10-Q 1 fgp_20130131x10q.htm 10-Q FGP_2013.01.31_10Q
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended January 31, 2013
or
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from         to         
 
Commission file numbers: 001-11331, 333-06693, 000-50182 and 000-50183
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
Ferrellgas, L.P.
Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
(Exact name of registrants as specified in their charters)
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
(States or other jurisdictions of incorporation or organization)
 
43-1698480
43-1742520
43-1698481
14-1866671
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Nos.)
 
 
 
7500 College Boulevard,
Suite 1000, Overland Park, Kansas
(Address of principal executive office)
 
66210
(Zip Code)
Registrants’ telephone number, including area code:
(913) 661-1500
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have 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 registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No ¨ 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants have submitted electronically and posted on their 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 registrants were required to submit and post such files). Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are large accelerated filers, accelerated filers, non-accelerated filers, or smaller reporting companies. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.:
Large accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer ¨
 
Non-accelerated filer ¨
(do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company ¨
 
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp, Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.:
Large accelerated filer ¨
 
Accelerated filer ¨
 
Non-accelerated filer x
(do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are shell companies (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Ferrellgas, L.P. Yes ¨ No ý
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. Yes ý No ¨

At February 28, 2013, the registrants had common units or shares of common stock outstanding as follows:
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
 
79,046,219
 
Common Units
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
 
1,000
 
Common Stock
Ferrellgas, L.P.
 
n/a
 
n/a
Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
 
1,000
 
Common Stock
 
Documents Incorporated by Reference: None
 
EACH OF FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. AND FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. MEET THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTION H(1)(A) AND (B) OF FORM 10-Q AND ARE THEREFORE, WITH RESPECT TO EACH SUCH REGISTRANT, FILING THIS FORM 10-Q WITH THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT.



FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
 
For the quarterly period ended January 31, 2013
FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT

Table of Contents
 
Page
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 








PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)

FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except unit data)
(unaudited)
 
January 31,
2013
 
July 31,
2012
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
12,109

 
$
8,429

Accounts and notes receivable (including $224,428 and $121,812 of accounts receivable pledged as collateral at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
238,558

 
124,004

Inventories
130,073

 
127,598

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
30,069

 
29,315

Total current assets
410,809

 
289,346

 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of $608,343 and $597,177 at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
610,984

 
626,551

Goodwill
248,944

 
248,944

Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of $335,627 and $324,893 at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
183,659

 
189,118

Other assets, net
48,603

 
43,320

Total assets
$
1,502,999

 
$
1,397,279

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' DEFICIT
 

 
 

Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts payable
$
103,379

 
$
47,824

Short-term borrowings
72,678

 
95,730

Collateralized note payable
134,000

 
74,000

Other current liabilities
122,915

 
122,667

Total current liabilities
432,972

 
340,221

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
1,081,388

 
1,059,085

Other liabilities
30,960

 
25,499

Contingencies and commitments (Note J)

 

 
 
 
 
Partners' deficit:
 

 
 

Common unitholders (79,015,619 and 79,006,619 units outstanding at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
20,673

 
43,701

General partner unitholder (798,138 and 798,047 units outstanding at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
(59,863
)
 
(59,630
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(4,547
)
 
(13,159
)
Total Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. partners' deficit
(43,737
)
 
(29,088
)
Noncontrolling interest
1,416

 
1,562

Total partners' deficit
(42,321
)
 
(27,526
)
Total liabilities and partners' deficit
$
1,502,999

 
$
1,397,279

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

1


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(in thousands, except per unit data)
(unaudited)
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Propane and other gas liquids sales
$
583,074

 
$
779,567

 
$
918,355

 
$
1,293,786

Other
75,791

 
49,705

 
103,419

 
73,912

Total revenues
658,865

 
829,272

 
1,021,774

 
1,367,698

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales
376,236

 
600,600

 
589,893

 
1,003,722

Cost of product sold - other
47,437

 
24,468

 
56,634

 
31,094

Operating expense (includes $0.6 million and $0.7 million for the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $1.3 million and $1.8 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, for non-cash stock and unit-based compensation)
106,192

 
104,414

 
203,337

 
204,992

Depreciation and amortization expense
20,751

 
21,042

 
41,626

 
41,716

General and administrative expense (includes $2.5 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $4.9 million and $2.6 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, for non-cash stock and unit-based compensation)
12,717

 
11,236

 
23,872

 
22,350

Equipment lease expense
3,827

 
3,528

 
7,750

 
7,057

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge
7,447

 
1,937

 
9,849

 
4,516

Loss on disposal of assets and other
2,120

 
523

 
2,391

 
832

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
82,138

 
61,524

 
86,422

 
51,419

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
(22,619
)
 
(24,046
)
 
(45,054
)
 
(47,433
)
Other income, net
241

 
80

 
332

 
47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings before income taxes
59,760

 
37,558

 
41,700

 
4,033

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax expense
917

 
771

 
653

 
141

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings
58,843

 
36,787

 
41,047

 
3,892

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest
636

 
413

 
498

 
122

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
58,207

 
36,374

 
40,549

 
3,770

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less: General partner's interest in net earnings
3,138

 
364

 
405

 
38

Common unitholders' interest in net earnings
$
55,069

 
$
36,010

 
$
40,144

 
$
3,732

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic and diluted net earnings per common unitholders' interest
$
0.70

 
$
0.47

 
$
0.51

 
$
0.05

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash distributions declared per common unit
$
0.50

 
$
0.50

 
$
1.00

 
$
1.00

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

2


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Net earnings
$
58,843

 
$
36,787

 
$
41,047

 
$
3,892

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in value on risk management derivatives
(6,205
)
 
(1,347
)
 
71

 
(3,875
)
Reclassification of gains and losses of derivatives to earnings
4,434

 
(834
)
 
8,625

 
(2,713
)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
1

 
(2
)
 
3

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)
(1,770
)
 
(2,183
)
 
8,699

 
(6,588
)
Comprehensive income (loss)
57,073

 
34,604

 
49,746

 
(2,696
)
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest
618

 
392

 
585

 
56

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, LP
$
56,455

 
$
34,212

 
$
49,161

 
$
(2,752
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


3


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL (DEFICIT)
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
Number of units
 
 
 
 
 
Accumulated
 
Total
Ferrellgas
Partners, L.P.
 
 
 
Total
 

Common
unitholders
 
General Partner unitholder
 
Common
unitholders
 
General Partner unitholder
 
other
comprehensive income (loss)
 
partners'
capital (deficit)
 
Non-controlling
interest
 
partners'
capital (deficit)
Balance at July 31, 2012
79,006.6

 
798.0

 
$
43,701

 
$
(59,630
)
 
$
(13,159
)
 
$
(29,088
)
 
$
1,562

 
$
(27,526
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contributions in connection with non-cash ESOP and stock and unit-based compensation charges

 

 
15,739

 
159

 
 
 
15,898

 
163

 
16,061


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions

 

 
(79,016
)
 
(798
)
 
 
 
(79,814
)
 
(894
)
 
(80,708
)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common unit options issued
9.0

 
0.1

 
105

 
1

 
 
 
106

 

 
106


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net earnings
 
 
 
 
40,144

 
405

 
 
 
40,549

 
498

 
41,047

Other comprehensive income
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
8,612

 
8,612

 
87

 
8,699

Comprehensive income
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
49,161

 
585

 
49,746

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at January 31, 2013
79,015.6

 
798.1

 
$
20,673

 
$
(59,863
)
 
$
(4,547
)
 
$
(43,737
)
 
$
1,416

 
$
(42,321
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

4


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
41,047

 
$
3,892

Reconciliation of net earnings to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization expense
41,626

 
41,716

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge
9,849

 
4,516

Non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge
6,212

 
4,482

Loss on disposal of assets and other
2,391

 
832

Provision for doubtful accounts
2,515

 
3,461

Deferred tax expense
391

 
292

Other
1,911

 
1,155

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from business acquisitions:
 
 
 
Accounts and notes receivable, net of securitization
(117,208
)
 
(136,899
)
Inventories
(2,390
)
 
(34,340
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
(1,489
)
 
(9,022
)
Accounts payable
55,190

 
64,712

Accrued interest expense
(116
)
 
2

Other current liabilities
8,473

 
10,882

Other liabilities
534

 
295

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
48,936

 
(44,024
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities:
 
 
 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(6,488
)
 
(10,327
)
Capital expenditures
(21,964
)
 
(24,453
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
6,163

 
2,374

Net cash used in investing activities
(22,289
)
 
(32,406
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
 
 
 
Distributions
(79,814
)
 
(76,738
)
Proceeds from increase in long-term debt
22,552

 
31,490

Payments on long-term debt
(1,868
)
 
(52,220
)
Net reductions in short-term borrowings
(23,052
)
 
(8,890
)
Net additions to collateralized short-term borrowings
60,000

 
144,000

Cash paid for financing costs

 
(3,315
)
Noncontrolling interest activity
(894
)
 
(352
)
Proceeds from exercise of common unit options
105

 
239

Proceeds from equity offering, net of issuance costs

 
50,000

Cash contribution from general partner in connection with common unit issuances
1

 
504

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(22,970
)
 
84,718


 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
3

 


 
 
 
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
3,680

 
8,288

Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year
8,429

 
7,437

Cash and cash equivalents - end of year
$
12,109

 
$
15,725

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


5


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
January 31, 2013
(Dollars in thousands, except per unit data, unless otherwise designated)
(unaudited)

A.  Partnership organization and formation
 
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (“Ferrellgas Partners”) is a publicly traded limited partnership, owning an approximate 99% limited partner interest in Ferrellgas, L.P. (the "operating partnership"). Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership, collectively referred to as “Ferrellgas,” are both Delaware limited partnerships and are governed by their respective partnership agreements. Ferrellgas Partners was formed to acquire and hold a limited partner interest in the operating partnership. As of January 31, 2013, Ferrell Companies beneficially owns 21.7 million, or 27%, of Ferrellgas Partners’ outstanding common units. Ferrellgas, Inc. (the “general partner”) has retained a 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas Partners and also holds an approximate 1% general partner interest in the operating partnership, representing an effective 2% general partner interest in Ferrellgas on a combined basis. The general partner performs all management functions required by Ferrellgas.
 
Ferrellgas Partners is a holding entity that conducts no operations and has two subsidiaries, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and the operating partnership. Ferrellgas Partners owns a 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., whose only business activity is to act as the co-issuer and co-obligor of any debt issued by Ferrellgas Partners. The operating partnership is the only operating subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners. Ferrellgas is a single reportable operating segment.
 
The operating partnership is engaged primarily in the distribution of propane and related equipment and supplies in the United States. The propane distribution market is seasonal because propane is used primarily for heating in residential and commercial buildings. Therefore, the results of operations for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full fiscal year. The operating partnership serves residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed consolidated financial statements were of a normal, recurring nature. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with (i) the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and (ii) the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, each as set forth in Ferrellgas’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2012.
 
B.    Summary of significant accounting policies
 
(1)    Accounting estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Significant estimates impacting the condensed consolidated financial statements include accruals that have been established for contingent liabilities, pending claims and legal actions arising in the normal course of business, useful lives of property, plant and equipment assets, residual values of tanks, capitalization of customer tank installation costs, amortization methods of intangible assets, valuation methods used to value sales returns and allowances, allowance for doubtful accounts, fair value of reporting units, fair values of derivative contracts and stock and unit-based compensation calculations.
 
(2)    Supplemental cash flow information: For purposes of the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, Ferrellgas considers cash equivalents to include all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Certain cash flow and significant non-cash activities are presented below:


6




For the six months ended January 31,


2013
 
2012
CASH PAID FOR:




Interest

$
42,646


$
44,799

Income taxes

$
45


$
90

NON-CASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES:




Issuance of common units in connection with acquisitions

$


$
1,300

Liabilities incurred in connection with acquisitions

$
1,060


$
2,321

Change in accruals for property, plant and equipment additions

$
598


$
979



(3)    New accounting standards: 
 
FASB Accounting Standard Update No. 2011-08
In September 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2011-08, which amends the existing guidance on goodwill impairment testing. Under the new guidance, entities testing goodwill for impairment have the option of performing a qualitative assessment before calculating the fair value of the reporting unit. If an entity determines, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the reporting unit is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the two-step impairment test would be required. This guidance is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. Ferrellgas adopted this guidance for the quarter ended January 31, 2013 with no impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
FASB Accounting Standard Update No. 2012-02
In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU 2012-02, which amends the existing guidance on impairment testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets. Under the new guidance, entities testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment have the option of performing a qualitative assessment before calculating the fair value of the asset. If an entity determines, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the asset is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the two-step impairment test would be required. This guidance is effective for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted.  Ferrellgas adopted this guidance for the quarter ended January 31, 2013 with no impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
C.  Supplemental financial statement information
 
Inventories consist of the following:


January 31,

July 31,


2013

2012
Propane gas and related products

$
112,762


$
110,517

Appliances, parts and supplies

17,311


17,081

Inventories

$
130,073


$
127,598


In addition to inventories on hand, Ferrellgas enters into contracts primarily to buy propane for supply procurement purposes with terms of fewer than 36 months. Most of these contracts call for payment based on market prices at the date of delivery. As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas had committed, for supply procurement purposes, to take delivery of approximately 78.0 million gallons of propane at fixed prices.
 
Other current liabilities consist of the following:


7




January 31,

July 31,


2013

2012
Accrued interest

$
19,829


$
19,945

Customer deposits and advances

25,302


28,842

Other

77,784


73,880

Other current liabilities

$
122,915


$
122,667


Shipping and handling expenses are classified in the following condensed consolidated statements of earnings line items:



For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Operating expense

$
48,260


$
47,937


$
92,161


$
91,725

Depreciation and amortization expense

1,400


1,700


2,927


3,284

Equipment lease expense

3,493


3,053


6,880


6,144



$
53,153


$
52,690


$
101,968


$
101,153

 
D.    Accounts and notes receivable, net and accounts receivable securitization
 
Accounts and notes receivable, net consist of the following:

January 31,
2013

July 31,
2012
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral
$
224,428


$
121,812

Accounts receivable
18,924


5,788

Other
400


216

Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts
(5,194
)

(3,812
)
Accounts and notes receivable, net
$
238,558


$
124,004


At January 31, 2013, $224.4 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $134.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to the commercial paper conduit. These accounts receivable pledged as collateral are bankruptcy remote from the operating partnership. The operating partnership does not provide any guarantee or similar support to the collectability of these accounts receivable pledged as collateral. 
 
As of January 31, 2013, the operating partnership had received cash proceeds of $134.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of July 31, 2012, the operating partnership had received cash proceeds of $74.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. Borrowings under the accounts receivable securitization facility had a weighted average interest rate of 2.4% and 2.6% as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively.
 
E.  Debt
 
Short-term borrowings
 
Ferrellgas classified a portion of its secured credit facility borrowings as short-term because it was used to fund working capital needs that management had intended to pay down within the 12 month period following each balance sheet date. As of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, $72.7 million and $95.7 million, respectively, were classified as short-term borrowings. For further discussion see the secured credit facility section below.
 
Secured credit facility
 
As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $159.5 million, of which $86.8 million was classified as long-term debt. As of July 31, 2012, Ferrellgas had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $160.0 million, of which $64.3 million was classified as long-term debt.

8


 
Borrowings outstanding at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012 under the secured credit facility had a weighted average interest rate of 4.1% and 4.2%, respectively.
 
The obligations under this credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of the operating partnership, the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to the operating partnership’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership.
 
Letters of credit outstanding at January 31, 2013 totaled $62.6 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, commodity hedges and product purchases. Letters of credit outstanding at July 31, 2012 totaled $64.5 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, product purchases. At January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas had available letter of credit remaining capacity of $137.4 million. At July 31, 2012, Ferrellgas had available letter of credit remaining capacity of $135.5 million.
 
F.  Partners' deficit
 
Partnership distributions paid
 
Ferrellgas Partners has paid the following distributions:


For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Public common unitholders

$
26,470


$
25,644


$
52,940


$
51,284

Ferrell Companies (1)

10,735


10,040


21,470


20,080

FCI Trading (2)

98


98


196


196

Ferrell Propane (3)

26


26


52


52

Mr. Ferrell (4)

2,179


2,179


4,358


4,358

General partner

399


384


798


768



$
39,907


$
38,371


$
79,814


$
76,738


(1)
Ferrell Companies is the owner of the general partner and a 27% direct owner of Ferrellgas Partner’s common units and thus a related party.
(2)
FCI Trading is an affiliate of the general partner and thus a related party.
(3)
Ferrell Propane is controlled by the general partner and thus a related party.
(4)
James E. Ferrell (“Mr. Ferrell”) is the Executive Chairman of the general partner and thus a related party.
 
On February 26, 2013, Ferrellgas Partners declared a cash distribution of $0.50 per common unit for the three months ended January 31, 2013 which is expected to be paid on March 15, 2013. Included in this cash distribution are the following amounts to be paid to related parties:
Ferrell Companies

$
10,735

FCI Trading

98

Ferrell Propane

26

Mr. Ferrell

2,179

General partner

399


See additional discussions about transactions with related parties in Note I – Transactions with related parties.
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”)
 
See Note H – Derivative instruments and hedging activities – for details regarding changes in fair value on risk management financial derivatives recorded within AOCL for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012.
 

9


General partner’s commitment to maintain its capital account
 
Ferrellgas’ partnership agreements allows the general partner to have an option to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest concurrent with the issuance of other additional equity.
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013, the general partner made non-cash contributions of $0.3 million to Ferrellgas to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest.
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2012, the general partner made cash contributions of $1.0 million and non-cash contributions of $0.2 million to Ferrellgas to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest.

G.  Fair value measurements
 
Derivative financial  instruments
 
The following table presents Ferrellgas’ financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, including both current and noncurrent portions, as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012:


Asset (Liability)


Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets and Liabilities (Level 1)

Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)

Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

Total
January 31, 2013:








Assets:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
8,008


$


$
8,008

Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
2,133


$


$
2,133

Liabilities:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
(2,622
)

$


$
(2,622
)
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
(3,613
)

$


$
(3,613
)









July 31, 2012:








Assets:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
7,784


$


$
7,784

Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
1,049


$


$
1,049

Liabilities:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
(1,778
)

$


$
(1,778
)
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
(12,069
)

$


$
(12,069
)



The fair values of Ferrellgas’ non-exchange traded commodity derivative contracts are based upon indicative price quotations available through brokers, industry price publications or recent market transactions and related market indicators. The fair

10


values of interest rate swap contracts are based upon third-party quotes or indicative values based on recent market transactions.
 
H.  Derivative instruments and hedging activities
 
Ferrellgas is exposed to certain market risks related to its ongoing business operations. These risks include exposure to changing commodity prices as well as fluctuations in interest rates. Ferrellgas utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices. Ferrellgas also periodically utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.
 
Derivative instruments and hedging activity
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, Ferrellgas did not recognize any gain or loss in earnings related to hedge ineffectiveness and did not exclude any component of financial derivative contract gains or losses from the assessment of hedge effectiveness related to commodity cash flow hedges.

The following tables provide a summary of fair value derivatives that were designated as hedging instruments in Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated balance sheets as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012:


January 31, 2013


Asset Derivatives

Liability Derivatives
Derivative Instrument

Location

 Fair value

Location

 Fair value
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

$
627


Other current liabilities

$
3,613

Commodity derivatives propane swaps
 
Other assets, net
 
1,506

 
Other liabilities
 

Interest rate swap agreements, current portion

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

3,324


Other current liabilities


Interest rate swap agreements, noncurrent portion

Other assets, net

4,684


Other liabilities

2,622



Total

$
10,141


Total

$
6,235





















July 31, 2012


Asset Derivatives

Liability Derivatives
Derivative Instrument

Location

 Fair value

Location

 Fair value
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

$
1,049


Other current liabilities

$
12,069

Interest rate swap agreements, current portion

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

3,346


Other current liabilities


Interest rate swap agreements, noncurrent portion

Other assets, net

4,438


Other liabilities

1,778



Total

$
8,833


Total

$
13,847


The following table provides a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three and six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 due to derivatives that were designated as fair value hedging instruments:

11






Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative

Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item)
Derivative Instrument

Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative

For the three months ended January 31,

For the three months ended January 31,




2013

2012

2013

2012
Interest rate swap agreements

Interest expense

$
883


$


$
(5,469
)

$
(5,469
)















Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative

Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item)
Derivative Instrument

Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative

For the six months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,




2013

2012

2013

2012
Interest rate swap agreements

Interest expense

$
1,607


$


$
(10,938
)

$
(10,938
)

The following tables provide a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three and six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 due to the effective portion of derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedging instruments: 

12




For the three months ended January 31, 2013
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(5,612
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
(4,434
)
Interest rate swap agreements

(593
)

Interest expense




$
(6,205
)



$
(4,434
)
















For the three months ended January 31, 2012
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(1,347
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
834



$
(1,347
)



$
834

















For the six months ended January 31, 2013
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
914


Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
(8,625
)
Interest rate swap agreements

(843
)

Interest expense




$
71




$
(8,625
)
















For the six months ended January 31, 2012
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(3,875
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
2,713



$
(3,875
)



$
2,713


The changes in derivative gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:


For the six months ended January 31,
Derivative gains (losses) included in AOCL

2013

2012
Beginning balance

$
(12,799
)

$
5,161

Change in value on risk management commodity derivatives

914


(3,875
)
Reclassification of gains and losses of commodity hedges to cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales

8,625


(2,713
)
Change in value on risk management interest rate derivatives

(843
)


Ending balance

$
(4,103
)

$
(1,427
)

Ferrellgas expects to reclassify net losses of approximately $3.0 million to earnings during the next 12 months. These net losses are expected to be offset by margins on propane sales commitments Ferrellgas has with its customers that qualify for the normal purchase, normal sales exception.

13


 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, Ferrellgas did not have any reclassifications to earnings resulting from discontinuance of any cash flow hedges arising from the probability of the original forecasted transactions not occurring within the originally specified period of time defined within the hedging relationship.
 
As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas had financial derivative contracts covering 1.2 million barrels of propane that were entered into as cash flow hedges of forward and forecasted purchases of propane.
 
Derivative financial instruments credit risk
 
Ferrellgas is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative financial and commodity instruments. Ferrellgas’ counterparties principally consist of major energy companies and major U.S. financial institutions. Ferrellgas maintains credit policies with regard to its counterparties that it believes reduces its overall credit risk. These policies include evaluating and monitoring its counterparties’ financial condition, including their credit ratings, and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit limits. Certain of these agreements call for the posting of collateral by the counterparty or by Ferrellgas in the forms of letters of credit, parental guarantees or cash. Although Ferrellgas has concentrations of credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments held by certain derivative financial instrument counterparties, the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that, based upon the gross fair values of the derivative financial instruments, Ferrellgas would incur if these counterparties that make up the concentration failed to perform according to the terms of their contracts was $1.4 million at January 31, 2013
 
Ferrellgas holds certain derivative contracts that have credit-risk-related contingent features which dictate credit limits based upon the operating partnership’s debt rating.  As of January 31, 2013, a downgrade in the operating partnership’s debt rating would not trigger any further reduction in credit limit. The aggregate fair value of all derivatives with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a liability position on January 31, 2013 is $1.6 million for which Ferrellgas has posted collateral of $1.6 million in the normal course of business. The credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements will result in no additional collateral requirements as of January 31, 2013.
 
I.  Transactions with related parties
 
Ferrellgas has no employees and is managed and controlled by its general partner. Pursuant to Ferrellgas’ partnership agreements, the general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on behalf of Ferrellgas and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to Ferrellgas or otherwise reasonably incurred by its general partner in connection with operating Ferrellgas’ business. These costs primarily include compensation and benefits paid to employees of the general partner who perform services on Ferrellgas’ behalf and are reported in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings as follows:


For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Operating expense

$
53,594


$
53,964


$
101,378


$
103,311










General and administrative expense

$
7,183


$
6,689


$
13,456


$
12,706


See additional discussions about transactions with the general partner and related parties in Note F – Partners’ deficit.

J.    Contingencies and commitments
 
Litigation
 
Ferrellgas’ operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, Ferrellgas is threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, Ferrellgas is not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas.
 

14


Ferrellgas was named as a defendant in lawsuits filed in multiple federal and state courts that seek to certify nationwide or statewide classes related to its Blue Rhino branded propane tank exchange activities.  The plaintiffs in each case generally alleged that Ferrellgas failed to inform consumers of the amount of propane contained in propane tanks they purchased and that Ferrellgas violated anti-trust laws by allegedly conspiring with a competitor. The federal cases were coordinated for multidistrict treatment in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri. A settlement agreement was approved by the Court and funds have been distributed. These claims did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas beyond the amount paid during March 2012 for these claims.
 
Ferrellgas has received notice that the Offices of the District Attorneys of several counties in California and the Federal Trade Commission are investigating cylinder labeling and filling practices and any anti-trust issues relating to the amount of propane contained in propane tanks. These government agencies issued administrative subpoenas seeking documents and information relating to those practices and Ferrellgas has responded. Ferrellgas believes that its cylinders were correctly filled and labeled and will defend any claims that may result from this investigation. Ferrellgas does not believe any loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to these investigations. 
 
Ferrellgas has also been named as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint alleges that Ferrellgas violates consumer protection laws in the manner Ferrellgas sets prices and fees for its customers. Based on Ferrellgas’ business practices, Ferrellgas believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the claims vigorously. The court has permitted limited discovery into an individual claim and the case has not been certified for class treatment. Ferrellgas does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this class action lawsuit.
 
K.    Net earnings per common unitholders’ interest
 
Below is a calculation of the basic and diluted net earnings available per common unitholders’ interest in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the periods indicated. In accordance with guidance issued by the FASB regarding participating securities and the two-class method, Ferrellgas calculates net earnings (loss) per common unitholders’ interest for each period presented according to distributions declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings, as if all of the earnings or loss for the period had been distributed. In periods with undistributed earnings above certain levels, the calculation according to the two-class method results in an increased allocation of undistributed earnings to the general partner and a dilution of the earnings to the limited partners. Due to the seasonality of the propane business, the dilution effect of the guidance on the two-class method typically impacts only the three months ending January 31. The dilutive effect resulting from this guidance on basic and diluted net earnings per common unitholders' interest was $0.03 for the three months ended January 31, 2013. This guidance did not result in a dilutive effect for the three or six months ended January 31, 2012, nor for the six months ended January 31, 2013.
 
In periods with net losses, the allocation of the net losses to the limited partners and the general partner will be determined based on the same allocation basis specified in the Ferrellgas Partners’ partnership agreement that would apply to periods in which there were no undistributed earnings. Additionally, in periods with net losses, there are no dilutive securities.


For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Common unitholders’ interest in net earnings

$
55,069


$
36,010


$
40,144


$
3,732










Weighted average common units outstanding (in thousands)

79,015.6


76,401.6


79,014.4


76,184.0










Dilutive securities

36.1


62.2


40.6


65.1










Weighted average common units outstanding plus dilutive securities

79,051.7


76,463.8


79,055.0


76,249.1










Basic and diluted net earnings per common unitholders’ interest

$
0.70


$
0.47


$
0.51


$
0.05



15



FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.)
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
January 31,
2013
 
July 31,
2012
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
$
969

 
$
969

Total assets
$
969

 
$
969

 
 
 
 
Contingencies and commitments (Note B)

 

 
 
 
 
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, $1.00 par value; 2,000 shares authorized; 1,000 shares issued and outstanding
$
1,000

 
$
1,000

 
 
 
 
Additional paid in capital
11,134

 
10,919

 
 
 
 
Accumulated deficit
(11,165
)
 
(10,950
)
Total stockholder's equity
$
969

 
$
969

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed financial statements.

FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
General and administrative expense
$
215

 
$
125

 
$
215

 
$
175

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(215
)
 
$
(125
)
 
$
(215
)
 
$
(175
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed financial statements.


16


FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(215
)
 
$
(175
)
Cash used in operating activities
(215
)
 
(175
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
 
 
 
Capital contribution
215

 
175

Cash provided by financing activities
215

 
175

 
 
 
 
Change in cash

 

Cash - beginning of year
969

 
969

Cash - end of year
$
969

 
$
969

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed financial statements.

FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
January 31, 2013
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.)
(unaudited)

NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
A.    Formation
 
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. (the “Finance Corp.”), a Delaware corporation, was formed on March 28, 1996 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (the “Partnership”).
 
The condensed financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the interim periods presented.  All adjustments to the condensed financial statements were of a normal, recurring nature.
 
The Finance Corp. has nominal assets, does not conduct any operations and has no employees.
 
B.    Contingencies and commitments
 
The Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of the Partnership.
 
The senior unsecured notes contain various restrictive covenants applicable to the Partnership and its subsidiaries, the most restrictive relating to additional indebtedness. As of January 31, 2013, the Partnership is in compliance with all requirements, tests, limitations and covenants related to this debt agreement.


17



FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
January 31,
2013
 
July 31,
2012
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
11,817

 
$
8,218

Accounts and notes receivable (including $224,428 and $121,812 of accounts receivable pledged as collateral at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
238,558

 
124,004

Inventories
130,073

 
127,598

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
30,033

 
29,275

Total current assets
410,481

 
289,095

 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment, (net of accumulated depreciation of $608,343 and $597,177 at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
610,984

 
626,551

Goodwill
248,944

 
248,944

Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of $335,627 and $324,893 at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively)
183,659

 
189,118

Other assets, net
45,448

 
39,954

Total assets
$
1,499,516

 
$
1,393,662

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts payable
$
103,379

 
$
47,824

Short-term borrowings
72,678

 
95,730

Collateralized note payable
134,000

 
74,000

Other current liabilities
120,507

 
120,384

Total current liabilities
430,564

 
337,938

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
899,388

 
877,085

Other liabilities
30,960

 
25,499

Contingencies and commitments (Note J)

 

 
 
 
 
Partners' capital:
 

 
 

Limited partner
141,735

 
164,737

General partner
1,450

 
1,683

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(4,581
)
 
(13,280
)
Total partners' capital
138,604

 
153,140

Total liabilities and partners' capital
$
1,499,516

 
$
1,393,662

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


18


FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Propane and other gas liquids sales
$
583,074

 
$
779,567

 
$
918,355

 
$
1,293,786

Other
75,791

 
49,705

 
103,419

 
73,912

Total revenues
658,865

 
829,272

 
1,021,774

 
1,367,698

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales
376,236

 
600,600

 
589,893

 
1,003,722

Cost of product sold - other
47,437

 
24,468

 
56,634

 
31,094

Operating expense (includes $0.6 million and $0.7 million for the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $1.3 million and $1.8 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, for non-cash stock and unit-based compensation)
106,125

 
104,347

 
203,207

 
204,863

Depreciation and amortization expense
20,751

 
21,042

 
41,626

 
41,716

General and administrative expense (includes $2.5 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $4.9 million and $2.6 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, for non-cash stock and unit-based compensation)
12,717

 
11,236

 
23,872

 
22,350

Equipment lease expense
3,827

 
3,528

 
7,750

 
7,057

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge
7,447

 
1,937

 
9,849

 
4,516

Loss on disposal of assets and other
2,120

 
523

 
2,391

 
832

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
82,205

 
61,591

 
86,552

 
51,548


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
(18,576
)
 
(20,016
)
 
(36,970
)
 
(39,373
)
Other income, net
241

 
80

 
332

 
47


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings before income taxes
63,870

 
41,655

 
49,914

 
12,222


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax expense
917

 
771

 
653

 
140


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
62,953

 
$
40,884

 
$
49,261

 
$
12,082

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


19


FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Net earnings
$
62,953

 
$
40,884

 
$
49,261

 
$
12,082

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in value on risk management derivatives
(6,205
)
 
(1,347
)
 
71

 
(3,875
)
Reclassification of gains and losses of derivatives to earnings
4,434

 
(834
)
 
8,625

 
(2,713
)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
1

 
(2
)
 
3

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)
(1,770
)
 
(2,183
)
 
8,699

 
(6,588
)
Comprehensive income
$
61,183

 
$
38,701

 
$
57,960

 
$
5,494

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


20


FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Limited
Partner
 
General
Partner
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 
Total
partners'
capital
Balance at July 31, 2012
$
164,737

 
$
1,683

 
$
(13,280
)
 
$
153,140

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contributions in connection with non-cash ESOP and stock and unit-based compensation charges
15,898

 
163

 
 
 
16,061


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions
(87,663
)
 
(894
)
 
 
 
(88,557
)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income:
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net earnings
48,763

 
498

 
 
 
49,261

Other comprehensive income
 

 
 

 
8,699

 
8,699

Comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
57,960

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at January 31, 2013
$
141,735

 
$
1,450

 
$
(4,581
)
 
$
138,604

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


21


FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
49,261

 
$
12,082

Reconciliation of net earnings to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization expense
41,626

 
41,716

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge
9,849

 
4,516

Non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge
6,212

 
4,482

Loss on disposal of assets and other
2,391

 
832

Provision for doubtful accounts
2,515

 
3,461

Deferred tax expense
391

 
292

Other
1,700

 
950

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from business acquisitions:
 
 
 
Accounts and notes receivable, net of securitization
(117,208
)
 
(136,899
)
Inventories
(2,390
)
 
(34,340
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
(1,493
)
 
(9,008
)
Accounts payable
55,190

 
64,712

Accrued interest expense
(116
)
 
1

Other current liabilities
8,348

 
10,793

Other liabilities
534

 
295

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
56,810

 
(36,115
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities:
 
 
 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(6,488
)
 
(10,340
)
Capital expenditures
(21,964
)
 
(24,453
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
6,163

 
2,374

Net cash used in investing activities
(22,289
)
 
(32,419
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
 
 
 
Distributions
(88,557
)
 
(85,450
)
Contributions from partners


50,510

Proceeds from increase in long-term debt
22,552

 
31,490

Payments on long-term debt
(1,868
)
 
(52,220
)
Net reductions to short-term borrowings
(23,052
)
 
(8,890
)
Net additions to collateralized short-term borrowings
60,000

 
144,000

Cash paid for financing costs

 
(3,315
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(30,925
)
 
76,125

 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
3

 

 
 
 
 
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
3,599

 
7,591

Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year
8,218

 
7,342

Cash and cash equivalents - end of year
$
11,817

 
$
14,933

 
 
 
 
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


22


FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
January 31, 2013
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise designated)
(unaudited)
 
A.  Partnership organization and formation
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. is a limited partnership that owns and operates propane distribution and related assets. Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (“Ferrellgas Partners”), a publicly traded limited partnership, holds an approximate 99% limited partner interest in, and consolidates, Ferrellgas, L.P. Ferrellgas, Inc. (the “general partner”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrell Companies, Inc. (“Ferrell Companies”), holds an approximate 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas, L.P. and performs all management functions required by Ferrellgas, L.P.
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. owns a 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Finance Corp., whose only business activity is to act as the co-issuer and co-obligor of any debt issued by Ferrellgas, L.P.
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. is engaged primarily in the distribution of propane and related equipment and supplies in the United States. The propane distribution market is seasonal because propane is used primarily for heating in residential and commercial buildings. Therefore, the results of operations for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full fiscal year. Ferrellgas, L.P. serves residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas, L.P. and subsidiaries reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed consolidated financial statements were of a normal, recurring nature. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with (i) the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and (ii) the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, each as set forth in Ferrellgas, L.P.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2012.
 
B.    Summary of significant accounting policies
 
(1)    Accounting estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Significant estimates impacting the condensed consolidated financial statements include accruals that have been established for contingent liabilities, pending claims and legal actions arising in the normal course of business, useful lives of property, plant and equipment assets, residual values of tanks, capitalization of customer tank installation costs, amortization methods of intangible assets, valuation methods used to value sales returns and allowances, allowance for doubtful accounts, fair value of reporting units, fair values of derivative contracts and stock and unit-based compensation calculations.
 
(2)    Supplemental cash flow information: For purposes of the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, Ferrellgas, L.P. considers cash equivalents to include all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Certain cash flow and significant non-cash activities are presented below:



For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012
CASH PAID FOR:




Interest

$
34,797


$
36,951

Income taxes

$
45


$
89

NON-CASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES:




Assets contributed from Ferrellgas Partners in connection with acquisitions

$


$
1,300

Liabilities incurred in connection with acquisitions

$
1,060


$
2,321

Change in accruals for property, plant and equipment additions

$
598


$
979


23



(3)  New accounting standards: 
 
FASB Accounting Standard Update No. 2011-08
In September 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2011-08, which amends the existing guidance on goodwill impairment testing. Under the new guidance, entities testing goodwill for impairment have the option of performing a qualitative assessment before calculating the fair value of the reporting unit. If an entity determines, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the reporting unit is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the two-step impairment test would be required. This guidance is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. Ferrellgas adopted this guidance for the quarter ending January 31, 2013 with no impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
FASB Accounting Standard Update No. 2012-02
In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU 2012-02, which amends the existing guidance on impairment testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets. Under the new guidance, entities testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment have the option of performing a qualitative assessment before calculating the fair value of the asset. If an entity determines, on the basis of qualitative factors, that the fair value of the asset is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the two-step impairment test would be required. This guidance is effective for annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted.  Ferrellgas adopted this guidance for the quarter ending January 31, 2013 with no impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

C.  Supplemental financial statement information
 
Inventories consist of the following:


January 31,

July 31,


2013

2012
Propane gas and related products

$
112,762


$
110,517

Appliances, parts and supplies

17,311


17,081

Inventories

$
130,073


$
127,598


In addition to inventories on hand, Ferrellgas, L.P. enters into contracts primarily to buy propane for supply procurement purposes with terms of fewer than 36 months. Most of these contracts call for payment based on market prices at the date of delivery. As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had committed, for supply procurement purposes, to take delivery of approximately 78.0 million gallons of propane at fixed prices.
 
Other current liabilities consist of the following:


January 31,

July 31,


2013

2012
Accrued interest

$
17,822


$
17,938

Customer deposits and advances

25,302


28,842

Other

77,383


73,604

Other current liabilities

$
120,507


$
120,384


Shipping and handling expenses are classified in the following condensed consolidated statements of earnings line items:



For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Operating expense

$
48,260


$
47,937


$
92,161


$
91,725

Depreciation and amortization expense

1,400


1,700


2,927


3,284

Equipment lease expense

3,493


3,053


6,880


6,144



$
53,153


$
52,690


$
101,968


$
101,153


24



D.  Accounts and notes receivable, net and accounts receivable securitization
 
Accounts and notes receivable, net consist of the following:
 
January 31,
2013
 
July 31,
2012
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral
$
224,428

 
$
121,812

Accounts receivable
18,924

 
5,788

Other
400

 
216

Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts
(5,194
)
 
(3,812
)
Accounts and notes receivable, net
$
238,558

 
$
124,004


At January 31, 2013, $224.4 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $134.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to the commercial paper conduit. These accounts receivable pledged as collateral are bankruptcy remote from Ferrellgas, L.P. Ferrellgas, L.P. does not provide any guarantee or similar support to the collectability of these accounts receivable pledged as collateral. 
 
As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had received cash proceeds of $134.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of July 31, 2012, Ferrellgas, L.P. had received cash proceeds of $74.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. Borrowings under the accounts receivable securitization facility had a weighted average interest rate of 2.4% and 2.6% as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively.

E.  Debt
 
Short-term borrowings
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. classified a portion of its secured credit facility borrowings as short-term because it was used to fund working capital needs that management had intended to pay down within the 12 month period following each balance sheet date. As of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, $72.7 million and $95.7 million, respectively, were classified as short-term borrowings. For further discussion see the secured credit facility section below.
 
Secured credit facility
 
As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $159.5 million, of which $86.8 million was classified as long-term debt. As of July 31, 2012, Ferrellgas, L.P. had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $160.0 million, of which $64.3 million was classified as long-term debt.
 
Borrowings outstanding at January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012 under the secured credit facility had a weighted average interest rate of 4.1% and 4.2%, respectively.
 
The obligations under this credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of Ferrellgas, L.P., the general partner and certain subsidiaries of Ferrellgas, L.P. but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to Ferrellgas, L.P.’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of Ferrellgas, L.P.
 
Letters of credit outstanding at January 31, 2013 totaled $62.6 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, commodity hedges and product purchases. Letters of credit outstanding at July 31, 2012 totaled $64.5 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, product purchases. At January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had available letter of credit remaining capacity of $137.4 million. At July 31, 2012, Ferrellgas, L.P. had available letter of credit remaining capacity of $135.5 million.
 
F.  Partners’ capital
 
Partnership distributions paid
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. has paid the following distributions:

25




For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Ferrellgas Partners

$
47,756


$
46,220


$
87,663


$
84,587

General partner

487


472


894


863



$
48,243


$
46,692


$
88,557


$
85,450


On February 26, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. declared distributions for the three months ended January 31, 2013 to Ferrellgas Partners and the general partner of $39.9 million and $0.4 million, respectively, which is expected to be paid on March 15, 2013.
 
See additional discussions about transactions with related parties in Note I – Transactions with related parties.
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”)
 
See Note H – Derivative instruments and hedging activities –  for details regarding changes in fair value on risk management financial derivatives recorded within AOCL for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012.
 
General partner’s commitment to maintain its capital account
 
Ferrellgas, L.P.’s partnership agreement allows the general partner to have an option to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest concurrent with the issuance of other additional equity.
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013, the general partner made non-cash contributions of $0.2 million to Ferrellgas, L.P. to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest.
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2012, the general partner made cash contributions of $0.5 million and non-cash contributions of $0.1 million to Ferrellgas, L.P. to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest.
 
G.  Fair value measurements
 
Derivative financial instruments
 
The following table presents Ferrellgas L.P.’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, including both current and noncurrent portions, as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012:

26




Asset (Liability)


Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets and Liabilities (Level 1)

Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)

Total
January 31, 2013:








Assets:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
8,008


$


$
8,008

Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
2,133


$


$
2,133

Liabilities:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
(2,622
)

$


$
(2,622
)
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
(3,613
)

$


$
(3,613
)









July 31, 2012:








Assets:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
7,784


$


$
7,784

Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
1,049


$


$
1,049

Liabilities:








Derivative financial instruments:








Interest rate swap agreements

$


$
(1,778
)

$


$
(1,778
)
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$


$
(12,069
)

$


$
(12,069
)

The fair values of Ferrellgas L.P.’s non-exchange traded commodity derivative contracts are based upon indicative price quotations available through brokers, industry price publications or recent market transactions and related market indicators. The fair values of interest rate swap contracts are based upon third-party quotes or indicative values based on recent market transactions.
 
H.  Derivative instruments and hedging activities
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. is exposed to certain market risks related to its ongoing business operations. These risks include exposure to changing commodity prices as well as fluctuations in interest rates. Ferrellgas, L.P. utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices. Ferrellgas, L.P. also periodically utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.
 
Derivative instruments and hedging activity  
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, Ferrellgas, L.P. did not recognize any gain or loss in earnings related to hedge ineffectiveness and did not exclude any component of financial derivative contract gains or losses from the assessment of hedge effectiveness related to cash flow hedges.
 
The following tables provide a summary of the fair value derivatives that were designated as hedging instruments in Ferrellgas, L.P.’s condensed consolidated balance sheets as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012:

27




January 31, 2013


Asset Derivatives

Liability Derivatives
Derivative Instrument

Location

 Fair value

Location

 Fair value
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

$
627


Other current liabilities

$
3,613

Commodity derivatives propane swaps
 
Other assets, net
 
1,506

 
Other liabilities
 

Interest rate swap agreements, current portion

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

3,324


Other current liabilities


Interest rate swap agreements, noncurrent portion

Other assets, net

4,684


Other liabilities

2,622



Total

$
10,141


Total

$
6,235





















July 31, 2012


Asset Derivatives

Liability Derivatives
Derivative Instrument

Location

 Fair value

Location

 Fair value
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

$
1,049


Other current liabilities

$
12,069

Interest rate swap agreements, current portion

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

3,346


Other current liabilities


Interest rate swap agreements, noncurrent portion

Other assets, net

4,438


Other liabilities

1,778



Total

$
8,833


Total

$
13,847


The following table provides a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas L.P.’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three and six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 due to derivatives that were designated as fair value hedging instruments:




Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative

Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item)
Derivative Instrument

Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative

For the three months ended January 31,

For the three months ended January 31,




2013

2012

2013

2012
Interest rate swap agreements

Interest expense

$
883


$


$
(5,469
)

$
(5,469
)















Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative

Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item)
Derivative Instrument

Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative

For the six months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,




2013

2012

2013

2012
Interest rate swap agreements

Interest expense

$
1,607


$


$
(10,938
)

$
(10,938
)

The following tables provide a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 due to the effective portion of derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedging instruments:

28




For the three months ended January 31, 2013
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(5,612
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
(4,434
)
Interest rate swap agreements

(593
)

Interest expense




$
(6,205
)



$
(4,434
)
















For the three months ended January 31, 2012
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(1,347
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
834



$
(1,347
)



$
834










For the six months ended January 31, 2013
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
914


Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
(8,625
)
Interest rate swap agreements

(843
)

Interest expense




$
71




$
(8,625
)
















For the six months ended January 31, 2012
Derivative Instrument

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCL on Derivative

Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCL into Income
Commodity derivatives propane swaps

$
(3,875
)

Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales

$
2,713



$
(3,875
)



$
2,713


The changes in derivative gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:


For the six months ended January 31,
Derivative gains (losses) included in AOCL

2013

2012
Beginning balance

$
(12,799
)

$
5,161

Change in value on risk management commodity derivatives

914


(3,875
)
Reclassification of gains and losses of commodity hedges to cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales

8,625


(2,713
)
Change in value on risk management interest rate derivatives

(843
)


Ending balance

$
(4,103
)

$
(1,427
)

Ferrellgas, L.P. expects to reclassify net losses of approximately $3.0 million to earnings during the next 12 months. These net losses are expected to be offset by margins on propane sales commitments Ferrellgas, L.P. has with its customers that qualify for the normal purchase, normal sales exception.

29


 
During the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, Ferrellgas, L.P. did not have any reclassifications to earnings resulting from discontinuance of any cash flow hedges arising from the probability of the original forecasted transactions not occurring within the originally specified period of time defined within the hedging relationship.
 
As of January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had financial derivative contracts covering 1.2 million barrels of propane that were entered into as cash flow hedges of forward and forecasted purchases of propane.

Derivative financial instruments credit risk
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative financial and commodity instruments. Ferrellgas L.P.’s counterparties principally consist of major energy companies and major U.S. financial institutions. Ferrellgas L.P. maintains credit policies with regard to its counterparties that it believes reduces its overall credit risk. These policies include evaluating and monitoring its counterparties’ financial condition, including their credit ratings, and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit limits. Certain of these agreements call for the posting of collateral by the counterparty or by Ferrellgas, L.P. in the forms of letters of credit, parental guarantees or cash. Although Ferrellgas, L.P. has concentrations of credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments held by certain derivative financial instrument counterparties, the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that, based upon the gross fair values of the derivative financial instruments, Ferrellgas, L.P. would incur if these counterparties that make up the concentration failed to perform according to the terms of their contracts was $1.4 million at January 31, 2013
 
Ferrellgas L.P. holds certain derivative contracts that have credit-risk-related contingent features which dictate credit limits based upon the Partnership’s debt rating.  As of January 31, 2013, a downgrade in the Partnership’s debt rating would not trigger any further reduction in credit limit.  The aggregate fair value of all derivatives with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a liability position on January 31, 2013 is $1.6 million for which Ferrellgas L.P. has posted collateral of $1.6 million in the normal course of business. The credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements will result in no additional collateral requirements as of January 31, 2013.
 
I.  Transactions with related parties
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. has no employees and is managed and controlled by its general partner. Pursuant to Ferrellgas, L.P.’s partnership agreement, the general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on behalf of Ferrellgas, L.P., and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to Ferrellgas, L.P. or otherwise reasonably incurred by its general partner in connection with operating Ferrellgas, L.P.’s business. These costs primarily include compensation and benefits paid to employees of the general partner who perform services on Ferrellgas, L.P.’s behalf and are reported in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings as follows:


For the three months ended January 31,

For the six months ended January 31,


2013

2012

2013

2012
Operating expense

$
53,594


$
53,964


$
101,378


$
103,311










General and administrative expense

$
7,183


$
6,689


$
13,456


$
12,706


See additional discussions about transactions with the general partner and related parties in Note F – Partners’ capital.

J.  Contingencies and commitments
 
Litigation
 
Ferrellgas, L.P.’s operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, Ferrellgas, L.P. is threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, Ferrellgas, L.P. is not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas, L.P.
 

30



Ferrellgas was named as a defendant in lawsuits filed in multiple federal and state courts that seek to certify nationwide or statewide classes related to its Blue Rhino branded propane tank exchange activities.  The plaintiffs in each case generally alleged that Ferrellgas failed to inform consumers of the amount of propane contained in propane tanks they purchased and that Ferrellgas violated anti-trust laws by allegedly conspiring with a competitor. The federal cases were coordinated for multidistrict treatment in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri. A settlement agreement was approved by the Court and funds have been distributed. These claims did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas beyond the amount paid during March 2012 for these claims.

Ferrellgas, L.P. has received notice that the Offices of the District Attorneys of several counties in California and the Federal Trade Commission are investigating cylinder labeling and filling practices and any anti-trust issues relating to the amount of propane contained in propane tanks. These government agencies issued administrative subpoenas seeking documents and information relating to those practices and Ferrellgas, L.P. has responded. Ferrellgas, L.P. believes that its cylinders were correctly filled and labeled and will defend any claims that may result from this investigation. Ferrellgas, L.P. does not believe any loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to these investigations. 
 
Ferrellgas, L.P. has also been named as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint alleges that Ferrellgas, L.P. violates consumer protection laws in the manner Ferrellgas, L.P. sets prices and fees for its customers. Based on Ferrellgas, L.P.’s business practices, Ferrellgas, L.P. believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the claims vigorously. The court has permitted limited discovery into an individual claim and the case has not been certified for class treatment. Ferrellgas, L.P. does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this class action lawsuit.


31



FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.)
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
January 31,
2013
 
July 31,
2012
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash
$
1,100

 
$
1,100

Total assets
$
1,100

 
$
1,100

 
 
 
 
Contingencies and commitments (Note B)

 

 
 
 
 
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock, $1.00 par value; 2,000 shares authorized; 1,000 shares issued and outstanding
$
1,000

 
$
1,000

 
 
 
 
Additional paid in capital
43,546

 
38,871

 
 
 
 
Accumulated deficit
(43,446
)
 
(38,771
)
Total stockholder's equity
$
1,100

 
$
1,100

See notes to condensed financial statements.



FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the three months ended January 31,
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
General and administrative expense
$
3,175

 
$
1,665

 
4,675

 
3,165

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(3,175
)
 
$
(1,665
)
 
$
(4,675
)
 
$
(3,165
)
See notes to condensed financial statements.


32


FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in dollars)
(unaudited)
 
For the six months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(4,675
)
 
$
(3,165
)
Cash used in operating activities
(4,675
)
 
(3,165
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
 
 
 
Capital contribution
4,675

 
3,165

Cash provided by financing activities
4,675

 
3,165

 
 
 
 
Change in cash

 

Cash - beginning of year
1,100

 
1,100

Cash - end of year
$
1,100

 
$
1,100

See notes to condensed financial statements.
 
 

FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
January 31, 2013
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.)
(unaudited)

NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

A.  Formation
 
Ferrellgas Finance Corp. (the “Finance Corp.”), a Delaware corporation, was formed on January 16, 2003 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P. (the “Partnership”).
 
The condensed financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the interim periods presented.  All adjustments to the condensed financial statements were of a normal, recurring nature.
 
The Finance Corp. has nominal assets, does not conduct any operations and has no employees.
 
B.  Contingencies and commitments
 
The Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of the Partnership.
 
The senior notes agreements contain various restrictive covenants applicable to the Partnership and its subsidiaries, the most restrictive relating to additional indebtedness. As of January 31, 2013, the Partnership is in compliance with all requirements, tests, limitations and covenants related to these debt agreements.

33



ITEM 2.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
 
Our management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations relates to Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership.
 
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. have nominal assets, do not conduct any operations and have no employees other than officers. Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of Ferrellgas Partners and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of the operating partnership. Accordingly, and due to the reduced disclosure format, a discussion of the results of operations, liquidity and capital resources of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. is not presented in this section.
 
In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, unless the context indicates otherwise:

“us,” “we,” “our,” “ours,” or “consolidated” are references exclusively to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., except when used in connection with “common units,” in which case these terms refer to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. without its consolidated subsidiaries;

“Ferrellgas Partners” refers to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. itself, without its consolidated subsidiaries;

the “operating partnership” refers to Ferrellgas, L.P., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas Finance Corp.;

our “general partner” refers to Ferrellgas, Inc.;

“Ferrell Companies” refers to Ferrell Companies, Inc., the sole shareholder of our general partner;

“unitholders” refers to holders of common units of Ferrellgas Partners;

“retail sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Retail — Sales to End Users or the volume of propane sold primarily to our residential, industrial/commercial and agricultural customers;

“wholesale sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Wholesale — Sales to Resellers or the volume of propane sold primarily to our portable tank exchange customers and bulk propane sold to wholesale customers;

“other gas sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Other Gas Sales or the volume of bulk propane sold to other third party propane distributors or marketers and the volume of refined fuel sold;

“propane sales volume” refers to the volume of propane sold to our retail sales and wholesale sales customers; and

“Notes” refers to the notes of the condensed consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas Partners or the operating partnership, as applicable.

Ferrellgas Partners is a holding entity that conducts no operations and has two direct subsidiaries, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and the operating partnership. Ferrellgas Partners’ only significant assets are its approximate 99% limited partnership interest in the operating partnership and its 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. The common units of Ferrellgas Partners are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and our activities are primarily conducted through the operating partnership.
 
The operating partnership was formed on April 22, 1994, and accounts for substantially all of our consolidated assets, sales and operating earnings, except for interest expense related to the senior notes co-issued by Ferrellgas Partners and Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.

Our general partner performs all management functions for us and our subsidiaries and holds a 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas Partners and an approximate 1% general partner interest in the operating partnership. The parent company of our general partner, Ferrell Companies, beneficially owns approximately 27% of our outstanding common units. Ferrell Companies is owned 100% by an employee stock ownership trust.

34


 
We file annual, quarterly, and other reports and information with the SEC. You may read and download our SEC filings over the Internet from several commercial document retrieval services as well as at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy our SEC filings at the SEC’s Public Reference Room located at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information concerning the Public Reference Room and any applicable copy charges. Because our common units are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol of “FGP,” we also provide our SEC filings and particular other information to the New York Stock Exchange. You may obtain copies of these filings and such other information at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange located at 11 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005. In addition, our SEC filings are available on our website at www.ferrellgas.com at no cost as soon as reasonably practicable after our electronic filing or furnishing thereof with the SEC. Please note that any Internet addresses provided in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be hyperlinks. Accordingly, no information found and/or provided at such Internet addresses is intended or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein.
 
The following is a discussion of our historical financial condition and results of operations and should be read in conjunction with our historical condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying Notes thereto included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
The discussions set forth in the “Results of Operations” and “Liquidity and Capital Resources” sections generally refer to Ferrellgas Partners and its consolidated subsidiaries. However, in these discussions there exist two material differences between Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership. Those material differences are:

because Ferrellgas Partners has outstanding $182.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.625% senior notes due fiscal 2020, the two partnerships incur different amounts of interest expense on their outstanding indebtedness; see the statements of earnings in their respective condensed consolidated financial statements and Note E – Debt in the respective notes to their condensed consolidated financial statements; and

Ferrellgas Partners issued common units during both fiscal 2012 and 2013.  

Overview
 
We believe we are a leading distributor of propane and related equipment and supplies to customers primarily in the United States and conduct our business as a single reportable operating segment. We believe that we are the second largest retail marketer of propane in the United States as measured by the volume of our retail sales in fiscal 2012, and the largest national provider of propane by portable tank exchange.
 
We serve residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Our operations primarily include the distribution and sale of propane and related equipment and supplies with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest regions of the United States. Our propane distribution business consists principally of transporting propane purchased from third parties to propane distribution locations and then to tanks on customers’ premises or to portable propane tanks delivered to nationwide and local retailers. Our portable tank exchange operations, nationally branded under the name Blue Rhino, are conducted through a network of independent and partnership-owned distribution outlets. Our market areas for our residential and agricultural customers are generally rural, while our market areas for our industrial/commercial and portable tank exchange customers is generally urban.
 
In the residential and industrial/commercial markets, propane is primarily used for space heating, water heating, cooking and other propane fueled appliances. In the portable tank exchange market, propane is used primarily for outdoor cooking using gas grills. In the agricultural market, propane is primarily used for crop drying, space heating, irrigation and weed control. In addition, propane is used for a variety of industrial applications, including as an engine fuel which is burned in internal combustion engines that power vehicles and forklifts, and as a heating or energy source in manufacturing and drying processes.
 
The market for propane is seasonal because of increased demand during the months of November through March (the “winter heating season”) primarily for the purpose of providing heating in residential and commercial buildings. Consequently, sales and operating profits are concentrated in our second and third fiscal quarters, which are during the winter heating season. However, our propane by portable tank exchange sales volume provides us increased operating profits during our first and fourth fiscal quarters due to its counter-seasonal business activities. These sales also provide us the ability to better utilize our seasonal resources at our propane distribution locations. Other factors affecting our results of operations include competitive

35


conditions, volatility in energy commodity prices, demand for propane, timing of acquisitions and general economic conditions in the United States.
 
We use information on temperatures to understand how our results of operations are affected by temperatures that are warmer or colder than normal. We use the definition of “normal” temperatures based on information published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (“NOAA”). Based on this information we calculate a ratio of actual heating degree days to normal heating degree days. Heating degree days are a general indicator of weather impacting propane usage.
 
Weather conditions have a significant impact on demand for propane for heating purposes during the winter heating season. Accordingly, the volume of propane used by our customers for this purpose is affected by the severity of the winter weather in the regions we serve and can vary substantially from year to year. In any given region, sustained warmer-than-normal temperatures will tend to result in reduced propane usage, while sustained colder-than-normal temperatures will tend to result in greater usage. Although there is a strong correlation between weather and customer usage, general economic conditions in the United States and the wholesale price of propane can have a significant impact on this correlation. Additionally, there is a natural time lag between the onset of cold weather and increased sales to customers. If the United States were to experience a cooling trend, we could expect nationwide demand for propane to increase which could lead to greater sales, income and liquidity availability. Conversely, if the United States were to experience a warming trend, we could expect nationwide demand for propane to decrease which could lead to a reduction in our sales, income and liquidity availability.
 
Our gross margin from the retail distribution of propane is primarily based on the cents-per-gallon difference between the sale price we charge our customers and our costs to purchase and deliver propane to our propane distribution locations. Our residential customers and portable tank exchange customers typically provide us a greater cents-per-gallon margin than our industrial/commercial, agricultural, wholesale and other customers. We track “Propane sales volumes,” “Revenues – Propane and other gas liquids sales” and “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquids sales” by customer; however, we are not able to specifically allocate operating and other costs in a manner that would determine their specific profitability with a high degree of accuracy. The wholesale propane price per gallon is subject to various market conditions, including inflation, and may fluctuate based on changes in demand, supply and other energy commodity prices, primarily crude oil and natural gas, as propane prices tend to correlate with the fluctuations of these underlying commodities.
 
We employ risk management activities that attempt to mitigate price risks related to the purchase, storage, transport and sale of propane. We enter into propane sales commitments with a portion of our customers that provide for a contracted price agreement for a specified period of time. These commitments can expose us to product price risk if not immediately economically hedged with an offsetting propane purchase commitment. Moreover, customers may not fulfill their purchase agreement due to the effects of warmer than normal weather, customer conservation or other economic conditions.
 
Our open financial derivative purchase commitments are designated as hedges primarily for fiscal 2013 sales commitments and, as of January 31, 2013, have experienced net mark to market losses of approximately $1.5 million. Because these financial derivative purchase commitments qualify for hedge accounting treatment, the resulting asset, liability and related mark to market gains or losses are recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other current liabilities” and “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),” respectively, until settled. Upon settlement, realized gains or losses on these contracts will be reclassified to “Cost of product sold-propane and other gas liquid sales” in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings as the underlying inventory is sold. These financial derivative purchase commitment net losses are expected to be offset by increased margins on propane sales commitments that qualify for the normal purchase normal sale exception. At January 31, 2013, we estimate 75% of currently open financial derivative purchase commitments, the related propane sales commitments, and the resulting gross margin will be realized into earnings during the next twelve months.
 
We also enter into interest rate derivative contracts, including swaps, to manage our exposure to interest rate risk associated with our fixed rate senior notes and our floating rate borrowings from both the secured credit facility and the accounts receivable securitization facility. Fluctuations in interest rates subject us to interest rate risk. Decreases in interest rates increase the fair value of our fixed rate debt, while increases in interest rates subject us to the risk of increased interest expense related to our variable rate borrowings.

Our business strategy is to:

expand our operations through disciplined acquisitions and internal growth;

capitalize on our national presence and economies of scale;


36


maximize operating efficiencies through utilization of our technology platform; and

align employee interests with our investors through significant employee ownership.

“Net income attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.” in the six months ended January 31, 2013 was $40.5 million compared to net earnings of $3.8 million in the prior period. This increase in net income of $36.7 million was primarily due to $38.4 million of increased “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales,”, $4.0 million of increased "Gross margin - other", and a $1.7 million decrease in “Operating expense”, partially offset by a $5.3 million increase in "Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge" and a $1.5 million increase in "General and administrative expense".

Our last completed annual goodwill impairment test was January 31, 2013.  We are not aware of any indicators that would indicate an impairment.
 
Forward-looking Statements
 
Statements included in this report include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified as any statement that does not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements often use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “projection,” “forecast,” “strategy,” “position,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” or the negative of those terms or other variations of them or comparable terminology. These statements often discuss plans, strategies, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future and are based upon the beliefs and assumptions of our management and on the information currently available to them. In particular, statements, express or implied, concerning our future operating results or our ability to generate sales, income or cash flow are forward-looking statements.
 
Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Many of the factors that will affect our future results are beyond our ability to control or predict.
 
Some of our forward-looking statements include the following:
we expect the operating partnership will have sufficient funds to meet its obligations, including its obligations under its debt securities, and to enable it to distribute to Ferrellgas Partners sufficient funds to permit Ferrellgas Partners to meet its obligations with respect to its existing debt;

we expect Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership will continue to meet all of the quarterly financial tests required by the agreements governing their indebtedness; and

we expect “Net earnings” to increase in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 primarily due to our anticipation that the following factors should result in increased operating income:

temperatures will continue to be cooler than those of the unusually warm prior year which should result in increased propane sales gallons,

wholesale propane prices will continue to be lower than those of the prior year period which should result in greater “Gross margin-propane and other gas liquids sales” per gallon, and

management’s focus on long-term cost reductions should decrease expense per gallon from that of the prior year period.

When considering any forward-looking statement, you should also keep in mind the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal 2012 entitled, “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” Any of these risks could impair our business, financial condition or results of operations. Any such impairment may affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders or pay interest on the principal of any of our debt securities. In addition, the trading price, if any, of our securities could decline as a result of any such impairment.
 
Except for our ongoing obligations to disclose material information as required by federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or risk factors after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 

37


In addition, the classification of Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership as partnerships for federal income tax purposes means that we do not generally pay federal income taxes. We do, however, pay taxes on the income of our subsidiaries that are corporations. We rely on a legal opinion from our counsel, and not a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, as to our proper classification for federal income tax purposes. See the section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal 2012 entitled, “Item 1A. Risk Factors — Tax Risks.” The IRS could treat us as a corporation for tax purposes or changes in federal or state laws could subject us to entity-level taxation, which would substantially reduce the cash available for distribution to our unitholders or to pay interest on the principal of any of our debt securities.
 
Results of Operations
 
Three months ended January 31, 2013 compared to January 31, 2012:






Favorable
(amounts in thousands)





(unfavorable)
Three months ended January 31,

2013

2012

Variance
Propane sales volumes (gallons):








Retail – Sales to End Users

221,796


223,977


(2,181
)

(1
)%
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers

76,728


81,129


(4,401
)

(5
)%


298,524


305,106


(6,582
)

(2
)%










Revenues -









Propane and other gas liquids sales:









Retail – Sales to End Users

$
402,144


$
493,733


$
(91,589
)

(19
)%
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers

121,312


158,155


(36,843
)

(23
)%
Other Gas Sales (a)

59,618


127,679


(68,061
)

(53
)%


$
583,074


$
779,567


$
(196,493
)

(25
)%










Gross margin -









Propane and other gas liquids sales: (b)









Retail – Sales to End Users (a)

$
172,207


$
146,435


$
25,772


18
 %
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers (a)

34,631


32,532


2,099


6
 %


$
206,838


$
178,967


$
27,871


16
 %










Gross margin - Other

$
28,354


$
25,237


$
3,117


12
 %
Operating income

82,138


61,524


20,614


34
 %
Adjusted EBITDA (c)

116,113


87,483


28,630


33
 %
Interest expense

(22,619
)

(24,046
)

1,427


6
 %
Interest expense - operating partnership

(18,576
)

(20,016
)

1,440


7
 %

(a)   Gross margin from Other Gas Sales is allocated to Gross margin Retail - Sales to End Users and Wholesale - Sales to Resellers based on the volumes of fixed-price sales commitments in each respective category.

(b)   Gross margin from propane and other gas liquids sales represents “Revenues - propane and other gas liquids sales” less “Cost of product sold – propane and other gas liquids sales” and does not include depreciation and amortization.

(c)   Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as earnings before income tax expense, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge, non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge, loss on disposal of assets and other, other income, net, nonrecurring litigation accrual and related legal fees and net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest. Management believes the presentation of this measure is relevant and useful because it allows investors to view the Partnership's performance in a manner similar to the method management uses, adjusted for items management believes makes it easier to compare its results with other companies that have different financing and capital structures. This method of calculating Adjusted EBITDA may not be consistent with that

38


of other companies and should be viewed in conjunction with measurements that are computed in accordance with GAAP.

The following table summarizes EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively:

(amounts in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Three months ended January 31,
 
2013
 
2012
Net earnings attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
 
$
58,207

 
$
36,374

Income tax expense
 
917

 
771

Interest expense
 
22,619

 
24,046

Depreciation and amortization expense
 
20,751

 
21,042

EBITDA
 
$
102,494

 
$
82,233

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge
 
7,447

 
1,937

Non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge
 
3,120

 
1,565

Loss on disposal of assets and other
 
2,120

 
523

Other income, net
 
(241
)
 
(80
)
Nonrecurring litigation accrual and related legal fees
 
537

 
892

Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
636

 
413

Adjusted EBITDA
 
$
116,113

 
$
87,483


Propane sales volumes during the three months ended January 31, 2013 decreased 6.6 million gallons from that of the prior period due to both 4.4 million of decreased gallon sales to our wholesale customers and 3.8 million of decreased gallon sales to our retail customers, partially offset by 1.6 million of acquisition related gallons. We believe retail customer sales decreased overall due to our emphasis on maximizing delivery efficiencies to residential customers, despite temperatures that were colder than prior year. This emphasis on maximizing delivery efficiencies resulted in fewer deliveries but increased volume per sales transaction, improving the profitability of these sales transactions.
 
Weather in the more highly concentrated geographic areas we serve for the three months ended January 31, 2013 was approximately 6% colder than that of the prior year period which we believe partially offset the overall decline in propane sales volumes. Although temperatures were colder compared to the prior year's much warmer than normal temperatures, temperatures for the three months ended January 31, 2013 were still more than 10% warmer than normal.

Our sales price per gallon is impacted by the wholesale market price of propane. The wholesale market price at one of the major supply points, Mt. Belvieu, Texas, during the three months ended January 31, 2013 averaged 39% less than the three months January 31, 2012. The wholesale market price averaged $0.85 and $1.38 per gallon during the three months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
We believe the effect of this significant decrease in the average wholesale market price of propane resulted in an increase in our gross margin per gallon. During this period of significantly lower prices, we earned relatively greater gross margin per gallon as our ability to maintain sales price per gallon did not decline at the same rate as the corresponding decline in wholesale propane prices.
 
Revenues - Propane and other gas liquids sales
 
Retail sales decreased $91.6 million compared to the prior period. This decrease resulted primarily from a $86.5 million decrease in sales price per gallon and $8.5 million from decreased retail propane sales volumes, partially offset by $3.4 million from gallons gained through acquisitions completed during the last twelve months, each as discussed above.
 
Wholesale sales decreased $36.8 million compared to the prior period. This decrease resulted primarily from $31.5 million of decreased sales price per gallon and by $5.3 million of decreased sales volumes.
 
Other gas sales decreased $68.1 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to $38.6 million of decreased sales price per gallon and $29.5 million from decreased sales volume.

39


 
Gross margin - Propane and other gas liquids sales
 
Retail sales gross margin increased $25.8 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from a $22.4 million increase in gross margin per gallon, as discussed above.
 
Wholesale sales gross margin increased $2.1 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from $1.7 million of increased gross margin per gallon, partially offset by $0.4 million related to decreased sales volumes.

Gross margin - other
 
Gross margin - other increased $3.1 million primarily due to a $1.7 million increase in material and appliance sales.

Operating income
 
"Operating income" increased $20.6 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to $27.9 million of increased Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales, $3.1 million of increased Gross margin - other as discussed above, partially offset by a $5.5 million increase in "Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge", a $1.8 million increase in "Operating expense" and a $1.5 million increase in "General and administrative expense."
 
"Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge" increased primarily due to an increase in the allocation of Ferrell Companies shares to employees. “Operating expense” increased primarily due to $2.3 million in increased general liability and workers compensation costs, $1.2 million in increased performance-based incentive expense and $0.7 million in operating costs associated with acquisitions, partially offset by $2.9 million reduction in plant and office costs. "General and administrative expense" increased primarily due to $1.6 million increase in non-cash stock and unit based compensation charges, $1.4 million increase in employee benefit costs and $1.2 million increase in performance-based incentive expense, partially offset by $2.3 million reduction in personnel related costs.

Adjusted EBITDA
 
Adjusted EBITDA increased $28.6 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to a $27.9 million increase in Gross margin - Propane and other gas liquids sales and $3.1 million of increased Gross margin - other, partially offset by a $1.9 million increase in “Operating expense”, each as discussed above.
 
Interest expense - consolidated
 
"Interest expense" decreased $1.4 million primarily due to $0.9 million from the effect of interest rate swaps entered into during the fourth quarter of the prior year period and $0.7 million primarily from reduced borrowings on both our accounts receivable securitization facility and our secured credit facility.
 
Interest expense - operating partnership
 
"Interest expense" decreased $1.4 million primarily due to $0.9 million from the effect of interest rate swaps entered into during the fourth quarter of the prior year period and $0.7 million primarily from reduced borrowings on both our accounts receivable securitization facility and our secured credit facility.
 



40


Six months ended January 31, 2013 compared to January 31, 2012:







Favorable


(amounts in thousands)





(unfavorable)


Six months ended January 31,

2013

2012

Variance


Propane sales volumes (gallons):








Retail – Sales to End Users

346,679


356,825


(10,146
)

(3
)%
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers

131,283


144,550


(13,267
)

(9
)%


477,962


501,375


(23,413
)

(5
)%










Revenues -









Propane and other gas liquids sales:









Retail – Sales to End Users

$
608,935


$
776,181


$
(167,246
)

(22
)%
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers

224,057


300,244


(76,187
)

(25
)%
Other Gas Sales (a)

85,363


217,361


(131,998
)

(61
)%


$
918,355


$
1,293,786


$
(375,431
)

(29
)%










Gross margin -









Propane and other gas liquids sales: (b)









Retail – Sales to End Users (a)

$
256,922


$
220,178


$
36,744


17
 %
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers (a)

71,540


69,886


1,654


2
 %


$
328,462


$
290,064


$
38,398


13
 %










Gross margin - Other

$
46,785


$
42,818


$
3,967


9
 %
Operating income

86,422


51,419


35,003


68
 %
Adjusted EBITDA (c)

147,725


103,857


43,868


42
 %
Interest expense

(45,054
)

(47,433
)

2,379


5
 %
Interest expense - operating partnership

(36,970
)

(39,373
)

2,403


6
 %

(a)   Gross margin from Other Gas Sales is allocated to Gross margin Retail - Sales to End Users and Wholesale - Sales to Resellers based on the volumes of fixed-price sales commitments in each respective category.

(b)   Gross margin from propane and other gas liquids sales represents “Revenues - propane and other gas liquids sales” less “Cost of product sold – propane and other gas liquids sales” and does not include depreciation and amortization.

(c)   Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as earnings before income tax expense, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge, non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge, loss on disposal of assets and other, other income, net, nonrecurring litigation accrual and related legal fees and net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest. Management believes the presentation of this measure is relevant and useful because it allows investors to view the partnership's performance in a manner similar to the method management uses, adjusted for items management believes makes it easier to compare its results with other companies that have different financing and capital structures. This method of calculating Adjusted EBITDA may not be consistent with that of other companies and should be viewed in conjunction with measurements that are computed in accordance with GAAP.



41


The following table summarizes EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively:

(amounts in thousands)




Six months ended January 31,

2013

2012
Net earnings attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.

$
40,549


$
3,770

Income tax expense

653


141

Interest expense

45,054


47,433

Depreciation and amortization expense

41,626


41,716

EBITDA

$
127,882


$
93,060

Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge

9,849


4,516

Non-cash stock and unit-based compensation charge

6,212


4,482

Loss on disposal of assets and other

2,391


832

Other income, net

(332
)

(47
)
Nonrecurring litigation accrual and related legal fees

1,225


892

Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest

498


122

Adjusted EBITDA

$
147,725


$
103,857


Propane sales volumes during the six months ended January 31, 2013 decreased 23.4 million gallons from that of the prior period due to both 13.3 million of decreased gallon sales to our wholesale customers and 12.7 million of decreased gallon sales to our retail customers, partially offset by 2.6 million of acquisition related gallons. We believe retail customer sales decreased overall due to our emphasis on maximizing delivery efficiencies to residential customers, despite temperatures that were colder than prior year. This emphasis on maximizing delivery efficiencies resulted in fewer deliveries but increased volume per sales transaction, improving the profitability of these sales transactions.

Weather in the more highly concentrated geographic areas we serve for the six months ended January 31, 2013 was approximately 7% colder than that of the prior year period which we believe partially offset the overall decline in propane sales volumes. Although temperatures were colder compared to the prior year's much warmer than normal temperatures, temperatures for the six months ended January 31, 2013 were still more than 9% warmer than normal.

Our sales price per gallon is impacted by the wholesale market price of propane. The wholesale market price at one of the major supply points, Mt. Belvieu, Texas, during the six months ended January 31, 2013 averaged 39% less than the prior period. The wholesale market price averaged $0.89 and $1.45 per gallon during the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
 
We believe the effect of this significant decrease in the average wholesale market price of propane resulted in an increase in our gross margin per gallon. During this period of significantly lower prices, we earned relatively greater gross margin per gallon as our ability to maintain sales price per gallon did not decline at the same rate as the corresponding decline in wholesale propane prices.
 
Revenues - Propane and other gas liquids sales
 
Retail sales decreased $167.2 million compared to the prior period. This decrease resulted primarily from a $145.2 million decrease in sales price per gallon and $27.7 million from decreased retail propane sales volumes, partially offset by $5.7 million from gallons gained through acquisitions completed during the last twelve months, each as discussed above.
 
Wholesale sales decreased $76.2 million compared to the prior period. This decrease resulted primarily from $57.4 million of decreased sales price per gallon and by $18.8 million of decreased sales volumes.
 
Other gas sales decreased $132.0 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to $75.9 million from decreased sales volumes and $56.1 million of decreased sales price per gallon.

Gross margin - Propane and other gas liquids sales
 

42


Retail sales gross margin increased $36.7 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from a $39.6 million increase in gross margin per gallon and $2.8 million from gallons gained through acquisitions completed during the last twelve months, partially offset by a $5.7 million decrease in propane sales volumes, each as discussed above.
 
Wholesale sales gross margin increased $1.7 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from $1.9 million of increased gross margin per gallon, partially offset by $0.2 million related to decreased sales volumes.

Gross margin - other
 
Gross margin - other increased $4.0 million primarily due to a $2.0 million increase in material and appliance sales and a $1.1 million increase in service labor revenues.

Operating income
 
"Operating income" increased $35.0 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to $38.4 million of increased Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales, $4.0 million of increased Gross margin - other as discussed above, and a $1.7 million decrease in “Operating expense”, partially offset by a $5.3 million increase in "Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge" and a $1.5 million increase in "General and administrative expense."
 
"Operating expense" decreased primarily due to a $5.7 million reduction in plant and office costs and a $5.4 million reduction in personnel related costs, partially offset by a $3.3 million increase in performance based incentive expense, $3.2 million in increased general liability and workers compensation costs, $1.5 million related to operating costs associated with acquisitions and $0.9 million related to increased other vehicle expense. "Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge" increased primarily due to an increase in the allocation of Ferrell Companies shares to employees. "General and administrative expenses" increased primarily due to $2.3 million in increased non-cash stock based compensation charges and $1.8 million in performance based incentive expense, partially offset by a $2.8 million reduction in personnel and other corporate costs.
 
Adjusted EBITDA
 
Adjusted EBITDA increased $43.9 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to a $38.4 million increase in Gross margin - Propane and other gas liquids sales and $4.0 million of increased gross margin - other, each as discussed above.
 
Interest expense - consolidated
 
"Interest expense" decreased $2.4 million primarily due to $1.6 million from the effect of interest rate swaps entered into during the fourth quarter of the prior year period and $0.8 million primarily from reduced rates and borrowings on our accounts receivable securitization facility and our secured credit facility.
 
Interest expense - operating partnership
 
"Interest expense" decreased $2.4 million primarily due to $1.6 million from the effect of interest rate swaps entered into during the fourth quarter of the prior year period and $0.8 million primarily from reduced rates and borrowings on our accounts receivable securitization facility and our secured credit facility.
 
Forward-looking statements
 
We expect “Net earnings” to increase in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 primarily due to our anticipation that the following factors should result in increased "operating income":
temperatures will continue to be cooler than those of the unusually warm prior year which should result in increased propane sales gallons,
wholesale propane prices will continue to be lower than those of the prior year period which should result in greater Gross margin-propane and other gas liquids sales per gallon, and
management’s focus on long-term cost reductions should decrease expense per gallon from that of the prior year period.


43


Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
General
 
Our liquidity and capital resources enable us to fund our working capital, letter of credit requirements, debt service payments, acquisition and capital expenditures and distributions to our unitholders. Our liquidity and capital resources may be affected by our ability to access the capital markets or by unforeseen demands on cash, or other events beyond our control.
 
During the six months ended January 31, 2013, our propane operations were significantly impacted by the sustained decrease in the wholesale price of propane, which caused us to generate significantly more operating income than in same period in fiscal 2012. We also believe that the continuing economic downturn has caused certain of our retail propane customers to conserve and thereby purchase less propane, shop for lower prices that may be available from other suppliers or begin using alternative energy sources.
 
For the twelve months ended January 31, 2013, our distributable cash flow is approximately 90% of the total cash distributions paid for that period. To mitigate this shortfall, we have enacted a series of efficiency initiatives and other cost cutting projects, as well as pricing initiatives designed to improve our sales margins. Until these projects are complete and weather patterns return to a more normal level, we anticipate an ongoing cash flow shortfall to our current distribution level.

Subject to meeting the financial tests discussed below and also subject to the risk factors identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal 2012 entitled, “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” we believe we will continue to have sufficient access to capital markets at yields acceptable to us to support our expected growth expenditures and refinancing of debt maturities. Our disciplined approach to fund necessary capital spending and other partnership needs, combined with sufficient trade credit to operate our business efficiently and available credit under our secured credit facility and our accounts receivable securitization facility should provide us the means to meet our anticipated liquidity and capital resource requirements.
 
During periods of high volatility, our risk management activities may expose us to the risk of counterparty margin calls in amounts greater than we have the capacity to fund. Likewise our counterparties may not be able to fulfill their margin calls from us or may default on the settlement of positions with us.
 
Our working capital is subject to, among other things, the price of propane, delays in the collection of receivables, volatility in energy commodity prices, liquidity imposed by insurance providers, downgrades in our credit ratings, decreased trade credit, significant acquisitions, the weather, customer retention and purchasing patterns and other changes in the demand for propane. Relatively colder weather or higher propane prices during the winter heating season are factors that could significantly increase our working capital.
 
Our ability to satisfy our obligations is dependent upon our future performance, which will be subject to prevailing economic, financial, business and weather conditions and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Due to the seasonality of the retail propane distribution business, a significant portion of our cash flow from operations is generated during the winter heating season. Our net cash provided by operating activities primarily reflects earnings from our business activities adjusted for depreciation and amortization and changes in our working capital accounts. Historically, we generate significantly lower net cash from operating activities in our first and fourth fiscal quarters as compared to the second and third fiscal quarters due to the seasonality of our business.
 
A quarterly distribution of $0.50 is expected to be paid on March 15, 2013, to all common units that were outstanding on March 8, 2013. This represents the seventy-fourth consecutive minimum quarterly distribution paid to our common unitholders dating back to October 1994.
 
Our secured credit facility, public debt and accounts receivable securitization facility contain several financial tests and covenants restricting our ability to pay distributions, incur debt and engage in certain other business transactions. In general, these tests are based on our debt-to-cash flow ratio and cash flow-to-interest expense ratio. Our general partner currently believes that the most restrictive of these tests are debt incurrence limitations under the terms of our secured credit and accounts receivable securitization facilities and limitations on the payment of distributions within our 8.625% senior notes due 2020.
 
As of January 31, 2013, we met all of our required quarterly financial tests and covenants. Based upon current estimates of our cash flow, our general partner believes that we will be able to continue to meet all of our required quarterly financial tests and covenants in fiscal 2013. However, we may not meet the applicable financial tests in future quarters if we were to experience:

44



significantly warmer than normal temperatures during the winter heating season;
a continued volatile energy commodity cost environment;
an unexpected downturn in business operations;
a change in customer retention or purchasing patterns due to economic or other factors in the United States; or
a material downturn in the credit and/or equity markets.

Failure to meet applicable financial tests could have a material effect on our operating capacity and cash flows and could restrict our ability to incur debt or to make cash distributions to our unitholders, even if sufficient funds were available. Depending on the circumstances, we may consider alternatives to permit the incurrence of debt or the continued payment of the quarterly cash distribution to our unitholders. No assurances can be given, however, that such alternatives can or will be implemented with respect to any given quarter.
 
We expect our future capital expenditures and working capital needs to be provided by a combination of cash generated from future operations, existing cash balances, the secured credit facility or the accounts receivable securitization facility. See additional information about the accounts receivable securitization facility in “Financing Activities – Accounts receivable securitization.” In order to reduce existing indebtedness, fund future acquisitions and expansive capital projects, we may obtain funds from our facilities, we may issue additional debt to the extent permitted under existing financing arrangements or we may issue additional equity securities, including, among others, common units.

Toward this purpose, the following registration statements were effective upon filing or declared effective by the SEC:
a shelf registration statement for the periodic sale of up to $750.0 million in common units, debt securities and/or other securities; Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. may, at our election, be the co-issuer and co-obligor on any debt securities issued by Ferrellgas Partners under this shelf registration statement; as of February 28, 2013, these two registrants collectively had $750.0 million available under this shelf registration statement; and
an “acquisition” shelf registration statement for the periodic sale of up to $250.0 million in common units to fund acquisitions; as of February 28, 2013, Ferrellgas Partners had $227.3 million available under this shelf agreement.

Operating Activities
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $48.9 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $44.0 million for the prior year period. This increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to a $47.1 million decrease in working capital requirements and a $45.6 million improvement in cash flow from operations.
 
The decrease in working capital requirements was primarily due to $32.0 million from the timing of inventory purchases and exchanges, a $19.7 million decrease in accounts receivable resulting from the significant decrease in the wholesale costs of propane from that of the prior year period as well as the timing of billings and collections on accounts receivable and a $7.5 million decrease primarily due to the timing of deposits made toward the purchase of propane appliances. These decreases were partially offset by $9.5 million from the timing of accounts payable purchases and disbursements.
 
The increase in cash flow from operations is primarily due to a $38.4 million increase in “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquids sales” and a $4.0 million increase in "Gross margin - Other", as discussed above.
 
The operating partnership
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $56.8 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $36.1 million for the prior year period. This increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to a $47.1 million decrease in working capital requirements and a $45.6 million improvement in cash flow from operations.
 
The decrease in working capital requirements was primarily due to $32.0 million from the timing of inventory purchases and exchanges, a $19.7 million decrease in accounts receivable resulting from the significant decrease in the wholesale costs of propane from that of the prior year period as well as the timing of billings and collections on accounts receivable and a $7.5 million decrease primarily due to the timing of deposits made toward the purchase of propane appliances. These decreases were partially offset by $9.5 million from the timing of accounts payable purchases and disbursements.
 

45


The increase in cash flow from operations is primarily due to a $38.4 million increase in “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquids sales” and a $4.0 million increase in "Gross margin - Other", as discussed above.
 
Investing Activities
 
Net cash used in investing activities was $22.3 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $32.4 million for the prior year period. This decrease in net cash used in investing activities is primarily due to decreases of $3.8 million in business acquisitions, net of cash acquired, $2.5 million in capital expenditures and an increase of $3.8 million in “Proceeds from assets sales.” The decrease in capital expenditures relates primarily to decreased purchases of propane cylinders in our effort to better utilize existing assets. The increase in proceeds from assets sales relates primarily to a one-time sale of underutilized real estate assets.
 
Financing Activities
 
Net cash used in financing activities was $23.0 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $84.7 million for the prior year period. This decrease in net cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to a $98.2 million net decrease in secured credit facility and accounts receivable securitization facility short-term borrowings, both of which are a result of improved cash flows from operating and investing activities, and a $50.0 million decrease in proceeds from equity offerings. This decrease was somewhat offset by a $41.4 million net increase in proceeds from long-term borrowings.

Distributions
 
Ferrellgas Partners paid a $0.50 per unit quarterly distribution on all common units, as well as the related general partner distributions, totaling $79.8 million during the six months ended January 31, 2013 in connection with the distributions declared for the three months ended July 31, 2012 and October 31, 2012. The quarterly distribution on all common units and the related general partner distributions for the three months ended January 31, 2013 of $39.9 million are expected to be paid on March 15, 2013 to holders of record on March 8, 2013.
 
Secured credit facility
 
As of January 31, 2013, we had total borrowings outstanding under our secured credit facility of $159.5 million, of which $86.8 million was classified as long-term debt. Additionally, Ferrellgas had $177.9 million of available borrowing capacity under this facility as of January 31, 2013.
 
Borrowings outstanding at January 31, 2013 under our secured credit facility had a weighted average interest rate of 4.1%. All borrowings under the secured credit facility bear interest, at our option, at a rate equal to either:
for Base Rate Loans or Swing Line Loans, the Base Rate, which is defined as the higher of i) the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, ii) Bank of America’s prime rate; or iii) the Eurodollar Rate plus 1%; plus a margin varying from 1.00% to 2.00%; or
for Eurodollar Rate Loans, the Eurodollar Rate, which is defined as the LIBOR Rate plus a margin varying from 2.00% to 3.00%.

As of January 31, 2013, the federal funds rate and Bank of America’s prime rate were 0.15% and 3.25%, respectively. As of January 31, 2013, the one-month and three-month Eurodollar Rates were 0.24% and 0.29%, respectively.
 
In addition, an annual commitment fee is payable at a per annum rate of 0.50% times the actual daily amount by which the facility exceeds the sum of (i) the outstanding amount of revolving credit loans and (ii) the outstanding amount of letter of credit obligations.
 
The obligations under this credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of the operating partnership, the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to the operating partnership’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership.
 

46


Letters of credit outstanding at January 31, 2013 totaled $62.6 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, commodity hedges and product purchases. At January 31, 2013, we had available letter of credit remaining capacity of $137.4 million.
 
All standby letter of credit commitments under our secured credit facility bear a per annum rate varying from 2.0% to 3.0% (as of January 31, 2013, the rate was 3.0%) times the daily maximum amount available to be drawn under such letter of credit. Letter of credit fees are computed on a quarterly basis in arrears.
 
Accounts receivable securitization
 
Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC is accounted for as a consolidated subsidiary. Expenses associated with accounts receivable securitization transactions are recorded in “Interest expense” in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Additionally, borrowings and repayments associated with these transactions are recorded in “Cash flows from financing activities” in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
 
Cash flows from our accounts receivable securitization facility decreased $84.0 million. We received net funding of $60.0 million from this facility during the six months ended January 31, 2013 as compared to receiving net funding of $144.0 million from this facility in the prior year period.
 
Our strategy is to maximize liquidity by utilizing the accounts receivable securitization facility along with borrowings under the secured credit facility. See additional discussion about the secured credit facility in “Financing Activities – Secured credit facility.” Our utilization of the accounts receivable securitization facility is limited by the amount of accounts receivable that we are permitted to securitize according to the facility agreement. As of January 31, 2013, we had received cash proceeds of $134.0 million related to the securitization of our trade accounts receivable, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of January 31, 2013, the weighted average interest rate was 2.4%. As our trade accounts receivable increase during the winter heating season, the securitization facility permits us to receive greater proceeds as eligible trade accounts receivable increases, thereby providing additional cash for working capital needs.
 
The operating partnership
 
The financing activities discussed above also apply to the operating partnership except for cash flows related to distributions, as discussed below.
 
Distributions
 
The operating partnership paid cash distributions of $88.6 million and $85.5 million during the six months ended January 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The operating partnership expects to pay cash distributions of $40.3 million on March 15, 2013.
 
Disclosures about Effects of Transactions with Related Parties
 
We have no employees and are managed and controlled by our general partner. Pursuant to our partnership agreement, our general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on our behalf, and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to us or otherwise reasonably incurred by our general partner in connection with operating our business. These reimbursable costs, which totaled $114.8 million for the six months ended January 31, 2013, include operating expenses such as compensation and benefits paid to employees of our general partner who perform services on our behalf, as well as related general and administrative expenses and severance costs.
 
Related party common unitholder information consisted of the following:


Common unit ownership at

Distributions paid during the six months ended (in thousands)


January 31, 2013

January 31, 2013
Ferrell Companies (1)

21,469,664


$
21,470

FCI Trading Corp. (2)

195,686


196

Ferrell Propane, Inc. (3)

51,204


52

James E. Ferrell (4)

4,358,475


$
4,358



47


(1)
Ferrell Companies is the sole shareholder of our general partner.
(2)
FCI Trading Corp. is an affiliate of the general partner and is wholly-owned by Ferrell Companies.
(3)
Ferrell Propane, Inc. is wholly-owned by our general partner.
(4)
James E. Ferrell is the Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board of Directors of our general partner.

During the six months ended January 31, 2013, Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership together paid the general partner distributions of $1.7 million.
 
On March 15, 2013, Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership expect to pay distributions to Ferrell Companies, FCI Trading Corp., Ferrell Propane, Inc., James E. Ferrell (indirectly) and the general partner of $10.7 million, $0.1 million, $26 thousand, $2.2 million and $0.8 million, respectively.

ITEM 3.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
 
We did not enter into any risk management trading activities during the six months ended January 31, 2013. Our remaining market risk sensitive instruments and positions have been determined to be “other than trading.”
 
Commodity price risk management
 
Our risk management activities primarily attempt to mitigate price risks related to the purchase, storage, transport and sale of propane generally in the contract and spot markets from major domestic energy companies on a short-term basis. We attempt to mitigate these price risks through the use of financial derivative instruments and forward propane purchase and sales contracts.

Our risk management strategy involves taking positions in the forward or financial markets that are equal and opposite to our positions in the physical products market in order to minimize the risk of financial loss from an adverse price change. This risk management strategy is successful when our gains or losses in the physical product markets are offset by our losses or gains in the forward or financial markets. These financial derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges.
 
Our risk management activities include the use of financial derivative instruments including, but not limited to, price swaps, options, futures and basis swaps to seek protection from adverse price movements and to minimize potential losses. We enter into these financial derivative instruments directly with third parties in the over-the-counter market and with brokers who are clearing members with the New York Mercantile Exchange. We also enter into forward propane purchase and sales contracts with counterparties. These forward contracts qualify for the normal purchase normal sales exception within GAAP guidance and are therefore not recorded on our financial statements until settled.
 
Market risks associated with energy commodities are monitored daily by senior management for compliance with our commodity risk management policy. This policy includes an aggregate dollar loss limit and limits on the term of various contracts. We also utilize volume limits for various energy commodities and review our positions daily where we remain exposed to market risk, so as to manage exposures to changing market prices.
 
We have prepared a sensitivity analysis to estimate the exposure to market risk of our energy commodity positions. Forward contracts, futures, swaps and options outstanding as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, that were used in our risk management activities were analyzed assuming a hypothetical 10% adverse change in prices for the delivery month for all energy commodities. The potential loss in future earnings from these positions due to a 10% adverse movement in market prices of the underlying energy commodities was estimated at $6.8 million and $8.8 million as of January 31, 2013 and July 31, 2012, respectively. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in prices may or may not equal 10%, thus actual results may differ.
 
Our sensitivity analysis includes designated hedging and the anticipated transactions associated with these hedging transactions. These hedging transactions are anticipated to be 100% effective; therefore, there is no effect on our sensitivity analysis from these hedging transactions. To the extent option contracts are used as hedging instruments for anticipated transactions we have included the offsetting effect of the anticipated transactions, only to the extent the option contracts are in the money, or would become in the money as a result of the 10% hypothetical movement in prices. All other anticipated transactions for risk management activities have been excluded from our sensitivity analysis.
 
Credit risk
 

48


We maintain credit policies with regard to our counterparties for propane procurement that we believe significantly minimize overall credit risk. These policies include an evaluation of counterparties’ financial condition (including credit ratings), and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit guidelines.
 
These counterparties consist of major energy companies who are suppliers, wholesalers, retailers, end users and financial institutions. The overall impact due to certain changes in economic, regulatory and other events may impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively in that counterparties may be similarly impacted. Based on our policies, exposures, credit and other reserves, management does not anticipate a material adverse effect on financial position or results of operations as a result of counterparty performance. 
 
Interest rate risk
 
At January 31, 2013, we had $293.5 million, in variable rate secured credit facility and collateralized note payable borrowings. Thus, assuming a one percent increase in our variable interest rate, our interest rate risk related to these borrowings would result in a loss in future earnings of $2.9 million for the twelve months ending January 31, 2014. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in interest rates may or may not equal one percent, thus actual results may differ. We manage a portion of our interest rate exposure by utilizing interest rate swaps. To the extent that we have debt with variable interest rates that is not hedged, our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially adversely affected by significant increases in interest rates. We have the following interest rate swaps outstanding as of January 31, 2013, all of which are designated as hedges for accounting purposes:
Term

Notional Amount (in thousands)

Type
May-21

$140,000

Pay a floating rate and receive a fixed rate of 6.50%
Oct-17

$140,000

Pay a floating rate and receive a fixed rate of 9.125%
Aug-18 (1)

$175,000 and $100,000

Forward starting to pay a fixed rate of 1.95% and receive a floating rate

(1)
These forward starting swaps have an effective date of August 2015 and a term of 3 years.

A hypothetical one percent change in interest rates would result in a net change in earnings of $2.8 million for the twelve months ending January 31, 2014. There would be no effect on cash flows due to a hypothetical change in interest rates on the $175.0 million swap because its forward start date is August 2015. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in interest rates may or may not equal one percent, thus, actual results may differ.

ITEM 4.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
 
An evaluation was performed by the management of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P., and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of our general partner, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, were effective.
 
The management of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P., and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent all errors and all fraud. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Based on the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the above mentioned Partnerships and Corporations have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple errors or mistakes. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. Therefore, a control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide such reasonable assurances of achieving our desired control objectives, and the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of our general partner have concluded, as of January 31, 2013, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in achieving that level of reasonable assurance.
 

49


During the most recent fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2013, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a–15(f) or Rule 15d–15(f) of the Exchange Act) that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
 
Our operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, we are threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, we are not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We have been named as a defendant in lawsuits filed in multiple federal and state courts that seek to certify nationwide or statewide classes related to its Blue Rhino branded propane tank exchange activities.  The plaintiffs in each case generally alleged that we failed to inform consumers of the amount of propane contained in propane tanks they purchased and that we violated anti-trust laws by allegedly conspiring with a competitor. The federal cases were coordinated for multidistrict treatment in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri. A settlement agreement was approved by the Court and funds have been distributed. These claims did not have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows beyond the amount paid during March 2012 for these claims.

We have received notice that the Offices of the District Attorneys of several counties in California and the Federal Trade Commission are investigating cylinder labeling and filling practices and any anti-trust issues relating to the amount of propane contained in propane tanks. These government agencies issued administrative subpoenas seeking documents and information relating to those practices and we have responded. We believe that our cylinders were correctly filled and labeled and will defend any claims that may result from this investigation. We do not believe any loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to these investigations. 

We have also been named as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint alleges that we violate consumer protection laws in the manner we set prices and fees for its customers. Based on our business practices, we believe that the claims are without merit and intend to defend the claims vigorously. The court has permitted limited discovery into an individual claim and the case has not been certified for class treatment. We do not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this class action lawsuit.


ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS.
 
There have been no material changes from the risk factors set forth under Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2012.

ITEM 2.    UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
 
None.

ITEM 3.    DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.

None.

ITEM 4.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.

Not applicable.

ITEM 5.    OTHER INFORMATION.

None.


50


ITEM 6.    EXHIBITS.
 
The exhibits listed below are furnished as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Act, which are not listed, are not applicable.
 
 
Exhibit
Number
 
Description
 
3.1
Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of February 18, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.2
First Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of March 8, 2005. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.3
Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of June 29, 2005. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.4
Third Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of October 11, 2006. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.5
Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations on March 28, 1996. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.6
Bylaws of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. adopted as of April 1, 1996. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.7
Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated as of April 7, 2004. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.8
Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations on January 16, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.8 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
3.9
Bylaws of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. adopted as of January 16, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.9 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
4.1
Specimen Certificate evidencing Common Units representing Limited Partner Interests. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of Exhibit 3.1 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009.
 
 
 
 
4.2
Indenture dated as of September 14, 2009 with form of Note attached, among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $300 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 9 1/8% Senior Notes due 2017. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 14, 2009.
 
 
 
 
4.3
Indenture dated as of April 13, 2010, among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $280 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 8 5/8% Senior Notes due 2020. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 13, 2010.
 
 
 
 
4.4
First Supplemental Indenture dated as of April 13, 2010, with form of Note attached, among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $280 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 8 5/8% Senior Notes due 2020. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 13, 2010.
 
 
 
 
4.5
Indenture dated as of November 24, 2010, among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $500 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 6 1/2% Senior Notes due 2021. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 30, 2010.
 
 
 
 
4.6
Registration Rights Agreement dated as of December 17, 1999, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2009.
 
 
 
 
4.7
First Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of March 14, 2000, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2009.
 
 
 
 
4.8
Second Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of April 6, 2001, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and The Williams Companies, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2009.

51


 
 
 
 
4.9
Third Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of June 29, 2005, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and JEF Capital Management, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 9, 2010.
 
 
 
 
10.1
Credit Agreement dated as of November 2, 2009, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 4, 2009.
 
 
 
 
10.2
First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of September 23, 2011, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 26, 2011.
 
 
 
 
10.3
Amended and Restated Receivable Sale Agreement dated as of January 19, 2012, between Ferrellgas, L.P. and Blue Rhino Global Sourcing, Inc., as originators, and Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as buyer. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012.
 
 
 
 
10.4
Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of January 19, 2012, among Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as seller, Ferrellgas, L.P., as servicer, the purchasers from time to time party hereto, Fifth Third Bank and SunTrust Bank, as co-agents, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012.
 
 
 
 
10.5
First Amendment to Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of April 30, 2012, among Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as seller, Ferrellgas, L.P., as servicer, the purchasers from time to time party hereto, Fifth Third Bank and SunTrust Bank, as co-agents, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 8, 2012.
 
 
 
#
10.6
Ferrell Companies, Inc. Supplemental Savings Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2010. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2010.
 
 
 
#
10.7
Second Amended and Restated Ferrellgas Unit Option Plan, effective April 19, 2001. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 28, 2010.
 
 
 
#
10.8
Ferrell Companies, Inc. 1998 Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended and restated effective October 11, 2004. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 28, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.9
Amendment to Ferrell Companies, Inc. 1998 Incentive Compensation Plan, dated as of March 7, 2010. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 9, 2010.
 
 
 
#
10.10
Employment, Confidentiality, and Noncompete Agreement dated as of July 17, 1998 by and among Ferrell Companies, Inc. as the company, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company, James E. Ferrell as the executive and LaSalle National Bank as trustee of the Ferrell Companies, Inc. Employee Stock Ownership Trust. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.11
Change In Control Agreement dated as of October 9, 2006 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and James E. Ferrell as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed December 9, 2011.
 
 
 
#
10.12
Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and Stephen L. Wambold as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 10, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.13
Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and James R. VanWinkle as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 10, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.14
Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and Tod Brown as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 10, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.15
Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and George L. Koloroutis as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 10, 2009.
 
 
 
#
10.16
Agreement and Release dated as of January 19, 2012 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and George L. Koloroutis as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012.
 
 
 
 
10.17
ISDA 2002 Master Agreement and Schedule to the 2002 ISDA Master Agreement both dated as of May 3, 2012 together with three Confirmation of Swap Transaction documents each dated as of May 8, 2012, all between SunTrust Bank and Ferrellgas, L.P. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 8, 2012. 
 
 
 

52


#
10.18
Form of Director/Officer Indemnification Agreement, by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. and each director and executive officer. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 9, 2012.
 
 
 
 
16.1
Deloitte & Touche LLP letter regarding change in certifying accountant. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 16.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed October 5, 2012.
 
 
 
*
31.1
Certification of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
 
 
*
31.2
Certification of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
 
 
*
31.3
Certification of Ferrellgas, L.P. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
 
 
*
31.4
Certification of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act.
 
 
 
*
32.1
Certification of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
 
*
32.2
Certification of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
 
*
32.3
Certification of Ferrellgas, L.P. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
 
*
32.4
Certification of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
 
*
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. (a)
 
 
 
*
Filed herewith
#
Management contracts or compensatory plans. 
(a)
XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) information is furnished and deemed not filed for purposes of Section 11 or 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 and Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections. 

53


SIGNATURES

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

 
 
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
 
 
By Ferrellgas, Inc. (General Partner)
 
 
 
 
Date:
March 7, 2013
By
/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
 
 
 
 
Date:
March 7, 2013
By
/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer and Sole Director
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
 
 
By Ferrellgas, Inc. (General Partner)
 
 
 
 
Date:
March 7, 2013
By
/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
 
 
 
 
Date:
March 7, 2013
By
/s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
J. Ryan VanWinkle
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer and Sole Director


54