,731

Mutual funds
1,104

 

 

 
1,104

    Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 


Futures
1,289

 

 

 
1,289

Currency forwards

 
154

 

 
154

Equity swaps

 
811

 

 
811

Options
16,238

 
6,341

 
20,892

 
43,471

    Other investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lehman claim

 

 
293

 
293

Consolidated funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Securities owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

 
28,000

 
28,000

Common stocks
806

 
6,294

 

 
7,100

Corporate Bonds

 
4,218

 

 
4,218

Term Loan

 
1,205

 

 
1,205

   Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency forwards

 
2

 

 
2

Equity swaps

 
61

 

 
61

Options
46

 
16

 

 
62

 
$
610,336

 
$
32,246

 
$
71,851

 
$
714,433

Percentage of total assets measured at fair value
85.4
%
 
4.5
%
 
10.1
%
 
 
Portfolio funds measured at net asset value (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
118,599

Consolidated funds' portfolio funds measured at net asset value (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
394,478

Equity method investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
47,893

Total investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
1,275,403


27


Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

 
Liabilities at Fair Value as of March 31, 2016
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Securities sold, not yet purchased
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stocks
$
412,750

 
$

 
$

 
$
412,750

Corporate bonds

 
60

 

 
60

    Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
1,834

 

 

 
1,834

Currency forwards

 
426

 

 
426

Equity and credit default swaps

 
156

 

 
156

Options
1,826

 

 
20,892

 
22,718

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities


 


 


 
 
          Contingent consideration liability (b)

 

 
8,293

 
8,293

Consolidated funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Securities sold, not yet purchased
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stocks
352

 

 

 
352

Corporate bonds

 
1,015

 

 
1,015

   Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency forwards

 
2

 

 
2

 
$
416,762

 
$
1,659

 
$
29,185

 
$
447,606

Percentage of total liabilities measured at fair value
93.1
%
 
0.4
%
 
6.5
%
 
 
(a) In accordance with US GAAP, certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition.
(b) In accordance with the terms of the purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012 and the third and fourth quarter of 2015, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the periods ended August 2016, December 2020, and December 2018, respectively. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of March 31, 2016 can range from $0.1 million to $8.6 million.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

 
Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2015
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Operating Entities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Securities owned
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US Government securities
$
3,016

 
$

 
$

 
$
3,016

Preferred stock
7,891

 
4,800

 
12,872

 
25,563

Common stocks
505,303

 
7,527

 
3,278

 
516,108

Convertible bonds

 

 
819

 
819

Corporate bonds

 
47,192

 

 
47,192

Warrants and rights
487

 

 
2,572

 
3,059

Mutual funds
14,477

 

 

 
14,477

    Receivable on derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
189

 

 

 
189

Currency forwards

 
659

 

 
659

Equity swaps

 
2,327

 

 
2,327

Options
11,895

 
6,354

 
18,194

 
36,443

    Other investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lehman claim

 

 
299

 
299

Consolidated funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

 
32,000

 
32,000

 
$
543,258

 
$
68,859

 
$
70,034

 
$
682,151

Percentage of total assets measured at fair value
79.6
%
 
10.1
%
 
10.3
%
 
 
Portfolio funds measured at net asset value (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
113,281

Consolidated funds' portfolio funds measured at net asset value (a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
263,818

Equity method investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
27,067

Total investments
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
1,086,317

 
Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2015
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
(dollars in thousands)
Securities sold, not yet purchased
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stocks
$
257,101

 
$

 
$

 
$
257,101

Corporate bonds

 
58

 

 
58

Payable for derivative contracts, at fair value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Futures
101

 

 

 
101

Currency forwards

 
463

 

 
463

Equity and credit default swaps

 
71

 

 
71

Options
2,354

 

 
18,194

 
20,548

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
          Contingent consideration liability (b)

 

 
6,158

 
6,158

 
$
259,556

 
$
592

 
$
24,352

 
$
284,500

Percentage of total liabilities measured at fair value
91.2
%
 
0.2
%
 
8.6
%
 
 
(a) In accordance with US GAAP, certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the condensed consolidated statement of financial condition.
(b) In accordance with the terms of the purchase agreements for acquisitions that closed during 2012 and the third and fourth quarter of 2015, the Company is required to pay to the sellers a portion of future net income of the acquired businesses, if certain revenue targets are achieved through the periods ended August 2016, December 2020, and

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

December 2018, respectively. The Company estimated the contingent consideration liability using the income approach (discounted cash flow method) which requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions regarding the future cash flows and profits. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the amounts recognized. The undiscounted amounts as of December 31, 2015 can range from $0.1 million to $10.0 million.
The following table includes a rollforward of the amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, for financial instruments classified within level 3. The classification of a financial instrument within level 3 is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
Balance at December 31, 2015
 
Transfers in
 
Transfers out
 
Purchases/(covers)
 
(Sales)/shorts
 
Realized and Unrealized gains/losses
 
Balance at March 31, 2016
 
Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
Operating Entities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock
$
12,872

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
(218
)
 
$
992

 
$
13,646

 
$
566

Common stocks
3,278

 

 

 
1,069

 

 
1,918

 
6,265

 
2,054

Convertible bonds
819

 

 

 

 
(569
)
 

 
250

 

Options, asset
18,194

 

 

 

 

 
2,698

 
20,892

 
2,698

Options, liability
18,194

 

 

 

 

 
2,698

 
20,892

 
2,698

Warrants and Rights
2,572

 

 

 

 

 
(67
)
 
2,505

 
150

Lehman claim
299

 

 

 

 

 
(6
)
 
293

 
(6
)
Contingent consideration liability
6,158

 

 

 


 


 
2,135

 
8,293

 
2,135

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock
32,000

 


 
(4,000
)
(a)

 

 

 
28,000

 

 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
Transfers in
 
Transfers out
 
Purchases/(covers)
 
(Sales)/shorts
 
Realized and Unrealized gains/losses
 
Balance at March 31, 2015
 
Change in unrealized gains/losses relating to instruments still held (1)
 
(dollars in thousands)
Operating Entities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock
$
12,517

 
$

 
$

 
$
7,375

 
$

 
$
(412
)
 
$
19,480

 
$
(412
)
Common stocks
412

 

 

 

 
(3
)
 
2

 
411

 
5

Convertible bonds
900

 

 

 

 

 
(21
)
 
879

 
(21
)
Options, asset
36,807

 

 

 

 

 
4,835

 
41,642

 
4,835

Options, liability
36,807

 

 

 

 

 
4,835

 
41,642

 
4,835

Warrants and Rights, asset
1,322

 

 
(14
)
(a)
26

 

 
1,225

 
2,559

 
1,224

Lehman claim
380

 

 

 

 

 
(19
)
 
361

 
(19
)
Contingent consideration liability
4,083

 

 

 

 
(109
)
 

 
3,974

 

Consolidated Funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lehman claim
493

 

 

 

 

 
1

 
494

 
1

(1) Unrealized gains/losses are reported in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of
operations.
(a) The investment was converted to equity.
All realized and unrealized gains (losses) in the table above are reflected in other income (loss) in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and therefore are not included in the tables above.
The Company recognizes all transfers and the related unrealized gain (loss) at the beginning of the reporting period.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Transfers between level 1 and 2 generally relate to whether the principal market for the security becomes active or inactive. Transfers between level 2 and 3 generally relate to whether significant relevant observable inputs are available for the fair value measurements or due to change in liquidity restrictions for the investments.
During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no transfers between level 1 and level 2 assets and liabilities.
The following table includes quantitative information as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for financial instruments classified within level 3. The table below quantifies information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company's level 3 financial instruments.
 
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
 
Fair Value at March 31, 2016
 
Valuation techniques
 
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range
Level 3 Assets
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common and preferred stocks
$
2,551

 
Market/transaction multiples and option pricing method Illiquidity discount

Volatility Market multiples Discount

35% 1x to 5x 90%
Warrants and rights, net
2,505

 
Model based
 
Volatility
 
18% to 61% (weighted average 46%)
Options
20,892

 
Option pricing models
 
Volatility
 
45%
Other level 3 assets (a)
45,903

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total level 3 assets
71,851

 
 
 
 
 
 
Level 3 Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options
20,892

 
Option pricing models
 
Volatility
 
45%
Contingent consideration
8,293

 
Discounted cash flows
 
Projected cash flow and discount rate
 
0% - 24.5%
(weighted average 9.58%)
Total level 3 liabilities
$
29,185

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2015
 
Valuation techniques
 
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range
Level 3 Assets
(dollars in thousands)

 
 
 
 
 
 
Common and preferred stocks
$
2,569

 
Market multiples and option pricing method
 
Volatility Market multiples
 
34% 1x to 4.75x
Convertible bonds
819

 
Recovery analysis
 
Recovery rate
 
50%
Warrants and rights, net
2,572

 
Model based
 
Volatility
 
18% to 61% (weighted average 43%)
Options
18,194

 
Option pricing models
 
Volatility Credit spreads
 
38%
Other level 3 assets (a)
45,880

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total level 3 assets
70,034

 
 
 
 
 
 
Level 3 Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options
18,194

 
Option pricing models
 
Volatility Credit spreads
 
38%
Contingent consideration
6,158

 
Discounted cash flows
 
Projected cash flow and discount rate
 
6.6% - 24.5%
(weighted average 16.4%)
Total level 3 liabilities
$
24,352

 
 
 
 
 
 
(a)
The quantitative disclosures exclude financial instruments for which the determination of fair value is based on prices from prior transactions.
The Company has established valuation policies and procedures and an internal control infrastructure over its fair value measurement of financial instruments which includes ongoing oversight by the valuation committee as well as periodic audits performed by the Company's internal audit group. The valuation committee is comprised of senior management, including non-

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

investment professionals, who are responsible for overseeing and monitoring the pricing of the Company's investments, including the review of the results of the independent price verification process, approval of new trading asset classes and use of applicable pricing models and approaches.
The US GAAP fair value leveling hierarchy is designated and monitored on an ongoing basis. In determining the designation, the Company takes into consideration a number of factors including the observability of inputs, liquidity of the investment and the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement. Designations, models, pricing vendors, third party valuation providers and inputs used to derive fair market value are subject to review by the valuation committee and the internal audit group. The Company reviews its valuation policy guidelines on an ongoing basis and may adjust them in light of, improved valuation metrics and models, the availability of reliable inputs and information, and prevailing market conditions. The Company reviews a daily profit and loss report, as well as other periodic reports, and analyzes material changes from period-to-period in the valuation of its investments as part of its control procedures. The Company also performs back testing on a regular basis by comparing prices observed in executed transactions to previous valuations.
The fair market value for level 3 securities may be highly sensitive to the use of industry standard models, unobservable inputs and subjective assumptions. The degree of fair market value sensitivity is also contingent upon the subjective weight given to specific inputs and valuation metrics. The Company holds various equity and debt instruments where different weight may be applied to industry standard models representing standard valuation metrics such as: discounted cash flows, market multiples, comparative transactions, capital rates, recovery rates and timing, and bid levels. Generally, changes in the weights ascribed to the various valuation metrics and the significant unobservable inputs in isolation may result in significantly lower or higher fair value measurements. Volatility levels for warrants and options are not readily observable and subject to interpretation. Changes in capital rates, discount rates and replacement costs could significantly increase or decrease the valuation of the real estate investments. The interrelationship between unobservable inputs may vary significantly amongst level 3 securities as they are generally highly idiosyncratic. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation can result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
Other financial assets and liabilities
The following table presents the carrying values and fair values, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, of financial assets and liabilities and information on their classification within the fair value hierarchy which are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. For additional information regarding the financial instruments within the scope of this disclosure, and the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate their fair value see Note 3.
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Financial Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating companies
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
67,046

 
$
67,046

 
$
158,485

 
$
158,485

 
Level 1
Cash collateral pledged
10,157

 
10,157

 
10,085

 
10,085

 
Level 2
Consolidated funds
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
12,348

 
12,348

 
13,934

 
13,934

 
Level 1
Financial Liabilities
 
 


 
 
 
 
 
 
Convertible debt
124,251

(a)
139,546

(b)
122,401

(a)
144,946

(b)
Level 2
Notes payable and other debt
90,081

 
72,375

 
68,565

 
71,945

 
Level 2
(a)
The carrying amount of the convertible debt includes an unamortized discount of $23.1 million and $24.7 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(b)
The convertible debt include the conversion option and is based on the last broker quote available.
7. Receivables from and Payable to Brokers
Receivables from and payable to brokers includes cash held at the clearing brokers, amounts receivable or payable for unsettled transactions, monies borrowed and proceeds from short sales (including commissions and fees related to securities transactions) equal to the fair value of securities sold, not yet purchased, which are restricted until the Company purchases the securities sold short. Pursuant to the master netting agreements the Company entered into with its brokers, these balances are presented net (assets less liabilities) across balances with the same broker. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015,

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

receivable from brokers was $122.5 million and $117.8 million, respectively. Payable to brokers was $23.8 million and $131.8 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The Company's receivables from and payable to brokers balances are held at multiple financial institutions.
8. Redeemable Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries and Funds
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds and the related net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds are comprised as follows:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
 
 
 
Operating companies
$
8,561

 
$
10,906

Consolidated funds
316,377

 
176,005

 
$
324,938

 
$
186,911

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
 
 
 
Operating companies
$
(78
)
 
$
918

Consolidated funds
(4,219
)
 
1,802

 
$
(4,297
)
 
$
2,720

9. Share-Based and Deferred Compensation and Employee Ownership Plans
The Company issues share based compensation under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, the 2007 Equity and Incentive Plan (both established prior to the November 2009 transaction between Ramius and Cowen) and the Cowen Group, Inc. 2010 Equity and Incentive Plan (collectively, the “Equity Plans”). The Equity Plans permit the grant of options, restricted shares, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights ("SAR's") and other equity based awards to the Company's employees and directors. Stock options granted generally vest over two-to-five-year periods and expire seven years from the date of grant. Restricted shares and restricted share units issued may be immediately vested or may generally vest over a two-to-five-year period. SAR's vest and expire after five years from grant date. Awards are subject to the risk of forfeiture. As of March 31, 2016, there were approximately 1.3 million shares available for future issuance under the Equity Plans.
Under the 2010 Equity Plan, the Company awarded $25.6 million of deferred cash awards to its employees during the three months ended March 31, 2016. These awards vest over a four year period and accrue interest between 0.70% to 0.75% per year. As of March 31, 2016, the Company had unrecognized compensation expense related to deferred cash awards of $49.2 million.
The Company measures compensation cost for share based awards according to the equity method. In accordance with the expense recognition provisions of those standards, the Company amortizes unearned compensation associated with share based awards on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the option or award. In relation to awards under the Equity Plans, the Company recognized compensation expense of $6.4 million and $4.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The income tax effect recognized for the Equity Plans was a benefit of $3.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights
The Company values options and SAR's on grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model which requires the Company to make assumptions regarding the expected term, volatility, risk-free rate and dividend yield:
        Expected term.    Expected term represents the period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding. The Company elected to use the "simplified" calculation method, as applicable to companies that lack extensive historical data. The mid-point between the vesting date and the contractual expiration date is used as the expected term under this method.
        Expected volatility.    The Company bases its expected volatility on its own stock price history.
        Risk free rate.    The risk-free rate for periods within the expected term of the award is based on the interest rate of a traded zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond with a term equal to the awards' expected term on the date of grant.

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

        Dividend yield.    The Company has not paid and does not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the assumed dividend yield is zero.
The following table summarizes the Company's stock option activity for the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 
Shares Subject
to Option
 
Weighted Average
Exercise Price/Share
 
Weighted Average
Remaining Term
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value(1)
 
 
 
 
 
(in years)
 
(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2015
16,667

 
$
4.89

 
1.10

 
$

Options granted

 

 

 

Options exercised

 

 

 

Options expired

 

 

 

Balance outstanding at March 31, 2016
16,667

 
$
4.89

 
0.85

 
$

Options exercisable at March 31, 2016
16,667

 
$
4.89

 
0.85

 
$

(1)
Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.81 on March 31, 2016 and $3.83 on December 31, 2015.
As of March 31, 2016, the Company's stock options were fully expensed.
The following table summarizes the Company's SAR's for the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 
Shares Subject
to Option
 
Weighted Average
Exercise Price/Share
 
Weighted Average
Remaining Term
 
Aggregate Intrinsic
Value(1)
 
 
 
 
 
(in years)
 
(dollars in thousands)
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2015
400,000

 
2.90

 
2.21

 
$
558

SAR's granted

 

 

 

SAR's acquired

 

 

 

SAR's expired

 

 

 

Balance outstanding at March 31, 2016
400,000

 
$
2.90

 
1.96

 
$
522

SAR's exercisable at March 31, 2016

 
$

 

 
$

(1)
Based on the Company's closing stock price of $3.81 on March 31, 2016 and $3.83 on December 31, 2015.
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of SAR's was $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Employees
Restricted shares and restricted stock units are referred to collectively as restricted stock. The following table summarizes the Company's restricted share and restricted stock unit activity for the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 
Nonvested Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units
 
Weighted-Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2015
21,480,364

 
$
4.17

Granted
7,410,814

 
3.47

Vested
(2,851,670
)
 
4.00

Canceled

 

Forfeited
(79,182
)
 
3.85

Balance outstanding at March 31, 2016 (1)
25,960,326

 
$
3.99

(1) Performance linked restricted stock units of 1,925,750 were awarded to employees of the Company in December 2013 and January 2014. An additional 2,800,000 performance linked restricted stock units were awarded in March 2016. Of the awards granted, 326,250 have been forfeited through March 31, 2016. The remaining awards, included in the outstanding balance as of March 31, 2016, will vest between March 2019 and December 2020 and will be earned only to the extent that the Company attains specified market goals relating to its volume-weighted average share price and total shareholder return in relation to certain benchmark indices and performance goals relating to aggregate net income and average return on shareholder equity. The actual number of RSUs ultimately earned could vary from zero,

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

if performance goals are not met, to as much as 150% of the targeted award. Each RSU is equal to the one share of the Company’s Class A common stock. Compensation expense is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the Company will attain the performance goals.
The fair value of restricted stock (excluding performance linked units which are valued using the Monte Carlo valuation model) is determined based on the number of shares granted and the quoted price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant.
As of March 31, 2016, there was $79.4 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to the Company's grant of nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units to employees. Unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested restricted shares and restricted stock units granted to employees is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.95 years.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Stock Units Granted to Non-employee Board Members
There were no restricted stock units awarded during the three months ended March 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2016 there were 497,570 restricted stock units outstanding.
10. Income Taxes
The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are included in the consolidated income tax returns of Cowen Group, Inc. as well as stand-alone state and local tax returns. The Company has subsidiaries that are resident in foreign countries where tax filings have to be submitted on a stand‑alone basis. These subsidiaries are subject to tax in their respective countries and the Company is responsible for and, thus, reports all taxes incurred by these subsidiaries. The countries where the Company owns subsidiaries that file tax returns are United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Gibraltar, and Hong Kong.
The Company calculates its U.S. tax provision using the estimated annual effective tax rate methodology. The tax expense or benefit caused by an unusual or infrequent item is recorded in the quarter in which it occurs. The Company uses the discrete methodology to calculate its income tax provision for its foreign subsidiaries. Based on these methodologies, the Company’s effective income tax rate was 29.35% and 26.35% for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the unusual or infrequent items whose tax impact were recorded discretely related primarily to state taxes and the tax provisions of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the effective tax rate differs from the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state and foreign taxes, as well as other nondeductible expenses.
The Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax benefit or expense that will result from differences between the carrying value of its assets for income tax purposes and for financial reporting purposes, as well as for operating or capital loss and tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance is recorded to bring the net deferred tax assets to a level that, in management's view, is more likely than not to be realized in the foreseeable future. This level will be estimated based on a number of factors, especially the amount of net deferred tax assets of the Company that are actually expected to be realized, for tax purposes, in the foreseeable future. As of March 31, 2016, the Company recorded no valuation allowance against its net deferred tax.
The Company is subject to examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service, the United Kingdom Inland Revenue Service, the Luxembourg Tax Office as well as state, local and foreign tax authorities in jurisdictions where the Company has significant business operations, such as New York. Currently, the Company is under audit by New York State for the 2010 to 2012 tax years. Management is not expecting a material tax liability from this audit.
The Company intends to permanently reinvest the capital and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries in the respective subsidiary, but remits the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to the United States to the extent permissible under local regulatory rules. The undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries totaled $1.1 million and $1.0 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted is approximately $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

11. Commitments and Contingencies
Lease Obligations
The Company has entered into leases for office space and equipment. These leases contain rent escalation clauses. The Company records rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term, including any rent holiday periods. Rent expense was $5.3 million and $4.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
As of March 31, 2016, future minimum annual lease and service payments for the Company were as follows:
 
Equipment Leases (a)
 
Service Payments
 
Facility Leases (b)
 
(dollars in thousands)
2016
$
1,810

 
$
13,198

 
$
13,971

2017
2,301

 
9,238

 
15,648

2018
2,221

 
4,653

 
15,656

2019
813

 
1,414

 
14,820

2020

 

 
14,814

Thereafter

 

 
32,250

 
$
7,145

 
$
28,503

 
$
107,159

(a)
Equipment Leases include the Company's commitments relating to operating and capital leases. See Note 12 for further information on the capital lease minimum payments which are included in the table.
(b)
The Company has entered into various agreements to sublease certain of its premises. The Company recorded sublease income related to these leases of $0.8 million and $0.5 million and for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Clawback Obligations
For financial reporting purposes, the general partners of a real estate fund have recorded a liability for potential clawback obligations to the limited partners, due to changes in the unrealized value of the fund's remaining investments and where the fund's general partner has previously received carried interest distributions. The clawback liability, however, is not realized until the end of the fund's life. The life of the real estate fund's with a potential clawback obligation is currently in a winding-up phase whereby the remaining assets of the fund are being liquidated as promptly as possible so as to maximize value, however a final date for liquidation has not been set. The fund is currently winding-down and as of both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and the clawback obligation was $6.2 million.
The Company serves as the general partner/managing member and/or investment manager to various affiliated and sponsored funds. As such, the Company is contingently liable for obligations for those entities. These amounts are not included above as the Company believes that the assets in these funds are sufficient to discharge any liabilities.
Unfunded Commitments
As of March 31, 2016, the Company had unfunded commitments of $5.3 million pertaining to capital commitments in three real estate investments held by the Company, all of which pertain to related party investments. Such commitments can be called at any time, subject to advance notice. The Company, as a limited partner of the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds and also as a member of HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners, has committed to invest $45.8 million in the Healthcare Royalty Partners funds which are managed by Healthcare Royalty Management. This commitment is expected to be called over a two to five year period. The Company will make its pro-rata investment in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds along with the other limited partners. Through March 31, 2016, the Company has funded $37.7 million towards these commitments. In April 2013, the Company committed $1.0 million to Starboard Leaders Fund LP, which may increase or decrease over time, and, as of March 31, 2016, has funded $1.0 million towards this commitment. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Formation8 Partners Fund I, L.P. of $0.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a one year period. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Eclipse Ventures Fund I, L.P. (formerly Formation8 Partners Hardware Fund I, L.P.) of $0.9 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a one year period. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Lagunita Biosciences, LLC of $3.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a three-year period.



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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

Litigation
In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries and current and former officers, directors and employees (the "Company and Related Parties") are named as defendants in, or as parties to, various legal actions and proceedings. Certain of these actions and proceedings assert claims or seek relief in connection with alleged violations of securities, banking, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering, employment and other statutory and common laws. Certain of these actual or threatened legal actions and proceedings include claims for substantial or indeterminate compensatory or punitive damages, or for injunctive relief.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company and Related Parties are also subject to governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests (both formal and informal), certain of which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief. Certain affiliates and subsidiaries of the Company are investment banks, registered broker-dealers, futures commission merchants, investment advisers or other regulated entities and, in those capacities, are subject to regulation by various U.S., state and foreign securities, commodity futures and other regulators. In connection with formal and informal inquiries by these regulators, the Company and such affiliates and subsidiaries receive requests, and orders seeking documents and other information in connection with various aspects of their regulated activities.
Due to the global scope of the Company's operations, and its presence in countries around the world, the Company and Related Parties may be subject to litigation, and governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal), in multiple jurisdictions with legal and regulatory regimes that may differ substantially, and present substantially different risks, from those the Company and Related Parties are subject to in the United States.
The Company seeks to resolve all litigation and regulatory matters in the manner management believes is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and contests liability, allegations of wrongdoing and, where applicable, the amount of damages or scope of any penalties or other relief sought as appropriate in each pending matter.
In accordance with US GAAP, the Company establishes reserves for contingencies when the Company believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses a contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred and there is no reserve for the loss because the conditions above are not met. The Company's disclosure includes an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for those matters, for which an estimate can be made. Neither a reserve nor disclosure is required for losses that are deemed remote.     
The Company appropriately reserves for certain matters where, in the opinion of management, the likelihood of liability is probable and the extent of such liability is reasonably estimable. Such amounts are included within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and currently available information and involve a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type and nature of the litigation, claim or proceeding, the progress of the matter, the advice of legal counsel, the Company's defenses and its experience in similar cases or proceedings as well as its assessment of matters, including settlements, involving other defendants in similar or related cases or proceedings. The Company may increase or decrease its legal reserves in the future, on a matter-by-matter basis, to account for developments in such matters. The Company accrues legal fees as incurred.
On May 28, 2014, Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK (collectively, "EIG") filed a lawsuit against Cowen and Company, LLC in the United States Court for the Southern District of New York (Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK v. Cowen and Company, LLC, No. 14-CV-3789). The complaint alleges copyright infringement based on alleged impermissible distribution of EIG's publication, Oil Daily, by Cowen and Company, LLC, and Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC, as Cowen's alleged predecessor-in-interest. EIG is seeking statutory damages based on alleged willful infringement of their copyrights. The Company intends to vigorously defend against this lawsuit. On November 12, 2014, the Company filed an answer and affirmative defenses to the EIG complaint. On September 25, 2015, the Company filed its motion for partial summary judgment to dismiss certain of EIG’s claims relating to Dahlman Rose’s alleged copyright infringement. We expect the Company’s motion to be heard in the second quarter of 2016, but we cannot predict when the Court will issue a decision. Because the case is in its preliminary stages, the Company cannot predict the outcome at this time, but it does not currently expect this case to have a material effect on its financial position. The case could have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations in a future period.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

12. Convertible Debt and Notes Payable
As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company's outstanding debt was as follows:
 
As of March 31, 2016
 
As of December 31, 2015
 
(dollars in thousands)
Convertible debt
$
124,251

 
$
122,401

Note payable
60,936

 
60,831

Other note payable
1,695

 

Revolver
25,000

 
5,000

Capital lease obligations
2,450

 
2,734

 
$
214,332

 
$
190,966

Convertible Debt
On March 10, 2014, the Company issued $149.5 million of 3.0% cash convertible senior notes ("Convertible Notes"). The Convertible Notes are due on March 15, 2019 unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder into cash in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The interest on the Convertible Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payments to other obligations. The Convertible Notes may be converted into cash, upon the occurrence of certain events, whereby a holder will receive, per $1,000 principal amount of notes being converted, an amount equal to the sum of principal amount outstanding and the conversion amount based on the current conversion price (the "Conversion Option"). The Convertible Notes were issued with an initial conversion price of $5.33 per share.
The Company recorded interest expense of $1.1 million and $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The initial unamortized discount on the Convertible Notes was $35.7 million and is shown net in convertible debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Amortization on the discount, included within interest expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations is $1.7 million and $1.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, based on an effective interest rate of 8.89%. The Company capitalized the debt issuance costs in the amount of $3.7 million, which is included in additional paid in capital in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition and changes in equity, and will be amortized over the life of the Convertible Notes. As of March 31, 2016, the Company is in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.
Of the net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes, approximately $20.5 million was applied to pay the net cost of a cash convertible note economic hedge and warrant transaction which increases the effective conversion price to $7.18 (see Note 5), and approximately $0.3 million was applied to repurchase shares of Cowen Class A common stock. The remainder of the net proceeds is being used for general corporate purposes.
Note Payable
On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of $63.3 million aggregate principal amount of 8.25% senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company recorded interest expense of $1.3 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Company capitalized debt issuance costs of approximately $2.9 million which is included in additional paid in capital in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition and changes in equity and will be amortized over the life of the 2021 Notes. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the 2021 Notes.
Other Note Payable
During January 2016, the Company borrowed $2.0 million to fund insurance premium payments. This note has an effective interest rate of 1.38% and is due on December 31, 2016, with monthly payment requirements of $0.2 million. As of March 31, 2016, the outstanding balance on this note payable was $1.7 million. Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was insignificant.
Revolver
On July 31, 2015, the Company entered into a $25.0 million 364 day revolving unsecured credit facility with multiple financial institutions primarily for working capital management. The Company has drawn $25 million under this facility as of March 31, 2016. Interest accrues on borrowed funds at LIBOR plus 3.0% and interest accrues on the undrawn facility amount at

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

LIBOR plus 0.38%. The revolver matures in August 2016. The Company is required to comply with certain financial covenants for which the Company was in compliance with through March 31, 2016. Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $0.1 million.
Capital Lease Obligations
The Company entered into several capital leases for computer equipment during the fourth quarter of 2010 and one in January 2014. These leases amounted to $7.6 million and are recorded in fixed assets and as capital lease obligations, which are included in short-term borrowings and other debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and have lease terms that range from 48 to 60 months and interest rates that range from 0.60% to 6.03%. As of March 31, 2016, the remaining balance on these capital leases was $2.5 million. Interest expense was $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Annual scheduled maturities of debt and minimum payments for all debt outstanding as of March 31, 2016, is as follows:
 
Convertible Debt
 
Note Payable
 
Revolver
 
Other Note Payable
 
Capital Lease
Obligation
 
(dollars in thousands)
2016
$
2,243

 
$
3,914

 
$
25,000

 
$
1,718

 
$
704

2017
4,485

 
5,218

 

 

 
938

2018
4,485

 
5,218

 

 

 
938

2019
151,743

 
5,218

 

 

 
78

2020

 
5,218

 

 

 

Thereafter

 
68,468

 

 

 

Subtotal
162,956

 
93,254

 
25,000

 
1,718

 
2,658

Less: Amount representing interest (a)
(38,705
)
 
(32,318
)
 

 
(23
)
 
(208
)
Total
$
124,251

 
$
60,936

 
$
25,000

 
$
1,695

 
$
2,450

(a)
Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception. This amount also includes the unamortized discount on the convertible debt.
Letters of Credit
As of March 31, 2016, the Company has the following nine irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.
Location
 
Amount
 
Maturity
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
New York
 
$
355

 
May 2016
New York
 
$
1,861

 
May 2016
New York
 
$
794

 
October 2016
New York
 
$
3,373

 
October 2016
New York
 
$
1,600

 
November 2016
San Francisco
 
$
710

 
January 2017
New York
 
$
65

 
January 2017
New York
 
$
1,000

 
February 2017
Boston
 
$
382

 
March 2017
To the extent any letter of credit is drawn upon, interest will be assessed at the prime commercial lending rate. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no amounts due related to these letters of credit.
13. Stockholder's Equity
Preferred Stock and Purchase of Capped Call Option
On May 19, 2015, the Company completed its offering of 120,750 shares of the Company's 5.625% Series A cumulative perpetual convertible preferred stock ("Series A Convertible Preferred Stock") that provided $117.2 million of proceeds, net of underwriting fees and issuance costs of $3.4 million. Each share of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is entitled to

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

dividends at a rate of 5.625% per annum which will be payable, when and if declared by the board of directors of the Company, quarterly, in arrears, on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year. The Company may, at its option, pay dividends in cash, common stock or a combination thereof. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 the Company declared and accrued a cash dividend of $1.7 million.
Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is non-voting and has a liquidity preference over the Company's Class A common stock and ranks senior to all classes or series of the Company's Class A common stock, but junior to all of the Company's existing and future indebtedness with respect to divided rights and rights upon the Company's involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding down.
Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible, at the option of the holder, into a number of shares of our Class A common stock equal to the liquidation preference of $1,000 divided by the conversion rate. The initial conversion rate is 152.2476 shares (which equates to $6.57 per share) of the Company's Class A common stock for each share of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. At any time on or after May 20, 2020, the Company may elect to convert all outstanding shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock into shares of the Company’s Class A common stock, cash or a combination thereof, at the Company’s election, in each case, based on the then-applicable conversion rate, if the last reported sale price of the Company’s Class A common stock equals or exceeds 150% of the then-current conversion price on at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the period of 30 consecutive trading days (including on the last trading day of such period) immediately prior to such election. At the time of conversion, the conversion rate may be adjusted based on certain events including but not limited to the issuance of cash dividends or Class A common stock as a dividends to the Company's Class A common shareholders or a share split or combination.
In connection with the issuance and sale of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, the Company entered into a privately negotiated capped call option transaction (the “Capped Call Option Transaction”) with Nomura Global Financial Products Inc. (the “option counterparty”) for $15.9 million. The Capped Call Option Transaction is expected generally to reduce the potential dilution to the Company’s Class A common stock (if the Company elects to convert to common shares) and/or offset any cash payments that the Company is required to make upon conversion of any Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. The Capped Call Option Transaction has an initial effective strike price of $6.57 per share, which matches the initial conversion price of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, and a cap price of $8.39 per share. However, to the extent that the market price of Class A common stock, as measured under the terms of the Capped Call Option Transaction, exceeds the cap price thereof, there would nevertheless be dilution and/or such cash payments would not be offset. As the Capped Call Option Transaction is a free standing derivative that is indexed to the Company's own stock price and the Company controls if it is settled in cash or stock it qualifies for equity classification as a reduction to additional paid in capital.
Treasury Stock
Treasury stock of $144.9 million as of March 31, 2016, compared to $137.4 million as of December 31, 2015, resulted from $4.0 million acquired through repurchases of shares to cover employee minimum tax withholding obligations related to stock compensation vesting events under the Company's Equity Plan or other similar transactions and $3.6 million purchased in connection with a share repurchase program.
The following represents the activity relating to the treasury stock held by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 
Treasury stock shares
 
Cost
(dollars in thousands)
 
Average cost
per share
Balance outstanding at December 31, 2015
34,515,734

 
$
137,356

 
$
3.98

Shares purchased for minimum tax withholding under the Equity Plan or other similar transactions
1,124,676

 
4,012

 
3.57

Purchase of treasury stock
998,119

 
3,570

 
3.58

Balance outstanding at March 31, 2016
36,638,529

 
$
144,938

 
$
3.96


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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income includes the after tax change in unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency translation adjustments and net gain (loss) and amortization of prior service costs related to the Company's defined benefit plans.
 
Foreign currency translation (a)
 
Defined benefit plans (a)
 
Total
 
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2015
$

 
$

 
$

Net change
(3
)
 

 
(3
)
Balance at March 31, 2016
$
(3
)
 
$

 
$
(3
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation (a)
 
Defined benefit plans (a)
 
Total
 
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2014
$
17

 
$

 
$
17

Net change
(2
)
 

 
(2
)
Balance at March 31, 2015
$
15

 
$

 
$
15

(a) During the periods presented, the Company did not have material reclassifications out of other comprehensive income.
15. Earnings Per Share
The Company calculates its basic and diluted earnings per share in accordance with US GAAP. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to the Company's common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. As of March 31, 2016, there were 106,078,205 shares outstanding. The Company has included 497,570 fully vested, unissued restricted stock units in its calculation of basic earnings per share.
Diluted earnings per common share are calculated by adjusting the weighted average outstanding shares to assume conversion of all potentially dilutive items. The Company uses the treasury stock method to reflect the potential dilutive effect of the warrants (see Note 5(a)), unexercised stock options, unvested restricted shares, restricted stock units, and SAR's. In calculating the number of dilutive shares outstanding, the shares of common stock underlying unvested restricted shares and restricted stock units are assumed to have been delivered, and options and warrants are assumed to have been exercised, on the grant date. The assumed proceeds from the assumed vesting, delivery and exercising were calculated as the sum of (a) the amount of compensation cost attributed to future services and not yet recognized and (b) the amount of tax benefit that would be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming vesting and delivery of the shares. The tax benefit is the amount resulting from a tax deduction for compensation in excess of compensation expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes. All outstanding stock options, SAR's, unvested restricted shares and warrants were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2016 as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. All outstanding stock options were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2015 as their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. The Company can elect to settle the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock in shares, cash, or a combination of both. The Company's intent is to settle in cash and, based on current and projected liquidity needs, the Company has the ability to do so.

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

The computation of earnings per share is as follows:
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(7,995
)
 
$
19,418

Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
(4,297
)
 
2,720

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc.
(3,698
)
 
16,698

Preferred stock dividends
1,698

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. common stockholders
$
(5,396
)
 
$
16,698

 
 
 
 
Shares for basic and diluted calculations:
 
 
 
Weighted average shares used in basic computation
106,364

 
112,053

Stock options

 

Performance based restricted stock

 
411

Stock appreciation rights

 
119

Restricted stock

 
6,007

Weighted average shares used in diluted computation
106,364

 
118,590

Earnings (loss) per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.15

Diluted
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.14

16. Segment Reporting
The Company conducts its operations through two segments: the alternative investment segment and the broker‑dealer segment. These activities are conducted primarily in the United States and substantially all of its revenues are generated domestically. The performance measure for these segments is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and make operating decisions for the segments including determining appropriate compensation levels. Expenses not directly associated with specific segments are allocated based on the most relevant measures applicable, including headcount, square footage and other factors.
In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds (ii) excludes goodwill and intangible impairment (iii) excludes certain other acquisition-related adjustments and/or reorganization expenses and (iv) excludes preferred stock dividends. In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.
As further stated below, one major difference between Economic Income (Loss) and US GAAP net income (loss) is that Economic Income (Loss) presents the segments' results of operations without the impact resulting from the full consolidation of any of the Consolidated Funds. Consolidation of these funds results in including in income the pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to other owners of such entities which is reflected in net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiaries in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. This pro rata share has no effect on the overall financial performance for the alternative investment segment, as ultimately, this income or loss is not income or loss for the alternative investment segment itself. Included in Economic Income (Loss) is the actual pro rata share of the income or loss attributable to the Company as an investor in such entities, which is relevant in management making operating decisions and evaluating financial performance.
The following tables set forth operating results for the Company's alternative investment and broker-dealer segments and related adjustments necessary to reconcile the Company's Economic Income (Loss) measure to arrive at the Company's consolidated US GAAP net income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjustments
 
 
 
 
 
Alternative
Investment
 
Broker-Dealer
 
Total Economic Income/(Loss)
 
Funds
Consolidation
 
Other
Adjustments
 
 
 
US GAAP
 
(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment banking
$

 
$
26,147

 
$
26,147

 
$

 
$

 
 
 
$
26,147

Brokerage

 
52,867

 
52,867

 

 
(1,932
)
 

 
50,935

Management fees
16,128

 
775

 
16,903

 
(370
)
 
(5,503
)
 
(a)
 
11,030

Incentive income
6,920

 

 
6,920

 
(157
)
 
(5,652
)
 
(a)
 
1,111

Investment Income
1,395

 
455

 
1,850

 

 
(1,850
)
 
(c)
 

Interest and dividends

 

 

 

 
3,653

 
(c)
 
3,653

Reimbursement from affiliates

 

 

 
(14
)
 
3,901

 
(e)
 
3,887

Other revenue
682

 
271

 
953

 

 
1,772

 
(c)
 
2,725

Consolidated Funds revenues

 

 

 
1,551

 

 
 
 
1,551

Total revenues
25,125

 
80,515

 
105,640

 
1,010

 
(5,611
)
 
 
 
101,039

Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non interest expense
20,261

 
83,761

 
104,022

 

 
2,791

 
(c)(d)(b)
 
106,813

Interest and dividends
3,183

 
1,090

 
4,273

 

 
3,037

 
(c)
 
7,310

Consolidated Funds expenses

 

 

 
1,816

 

 
 
 
1,816

Total expenses
23,444

 
84,851

 
108,295

 
1,816

 
5,828

 
 
 
115,939

Total other income (loss)

 

 

 
(3,413
)
 
6,998

 
(c)
 
3,585

Income taxes expense / (benefit)

 

 

 

 
(3,320
)
 
(b)
 
(3,320
)
(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
(2,227
)
 

 
(2,227
)
 
4,219

 
2,305

 
 
 
4,297

Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc.
$
(546
)
 
$
(4,336
)
 
$
(4,882
)
 
$

 
$
1,184

 
 
 
$
(3,698
)


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Table of Contents
Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

 
Three Months March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjustments
 
 
 
 
 
Alternative
Investment
 
Broker-Dealer
 
Total Economic Income/(Loss)
 
Funds
Consolidation
 
Other
Adjustments
 
 
 
US GAAP
 
(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment banking
$

 
$
65,233

 
$
65,233

 
$

 
$

 
 
 
$
65,233

Brokerage
18

 
35,505

 
35,523

 

 
(69
)
 

 
35,454

Management fees
16,607

 

 
16,607

 
(238
)
 
(5,985
)
 
(a)
 
10,384

Incentive income
15,363

 

 
15,363

 
(183
)
 
(12,808
)
 
(a)
 
2,372

Investment Income
21,830

 
7,050

 
28,880

 

 
(28,880
)
 
(c)
 

Interest and dividends

 

 

 

 
3,083

 
(c)
 
3,083

Reimbursement from affiliates

 

 

 
(85
)
 
3,727

 
(e)
 
3,642

Other revenue
21

 
48

 
69

 

 
599

 
(c)
 
668

Consolidated Funds revenues

 

 

 
258

 

 
 
 
258

Total revenues
53,839

 
107,836

 
161,675

 
(248
)
 
(40,333
)
 
 
 
121,094

Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non interest expense
34,834

 
96,329

 
131,163

 

 
1,506

 
(c)(d)
 
132,669

Interest and dividends
3,044

 
978

 
4,022

 

 
1,757

 
(c)
 
5,779

Consolidated Funds expenses

 

 

 
358

 

 
 
 
358

Total expenses
37,878

 
97,307

 
135,185

 
358

 
3,263

 
 
 
138,806

Total other income (loss)

 

 

 
2,407

 
41,670

 
(c)
 
44,077

Income taxes expense / (benefit)

 

 

 

 
6,947

 
(b)
 
6,947

(Income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
(2,845
)
 

 
(2,845
)
 
(1,801
)
 
1,926

 
 
 
(2,720
)
Economic Income (Loss) / Net Income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc.
$
13,116

 
$
10,529

 
$
23,645

 
$

 
$
(6,947
)
 
 
 
$
16,698

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following is a summary of the adjustments made to US GAAP net income (loss) for the segment to arrive at
Economic Income (Loss):
Funds Consolidation: The impacts of consolidation and the related elimination entries of the Consolidated Funds are not included in Economic Income (Loss). Adjustments to reconcile to US GAAP net income (loss) include elimination of incentive income and management fees earned from the Consolidated Funds and addition of fund expenses excluding management fees paid, fund revenues and investment income (loss).
Other Adjustments:
(a)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes revenues (i) net of distribution fees paid to agents and (ii) our proportionate share
of management and incentive fees of certain real estate operating entities and the activist business.
(b)    Economic Income (Loss) excludes income taxes and acquisition related adjustments as management does not consider
these items when evaluating the performance of the segment.
(c)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes Company income from proprietary trading (including interest and dividends) and
underwriting income from the Company's insurance related activities net of expenses.
(d)     Economic Income (Loss) recognizes the Company's proportionate share of expenses for certain real estate and other
operating entities for which the investments are recorded under the equity method of accounting for investments.
(e)    Reimbursement from affiliates is shown as a reduction of Economic Income expenses, but is included as a part of
revenues under US GAAP.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, there was no one fund or other customer which represented more than 10% of the Company's total revenues.

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

17. Regulatory Requirements
As registered broker-dealers, Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading are subject to the SEC's Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Under the alternative method permitted by the Rule, Cowen and Company's minimum net capital requirement, as defined, is $1.0 million. Under the alternative method ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading are required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined, equal to $250,000. The broker-dealers are not permitted to withdraw equity if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. As of March 31, 2016, Cowen and Company had total net capital of approximately $56.6 million, which was approximately $55.6 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $1.0 million. As of March 31, 2016, ATM Execution had total net capital of approximately $3.9 million, which was approximately $3.7 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. As of March 31, 2016, Cowen Prime had total net capital of approximately $17.5 million, which was approximately $17.3 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. Cowen Prime Trading had total net capital of approximately $4.4 million, which was approximately $4.2 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000.
Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading claim exemption from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as their activities are limited to those set forth in the conditions for exemption appearing in paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of the Rule.
Proprietary accounts of broker-dealers (“PAB”) held at the clearing broker are considered allowable assets for net capital purposes, pursuant to agreements between Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading and the clearing brokers, which require, among other things, that the clearing brokers performs computations for PAB and segregates certain balances on behalf of Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading, if applicable.
Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK") and Cowen International Limited ("CIL") are subject to the capital requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) of the UK. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the requirement of the FCA. As of March 31, 2016, Ramius UK's Financial Resources of $0.28 million exceeded its minimum requirement of $0.06 million by $0.22 million. As of March 31, 2016, CIL's Financial Resources of $4.3 million exceeded its minimum requirement of $2.0 million by $2.3 million.
Cowen’s Luxembourg reinsurance companies, Vianden RCG Re SCA (“Vianden”) and Hollenfels, is required to maintain a solvency capital ratio as calculated by relevant European Commission directives and local regulatory rules in Luxembourg. Each company’s solvency capital ratio as of March 31, 2016 was in excess of this minimum requirement.
Based on minimum capital and surplus requirements pursuant to the laws of the state of New York that apply to captive insurance companies, RCG Insurance Company, Cowen’s captive insurance company incorporated and licensed in the state of New York, was required to maintain capital and surplus of approximately $0.3 million as of March 31, 2016. RCG Insurance Company’s capital and surplus as of March 31, 2016 totaled approximately $21 million.
18. Related Party Transactions
The Company and its affiliated entities are the managing member, general partner and/or investment manager to the Company's alternative asset management products and certain managed accounts. Management fees and incentive income are primarily earned from affiliated entities. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, $5.7 million and $6.3 million, respectively, included in fees receivable are earned from related parties. The Company may, at its discretion, reimburse certain fees charged to the funds that it manages to avoid duplication of fees when such funds have an underlying investment in another affiliated investment fund. The Company reimbursed the funds it manages and records these net in management fees and incentive income in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operation. These amounts were immaterial for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, related amounts still payable were $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively, and were reflected in fees payable in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Fees receivable and fees payable are recorded at carrying value, which approximates fair value.
The Company may also make loans to employees or other affiliates, excluding executive officers of the Company. These loans are interest bearing and settle pursuant to the agreed-upon terms with such employees or affiliates and are included in due from related parties in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, loans to employees of $5.4 million and $5.5 million, respectively, were included in due from related parties on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company does not make loans to its executive officers. Of these amounts $0.6 million and $1.2 million, respectively, are related to forgivable loans. These forgivable loans provide for a cash payment up-front to employees, with the amount due back to the Company forgiven over a

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

vesting period.  An employee that voluntarily ceases employment, or is terminated with cause, is generally required to pay back to the Company any unvested forgivable loans granted to them.  The forgivable loans are recorded as an asset to the Company on the date of grant and payment, and then amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.  The vesting period on forgivable loans is generally one to three years. The Company recorded compensation expense of $0.6 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. This expense is included in employee compensation and benefits in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, and 2015, the interest income was insignificant for all related party loans and advances.
Included in due to related parties is approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, related to a subordination agreement with an investor in certain real estate funds. This total is based on a hypothetical liquidation of the real estate funds as of the balance sheet date.
During March 2015, the Company issued a $15.0 million unsecured loan to its real estate business with maturity of June 29, 2015 and an effective annualized interest rate of 8.8%. This balance was fully repaid to the Company during June 2015. The interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was insignificant.
Included in due from related parties is $14.4 million related to a sale, in December of 2015, of a portion of the Company's ownership interest in the activist business of Starboard Value to the Starboard principals. It is being financed through the profits of the relevant Starboard entities over a five year period and earns interest at 5% per annum.  The interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $0.2 million.
The remaining balance included in due from related parties of $14.5 million and $20.0 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, relates to amounts due to the Company from affiliated funds and real estate entities due to expenses paid on their behalf.
Employees and certain other related parties invest on a discretionary basis within consolidated entities. These investments generally are subject to preferential management fee and performance fee arrangements. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, such investments aggregated $24.9 million and $21.3 million, respectively, were included in redeemable non-controlling interests on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Their share of the net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds aggregated $0.3 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
19. Guarantees and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Guarantees
US GAAP requires the Company to disclose information about its obligations under certain guarantee arrangements. Those standards define guarantees as contracts and indemnification agreements that contingently require a guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying security (such as an interest or foreign exchange rate, security or commodity price, an index or the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a specified event) related to an asset, liability or equity security of a guaranteed party. Those standards also define guarantees as contracts that contingently require the guarantor to make payments to the guaranteed party based on another entity's failure to perform under an agreement as well as indirect guarantees of the indebtedness of others.
In the normal course of its operations, the Company enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations and warranties and which provide general indemnifications. The Company's maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Company that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Company expects the risk of loss to be remote.
The Company indemnifies and guarantees certain service providers, such as clearing and custody agents, trustees and administrators, against specified potential losses in connection with their acting as an agent of, or providing services to, the Company or its affiliates. The Company also indemnifies some clients against potential losses incurred in the event specified third-party service providers, including sub-custodians and third-party brokers, improperly execute transactions. The maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes that it is unlikely it will have to make significant payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.
The Company also provides representations and warranties to counterparties in connection with a variety of commercial transactions and occasionally indemnifies them against potential losses caused by the breach of those representations and warranties. The Company may also provide standard indemnifications to some counterparties to protect them in the event

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Cowen Group, Inc.
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

additional taxes are owed or payments are withheld, due either to a change in or adverse application of certain tax laws. These indemnifications generally are standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business. The maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these indemnifications cannot be estimated. However, the Company believes it is unlikely it will have to make material payments under these arrangements and has not recorded any contingent liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for these indemnifications.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The Company has no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. However, through indemnification provisions in the clearing agreement, customer activities may expose the Company to off-balance-sheet credit risk. Pursuant to the clearing agreement, the Company is required to reimburse the Company's clearing broker, without limit, for any losses incurred due to a counterparty's failure to satisfy its contractual obligations. However, these transactions are collateralized by the underlying security, thereby reducing the associated risk to changes in the market value of the security through the settlement date.
In addition, during the normal course of business, the Company has exposure to a number of risks including market risk, currency risk, credit risk, operational risk, liquidity risk and legal risk. As part of the Company's risk management process, these risks are monitored on a regular basis throughout the course of the year.
20. Subsequent Events
In April 2016, Cowen Aviation Finance Holdings Inc. ("Cowen Aviation Finance") completed the financing for one aircraft that was acquired during the first quarter of 2016 with such financing completed based on a 75% loan to purchase price of the aircraft.  In addition, in April 2016, Cowen Aviation Finance received a contribution of four additional specialized aircraft currently on lease to government agencies in exchange for making an upfront payment and issuing a minority equity interest in Cowen Aviation Finance to the seller of the aircraft.  In connection with the contribution of the aircraft, Cowen Aviation Finance entered into services agreements with Tempus Applied Solutions, Inc., which has two of the Company's directors on its board of directors.
On April 27, 2016, the Company's Board of Directors approved a $3.6 million increase in the Company's share repurchase program (see Note 13) bringing the total value of remaining shares available for repurchase to $25.0 million.
The Company has evaluated events that have occurred after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued and has determined that there were no additional subsequent events requiring adjustment or disclosure in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Item 2.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
         This discussion contains forward-looking statements, which involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes of Cowen Group, Inc. included elsewhere in this quarterly report. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
Overview
Cowen Group, Inc. (the "Company") is a diversified financial services firm and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, "Cowen", "Cowen Group" or the "Company"), provides alternative investment management, investment banking, research, sales and trading and prime brokerage services through its two business segments: alternative investment and broker-dealer. The alternative investment segment includes hedge funds, private equity structures, registered investment companies and listed vehicles. The broker-dealer segment offers industry focused investment banking for growth-oriented companies including advisory and global capital markets origination and domain knowledge-driven research and a sales and trading platform for institutional investors, primarily under the Cowen name.
Ramius is an alternative investment platform offering innovative products and solutions across the liquidity spectrum to institutional and private clients. The predecessor to this business was founded in 1994 and, through one of its subsidiaries, has been a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 since 1997. Ramius offers investors access to strategies to meet their specific needs including long/short equity, activist equity, event driven equity, event driven credit, global macro, customized portfolio solutions, managed futures, health care royalties and private real estate. Ramius focuses on attracting and retaining talented in-house and affiliated investment teams and providing them with institutional infrastructure, robust sales and marketing and industry knowledge. A significant portion of the Company’s capital is invested alongside Ramius’s alternative investment clients. Our alternative investment business had approximately $13.7 billion of assets under management as of April 1, 2016. See the section titled "Assets Under Management and Fund Performance" for further analysis.
Our broker-dealer businesses include research, sales and trading, prime brokerage and investment banking services to companies and primarily institutional investor clients. Our primary target sectors ("Target Sectors") are healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, information and technology services, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, real estate investment trusts ("REITs"), and energy and transportation. We provide research and brokerage services to over 1,000 domestic and international clients seeking to trade securities, principally in our Target Sectors. Historically, we have focused our investment banking efforts on small to mid-capitalization public companies as well as private companies.
Certain Factors Impacting Our Business
Our alternative investment business and results of operations are impacted by the following factors:
Assets under management.  Our revenues from management fees are directly linked to assets under management. As a result, the future performance of our alternative investment business will depend on, among other things, our ability to retain assets under management and to grow assets under management from existing and new products. In addition, positive performance increases assets under management which results in higher management fees.
Investment performance.  Our revenues from incentive income are linked to the performance of the funds and accounts that we manage. Performance also affects assets under management because it influences investors' decisions to invest assets in, or withdraw assets from, the funds and accounts managed by us.
Fee and allocation rates.  Our management fee revenues are linked to the management fee rates we charge as a percentage of assets under management. Our incentive income revenues are linked to the incentive allocation rates we charge as a percentage of performance-driven asset growth. Our incentive allocations are generally subject to “high-water marks,” whereby incentive income is generally earned by us only to the extent that the net asset value of a fund at the end of a measurement period exceeds the highest net asset value as of the end of the earlier measurement period for which we earned incentive income. Our incentive allocations, in some cases, are subject to performance hurdles.
Investment performance of our own capital.  We invest our own capital and the performance of such invested capital affects our revenues.
Our broker-dealer business and results of operations are impacted by the following factors:
Underwriting, private placement and strategic/financial advisory fees.  Our revenues from investment banking are directly linked to the underwriting fees we earn in equity and debt securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, private placement fees earned in non-underwritten transactions, sales commissions earned in at-the-

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market offerings and success fees earned in connection with advising both buyers and sellers, principally in mergers and acquisitions. As a result, the future performance of our investment banking business will depend on, among other things, our ability to secure lead manager and co-manager roles in clients capital raising transactions as well as our ability to secure mandates as a client's strategic financial advisor.
Commissions.  Our commission revenues depend for the most part on our customer trading volumes.
Principal transactions. Principal transactions revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities and net trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions. Commissions associated with these transactions are also included herein. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk.
Equity research fees.  Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. The Company also permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. Our ability to generate revenues relating to our equity research depends on the quality of our research and its relevance to our institutional customers and other clients.
Investment performance of our own capital.  Investment income in the broker-dealer business includes gains and losses generated by the capital the Company invests in private capital raising transactions of its investment banking clients.  Our revenues from investment income are linked to the performance of the underlying investments.
External Factors Impacting Our Business
Our financial performance is highly dependent on the environment in which our businesses operate. We believe a favorable business environment is characterized by many factors, including a stable geopolitical climate, transparent financial markets, low inflation, low interest rates, low unemployment, strong business profitability and high business and investor confidence. Unfavorable or uncertain economic or market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence, limitations on the availability (or increases in the cost of) credit and capital, increases in inflation or interest rates, exchange rate volatility, unfavorable global asset allocation trends, outbreaks of hostilities or other geopolitical instability, corporate, political or other scandals that reduce investor confidence in the capital markets, or a combination of these or other factors. Our businesses and profitability have been and may continue to be adversely affected by market conditions in many ways, including the following:
Our broker-dealer business has been, and may continue to be, adversely affected by market conditions. Increased competition continues to affect our investment banking and capital markets businesses. The same factors also affect trading volumes in secondary financial markets, which affect our brokerage business. Commission rates, market volatility, increased competition from larger financial firms and other factors also affect our brokerage revenues and may cause these revenues to vary from period to period.
Our broker-dealer business focuses primarily on small to mid-capitalization and private companies in specific industry sectors. These sectors may experience growth or downturns independent of general economic and market conditions, or may face market conditions that are disproportionately better or worse than those impacting the economy and markets generally. In addition, increased government regulation has had, and may continue to have, a disproportionate effect on capital formation by smaller companies. Therefore, our broker-dealer business could be affected differently than overall market trends.
Our alternative investment business can be adversely affected by unanticipated levels of requested redemptions. We experienced significant levels of requested redemptions during the 2008 financial crisis and, while the environment for investing in alternative investment products has since improved, it is possible that we could intermittently experience redemptions above historical levels, regardless of fund performance.
Our businesses, by their nature, do not produce predictable earnings. Our results in any period can be materially affected by conditions in global financial markets and economic conditions generally. We are also subject to various legal and regulatory actions that impact our business and financial results.
Recent Developments
In the first quarter of 2016, the Company launched Cowen Aviation Finance Holdings Inc. ("Cowen Aviation Finance"), a business that will own and lease mission critical, specialized aircraft to governments, heads of states and specialty customers.  During the first quarter of 2016, Cowen Aviation Finance acquired two aircraft for approximately $11.8 million and these aircraft were concurrently leased whose end users are government agencies. Cowen Aviation Finance intends to originate opportunities directly and in partnership with its service providers.

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In March 2016, the Company announced the signing of a definitive agreement pursuant to which the Company will acquire CRT Capital Group LLC's (“CRT”) credit products, credit research, special situations and emerging markets units. This transaction positions the acquired business, which will be named Cowen Credit Research and Trading, as a leader in distressed debt, special situations and emerging markets.
In April 2016, the Company announced a partnership with Samantha Greenberg's newly-launched Margate Capital Management LP (“Margate”). Margate, a multi-sector equity long/short alternative asset manager, will leverage the institutional infrastructure and operational expertise of the Company, which is providing seed capital to the new venture.
Basis of presentation
The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company in this Form 10-Q are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America ("US GAAP") as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") through Accounting Standards Codification as the source of authoritative accounting principles in the preparation of financial statements and include the accounts of the Company, its subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest or a substantive, controlling general partner interest. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain fund entities that are consolidated in the condensed consolidated financial statements, are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their own investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.
The Company serves as the managing member/general partner and/or investment manager to affiliated fund entities which it sponsors and manages. Certain of these funds in which the Company has a substantive, controlling general partner interest are consolidated with the Company pursuant to US GAAP as described below (the “Consolidated Funds”). Consequently, the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of these funds on a gross basis. The ownership interests in these funds which are not owned by the Company are reflected as redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries in the condensed consolidated financial statements appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from these funds are eliminated in consolidation.
Revenue recognition
Our principal sources of revenue are derived from two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment, as more fully described below.
Our alternative investment segment generates revenue through three principal sources: management fees, incentive income and investment income from the Company's own capital.
Our broker-dealer segment generates revenue through three principal sources: investment banking, brokerage and investment income.
Management fees
The Company earns management fees from affiliated funds and certain managed accounts that it serves as the investment manager based on assets under management. The actual management fees received vary depending on distribution fees or fee splits paid to third parties either in connection with raising the assets or structuring the investment.
Management fees are generally paid on a quarterly basis at the beginning of each quarter in arrears and are prorated for capital inflows and redemptions. While some investors may have separately negotiated fees, in general the management fees are as follows:
Hedge Funds. Management fees for the Company's hedge funds are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of assets under management or notional trading level. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income.
Registered Funds. Management fees for the Company’s registered funds (State Street/Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund and Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Fund) are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 1.50% of assets under management.
Alternative Solutions. Management fees for the Alternative Solutions business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of assets under management or notional trading level. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income or based on assets under management at the beginning of the month. Management fees earned from the Alternative Solutions business are based and initially calculated on estimated net asset values and actual fees ultimately earned could be impacted to the extent of any changes in these estimates.

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Real Estate. Management fees from the Company's real estate business are generally charged by their general partners at an annual rate from 0.25% to 1.50% of total capital commitments during the investment period and of invested capital or net asset value of the applicable fund after the investment period has ended. Management fees are typically paid to the general partners on a quarterly basis, at the beginning of the quarter in arrears, and are prorated for changes in capital commitments throughout the investment period and invested capital after the investment period. The general partners of the funds on the RCG Longview platform are owned jointly by the Company and third parties. Accordingly, the management fees (in addition to incentive income and investment income) generated by these real estate funds are split between the Company and the other general partners. Pursuant to US GAAP, these fees and other income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
HealthCare Royalty Partners. During the investment period (as defined in the management agreement of the HealthCare Royalty Partners' funds), management fees for the funds and managed accounts advised by HealthCare Royalty Partners are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of committed capital. After the investment period, management fees are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of the net asset value of the funds or managed accounts or the aggregate cost basis of the unrealized investments held by the funds. Management fees for the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds are calculated on a quarterly basis.
Ramius Trading Strategies. Management fees and platform fees for the Company's private commodity trading advisory business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 0.5%. Management and platform fees are generally calculated monthly based on each account's notional trading level at the end of each month.
Incentive income
The Company earns incentive income based on net profits (as defined in the respective investment management agreements) with respect to certain of the Company's funds and managed accounts, allocable for each fiscal year that exceeds cumulative unrecovered net losses, if any, that have been carried forward from prior years. For the products we offer, incentive income earned is typically up to 20% for hedge funds and up to 10% for alternative solutions products (in certain cases on performance in excess of a benchmark), of the net profits earned for the full year that are attributable to each fee-paying investor. Generally, incentive income on real estate funds is earned after the investor has received a full return of their invested capital, plus a preferred return. However, for certain real estate funds, the Company is entitled to receive incentive fees earlier, provided that the investors have received their preferred return on a current basis or on an investor by investor basis. These funds are generally subject to a potential clawback of these incentive fees upon the liquidation of the fund if the investor has not received a full return of its invested capital plus the preferred return thereon. Incentive income in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds is generally earned only after investors receive a full return of their capital plus a preferred return. Pursuant to US GAAP, incentive income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
In periods following a period of a net loss attributable to an investor, the Company generally does not earn incentive income on any future profits attributable to that investor until the accumulated net loss from prior periods is recovered, an arrangement commonly referred to as a “high-water mark.” The Company has elected to record incentive income revenue in accordance with “Method 2” of US GAAP. Under Method 2, the incentive income from the Company's funds and managed accounts for any period is based upon the net profits of those funds and managed accounts at the reporting date. Any incentive income recognized in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations may be subject to future reversal based on subsequent negative performance prior to the conclusion of the fiscal year, when all contingencies have been resolved.
Carried interest in the real estate funds is subject to clawback to the extent that the carried interest actually distributed to date exceeds the amount due to the Company based on cumulative results. As such, the accrual for potential repayment of previously received carried interest, which is a component of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, represents all amounts previously distributed to the Company, less an assumed tax liability, that would need to be repaid to certain real estate funds if these funds were to be liquidated based on the current fair value of the underlying funds' investments as of the reporting date. The actual clawback liability does not become realized until the end of a fund's life.
Investment Banking
The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors.     

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Investment banking revenue consists of underwriting fees, strategic/financial advisory fees and placement and sales agent fees.    
Underwriting fees. The Company earns underwriting fees in securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, such as initial public offerings, follow-on equity offerings, debt offerings, and convertible security offerings. Fee revenue relating to underwriting commitments is recorded when all significant items relating to the underwriting process have been completed and the amount of the underwriting revenue has been determined. This generally is the point at which all of the following have occurred: (i) the issuer's registration statement has become effective with the SEC or the other offering documents are finalized; (ii) the Company has made a firm commitment for the purchase of securities from the issuer; and (iii) the Company has been informed of the number of securities that it has been allotted.
When the Company is not the lead manager for an underwriting transaction, management must estimate the Company's share of transaction-related expenses incurred by the lead manager in order to recognize revenue. Transaction-related expenses are deducted from the underwriting fee and therefore reduce the revenue the Company recognizes as co-manager. Such amounts are adjusted to reflect actual expenses in the period in which the Company receives the final settlement, typically within 90 days following the closing of the transaction.
Strategic/financial advisory fees. The Company's strategic advisory revenues include success fees earned in connection with advising companies, principally in mergers and acquisitions and restructuring transactions. The Company also earns fees for related advisory work such as providing fairness opinions. The Company records strategic advisory revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.
Placement and sales agent fees. The Company earns agency placement fees and sales agent commissions in non-underwritten transactions such as private placements of loans and debt and equity securities, including, private investment in public equity transactions (“PIPEs”), and as sales agent in at-the-market offerings of equity securities. The Company records placement revenues (which may be in cash and/or securities) when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. The Company records sales agent commissions on a trade date basis. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.
Brokerage
Brokerage revenue consists of commissions, principal transactions and equity research fees.
Commissions. Commission revenue includes fees from executing client transactions. These fees are recognized on a trade date basis. The Company permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. The amounts allocated for those purposes are commonly referred to as soft dollar arrangements. Commissions on soft dollar brokerage are recorded net of the related expenditures on an accrual basis. Commission revenues also includes fees from making algorithms available to clients.
Principal Transactions. Principal transactions revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities in over-the-counter equity securities, trading of convertible securities, and trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions, which include warrants previously received as part of investment banking transactions. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients by buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk. These positions are typically held for a very short duration.
Equity Research Fees. Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. Revenue is recognized once an arrangement exists, access to research has been provided, the fee amount is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured.
Investment Income
Investment income earned by the alternative investment and broker-dealer segments are earned from investing the Company's capital in various strategies and from investments in private capital raising transactions of its investment banking clients.



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Interest and Dividends
Interest and dividends are earned by the Company from various sources. The Company receives interest and dividends primarily from investments held by its Consolidated Funds and its brokerage balances from invested capital and securities lending business. Interest is recognized on an accrual basis and interest income is recognized on the debt of those issuers that is deemed collectible. Interest income and expense includes premiums and discounts amortized and accreted on debt investments based on criteria determined by the Company using the effective yield method, which assumes the reinvestment of all interest payments. Dividends are recognized on the ex-dividend date.
Reimbursement from Affiliates     
The Company allocates, at its discretion, certain expenses incurred on behalf of its hedge fund, fund of funds and real estate businesses. These expenses relate to the administration of such subsidiaries and assets that the Company manages for its funds. In addition, pursuant to the funds' offering documents, the Company charges certain allowable expenses to the funds, including charges and personnel costs for legal, compliance, accounting, tax compliance, risk and technology expenses that directly relate to administering the assets of the funds. Such expenses that have been reimbursed at their actual costs are included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as employee compensation and benefits, professional, advisory and other fees, communications, occupancy and equipment, client services and business development and other.
Expenses
The Company's expenses consist of compensation and benefits, interest expense and general, administrative and other expenses.
Compensation and Benefits.  Compensation and benefits is comprised of salaries, benefits, discretionary cash bonuses and equity-based compensation. Annual incentive compensation is variable, and the amount paid is generally based on a combination of employees' performance, their contribution to their business segment, and the Company's performance. Generally, compensation and benefits comprise a significant portion of total expenses, with annual incentive compensation comprising a significant portion of total compensation and benefits expenses.
Interest and Dividends.  Interest and dividend expense relates primarily to trading activity with respect to the Company's investments and interest expense on debt issued during March and October 2014.
General, Administrative and Other.  General, administrative and other expenses are primarily related to professional services, occupancy and equipment, business development expenses, communications, insurance and other miscellaneous expenses. These expenses may also include certain one-time charges and non-cash expenses.
Consolidated Funds Expenses.  Certain funds are consolidated by the Company pursuant to US GAAP. As such, the Company's consolidated financial statements reflect the expenses of these consolidated entities and the portion attributable to other investors is allocated to a redeemable non-controlling interest.
Income Taxes
The taxable results of the Company’s U.S. operations are subject to U.S. federal, state and city taxation as a corporation. The Company is also subject to foreign taxation on income it generates in certain countries.
The Company records deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax benefit or expense that will result from differences between the carrying value of its assets for income tax purposes and for financial reporting purposes, as well as for operating or capital loss and tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance is recorded to bring the net deferred tax assets to a level that, in management’s view, is more likely than not to be realized in the foreseeable future. This level will be estimated based on a number of factors, especially the amount of net deferred tax assets of the Company that are actually expected to be realized, for tax purposes, in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax liabilities that cannot be realized in a similar future time period and thus that cannot offset the Company’s deferred tax assets are not taken into account when calculating the Company’s net deferred tax assets.
Redeemable Non-controlling Interests
Redeemable non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities. Due to the fact that the non-controlling interests are redeemable at the option of the holder they have been classified as temporary equity.

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Assets Under Management and Fund Performance
Assets Under Management
Assets under management refer to all of our alternative investment products, solutions and services including hedge funds, private equity structures, registered investment companies and listed vehicles. The Company's alternative investment segment includes such strategies as long/short equity, activist equity, event driven equity, event driven credit, global macro, customized portfolio solutions, managed futures, health care royalties and private real estate.
Assets under management also include the fair value of assets the Company manages pursuant to separately managed accounts, collateralized debt obligations for which the Company is the collateral manager, and, as indicated in the footnotes to the table below, proprietary assets which the Company has invested in these products. Also, as indicated, assets under management for certain products may represent committed capital or committed funding that may not be under our control but forms part of the alternative investment product’s trading level. 
As of April 1, 2016, the Company had assets under management of $13.7 billion, a 2.8% increase as compared to assets under management of $13.3 billion as of January 1, 2016. The $0.4 billion increase in assets under management during the three months ended March 31, 2016 primarily resulted from hedge funds products.
The following table is a breakout of total assets under management by platform as of April 1, 2016 (which excludes cross investments from other Ramius platforms):
 
 
Platform
 
 
Hedge Funds (a) (b) (g) (m)
 
Alternative Solutions (a) (h)
 
Ramius Trading Strategies
(i)
 
Real Estate (a) (j)
 
Healthcare Royalty Partners (c) (d) (k)
 
Other (l)
 
Total
 
 
(dollars in millions)
January 1, 2014
 
$
3,168

 
$
2,936

 
$
94

 
$
1,639

 
$
1,523

 
$
67

 
$
9,427

Subscriptions
 
1,132

 
1,326

 
35

 
249

 
1,059

 

 
3,801

Redemptions
 
(935
)
 
(272
)
 

 
(181
)
 

 
(19
)
 
(1,407
)
Performance (e)
 
853

 
(206
)
 
18

 

 

 

 
665

Net Return (f)
 
26.93
 %
 
(7.02
)%
 
19.15
 %
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
7.05
 %
January 1, 2015
 
4,218

 
3,784

 
147

 
1,707

 
2,582

 
48

 
12,486

Subscriptions
 
2,725

 
997

 

 

 

 

 
3,722

Redemptions
 
(572
)
 
(810
)
 
(49
)
 
(65
)
 
(178
)
 
(14
)
 
(1,688
)
Performance (e)
 
(781
)
 
(419
)
 
(3
)
 

 
5

 

 
(1,198
)
Net Return (f)
 
(18.52
)%
 
(11.07
)%
 
(2.04
)%
 
%
 
0.19
%
 
%
 
(9.59
)%
January 1, 2016
 
5,590

 
3,552

 
95

 
1,642

 
2,409

 
34

 
13,322

Subscriptions
 
443

 

 

 

 

 

 
443

Redemptions
 
(174
)
 
(90
)
 
(2
)
 
(44
)
 
(21
)
 
(2
)
 
(333
)
Performance (e)
 
165

 
95

 
3

 

 

 

 
263

Net Return (f)
 
2.95
 %
 
2.67
 %
 
3.16
 %
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
1.97
 %
April 1, 2016
 
$
6,024

 
$
3,557

 
$
96

 
$
1,598

 
$
2,388

 
$
32

 
$
13,695

(a)
The Company owns between 20% and 55% of the general partners or managing members of the real estate business, the activist business, the global macro strategy business (the single strategy hedge funds) and the alternative solutions business (starting as of September 2013).
(b)
These amounts include the Ramius Event Driven Equity Fund (which was liquidated in January 2016) and the Company's invested capital of approximately $163.4 million, $173.6 million and $172.2 million as of April 1, 2016, January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2015, respectively.
(c)
These amounts include the Company's invested capital of approximately $21.7 million, $20.2 million and $20.7 million as of April 1, 2016, January 1, 2016 and January 1, 2015, respectively.
(d)
This amount reflects committed capital.
(e)
Performance and net returns are net of all management and incentive fees and includes the effect of any foreign exchange translation adjustments and leverage in certain funds.

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(f)
Net returns are calculated on the platform as a whole. Net return of individual funds will vary based on the timing and strategy the respective funds.
(g)
The Company’s actively marketed hedge fund products have varying liquidity terms typically ranging from daily to quarterly liquidity with less liquidity applying to certain co-investment vehicles. In 2010, the Company suspended redemption rights with respect to certain hedge funds that are being wound down. The hedge funds that have suspended redemption rights represent approximately 4.94% of the total hedge fund assets under management.
(h)
The Company’s actively marketed alternative solutions products have varying liquidity terms typically ranging from daily to quarterly liquidity. Since 2008, the Company has suspended redemption rights for a number of alternative solutions funds that are being wound down. The alternative solutions funds that have suspended redemption rights represent approximately 0.11% of the total alternative solutions assets under management.
(i)
The Ramius Trading Strategies products offer investors daily liquidity.
(j)
The real estate business does not provide investors with redemption rights. Investors receive distributions upon dispositions of the underlying real estate investments of which a portion reflects committed capital.
(k)
The Healthcare Royalty funds do not provide investors with redemption rights. Investors receive distributions upon realizations of the funds’ investments.
(l)
The collateralized debt obligations managed by the Company is an amortizing pool of assets with cash returned to investors in periodic distributions as it becomes available.
(m)
Due to the sale of its interest in Orchard Square Partners, effective December 31, 2014, redemptions during the 2014 year include $420.8 million of assets under management related to this business.
Fund Performance
For the quarter ended March 31, 2016, the Company's strategies had mixed results relative to their respective benchmarks.
The first three months of the year presented a number of contrasts in terms of investor sentiment and market results. From January 1 through the first two weeks of February, it appeared to be a global risk-off environment, yet one without the threat of any specific identifiable financial crisis or pending economic collapse. That said, there were concerns with China’s effect on world trade, the potential “Brexit” by the United Kingdom, ongoing terror attacks, declining oil prices with  a dramatic effect on high-yield energy related debt,  and weakening emerging market equity and bond prices. From that point on in February, however, without any corresponding signal, investors began to embrace risk once again, leading to rallies in US equities and Treasuries, gold and crude oil.
Overcoming the recent difficulties for event-driven managers in general, our activist strategy had positive results, outperforming the Russell 2000 Index, which was negative for the quarter despite a sharp recovery in the last two months. As previously noted, the performance of the activist strategy will continue to have a meaningful effect on the Company’s financial results due to the level of assets under management.  The merger arbitrage strategy also had positive performance for the quarter, exceeding that of the HFRX Merger Arbitrage Index. The strategy enjoyed its most significant quarter of growth in assets during the period.  Our options-based global macro strategy had muted performance since inception as slightly negative results were realized as the major asset classes staged sharp reversals as described above. Our most recent affiliate, which joined in the fourth quarter, engages in equity long/short investing in consumer-related stocks. Since joining Ramius, the strategy has generated positive results, and that was the case again in the first quarter. Strong performance on the short side of the book created staying power in January and early February, leading to an attractive results in March.
The State Street Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund, which offers exposure to multi-manager managed futures had positive results for the first quarter. In this instance, the first two months of the year were the most productive, with the risk-on sentiment in March dampening, but not eliminating, positive performance. The Company’s alternative solutions business is based on institutional customized accounts and, as a result, performance varies depending on the underlying objectives of each account. The solutions business performed adequately in its specialized assignments.  
The internally managed multi-strategy funds maintained their focus on capital preservation, while continuing to execute opportunistic transactions linked to certain assets.
With regard to the longer-dated investment vehicles in real estate, the largest legacy real estate debt fund was basically flat for the quarter.  The legacy equity fund was up slightly for the period, based on the change in IRR utilizing the net assets of the fund at the end of the quarter (residual value). Certain of the legacy real estate funds are in the process of returning capital to investors.  The most recent real estate debt vehicle continues to make investments, and interim results are meeting performance

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expectations.  Our healthcare royalty strategy, having raised a substantial amount of capital in 2014, still remains in its investment period.
Invested Capital
The Company invests a significant portion of its capital base to help drive results and facilitate the growth of its alternative investment and broker/dealer businesses. Management allocates capital to three primary investment categories: (i) trading strategies; (ii) merchant banking investments; and (iii) real estate investments. The Company seeks to make strategic and opportunistic investments in varying capital structures across a diverse array of businesses, hedge funds and mutual funds. Much of the Company's trading strategy portfolio is invested along side the Company's alternative investment clients and includes liquid investment strategies such as corporate credit trading, event driven, macro trading, and enhanced cash management. Within its merchant banking investments, management generally takes a long-term view that typically involves investing directly in public and private companies globally, private equity funds and along side its alternative investment clients. In addition, from time to time the Company makes investments in private capital raising transactions of its investment banking clients. The Company's real estate investment strategy focuses on making investments along side the alternative investment clients invested in the RCG Longview funds, as well as in direct investments in commercial real estate projects.
As of March 31, 2016, the Company's invested capital amounted to a net value of $666.2 million (supporting a long market value of $1,061.4 million), representing approximately 85% of Cowen Group's stockholders' equity presented in accordance with US GAAP. The table below presents the Company's invested equity capital by strategy and as a percentage of Cowen Group's stockholders' equity as of March 31, 2016. The net values presented in the table below do not tie to Cowen Group's condensed consolidated statement of financial condition as of March 31, 2016 because they are included in various line items of the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial condition, including “securities owned, at fair value”, “other investments”, “cash and cash equivalents”, and “consolidated funds-securities owned, at fair value”.
Strategy
Net Value
 
% of Stockholders' Equity
 
(dollars in millions)
 
 
Trading
$
434.0

 
55%
Merchant Banking
172.5

 
22%
Real Estate
59.7

 
8%
Total
666.2

 
85%
Stockholders' Equity
$
782.9

 
100%
The allocations shown in the table above will change over time.
Results of Operations
To provide comparative information of the Company's operating results for the periods presented, a discussion of Economic Income (Loss) of our alternative investment and broker-dealer segments follows the discussion of our total consolidated US GAAP results. Economic Income (Loss) reflects, on a consistent basis for all periods presented in the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements, income earned from the Company's funds and managed accounts and from its own invested capital. Economic Income (Loss) excludes certain adjustments required under US GAAP. See the section titled “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of the Company-Segment Analysis and Economic Income (Loss),” and Note 16 to the accompanying condensed Company's consolidated financial statements, appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, for a reconciliation of Economic Income (Loss) to total Company US GAAP net income (loss).

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Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Period to Period
 
2016
 
2015
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
(dollars in thousands)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment banking
$
26,147

 
$
65,233

 
$
(39,086
)
 
(60
)%
Brokerage
50,935

 
35,454

 
15,481

 
44
 %
Management fees
11,030

 
10,384

 
646

 
6
 %
Incentive income
1,111

 
2,372

 
(1,261
)
 
(53
)%
Interest and dividends
3,653

 
3,083

 
570

 
18
 %
Reimbursement from affiliates
3,887

 
3,642

 
245

 
7
 %
Other revenues
2,725

 
668

 
2,057

 
308
 %
Consolidated Funds revenues
1,551

 
258

 
1,293

 
501
 %
Total revenues
101,039

 
121,094

 
(20,055
)
 
(17
)%
Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Employee compensation and benefits
63,181

 
95,864

 
(32,683
)
 
(34
)%
Interest and dividends
7,310

 
5,779

 
1,531

 
26
 %
General, administrative and other expenses
43,632

 
36,805

 
6,827

 
19
 %
Consolidated Funds expenses
1,816

 
358

 
1,458

 
407
 %
Total expenses
115,939

 
138,806

 
(22,867
)
 
(16
)%
Other income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) on securities, derivatives and other investments
3,188

 
38,991

 
(35,803
)
 
(92
)%
Consolidated Funds net gains (losses)
397

 
5,086

 
(4,689
)
 
(92
)%
Total other income (loss)
3,585

 
44,077

 
(40,492
)
 
(92
)%
Income (loss) before income taxes
(11,315
)
 
26,365

 
(37,680
)
 
(143
)%
Income taxes expense (benefit)
(3,320
)
 
6,947

 
(10,267
)
 
(148
)%
Net income (loss)
(7,995
)
 
19,418

 
(27,413
)
 
(141
)%
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries and funds
(4,297
)
 
2,720

 
(7,017
)
 
(258
)%
Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc.
(3,698
)
 
16,698

 
(20,396
)
 
(122
)%
Preferred stock dividends
1,698

 

 
1,698

 
NM

Net income (loss) attributable to Cowen Group, Inc. common stockholders
$
(5,396
)
 
$
16,698

 
$
(22,094
)
 
(132
)%
Revenues
Investment Banking
Investment banking revenues decreased $39.1 million to $26.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $65.2 million in the prior year period. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company completed 12 underwriting transactions and two debt capital market transactions. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company completed 47 underwriting transactions, two strategic advisory transactions and one debt capital market transaction. The average underwriting fee per transaction was 44.6% greater for the three months ended March 31, 2016 as compared to the prior year period.
Brokerage
Brokerage revenues increased $15.4 million to $50.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $35.5 million in the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commissions due to an increase in customer trading volumes and the initiation of our prime brokerage businesses in the third and fourth quarters of 2015. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 24% for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared to the prior year.
Management Fees
Management fees increased $0.6 million to $11.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $10.4 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily related to an increase in management fees from our prime services business (acquired during the fourth quarter of 2015).

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Incentive Income
Incentive income decreased $1.3 million to $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with $2.4 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in performance fees from our alternative solutions business.
Interest and Dividends
Interest and dividends increased $0.6 million to $3.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $3.1 million in the prior year period. This was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of investments in interest bearing securities during 2016 as compared to 2015.
Reimbursements from Affiliates
Reimbursements from affiliates increased $0.3 million to $3.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $3.6 million in the prior year period.
Other Revenues
Other revenues increased $2.0 million to $2.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $0.7 million in the prior year period. The increase primarily relates to premiums from our insurance-related business which was entered into at the end of the fourth quarter of 2015 and sublease income from additional office space.
Consolidated Funds Revenues
Consolidated Funds revenues increased $1.3 million to $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $0.3 million in the prior year period. The increase is due to the consolidation of a new fund during the first quarter of 2016.
Expenses
Employee Compensation and Benefits
Employee compensation and benefits expenses decreased $32.7 million to $63.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $95.9 million in the prior year period. The decrease is primarily due to $20.1 million lower total revenues and $40.5 million lower other income (loss) during 2016 as compared to 2015, resulting in a lower compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The compensation to revenue ratio, based on total revenues only, was 63% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with 79% in the prior year period. The compensation to revenue ratio, including other income (loss), was 60% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with 58% in the prior year period.
Interest and Dividends
Interest and dividend expenses increased $1.5 million to $7.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $5.8 million in the prior year period. This was primarily attributable to an increase in the number of debt securities held during 2016 as compared to 2015.
General, Administrative and Other Expenses
General, administrative and other expenses increased $6.8 million to $43.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $36.8 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to higher floor brokerage and trade execution costs, due to higher brokerage revenue, and increased marketing and business development expenses, legal and other professional fees and increased occupancy costs, some of which is related to two acquisitions during late 2015.
Consolidated Funds Expenses
Consolidated Funds expenses increased $1.4 million to $1.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $0.4 million in the prior year period.
Other Income (Loss)
Other income (loss) decreased $40.5 million to $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $44.1 million in the prior year period. The decrease primarily relates to a decrease in performance of the Company's own invested capital. The gains and losses shown under Consolidated Funds reflect the consolidated total performance for such funds, and the portion of those gains or losses that are attributable to other investors is allocated to redeemable non-controlling interests.


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Income Taxes
Income tax benefit increased $10.2 million to $3.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared to an income tax expense of $6.9 million in the prior year period. This change is primarily attributable to the Company’s operating results.
Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Non-controlling Interests
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests decreased $7.0 million to a loss of $4.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $2.7 million in the prior year period. The decrease was primarily the result of losses incurred by one of our funds. Non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the other owners of such entities.
Preferred Stock Dividends
On May 19, 2015, the Company completed its offering of 120,750 shares of the Company's 5.625% Series A cumulative perpetual convertible preferred stock. Each share of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is entitled to dividends at a rate of 5.625% per annum. The Company may, at its option, pay dividends in cash, common stock or a combination thereof.
Segment Analysis and Economic Income (Loss)
Segments
The Company conducts its operations through two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company's alternative investment segment includes hedge funds, private equity structures, registered investment companies and listed vehicles operating results and other investment platforms operating results.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company's broker-dealer segment includes investment banking, research, sales and trading and prime brokerage businesses' operating results.
Economic Income (Loss)
The performance measure used by the Company for each segment is Economic Income (Loss), which management uses to evaluate the financial performance of and to make operating decisions for the firm as a whole and each segment. Accordingly, management assesses its business by analyzing the performance of each segment and believes that investors should review the same performance measure that it uses to analyze its segment and business performance. In addition, management believes that Economic Income (Loss) is helpful to gain an understanding of its segment results of operations because it reflects such results on a consistent basis for all periods presented.
Our Economic Income (Loss) may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. We use Economic Income (Loss) as a measure of each segment's operating performance, not as a measure of liquidity. Economic Income (Loss) should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating income, net income, operating cash flows, investing and financing activities, or other income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with US GAAP. As a result of the adjustments made to arrive at Economic Income (Loss), Economic Income (Loss) has limitations in that it does not take into account certain items included or excluded under US GAAP, including our Consolidated Funds. Economic Income (Loss) is considered by management as a supplemental measure to the US GAAP results to provide a more complete understanding of each segment's performance as measured by management. For a reconciliation of Economic Income (Loss) to US GAAP net income (loss) for the periods presented and additional information regarding the reconciling adjustments discussed above, see Note 16 to the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
In general, Economic Income (Loss) is a pre-tax measure that (i) eliminates the impact of consolidation for consolidated funds (ii) excludes goodwill and intangible impairment (iii) excludes certain other acquisition-related adjustments and/or reorganization expenses and (iv) excludes preferred stock dividends. In addition, Economic Income (Loss) revenues include investment income that represents the income the Company has earned in investing its own capital, including realized and unrealized gains and losses, interest and dividends, net of associated investment related expenses. For US GAAP purposes, these items are included in each of their respective line items. Economic Income (Loss) revenues also include management fees, incentive income and investment income earned through the Company's investment as a general partner in certain real estate entities and the Company's investment in the activist business. For US GAAP purposes, all of these items are recorded in other income (loss). In addition, Economic Income (Loss) expenses are reduced by reimbursement from affiliates, which for US GAAP purposes is presented gross as part of revenue.


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Economic Income (Loss) Revenues
The Company's principal sources of Economic Income (Loss) revenues are derived from activities in the following business segments:
Our alternative investment segment generates Economic Income (Loss) revenues through three principal sources: management fees, incentive income and investment income from our own capital. Management fees are directly impacted by any increase or decrease in assets under management, while incentive income is impacted by our funds' performance and resulting increase or decrease in assets under management. Investment income from the Company's own capital is impacted by the performance of the funds and other securities in which our capital is invested.
Our broker-dealer segment generates Economic Income (Loss) revenues through two principal sources: investment banking and brokerage. The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors: healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, information and technology services, consumer, aerospace and defense, industrials, REITs, and energy and transportation. The Company's brokerage revenues consist of commissions, principal transactions and fees paid for equity research. Cowen's broker-dealer segment also offers a full-service suite of prime brokerage services. Management reviews brokerage revenue on a combined basis as the vast majority of the revenue is derived from the same group of clients. The Company derives its brokerage revenue primarily from trading equity and equity-linked securities on behalf of institutional investors. The majority of the Company's trading gains and losses are a result of activities that support the facilitation of client orders in both listed and over-the-counter securities, although all trading gains and losses are recorded in brokerage in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations.
Economic Income (Loss) Expenses
The Company's Economic Income expenses consist of non-interest expenses and interest expense. Non interest expenses consist of compensation and benefits and non-compensation expenses (fixed and variable), less reimbursement from affiliates. Interest expense is primarily interest from indebtedness, not trading activity (which is included within investment income (loss)).
Non-controlling Interests
Non-controlling interests represent the pro rata share of the income or loss of the non-wholly owned consolidated entities attributable to the partners of such entities.
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Economic Income (Loss)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Total
Period-to-Period
 
Alternative
Investment
 
 
 
Total
 
Alternative
Investment
 
 
 
Total
 
 
Broker-Dealer
 
Broker-Dealer
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
(dollars in thousands)
Economic Income Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment banking
$

 
$
26,147

 
$
26,147

 
$

 
$
65,233

 
$
65,233

 
$
(39,086
)
 
(60
)%
Brokerage

 
52,867

 
52,867

 
18

 
35,505

 
35,523

 
17,344

 
49
 %
Management fees
16,128

 
775

 
16,903

 
16,607

 

 
16,607

 
296

 
2
 %
Incentive income (loss)
6,920

 

 
6,920

 
15,363

 

 
15,363

 
(8,443
)
 
(55
)%
Investment income (loss)
1,395

 
455

 
1,850

 
21,830

 
7,050

 
28,880

 
(27,030
)
 
(94
)%
Other income (loss)
682

 
271

 
953

 
21

 
48

 
69

 
884

 
1,281
 %
Total economic income revenues
25,125

 
80,515

 
105,640

 
53,839

 
107,836

 
161,675

 
(56,035
)
 
(35
)%
Non-interest expenses
20,261

 
83,761

 
104,022

 
34,834

 
96,329

 
131,163

 
(27,141
)
 
(21
)%
Interest expense
3,183

 
1,090

 
4,273

 
3,044

 
978

 
4,022

 
251

 
6
 %
Non-controlling interest
(2,227
)
 

 
(2,227
)
 
(2,845
)
 

 
(2,845
)
 
618

 
(22
)%
Economic income (loss)
$
(546
)
 
$
(4,336
)
 
$
(4,882
)
 
$
13,116

 
$
10,529

 
$
23,645

 
$
(28,527
)
 
(121
)%



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Economic Income (Loss) Revenues
Total Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $105.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $56.1 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $161.7 million in the prior year period. The decrease was related to investment banking activity and a decrease in performance in investment and incentive income. For purposes of the following section, all references to revenue refer to Economic Income (Loss) revenues.
Alternative Investment Segment
Alternative investment segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $25.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $28.7 million compared to Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $53.8 million in the prior year period.
Management Fees.    Management fees for the segment decreased $0.5 million to $16.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $16.6 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in management fees for our activist businesses offset partially by an increase in management fees from our macro options business.
Incentive Income (Loss).    Incentive income for the segment decreased $8.5 million to $6.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $15.4 million in the prior year period. This decrease was primarily related to a decrease in performance fees from our activist and alternative solutions businesses.
Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment decreased $20.4 million to $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $21.8 million in the prior year period. The decrease primarily relates to a decrease in performance of the Company's own invested capital.
Other Income (Loss).    Other income (loss) for the segment increased $0.7 million to $0.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The increase relates to premiums from our insurance business which was entered into at the end of the fourth quarter of 2015. This increase is related to net underwriting income from our insurance-related business which was entered into at the end of the fourth quarter of 2015 and sublease income from additional office space.
Broker-Dealer Segment
Broker-dealer segment Economic Income (Loss) revenues were $80.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $27.3 million compared with Economic Income (Loss) revenues of $107.8 million in the prior year.
Investment Banking.    Investment banking revenues decreased $39.1 million to $26.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $65.2 million in the prior year period. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company completed 12 underwriting transactions and two debt capital market transactions. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company completed 47 underwriting transactions, two strategic advisory transactions and one debt capital market transaction. The average underwriting fee per transaction was 44.6% greater for the three months ended March 31, 2016 as compared to the prior year period.
Brokerage.    Brokerage revenues increased $17.4 million to $52.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with $35.5 million in the prior year period. This was attributable to higher commissions due to an increase in customer trading volumes and the initiation of our prime brokerage businesses in the third and fourth quarters of 2015. Customer trading volumes across the industry (according to Bloomberg) increased 24% for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared to the prior year.
Investment Income (Loss).    Investment income for the segment decreased $6.6 million to $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with $7.1 million in the prior year period. The decrease is a result of a decrease in overall investment income which is allocated amongst the segments.
Other Income (Loss).    Other income (loss) for the segment increased $0.2 million to $0.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016.
Non-Interest Expenses
Non-interest expenses.    Total non-interest expenses decreased $27.2 million to $104.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, compared with $131.2 million in the prior year period.
Compensation and benefits expenses. Compensation and benefits expenses, included within non-interest expenses, decreased $33.0 million to $62.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $95.1 million in the prior year period. The decrease is due to $56.1 million lower revenues during 2016 as compared to 2015 and resulted in a lower

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compensation and benefits accrual to remain consistent with the Company's compensation to revenue ratio. The compensation to revenue ratio remained constant at 59% for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with the prior year period.
Non-compensation Expenses—Fixed.    Fixed non-compensation expenses, included within non-interest expenses, increased $2.2 million to $27.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $25.0 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily due to higher legal and other professional fees, increased occupancy costs and increased depreciation and amortization all of which are primarily related to two acquisitions during late 2015.
The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—fixed, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
 
2016
 
2015
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—fixed:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Communications
$
4,137


$
3,641

 
$
496

 
14
 %
Professional, advisory and other fees
4,324

 
3,986

 
338

 
8
 %
Occupancy and equipment
7,220

 
6,359

 
861

 
14
 %
Depreciation and amortization
2,838

 
2,135

 
703

 
33
 %
Service fees
2,160

 
1,878

 
282

 
15
 %
Expenses from equity investments
3,719

 
4,130

 
(411
)
 
(10
)%
Other
2,850

 
2,900

 
(50
)
 
(2
)%
Total
$
27,248

 
$
25,029

 
$
2,219

 
9
 %
Non-compensation Expenses—Variable.    Variable non-compensation expenses, included within non-interest expenses, which primarily are comprised of expenses which are incurred as a direct result of the processing and soliciting of revenue generating activities, increased $2.0 million to $15.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $13.2 million in the prior year period. The increase is primarily related to higher floor brokerage and trade execution costs, due to higher brokerage revenue, and increased marketing and business development expenses, some of which is related to two acquisitions during late 2015.
The following table shows the components of the non-compensation expenses—variable, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
 
2016
 
2015
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
(dollars in thousands)
Non-compensation expenses—Variable:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Floor brokerage and trade execution
$
7,062

 
$
4,956

 
$
2,106

 
42
 %
HealthCare Royalty Partners syndication costs
132

 
132

 

 
 %
Expenses related to Luxembourg companies
978

 
840

 
138

 
16
 %
Marketing and business development
6,611

 
5,723

 
888

 
16
 %
Other
448

 
1,555

 
(1,107
)
 
(71
)%
Total
$
15,231

 
$
13,206

 
$
2,025

 
15
 %
Reimbursement from Affiliates.    Reimbursements from affiliates, included within non-interest expenses, which relate to the alternative investment segment, decreased $1.6 million to $0.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $2.2 million in the prior year period. The decrease is primarily related to a decrease in reimbursements from the activist business.
Interest expense
Interest expense, which primarily relates to debt issued during the first and fourth quarters of 2014, increased $0.3 million to $4.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $4.0 million in the prior year period.
Non-Controlling Interest 
Income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests decreased by $0.6 million to $2.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with $2.8 million in the prior year period. The decrease is primarily related to a decrease in income allocable to partners. Non-Controlling interest represents the portion of the net income or loss attributable to certain non-wholly owned subsidiaries that is allocated to our partners in those subsidiaries.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources
We continually monitor our liquidity position. The working capital needs of the Company's business have been met through current levels of equity capital, current cash and cash equivalents, and anticipated cash generated from our operating activities, including management fees, incentive income, returns on the Company's own capital, investment banking fees and brokerage commissions. The Company expects that its primary working capital liquidity needs over the next twelve months will be:
pay our operating expenses, primarily consisting of compensation and benefits, interest on debt and other general and administrative expenses; and
provide capital to facilitate the growth of our existing business.
Based on our historical results, management's experience, our current business strategy and current assets under management, the Company believes that its existing cash resources will be sufficient to meet its anticipated working capital and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Our cash reserves include cash, cash equivalents and assets readily convertible into cash such as our securities held in inventory. Securities inventories are stated at fair value and are generally readily marketable. As of March 31, 2016, we had cash and cash equivalents of $67.0 million and net liquid investment assets of $381.6 million. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments held by foreign subsidiaries as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $15.3 million and $53.8 million, respectively. The Company intends to permanently reinvest the capital and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries in the respective subsidiary, but remits the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to the United States to the extent permissible under local regulatory rules. The undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries totaled $1.1 million and $1.0 million as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted is approximately $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
The timing of cash bonus payments to our employees may significantly affect our cash position and liquidity from period to period. While our employees are generally paid salaries semi-monthly during the year, cash bonus payments, which can make up a significant portion of total compensation, are generally paid once a year by March 15th.
As of March 31, 2016, the Company had unfunded commitments of $5.3 million pertaining to capital commitments in three real estate investments held by the Company, all of which pertain to related party investments. Such commitments can be called at any time, subject to advance notice. The Company, as a limited partner of the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds and also as a member of HealthCare Royalty Partners General Partners, has committed to invest $45.8 million in the Healthcare Royalty Partners funds which are managed by Healthcare Royalty Management. This commitment is expected to be called over a two to five year period. The Company will make its pro-rata investment in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds along with the other limited partners. Through March 31, 2016, the Company has funded $37.7 million towards these commitments. In April 2013, the Company committed $1.0 million to Starboard Leaders Fund LP, which may increase or decrease over time, and, as of March 31, 2016, has funded $1.0 million towards this commitment. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Formation8 Partners Fund I, L.P. of $0.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a one year period. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Eclipse Ventures Fund I, L.P. (formerly Formation8 Partners Hardware Fund I, L.P.) of $0.9 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a one year period. As of March 31, 2016, the Company has an unfunded commitment to Lagunita Biosciences, LLC of $3.5 million. The remaining capital commitment is expected to be called over a three-year period.
Due to the nature of the securities business and our role as a market-maker and execution agent, the amount of our cash and short-term investments, as well as operating cash flow, may vary considerably due to a number of factors, including the dollar value of our positions as principal, whether we are net buyers or sellers of securities, the dollar volume of executions by our customers and clearing house requirements, among others. Certain regulatory requirements constrain the use of a portion of our liquid assets for financing, investing or operating activities. Similarly, due to the nature of our business lines, the capital necessary to maintain current operations and our current funding needs subject our cash and cash equivalents to different requirements and uses.
Revolver
On July 31, 2015, the Company entered into a $25.0 million 364 day revolving unsecured credit facility with multiple financial institutions primarily for working capital management. The Company has drawn $25 million under this facility as of March 31, 2016. Interest accrues on borrowed funds at LIBOR plus 3% and interest accrues on the undrawn facility amount at LIBOR plus 0.38%. The revolver matures in August 2016. The Company is required to comply with certain financial covenants for which the Company was in compliance with through March 31, 2016.
Preferred Stock and Purchase of Capped Call Option
On May 19, 2015, the Company completed its offering of 120,750 shares of the Company's 5.625% Series A cumulative perpetual convertible preferred stock ("Series A Convertible Preferred Stock") that provided $117.2 million of proceeds, net of

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underwriting fees and issuance costs of $3.4 million. Each share of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is entitled to dividends at a rate of 5.625% per annum which will be payable, when and if declared by the board of directors of the Company, quarterly, in arrears, on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year. The Company may, at its option, pay dividends in cash, common stock or a combination thereof.
Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is non-voting and has a liquidity preference over the Company's Class A common stock and ranks senior to all classes or series of the Company's Class A common stock, but junior to all of the Company's existing and future indebtedness with respect to divided rights and rights upon the Company's involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding down.
Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible, at the option of the holder, into a number of shares of our Class A common stock equal to the liquidation preference of $1,000 divided by the conversion rate. The initial conversion rate is 152.2476 shares (which equates to $6.57 per share) of the Company's Class A common stock for each share of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. At any time on or after May 20, 2020, the Company may elect to convert all outstanding shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock into shares of the Company’s Class A common stock, cash or a combination thereof, at the Company’s election, in each case, based on the then-applicable conversion rate, if the last reported sale price of the Company’s Class A common stock equals or exceeds 150% of the then-current conversion price on at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the period of 30 consecutive trading days (including on the last trading day of such period) immediately prior to such election. At the time of conversion, the conversion rate may be adjusted based on certain events including but not limited to the issuance of cash dividends or Class A common stock as a dividends to the Company's Class A common shareholders or a share split or combination.
In connection with the issuance and sale of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, the Company entered into a privately negotiated capped call option transaction (the “Capped Call Option Transaction”) with Nomura Global Financial Products Inc. (the “option counterparty”) for $15.9 million. The Capped Call Option Transaction is expected generally to reduce the potential dilution to the Company’s Class A common stock (if the Company elects to convert to common shares) and/or offset any cash payments that the Company is required to make upon conversion of any Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. The Capped Call Option Transaction has an initial effective strike price of $6.57 per share, which matches the initial conversion price of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, and a cap price of $8.39 per share. However, to the extent that the market price of Class A common stock, as measured under the terms of the Capped Call Option Transaction, exceeds the cap price thereof, there would nevertheless be dilution and/or such cash payments would not be offset. As the Capped Call Option Transaction is a free standing derivative that is indexed to the Company's own stock price and the Company controls if it is settled in cash or stock it qualifies for equity classification as a reduction to additional paid in capital.
The Company may also incur additional indebtedness or raise additional capital under certain circumstances to respond to market opportunities and challenges. Current market conditions may make it more difficult or costly to borrow additional funds or raise additional capital.
Regulation
As registered broker-dealers, Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading are subject to the SEC's Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 (the “Rule”), which requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. Under the alternative method permitted by the Rule, Cowen and Company's minimum net capital requirement, as defined, is $1.0 million. Under the alternative method ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading are required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined, equal to $250,000. The broker-dealers are not permitted to withdraw equity if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. As of March 31, 2016, Cowen and Company had total net capital of approximately $56.6 million, which was approximately $55.6 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $1.0 million. As of March 31, 2016, ATM Execution had total net capital of approximately $3.9 million, which was approximately $3.7 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. As of March 31, 2016, Cowen Prime had total net capital of approximately $17.5 million, which was approximately $17.3 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000. Cowen Prime Trading had total net capital of approximately $4.4 million, which was approximately $4.2 million in excess of its minimum net capital requirement of $250,000.
Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading claim exemption from the provisions of Rule 15c3-3 under the Exchange Act as their activities are limited to those set forth in the conditions for exemption appearing in paragraph (k)(2)(ii) of the Rule.
Proprietary accounts of broker-dealers (“PAB”) held at the clearing broker are considered allowable assets for net capital purposes, pursuant to agreements between Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading and the clearing brokers, which require, among other things, that the clearing brokers performs computations for PAB and segregates certain balances on behalf of Cowen and Company, ATM Execution, Cowen Prime and Cowen Prime Trading, if applicable.

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Ramius UK Ltd. ("Ramius UK") and Cowen International Limited ("CIL") are subject to the capital requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) of the UK. Financial Resources, as defined, must exceed the requirement of the FCA. As of March 31, 2016, Ramius UK's Financial Resources of $0.28 million exceeded its minimum requirement of $0.06 million by $0.22 million. As of March 31, 2016, CIL's Financial Resources of $4.3 million exceeded its minimum requirement of $2.0 million by $2.3 million.
Cowen’s Luxembourg reinsurance companies, Vianden RCG Re SCA (“Vianden”) and Hollenfels, is required to maintain a solvency capital ratio as calculated by relevant European Commission directives and local regulatory rules in Luxembourg. Each company’s solvency capital ratio as of March 31, 2016 was in excess of this minimum requirement.
Based on minimum capital and surplus requirements pursuant to the laws of the state of New York that apply to captive insurance companies, RCG Insurance Company, Cowen’s captive insurance company incorporated and licensed in the state of New York, was required to maintain capital and surplus of approximately $0.3 million as of March 31, 2016. RCG Insurance Company’s capital and surplus as of March 31, 2016 totaled approximately $21 million.
Cash Flows Analysis
The Company's primary sources of cash are derived from its operating activities, fees and realized returns on its own invested capital. The Company's primary uses of cash include compensation and general and administrative expenses.
Operating Activities.    Net cash used in operating activities of $340.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was primarily related to purchases of other investments, cash used to pay for year end bonuses and an increase in cash held at other brokers. Net cash used in operating activities of $40.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was primarily related to purchases of securities partially offset by sales of securities and an increase in cash held at other brokers.
Investing Activities.    Net cash provided by investing activities of $16.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was primarily related to repayment of certain loans made for investing purposes offsett partially by the purchases of other investments and fixed assets. Net cash provided by investing activities of $14.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was primarily related to the sale of other investments.
Financing Activities.    Net cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2016 of $232.6 million was primarily related to contributions from non-controlling interests in Consolidated Funds and borrowings on short term debt.  Net cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2015 of $8.1 million was primarily related to the repurchase of shares of our common stock.
Debt
Convertible Debt
On March 10, 2014, the Company issued $149.5 million of 3.0% cash convertible senior notes ("Convertible Notes"). The Convertible Notes are due on March 15, 2019 unless earlier repurchased by the Company or converted by the holder into cash in accordance with their terms prior to such date. The interest on the Convertible Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations and rank senior in right of payments to other obligations. The Convertible Notes may be converted into cash, upon the occurrence of certain events, whereby a holder will receive, per $1,000 principal amount of notes being converted, an amount equal to the sum of principal amount outstanding and the conversion amount based on the current conversion price (the "Conversion Option"). The Convertible Notes were issued with an initial conversion price of $5.33 per share.
The Company recorded interest expense of $1.1 million and $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The initial unamortized discount on the Convertible Notes was $35.7 million and is shown net in convertible debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Amortization on the discount, included within interest expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations is $1.7 million and $1.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, based on an effective interest rate of 8.89%. The Company capitalized the debt issuance costs in the amount of $3.7 million, which is included in additional paid in capital in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition and changes in equity, and will be amortized over the life of the Convertible Notes. As of March 31, 2016, the Company is in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes.
Of the net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes, approximately $20.5 million was applied to pay the net cost of a cash convertible note economic hedge and warrant transaction which increases the effective conversion price to $7.18 (See Note 5 of the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements), and approximately $0.3 million was applied to repurchase shares of Cowen Class A common stock. The remainder of the net proceeds is being used for general corporate purposes.


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Note Payable
On October 10, 2014 the Company completed its public offering of $63.3 million aggregate principal amount of 8.25% senior notes due on October 15, 2021 ("2021 Notes"). Interest on the 2021 Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on January 15, 2015. The Company recorded interest expense of $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The Company capitalized debt issuance costs of approximately $2.9 million which is included in additional paid in capital in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition and changes in equity and will be amortized over the life of the 2021 Notes. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with all covenants included in the indenture governing the 2021 Notes.
The 2021 Notes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of October 10, 2014 (the “Senior Indenture”), by and among the Company and The Bank of New York Melon, as trustee. The Senior Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, limit (subject to certain exceptions) the Company’s ability and the ability of the Company’s Restricted Subsidiaries (as defined in the Senior Indenture) to: (1) incur debt (including certain preferred stock), if the incurrence of such indebtedness would cause the Company’s consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio, as defined in the Senior Indenture, to fall below 2.0 to 1.0, (2) pay dividends or make distributions on its capital stock, or purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire its capital stock, and (3) grant liens securing indebtedness of the Company without securing the 2021 Notes equally and ratably. If certain conditions are met, certain of these covenants may be suspended. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with these covenants.
Other Note Payable
During January 2016, the Company borrowed $2.0 million to fund insurance premium payments. This note has an effective interest rate of 1.38% and is due on December 31, 2016, with monthly payment requirements of $0.2 million. As of March 31, 2016, the outstanding balance on this note payable was $1.7 million. Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was insignificant.
Revolver
On July 31, 2015, the Company entered into a $25.0 million 364 day revolving unsecured credit facility with multiple financial institutions primarily for working capital management. The Company has drawn $25 million under this facility as of March 31, 2016. Interest accrues on borrowed funds at LIBOR plus 3% and interest accrues on the undrawn facility amount at LIBOR plus 0.38%. The revolver matures in August 2016. The Company is required to comply with certain financial covenants for which the Company was in compliance with through March 31, 2016.
Capital Lease Obligations
The Company entered into several capital leases for computer equipment during the fourth quarter of 2010 and one in January 2014. These leases amounted to $7.6 million and are recorded in fixed assets and as capital lease obligations, which are included in short-term borrowings and other debt in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition, and have lease terms that range from 48 to 60 months and interest rates that range from 0.60% to 6.03%. As of March 31, 2016, the remaining balance on these capital leases was $2.5 million. Interest expense was $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Letters of Credit
As of March 31, 2016, the Company has the following nine irrevocable letters of credit related to leased office space, for which there is cash collateral pledged, with respect to which the Company pays a fee on the stated amount of the letter of credit.
Location
 
Amount
 
Maturity
 
 
(dollars in thousands)
 
 
New York
 
$
355

 
May 2016
New York
 
$
1,861

 
May 2016
New York
 
$
794

 
October 2016
New York
 
$
3,373

 
October 2016
New York
 
$
1,600

 
November 2016
San Francisco
 
$
710

 
January 2017
New York
 
$
65

 
January 2017
New York
 
$
1,000

 
February 2017
Boston
 
$
382

 
March 2017

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To the extent any letter of credit is drawn upon, interest will be assessed at the prime commercial lending rate. As of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no amounts due related to these letters of credit.
Contractual Obligations
The following tables summarize the Company's contractual cash obligations as of March 31, 2016:
 
Total
 
< 1 Year
 
1-3 Years
 
4-5 Years
 
More Than
5 Years
 
(dollars in thousands)
Equipment Leases, Service Payments and Facility Leases
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Real Estate
$
107,159

 
$
13,971

 
$
46,124

 
$
29,913

 
$
17,151

Service Payments
28,503

 
13,198

 
15,305

 

 

Equipment leases
2,945

 
865

 
2,080

 

 


Aircraft
4,200

 
945

 
3,255

 

 

   Total
142,807

 
28,979

 
66,764

 
29,913

 
17,151

Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Convertible Debt
162,956

 
2,243

 
160,713

 

 

Note Payable
93,254

 
3,914

 
15,654

 
10,436

 
63,250

Other Notes Payable
1,718

 
1,718

 

 

 

Revolver
25,000

 
25,000

 

 

 

   Total
$
282,928

 
$
32,875

 
$
176,367

 
$
10,436

 
$
63,250

Clawback obligations
For financial reporting purposes, the general partners of a real estate fund have recorded a liability for potential clawback obligations to the limited partners, due to changes in the unrealized value of the fund's remaining investments and where the fund's general partner has previously received carried interest distributions.
The clawback liability, however, is not realized until the end of the fund's life. The life of the real estate fund's with a potential clawback obligation is currently in a winding-up phase whereby the remaining assets of the fund are being liquidated as promptly as possible so as to maximize value, however a final date for liquidation has not been set.
The fund is currently winding-down as of March 31, 2016 and the clawback obligations were $6.2 million (see Note 5 to the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements).
Minimum payments for all debt outstanding
Annual scheduled maturities of debt and minimum payments for all debt outstanding as of March 31, 2016, is as follows:
 
Convertible Debt
 
Note Payable
 
Revolver
 
Other Note Payable
 
Capital Lease
Obligation
 
(dollars in thousands)
2016
$
2,243

 
$
3,914

 
$
25,000

 
$
1,718

 
$
704

2017
4,485

 
5,218

 

 

 
938

2018
4,485

 
5,218

 

 

 
938

2019
151,743

 
5,218

 

 

 
78

2020

 
5,218

 

 

 

Thereafter

 
68,468

 

 

 

Subtotal
162,956

 
93,254

 
25,000

 
1,718

 
2,658

Less: Amount representing interest (a)
(38,705
)
 
(32,318
)
 

 
(23
)
 
(208
)
Total
$
124,251

 
$
60,936

 
$
25,000

 
$
1,695

 
$
2,450

(a)
Amount necessary to reduce net minimum payments to present value calculated at the Company's implicit rate at inception. This amount also includes the unamortized discount on the convertible debt.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no material off-balance sheet arrangements as of March 31, 2016. However, through indemnification provisions in our clearing agreement, customer activities may expose us to off-balance-sheet credit risk. Pursuant to the clearing agreement, we are required to reimburse our clearing broker, without limit, for any losses incurred due to a counterparty's

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failure to satisfy its contractual obligations. However, these transactions are collateralized by the underlying security, thereby reducing the associated risk to changes in the market value of the security through the settlement date.
Cowen and Company, Cowen Prime, Cowen Prime Trading and ATM Execution are members of various securities exchanges. Under the standard membership agreement, members are required to guarantee the performance of other members and, accordingly, if another member becomes unable to satisfy its obligations to the exchange, all other members would be required to meet the shortfall. The Company's liability under these arrangements is not quantifiable. Accordingly, no contingent liability is carried in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition for these arrangements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Critical accounting policies are those that require the Company to make significant judgments, estimates or assumptions that affect amounts reported in its condensed consolidated financial statements or the notes thereto. The Company bases its judgments, estimates and assumptions on current facts, historical experience and various other factors that the Company believes to be reasonable and prudent. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.
The following is a summary of what the Company believes to be its most critical accounting policies and estimates.
Consolidation
These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its subsidiaries, and entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest, including the Consolidated Funds, in which the Company has a controlling general partner interest. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company’s funds are not subject to these consolidation provisions with respect to their investments pursuant to their specialized accounting.
The Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows of the Consolidated Funds on a gross basis. The management fees and incentive income earned by the Company from the Consolidated Funds were eliminated in consolidation; however, the Company’s allocated share of net income from these funds was increased by the amount of this eliminated income. Hence, the consolidation of these funds had no net effect on the Company’s net earnings.
The Company consolidates all entities that it controls through a majority voting interest or otherwise, including those funds in which the Company either directly or indirectly has a controlling financial interest. In addition, the Company consolidates all variable interest entities for which it is the primary beneficiary.
The Company adopted the new accounting pronouncement regarding consolidation accounting using the modified retrospective method with an effective adoption date of January 1, 2016. The modified retrospective method did not require the restatement of prior year periods. The adoption of the new accounting pronouncement also resulted in a reclassification of certain entities which were previously considered voting interest entities and will now be considered variable interest entities.
In accordance with these standards, the Company presently consolidates five funds for which it acts as the general partner and investment manager. As of March 31, 2016 the Company consolidated the following funds: Ramius Enterprise LP (“Enterprise LP”), Ramius Merger Fund LLC (the "Merger Fund"), Cowen Private Investments LP ("Cowen Private"), Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Fund ("Archview Feeder Fund") and Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Master Fund ("Archview Master Fund") (collectively the "Consolidated Funds").
The Company determines whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity by first evaluating whether the entity is a voting operating entity ("VOE") or a variable interest entity ("VIE") under US GAAP.
Voting Operating EntitiesVOEs are entities in which (i) the total equity investment at risk is sufficient to enable the entity to finance its activities independently and (ii) the equity holders at risk have the obligation to absorb losses, the right to receive residual returns and the right to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance.
Under US GAAP, the usual condition for a controlling financial interest in a VOE is ownership of a majority voting interest. Accordingly, the Company consolidates all VOEs in which it owns a majority of the entity's voting shares or units.
In connection with the adoption, the Company reevaluated all of its investment products for consolidation. As of January 1, 2016, the Company deconsolidated Quadratic Fund LLC ("Quadratic LLC") as the Company did not hold a significant voting interest in the fund. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, the net income of Quadratic LLC were not material to the Company's condensed consolidated statements of financial condition or statements of operations. The adoption of the new accounting pronouncement also resulted in a reclassification of certain entities for which the Company was presumed to have control and will now be VIEs.

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Variable Interest Entities—VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a VOE. In accordance with US GAAP, an enterprise must consolidate all VIEs of which it is the primary beneficiary. Under the US GAAP consolidation model for VIEs, an enterprise that (1) has the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impacts the VIE's economic performance, and (2) has an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE, is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and thus is required to consolidate it.
The Company reconsiders whether it is the primary beneficiary of a VIE by performing a periodic qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the VIE that includes a review of, among other things, its capital structure, contractual agreements between the Company and the VIE, the economic interests that create or absorb variability, related party relationships and the design of the VIE.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company also sponsors various other entities that it has determined to be VIEs. These VIEs are primarily funds and real estate entities for which the Company serves as the general partner, managing member and/or investment manager with decision-making rights.
The Company does not consolidate certain entities that are VIEs as it has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary in each instance. Fund investors are entitled to all of the economics of these VIEs with the exception of the management fee and incentive income, if any, earned by the Company. The Company's involvement with funds and real estate entities that are unconsolidated VIEs is limited to providing investment management services in exchange for management fees and incentive income. Although the Company may advance amounts and pay certain expenses on behalf of the funds and real estate entities that it considers to be VIEs, it does not provide, nor is it required to provide, any type of substantive financial support to these entities outside of regular investment management services.
Equity Method InvestmentsFor operating entities over which the Company exercises significant influence but which do not meet the requirements for consolidation as outlined above, the Company uses the equity method of accounting. The Company's investments in equity method investees are recorded in other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company's share of earnings or losses from equity method investees is included in net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
The Company evaluates its equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may not be recoverable. The difference between the carrying value of the equity method investment and its estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge when the loss in value is deemed other than temporary.
OtherIf the Company does not consolidate an entity, apply the equity method of accounting or account for an investment under the cost method, the Company accounts for such entities (primarily, all securities of such entity which are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term as trading securities) in accordance with US GAAP, at fair value with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Retention of Specialized AccountingThe Consolidated Funds and certain other consolidated companies are investment companies and apply specialized industry accounting for investment companies. The Company has retained this specialized accounting for these funds pursuant to US GAAP. The Company reports its investments on the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition at their estimated fair value, with unrealized gains (losses) resulting from changes in fair value reflected within net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments and other transactions. Accordingly, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect different accounting policies for investments depending on whether or not they are held through a consolidated investment company. In addition, the Company's broker-dealer subsidiaries apply the specialized industry accounting for brokers and dealers in securities also prescribed under US GAAP. The Company also retains specialized accounting in consolidation.
Valuation of investments and derivative contracts
US GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1 Inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has
the ability to access at the measurement date;
Level 2     Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability either directly or indirectly, including
inputs in markets that are not considered to be active; and

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Level 3 Fair value is determined based on pricing inputs that are unobservable and includes situations where there is little,
if any, market activity for the asset or liability. The determination of fair value for assets and liabilities in this
category requires significant management judgment or estimation.
Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may include price information, volatility statistics, specific and broad credit data, liquidity statistics, and other factors. A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. The Company considers observable data to be that market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, and provided by independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of a financial instrument within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the instrument and does not necessarily correspond to the Company's perceived risk of that instrument. For additional information regarding the use of unobservable inputs to fair value assets and liabilities see Note 6 in the accompanying condensed Consolidated Financial Statement in Part 1 Item 1.
The Company and its operating subsidiaries act as the manager for the Consolidated Funds. Both the Company and the Consolidated Funds hold certain investments which are valued by the Company, acting as the investment manager. The fair value of these investments is generally estimated based on proprietary models developed by the Company, which include discounted cash flow analysis, public market comparables, and other techniques and may be based, at least in part, on independently sourced market information. The material estimates and assumptions used in these models include the timing and expected amount of cash flows, the appropriateness of discount rates used, and, in some cases, the ability to execute, timing of, and estimated proceeds from expected financings. Significant judgment and estimation goes into the selection of an appropriate valuation methodology as well as the assumptions used in these models, and the timing and actual values realized with respect to investments could be materially different from values derived based on the use of those estimates. The valuation methodologies applied impact the reported value of the Company's investments and the investments held by the Consolidated Funds in the consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's investments are relatively illiquid or thinly traded and may not be immediately liquidated on demand if needed. Fair values assigned to these investments may differ significantly from the fair values that would have been used had a ready market for the investments existed and such differences could be material.
The Company primarily uses the “market approach” to value its financial instruments measured at fair value. In determining an instrument's level within the hierarchy, the Company categorizes the Company's financial instruments into three categories: securities, derivative contracts and other investments. To the extent applicable, each of these categories can further be divided between those held long or sold short.
The Company has the option to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in earnings each period. The election is made on an instrument by instrument basis at initial recognition of an asset or liability or upon an event that gives rise to a new basis of accounting for that instrument.  The Company has elected the fair value option for its investments through Cowen Investments, LLC and certain investments it holds though its operating companies.  This option has been elected because the Company believes that it is consistent with the manner in which the business is managed as well as the way that financial instruments in other parts of the business are recorded.
SecuritiesSecurities with values based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets are classified within level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. These securities include active listed equities, certain U.S. government and sovereign obligations, ETF's, mutual funds and certain money market securities. The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments, even in situations where the Company holds a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.
Certain positions for which trading activity may not be readily visible, consisting primarily of convertible debt, corporate debt and loans and restricted equities, are stated at fair value and classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair values assigned by management are determined in good faith and are based on available information considering, trading activity, broker quotes, quotations provided by published pricing services, counterparties and other market participants, and pricing models using quoted inputs, and do not necessarily represent the amounts which might ultimately be realized. As level 2 investments include positions that are not always traded in active markets and/or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations may be adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability.
Derivative contractsDerivative contracts can be exchange-traded or privately negotiated over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives, such as futures contracts and exchange-traded option contracts, are typically classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on whether or not they are deemed to be actively traded. OTC derivatives, such as generic forwards, swaps and options, have inputs which can generally be corroborated by market data and are therefore classified within level 2. OTC derivatives, such as swaps and options where market data is not readily available or observable are classified as level 3.

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Other investmentsOther investments consist primarily of portfolio funds, real estate investments and equity method investments, which are valued as follows:
i.
Portfolio fundsPortfolio funds (“Portfolio Funds”) include interests in funds and investment companies which may be managed by the Company or its affiliates. The Company follows US GAAP regarding fair value measurements and disclosures relating to investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value (“NAV”) per share (or its equivalent). The guidance permits, as a practical expedient, an entity holding investments in certain entities that either are investment companies as defined by the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies, or have attributes similar to an investment company, and calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent for which the fair value is not readily determinable, to measure the fair value of such investments on the basis of that NAV per share, or its equivalent, without adjustment. In accordance with US GAAP, investments which are valued using NAV per share as a practical expedient are not categorized within the fair value hierarchy.
ii.
Real estate investmentsReal estate debt and equity investments are valued at fair value. The fair value of real estate investments are estimated based on the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants at the measurement date. Real estate investments without a public market are valued based on assumptions and valuation techniques used by the Company. Such valuation techniques may include discounted cash flow analysis, prevailing market capitalization rates or earnings multiples applied to earnings from the investment, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sale negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, consideration of the amount that currently would be required to replace the asset, as adjusted for obsolescence, as well as independent external appraisals. In general, the Company considers several valuation techniques when measuring the fair value of a real estate investment. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. Real estate investments are reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Company for significant changes at the property level or a significant change in the overall market which would impact the value of the real estate investment resulting in unrealized appreciation or depreciation.
Real estate and capital markets are cyclical in nature. Property and investment values are affected by, among other things, the availability of capital, occupancy rates, rental rates and interest and inflation rates. In addition, the Company invests in real estate and real estate related investments for which no liquid market exists. The market prices for such investments may be volatile and may not be readily ascertainable. Amounts ultimately realized by the Company from investments sold may differ from the fair values presented, and the differences could be material.

The Company's real estate investments are typically categorized as a level 3 investment within the fair value hierarchy as management uses significant unobservable inputs in determining their estimated fair value.
Revenue recognition
The Company's principal sources of revenue are derived from two segments: an alternative investment segment and a broker-dealer segment, as more fully described below.
Our alternative investment segment generates revenue through three principal sources: management fees, incentive income and investment income from the Company's own capital.
Our broker-dealer segment generates revenue through three principal sources: investment banking, brokerage and investment income.
Management fees
The Company earns management fees from affiliated funds and certain managed accounts that it serves as the investment manager based on assets under management. The actual management fees received vary depending on distribution fees or fee splits paid to third parties either in connection with raising the assets or structuring the investment. Management fees are generally paid on a quarterly basis at the beginning of each quarter in arrears and are prorated for capital inflows and redemptions. While some investors may have separately negotiated fees, in general the management fees are as follows:
Hedge Funds. Management fees for the Company's hedge funds are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of assets under management or notional trading level. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income.
Registered Funds. Management fees for the Company’s registered funds (State Street/Ramius Managed Futures Strategy Fund and Ramius Archview Credit and Distressed Fund) are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 1.50% of assets under management.

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Alternative Solutions. Management fees for the Alternative Solutions business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of assets under management or notional trading level. Management fees are generally calculated monthly based on assets under management at the end of each month before incentive income or based on assets under management at the beginning of the month. Management fees earned from the Alternative Solutions business are based and initially calculated on estimated net asset values and actual fees ultimately earned could be impacted to the extent of any changes in these estimates.
Real Estate. Management fees from the Company's real estate business are generally charged by their general partners at an annual rate from 0.25% to 1.50% of total capital commitments during the investment period and of invested capital or net asset value of the applicable fund after the investment period has ended. Management fees are typically paid to the general partners on a quarterly basis, at the beginning of the quarter in arrears, and are prorated for changes in capital commitments throughout the investment period and invested capital after the investment period. The general partners of the funds on the RCG Longview platform are owned jointly by the Company and third parties. Accordingly, the management fees (in addition to incentive income and investment income) generated by these real estate funds are split between the Company and the other general partners. Pursuant to US GAAP, these fees and other income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
HealthCare Royalty Partners. During the investment period (as defined in the management agreement of the HealthCare Royalty Partners' funds), management fees for the funds and managed accounts advised by HealthCare Royalty Partners are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of committed capital. After the investment period, management fees are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 2% of the net asset value of the funds or managed accounts or the aggregate cost basis of the unrealized investments held by the funds. Management fees for the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds are calculated on a quarterly basis.
Ramius Trading Strategies. Management fees and platform fees for the Company's private commodity trading advisory business are generally charged at an annual rate of up to 0.5%. Management and platform fees are generally calculated monthly based on each account's notional trading level at the end of each month.
Incentive income
The Company earns incentive income based on net profits (as defined in the respective investment management agreements) with respect to certain of the Company's funds and managed accounts, allocable for each fiscal year that exceeds cumulative unrecovered net losses, if any, that have been carried forward from prior years. For the products we offer, incentive income earned is typically up to 20% for hedge funds and up to 10% for alternative solutions products (in certain cases on performance in excess of a benchmark), of the net profits earned for the full year that are attributable to each fee-paying investor. Generally, incentive income on real estate funds is earned after the investor has received a full return of their invested capital, plus a preferred return. However, for certain real estate funds, the Company is entitled to receive incentive fees earlier, provided that the investors have received their preferred return on a current basis or on an investor by investor basis. These funds are generally subject to a potential clawback of these incentive fees upon the liquidation of the fund if the investor has not received a full return of its invested capital plus the preferred return thereon. Incentive income in the HealthCare Royalty Partners funds is generally earned only after investors receive a full return of their capital plus a preferred return. Pursuant to US GAAP, incentive income received by the general partners that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are reflected under net gains (losses) on securities, derivatives and other investments in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
In periods following a period of a net loss attributable to an investor, the Company generally does not earn incentive income on any future profits attributable to that investor until the accumulated net loss from prior periods is recovered, an arrangement commonly referred to as a “high-water mark.” The Company has elected to record incentive income revenue in accordance with “Method 2” of US GAAP. Under Method 2, the incentive income from the Company's funds and managed accounts for any period is based upon the net profits of those funds and managed accounts at the reporting date. Any incentive income recognized in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations may be subject to future reversal based on subsequent negative performance prior to the conclusion of the fiscal year, when all contingencies have been resolved.
Carried interest in the real estate funds is subject to clawback to the extent that the carried interest actually distributed to date exceeds the amount due to the Company based on cumulative results. As such, the accrual for potential repayment of previously received carried interest, which is a component of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities, represents all amounts previously distributed to the Company, less an assumed tax liability, that would need to be repaid to certain real estate funds if these funds were to be liquidated based on the current fair value of the underlying funds' investments as of the reporting date. The actual clawback liability does not become realized until the end of a fund's life.

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Investment Banking
The Company earns investment banking revenue primarily from fees associated with public and private capital raising transactions and providing strategic advisory services. Investment banking revenues are derived primarily from small and mid-capitalization companies within the Company's Target Sectors.
Investment banking revenue consists of underwriting fees, strategic/financial advisory fees and placement and sales agent fees.
Underwriting fees. The Company earns underwriting fees in securities offerings in which the Company acts as an underwriter, such as initial public offerings, follow-on equity offerings, debt offerings, and convertible security offerings. Fee revenue relating to underwriting commitments is recorded when all significant items relating to the underwriting process have been completed and the amount of the underwriting revenue has been determined. This generally is the point at which all of the following have occurred: (i) the issuer's registration statement has become effective with the SEC or the other offering documents are finalized; (ii) the Company has made a firm commitment for the purchase of securities from the issuer; and (iii) the Company has been informed of the number of securities that it has been allotted.
When the Company is not the lead manager for an underwriting transaction, management must estimate the Company's share of transaction-related expenses incurred by the lead manager in order to recognize revenue. Transaction-related expenses are deducted from the underwriting fee and therefore reduce the revenue the Company recognizes as co-manager. Such amounts are adjusted to reflect actual expenses in the period in which the Company receives the final settlement, typically within 90 days following the closing of the transaction.
Strategic/financial advisory fees. The Company's strategic advisory revenues include success fees earned in connection with advising companies, principally in mergers and acquisitions and restructuring transactions. The Company also earns fees for related advisory work such as providing fairness opinions. The Company records strategic advisory revenues when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.
Placement and sales agent fees. The Company earns agency placement fees and sales agent commissions in non-underwritten transactions such as private placements of loans and debt and equity securities, including, private investment in public equity transactions (“PIPEs”), and as sales agent in at-the-market offerings of equity securities. The Company records placement revenues (which may be in cash and/or securities) when the services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each assignment or engagement and collection is reasonably assured. The Company records sales agent commissions on a trade date basis. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded.
Brokerage
Brokerage revenue consists of commissions, principal transactions and equity research fees.
Commissions. Commission revenue includes fees from executing client transactions. These fees are recognized on a trade date basis. The Company permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their commissions to pay for research products and other services provided by third parties. The amounts allocated for those purposes are commonly referred to as soft dollar arrangements. Commissions on soft dollar brokerage are recorded net of the related expenditures on an accrual basis.
Principal Transactions. Principal transactions revenue includes net trading gains and losses from the Company's market-making activities in over-the-counter equity securities, trading of convertible securities, and trading gains and losses on inventory and other firm positions, which include warrants previously received as part of investment banking transactions. In certain cases, the Company provides liquidity to clients by buying or selling blocks of shares of listed stocks without previously identifying the other side of the trade at execution, which subjects the Company to market risk. These positions are typically held for a very short duration.
Equity Research Fees. Equity research fees are paid to the Company for providing equity research. Revenue is recognized once an arrangement exists, access to research has been provided, the fee amount is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured.



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Investment Income
Investment income earned by the alternative investment and broker-dealer segments are earned from investing the Company's capital in various strategies and from investments in private capital raising transactions of its investment banking clients.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price consideration of acquired companies over the estimated fair value assigned to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is allocated to the Company's reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. Once goodwill has been allocated to the reporting units, it generally no longer retains its identification with a particular acquisition, but instead becomes identifiable with the reporting unit. As a result, all of the fair value of each reporting unit is available to support the value of goodwill allocated to the unit.
In accordance with US GAAP, the Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or at an interim period if events or changed circumstances would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Under US GAAP, the Company first assesses the qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amounts as a basis for determining if it is necessary to perform the two-step approach. The first step requires a comparison of the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, the related goodwill is not considered impaired and no further analysis is required. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value, there is an indication that the related goodwill might be impaired and the step two is performed to measure the amount of impairment, if any.
The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with its carrying amount to measure the amount of impairment, if any. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. In other words, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of its assets and liabilities (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Goodwill impairment tests involve significant judgment in determining the estimates of future cash flows, discount rates, economic forecast and other assumptions which are then used in acceptable valuation techniques, such as the market approach (earning and or transactions multiples) and / or income approach (discounted cash flow method). Changes in these estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the fair value and any resulting impairment of goodwill.
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated average useful lives. The Company does not have any intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives. Intangible assets are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that an asset or asset group's carrying value may not be fully recoverable. An impairment loss, calculated as the difference between the estimated fair value and the carrying value of an asset or asset group, is recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations if the sum of the estimated discounted cash flows relating to the asset or asset group is less than the corresponding carrying value.
Legal Reserves
The Company estimates potential losses that may arise out of legal and regulatory proceedings and records a reserve and takes a charge to income when losses with respect to such matters are deemed probable and can be reasonably estimated, in accordance with US GAAP. These amounts are reported in other expenses, net of recoveries, in the condensed consolidated statements of operations. See Note 11 "Commitments and Contingencies" in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2016 for further discussion. As the successor of the named party in these litigation matters, the Company recognizes the related legal reserve in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition.
Recently adopted and future adoption of accounting pronouncements
        For a detailed discussion, see Note 3 "Recently issued accounting pronouncements" in our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2016.
Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, there were no material changes in our quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risks from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. For a more detailed discussion concerning our market risk, see Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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Item 4.    Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer (the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, respectively), evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2016.
Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of March 31, 2016, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide a reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports filed or submitted by it under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended March 31, 2016.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.    Legal Proceedings    
In the ordinary course of business, we are named as defendants in, or as parties to, various legal actions and proceedings. Certain of these actions and proceedings assert claims or seek relief in connection with alleged violations of securities, banking, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering, employment and other statutory and common laws. Certain of these actual or threatened legal actions and proceedings include claims for substantial or indeterminate compensatory or punitive damages, or for injunctive relief.
In the ordinary course of business, we are also subject to governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests (both formal and informal), certain of which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions or other relief. Certain of our affiliates and subsidiaries are investment banks, registered broker-dealers, futures commission merchants, investment advisers or other regulated entities and, in those capacities, are subject to regulation by various U.S., state and foreign securities, commodity futures and other regulators. In connection with formal and informal inquiries by these regulators, we receive requests, and orders seeking documents and other information in connection with various aspects of our regulated activities.
Due to the global scope of our operations, and presence in countries around the world, we may be subject to litigation, and governmental and regulatory examinations, information gathering requests, investigations and proceedings (both formal and informal), in multiple jurisdictions with legal and regulatory regimes that may differ substantially, and present substantially different risks, from those we are subject to in the United States.
The Company seeks to resolve all litigation and regulatory matters in the manner management believes is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and contests liability, allegations of wrongdoing and, where applicable, the amount of damages or scope of any penalties or other relief sought as appropriate in each pending matter.
In accordance with US GAAP, the Company establishes reserves for contingencies when the Company believes that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses a contingency if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss may have been incurred and there is no reserve for the loss because the conditions above are not met. The Company's disclosure includes an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss for those matters, for which an estimate can be made. Neither a reserve nor disclosure is required for losses that are deemed remote.
The Company appropriately reserves for certain matters where, in the opinion of management, the likelihood of liability is probable and the extent of such liability is reasonably estimable. Such amounts are included within accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of financial condition. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and currently available information and involve a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type and nature of the litigation, claim or proceeding, the progress of the matter, the advice of legal counsel, the Company's defenses and its experience in similar cases or proceedings as well as its assessment of matters, including settlements, involving other defendants in similar or related cases or proceedings. The Company may increase or decrease its legal reserves in the future, on a matter-by-matter basis, to account for developments in such matters. The Company accrues legal fees as incurred.
The following information reflects developments with respect to the Company's legal proceedings that occurred in the quarter ended March 31, 2016.

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On May 28, 2014, Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK (collectively, "EIG") filed a lawsuit against Cowen and Company, LLC in the United States Court for the Southern District of New York (Energy Intelligence Group, Inc. and Energy Intelligence Group UK v. Cowen and Company, LLC, No. 14-CV-3789). The complaint alleges copyright infringement based on alleged impermissible distribution of EIG's publication, Oil Daily, by Cowen and Company, LLC, and Dahlman Rose & Company, LLC, as Cowen's alleged predecessor-in-interest. EIG is seeking statutory damages based on alleged willful infringement of their copyrights. The Company intends to vigorously defend against this lawsuit. On November 12, 2014, the Company filed an answer and affirmative defenses to the EIG complaint. On September 25, 2015, the Company filed its motion for partial summary judgment to dismiss certain of EIG’s claims relating to Dahlman Rose’s alleged copyright infringement. We expect the Company’s motion to be heard in the second quarter of 2016, but we cannot predict when the Court will issue a decision. Because the case is in its preliminary stages, the Company cannot predict the outcome at this time, but it does not currently expect this case to have a material effect on its financial position. The case could have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations in a future period.
Item 1A.    Risk Factors
The discussion of our business and operations should be read together with the risk factors contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. These risk factors describe various risks and uncertainties to which we are or may become subject. These risks and uncertainties have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, strategies or prospects in a material and adverse manner. There are no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our 2015 Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 29, 2016.
Item 2.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities: Sales of Unregistered Securities
As of April 27, 2016, the Company's Board of Directors has approved a share repurchase program that authorizes the Company to purchase up to $138.3 million of Cowen Class A common stock from time to time through a variety of methods, including in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, in accordance with applicable securities laws. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, through the share repurchase program, the Company repurchased 998,119 shares of Cowen Class A common stock at an average price of $3.58 per share.
The table below sets forth the information with respect to purchases made by or on the behalf of the Company or any “affiliated purchaser” (as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act, as amended), of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2016.
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Month 1 (January 1, 2016 – January 31, 2016)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock repurchases(1)
 

 
$

 

 
18,019,322

Employee transactions(2)
 
3,551

 
$
4.57

 

 

Total
 
3,551

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Month 2 (February 1, 2016 – February 29, 2016)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock repurchases(1)
 

 
$

 

 
25,000,000

Employee transactions(2)
 
23,664

 
$
3.23

 

 

Total
 
23,664

 
$
3.23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Month 3 (March 1, 2016 – March 31, 2016)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock repurchases(1)
 
998,119

 
$
3.58

 

 
21,429,975

Employee transactions(2)
 
1,097,461

 
$
3.57

 

 

Total
 
2,095,580

 
$
3.57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total (January 1, 2016 – March 31, 2016)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock repurchases(1)
 
998,119

 
$
3.58

 

 
21,429,975

Employee transactions(2)
 
1,124,676

 
$
3.57

 

 

Total
 
2,122,795

 
$
3.57

 

 

(1)
The Company's Board of Directors have authorized the repurchase, subject to market conditions, of up to $138.3 million of the Company's outstanding common stock.

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(2)
Represents shares of common stock withheld in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations upon the vesting of equity awards or other similar transactions.
(3)
Board approval of repurchases is based on dollar amount. The Company cannot estimate the number of shares that may yet be purchased.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not Applicable.
Item 5. Other Information
None.
Item 6.    Exhibits
See Exhibit Index.

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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
 
COWEN GROUP, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ PETER A. COHEN
 
 
 
 
 
Name:
Peter A. Cohen
 
 
 
 
 
Title:
Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ STEPHEN A. LASOTA
 
 
 
 
 
Name:
Stephen A. Lasota
 
 
Date:
May 2, 2016
 
Title:
Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer and principal accounting officer)
 



Table of Contents

Exhibit Index
Exhibit No.
 
Description
10.1

 
Form of Performance Shares Award Agreement (filed herewith).*

31.1

 
Certification of CEO Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
31.2

 
Certification of CFO Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
32

 
Certification of CEO and CFO Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (furnished herewith).
101.INS

 
XBRL INSTANCE DOCUMENT
101.SCH

 
XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA DOCUMENT
101.CAL

 
XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.DEF

 
XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.LAB

 
XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABEL LINKBASE DOCUMENT
101.PRE

 
XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
*
Signifies management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.    


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