Document

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

FORM 10-Q
þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018
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 number: 001-36400

ASHFORD INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Maryland
 
46-5292553
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS employer identification number)
 
 
 
14185 Dallas Parkway, Suite 1100
 
 
Dallas, Texas
 
75254
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)

(972) 490-9600
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. þ Yes ¨ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). þ Yes ¨ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
¨
 
Accelerated filer
þ
Non-accelerated filer
¨
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
o
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
þ
    
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) if the Exchange Act. þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ¨ Yes þ No

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share
 
2,103,353
(Class)
 
Outstanding at May 7, 2018




ASHFORD INC.
FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 
 




PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)
ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(unaudited, in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
34,910

 
$
36,480

Restricted cash
15,045

 
9,076

Accounts receivable, net
7,141

 
5,127

Due from Ashford Trust OP
11,376

 
13,346

Due from Braemar OP
96

 
1,738

Inventories
1,137

 
1,066

Prepaid expenses and other
2,971

 
2,913

Total current assets
72,676

 
69,746

Investments in unconsolidated entities
500

 
500

Furniture, fixtures and equipment, net
23,259

 
21,154

Goodwill
13,103

 
12,947

Intangible assets, net
9,472

 
9,713

Other assets
587

 
750

Total assets
$
119,597

 
$
114,810

LIABILITIES


 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
18,648

 
$
20,451

Due to affiliates
3,999

 
4,272

Deferred income
342

 
459

Deferred compensation plan
320

 
311

Notes payable, net
1,736

 
1,751

Other liabilities
13,979

 
9,076

Total current liabilities
39,024

 
36,320

Accrued expenses

 
78

Deferred income
12,852

 
13,440

Deferred compensation plan
19,420

 
18,948

Notes payable, net
11,534

 
9,956

Total liabilities
82,830

 
78,742

Commitments and contingencies (note 9)


 


MEZZANINE EQUITY
 
 
 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
4,662

 
5,111

EQUITY
 
 
 
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized:
 
 
 
Series A cumulative preferred stock, no shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 2,103,353 and 2,093,556 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively
21

 
21

Additional paid-in capital
255,037

 
249,695

Accumulated deficit
(224,281
)
 
(219,396
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(232
)
 
(135
)
Total stockholders’ equity of the Company
30,545

 
30,185

Noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities
1,560

 
772

Total equity
32,105

 
30,957

Total liabilities and equity
$
119,597

 
$
114,810


See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

2


ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
REVENUE
 
 
 
Advisory services
$
22,532

 
$
12,431

Audio visual
23,310

 

Other
2,326

 
582

Total revenue
48,168

 
13,013

EXPENSES
 
 
 
Salaries and benefits
26,517

 
11,032

Cost of revenues for audio visual
16,587

 

Depreciation and amortization
1,040

 
468

General and administrative
6,295

 
3,649

Impairment
1,919

 

Other
846

 

Total expenses
53,204

 
15,149

OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
(5,036
)
 
(2,136
)
Interest expense
(143
)
 

Amortization of loan costs
(23
)
 

Interest income
112

 
33

Dividend income

 
93

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments

 
125

Realized gain (loss) on investments

 
(200
)
Other income (expense)
(39
)
 
(8
)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES
(5,129
)
 
(2,093
)
Income tax (expense) benefit
(706
)
 
(630
)
NET INCOME (LOSS)
(5,835
)
 
(2,723
)
(Income) loss from consolidated entities attributable to noncontrolling interests
173

 
(25
)
Net (income) loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
(61
)
 
363

NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY
$
(5,723
)
 
$
(2,385
)
 
 
 
 
INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE - BASIC AND DILUTED
 
 
 
Basic:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders
$
(2.73
)
 
$
(1.18
)
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic
2,094

 
2,015

Diluted:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders
$
(2.84
)
 
$
(1.34
)
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted
2,115

 
2,046

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

3


ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(unaudited, in thousands)

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2018
 
2017
NET INCOME (LOSS)
 
$
(5,835
)
 
$
(2,723
)
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
(114
)
 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
 
(5,949
)
 
(2,723
)
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
190

 
(25
)
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
 
(61
)
 
363

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY
 
$
(5,820
)
 
$
(2,385
)
See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


4


ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EQUITY
(unaudited, in thousands)

 
Common Stock
 
Additional Paid-in Capital
 
Accumulated
 Deficit
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Entities
 
Total
 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
 
Shares
 
Amount
Balance at January 1, 2018
2,094

 
$
21

 
$
249,695

 
$
(219,396
)
 
$
(135
)
 
$
772

 
$
30,957

 
$
5,111

Equity-based compensation

 

 
3,789

 

 

 
8

 
3,797

 

Deferred compensation plan distribution

 

 
80

 

 

 

 
80

 

Employee advances

 

 
105

 

 

 

 
105

 

Purchase of OpenKey shares from noncontrolling interest holder
9

 

 
838

 

 

 

 
838

 
(838
)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

 

 
2,666

 
2,666

 

Reallocation of carrying value

 

 
530

 

 

 
(1,696
)
 
(1,166
)
 
1,166

Redemption value adjustment

 

 

 
838

 

 

 
838

 
(838
)
Foreign currency translation adjustment

 

 

 

 
(97
)
 
(17
)
 
(114
)
 

Net income (loss)

 

 

 
(5,723
)
 

 
(173
)
 
(5,896
)
 
61

Balance at March 31, 2018
2,103

 
$
21

 
$
255,037

 
$
(224,281
)
 
$
(232
)
 
$
1,560

 
$
32,105

 
$
4,662


See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


5


ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited, in thousands)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(5,835
)
 
$
(2,723
)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
1,671

 
468

Change in fair value of deferred compensation plan
561

 
3,340

Equity-based compensation
3,797

 
2,272

Deferred tax expense (benefit)

 
(2,667
)
Change in fair value of contingent consideration
213

 

Impairment
1,919

 

(Gain) loss on sale of furniture, fixtures and equipment

 
8

Amortization of loan costs
23

 

Realized and unrealized (gain) loss on investments, net

 
75

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, exclusive of the effect of acquisitions:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
(1,908
)
 
6

Due from Ashford Trust OP
1,970

 
(408
)
Due from Braemar OP
1,642

 
1,247

Inventories
(54
)
 

Prepaid expenses and other
45

 
69

Other assets
(587
)
 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses
(2,752
)
 
4,647

Due to affiliates
(420
)
 
86

Other liabilities
4,903

 
3,426

Deferred income
(759
)
 
734

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
4,429

 
10,580

Cash Flows from Investing Activities
 
 
 
Additions to furniture, fixtures and equipment
(2,663
)
 
(159
)
Proceeds from disposal of furniture, fixtures and equipment, net

 
15

Acquisition of assets related to RED Hospitality and Leisure LLC
(1,220
)
 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(3,883
)
 
(144
)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
 
 
 
Payments on revolving credit facilities
(4,815
)
 

Borrowings on revolving credit facilities
5,259

 

Proceeds from notes payable
1,350

 

Payments on notes payable and capital leases
(494
)
 

Payments of loan costs
(15
)
 

Purchases of common stock

 
(24
)
Employee advances
105

 
742

Contributions from noncontrolling interest
2,666

 
650

Distributions to and redemptions by noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities

 
(52,375
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
4,056

 
(51,007
)
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(203
)
 

Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
4,399

 
(40,571
)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
45,556

 
93,843

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$
49,955

 
$
53,272

 
 
 
 

6


 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 
 
 
Interest paid
$
113

 
$

Income taxes paid
143

 
5

Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities
 
 
 
Distribution from deferred compensation plan
80

 
112

Capital expenditures accrued but not paid
1,953

 
1,102

Accrued but unpaid redemption of AQUA U.S. Fund

 
2,696

Ashford Inc. common stock consideration for purchase of OpenKey shares
838

 

 
 
 
 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$
36,480

 
$
84,091

Restricted cash at beginning of period
9,076

 
9,752

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
$
45,556

 
$
93,843

 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
34,910

 
$
40,094

Restricted cash at end of period
15,045

 
13,178

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$
49,955

 
$
53,272

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

7

Table of Contents
ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)



1. Organization and Description of Business
Ashford Inc. is a Maryland corporation formed on April 2, 2014, that provides asset management, advisory and other products and services primarily to clients in the hospitality industry. Ashford Inc. currently provides asset management and advisory services to Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. (“Ashford Trust”) and Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (“Braemar”), formerly Ashford Hospitality Prime, Inc. Ashford Trust commenced operating in August 2003 and is focused on investing in full service hotels in the upscale and upper-upscale segments in the U.S. that have revenue per available room (“RevPAR”) generally less than twice the national average. Braemar commenced operating in November 2013 and invests primarily in luxury hotels and resorts with RevPAR of at least twice the U.S. national average. Each of Ashford Trust and Braemar is a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) as defined in the Internal Revenue Code, and the common stock of each of Ashford Trust and Braemar is traded on the NYSE. The common stock of Ashford Inc. is listed on the NYSE American. As of March 31, 2018, Ashford Trust held approximately 598,000 shares of Ashford Inc. common stock, which represented an approximate 28.4% ownership interest in Ashford Inc., and Braemar held approximately 195,000 shares, which represented an approximate 9.3% ownership interest in Ashford Inc.
Ashford Inc. conducts its advisory and asset management business through its operating subsidiary, Ashford Hospitality Advisors LLC (“Ashford LLC”), a Delaware limited liability company. We conduct our hospitality products and services business through an operating entity, Ashford Hospitality Services, LLC. We own most of our assets through Ashford LLC and Ashford Hospitality Services, LLC.
In our capacity as the advisor to Ashford Trust and Braemar, we are responsible for implementing the investment strategies and managing the day-to-day operations of Ashford Trust and Braemar, in each case subject to the supervision and oversight of the respective board of directors of such entity. We provide the personnel and services necessary to allow each of Ashford Trust and Braemar to conduct its respective business. We may also perform similar functions for new or additional platforms. We are not responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the individual hotel properties owned by either Ashford Trust or Braemar, which duties are the responsibility of the hotel management companies that operate the hotel properties owned by Ashford Trust and Braemar.
On April 6, 2017, Ashford Inc. entered into the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement (the “Amended and Restated LLC Agreement”) of Ashford Hospitality Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a subsidiary of the Company (“Ashford Holdings”), in connection with the merger (the “Merger”) of Ashford Merger Sub LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, with and into Ashford LLC, with Ashford LLC surviving the Merger as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ashford Holdings. Ashford Holdings is owned 99.8% by Ashford Inc. and 0.2% by noncontrolling interest holders. The terms of the Amended and Restated LLC Agreement are consistent with the terms of the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Advisors. The Merger was effectuated in order to facilitate our investments in businesses that provide products and services to the hospitality industry.
On April 6, 2017, we acquired a 70% interest in Pure Rooms by issuing equity in our subsidiary, PRE Op Co LLC (“Pure Rooms”), with a fair value of $425,000 to the sellers and contributing $97,000 of cash. Pure Rooms’ patented 7-step purification process treats a room’s surfaces, including the air, and removes up to 99% of pollutants. See note notes 2, 4, 10, 11 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
On November 1, 2017, we acquired an 85% controlling interest in a privately held company that conducts the business of J&S Audio Visual in the United States, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic (“J&S”) for approximately $25.5 million. J&S provides an integrated suite of audio visual services including show and event services, hospitality services, creative services and design & integration services to its customers in various venues including hotels and convention centers in the United States, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. See notes 2, 4, 10, 11 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
On January 2, 2018, the Company granted 8,962 shares of restricted common stock to the OpenKey redeemable noncontrolling interest holder in connection with the purchase of 519,647 shares of the outstanding membership interests in OpenKey, Inc. The restricted common stock was granted pursuant to the exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act provided under Section 4(a)(2) thereunder and vests three years from the grant date.
On January 16, 2018, the Company closed on the acquisition of certain assets related to RED Hospitality & Leisure LLC ("RED") for $970,000 cash, comprised of a $750,000 deposit paid on December 11, 2017, which was reflected on our consolidated balance sheet as “other assets” as of December 31, 2017, and an additional $220,000 paid on January 16, 2018. On March 23, 2018, the RED operating subsidiary acquired additional assets for $1.0 million. The Company owns an 80% interest in RED, a premier provider of watersports activities and other travel and transportation services in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

8

Table of Contents
ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the operations of our advisory and asset management business, hospitality products and services business, and entities that we consolidate. In this report, the terms the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” refers to Ashford Inc. and all entities included in its condensed consolidated financial statements.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation and Combination—The accompanying historical unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. These condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Ashford Inc., its majority-owned subsidiaries and entities which it controls. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions between these entities have been eliminated in these historical condensed consolidated financial statements. We have condensed or omitted certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. We believe the disclosures made herein are adequate to prevent the information presented from being misleading. However, the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 12, 2018.
A variable interest entity (“VIE”) must be consolidated by a reporting entity if the reporting entity is the primary beneficiary because it has (i) the power to direct the VIE’s activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, (ii) an implicit financial responsibility to ensure that a VIE operates as designed, and (iii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE upon our initial involvement with the VIE and we reassess whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE on an ongoing basis. Our determination of whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE is based upon the facts and circumstances for each VIE and requires significant judgment.

9

Table of Contents
ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


Noncontrolling Interests—The following tables present information about our noncontrolling interests, including those related to consolidated VIEs, as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 (in thousands):

 
March 31, 2018
 
Ashford
LLC
 
J&S (3)
 
OpenKey(4)
 
Pure
Rooms
(5)
 
RED (6)
Ashford Inc. ownership interest(9)
99.80
%
 
85.00
%
 
45.61
%
 
70.00
%
 
80.00
%
Redeemable noncontrolling interests(1) (2)
0.20
%
 
15.00
%
 
29.65
%
 
%
 
%
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities
%
 
%
 
24.74
%
 
30.00
%
 
20.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying value of redeemable noncontrolling interests
$
396

 
$
2,877

 
$
1,389

 
n/a

 
n/a

Redemption value adjustment, year-to-date
23

 

 
(861
)
 
n/a

 
n/a

Redemption value adjustment, cumulative
381

 

 
1,160

 
n/a

 
n/a

Carrying value of noncontrolling interests

 
433

 
949

 
171

 
7

Assets, available only to settle subsidiary's obligations (7)
n/a

 
40,905

 
4,415

 
1,654

 
2,472

Liabilities, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
23,712

 
758

 
1,558

 
828

Notes payable, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
10,492

 

 
160

 
750

Revolving credit facility, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
1,226

 

 
100

 
15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2017
 
Ashford
LLC
 
J&S (3)
 
OpenKey(4)
 
Pure
Rooms
(5)
 
RED (6)
Ashford Inc. ownership interest(9)
99.80
%
 
85.00
%
 
43.90
%
 
70.00
%
 
%
Redeemable noncontrolling interests(1) (2)
0.20
%
 
15.00
%
 
39.59
%
 
%
 
%
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities
%
 
%
 
16.51
%
 
30.00
%
 
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Carrying value of redeemable noncontrolling interests
$
385

 
$
2,522

 
$
2,204

 
n/a

 
n/a

Redemption value adjustment, year-to-date
224

 

 
1,046

 
n/a

 
n/a

Redemption value adjustment, cumulative
358

 

 
2,021

 
n/a

 
n/a

Carrying value of noncontrolling interests

 
439

 
128

 
205

 

Assets, available only to settle subsidiary's obligations (7)
n/a

 
36,951

 
1,403

 
1,865

 

Liabilities, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
21,821

 
889

 
1,652

 

Notes payable, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
9,917

 

 
220

 

Revolving credit facility, no recourse to Ashford Inc.(8)
n/a

 
814

 

 
100

 

________
(1) Redeemable noncontrolling interests are included in the “mezzanine” section of our condensed consolidated balance sheets as they may be redeemed by the holder for cash or registered shares in certain circumstances outside of the Company’s control. The carrying value of the noncontrolling interests is based on the greater of the accumulated historical cost or the redemption value.
(2) Redeemable noncontrolling interests in Ashford Holdings represent the members’ proportionate share of equity in earnings/losses of Ashford Holdings or Ashford LLC as applicable and net income/loss attributable to the common unit holders is allocated based on the weighted average ownership percentage of these members’ interest.

10

Table of Contents
ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


(3) Represents ownership interests in J&S, which we consolidate under the voting interest model. J&S provides audio visual products and services in the hospitality industry. See also notes 1, 10 and 11.
(4) Represents ownership interests in OpenKey, a VIE for which we are considered the primary beneficiary and therefore we consolidate it. OpenKey is a hospitality focused mobile key platform that provides a universal smartphone app for keyless entry into hotel guest rooms. See also notes 1, 10 and 11.
(5) Represents ownership interests in Pure Rooms, a VIE for which we are considered the primary beneficiary and therefore we consolidate it. Pure Rooms provides “allergy friendly” premium rooms in the hospitality industry. See also notes 1, 10 and 11.
(6) Represents ownership interests in RED, a VIE for which we are considered the primary beneficiary and therefore we consolidate it. RED is a premier provider of watersports activities and other travel and transportation services in the U.S. Virgin Islands. See also notes 1, 10 and 11.
(7) Total assets primarily consisted of cash and cash equivalents and other assets that can only be used to settle the subsidiaries obligations.
(8) Liabilities consist primarily of accounts payable, accrued expenses and notes payable for which creditors do not have recourse to Ashford Inc. except in the case of debt held by RED, for which the creditor has recourse to Ashford Inc.
(9) For certain of our investments we are provided a preferred return which is accounted for in our income allocation based on the applicable partnership agreement.
In addition to the consolidated entity information above, noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities included a noncontrolling ownership interest in AIM Performance Holdco LP (“AIM”) of 40% as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.
Unconsolidated VIEs—Our investments in certain unconsolidated entities are considered to be variable interests in the underlying entities. Because we do not have the power and financial responsibility to direct the unconsolidated entities’ activities and operations, we are not considered to be the primary beneficiary of these entities on an ongoing basis and therefore such entities should not be consolidated. In evaluating VIEs, our analysis involves considerable management judgment and assumptions. We review the investments in unconsolidated entities for impairment in each reporting period pursuant to the applicable authoritative accounting guidance. An investment is impaired when its estimated fair value is less than the carrying amount of our investment. Any impairment is recorded in equity in earnings/loss in unconsolidated entities.
We held an investment in an unconsolidated entity with a carrying value of $500,000 at both March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. No impairment of the investment was recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2018 or 2017.
AcquisitionsWe account for acquisitions and investments in businesses as business combinations if the target meets the definition of a business and (a) the target is a VIE and we are the target's primary beneficiary, and therefore we must consolidate its financial statements, or (b) we acquire more than 50% of the voting interest of the target and it was not previously consolidated. We record business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires all of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at fair value as of the acquisition date. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. The application of the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions in the determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to properly allocate purchase price consideration between assets that are depreciated and amortized from goodwill. The fair value assigned to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on management’s estimates and assumptions, as well as other information compiled by management, including valuations that utilize customary valuation procedures and techniques. Significant assumptions and estimates include, but are not limited to, the cash flows that an asset is expected to generate in the future, the appropriate weighted-average cost of capital, and the cost savings expected to be derived from acquiring an asset, if applicable. If the actual results differ from the estimates and judgments used in these estimates, the amounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements may be exposed to potential impairment of the intangible assets and goodwill.
If our investment involves the acquisition of an asset or group of assets that does not meet the definition of a business, the transaction is accounted for as an asset acquisition. An asset acquisition is recorded at cost, which includes capitalizing transaction costs, and does not result in the recognition of goodwill.
Use of Estimates—The preparation of these condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


Impairment of Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment—Furniture, fixtures and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Recoverability of the asset is measured by comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows, which take into account current market conditions and our intent with respect to holding or disposing of the asset. If our analysis indicates that the carrying value of the asset is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, we recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the asset net book value exceeds its estimated fair value, or fair value, less cost to sell. In evaluating impairment of assets, we make many assumptions and estimates, including projected cash flows, expected holding period, and expected useful life. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques, including internally developed discounted cash flow models, comparable market transactions and third-party appraisals, where considered necessary. Assets not yet placed into service are also reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that all or a portion of the assets will not be placed into service. We recorded impairment charges of $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The impairment was recognized upon determination that a portion of the software will not be placed into service. No impairment charges were recorded for furniture, fixtures and equipment for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets—Goodwill is assigned to reporting units that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination as of the acquisition date. Indefinite-lived intangible assets primarily include trademark rights resulting from our acquisition of J&S. We assess goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, neither of which is amortized, for impairment annually as of October 1, or more frequently, if events and circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. In the evaluation of goodwill for impairment, we perform a quantitative assessment and compare the fair value of the reporting unit to the carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the goodwill of that reporting unit is potentially impaired and we proceed to step two of the impairment analysis. In step two of the analysis, we will record an impairment loss equal to the excess of the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill over its implied fair value should such a circumstance arise. We determine fair value based on discounted projected future operating cash flows using a discount rate that is commensurate with the risk inherent in our current business model. We base our measurement of fair value of trademarks using the relief-from-royalty method. This method assumes that the trade name and trademarks have value to the extent that their owner is relieved of the obligation to pay royalties for the benefits received from them. No indicators of impairment were identified during our most recent annual test or as of March 31, 2018.
Definite-Lived Intangible Assets—Definite-lived intangible assets primarily include customer relationships resulting from our acquisition of J&S and Pure Rooms. These assets are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. We review the carrying amount of the assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount is not recoverable, we record an impairment charge for the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value. No indicators of impairment were identified as of March 31, 2018.
Salaries and Benefits—Salaries and benefits are expensed as incurred. Salaries and benefits includes expense for equity grants of Ashford Trust and Braemar common stock and performance-based Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) units awarded to our officers and employees in connection with providing advisory services equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period. There is an offsetting amount, included in “advisory services” revenue. Salaries and benefits also includes changes in fair value in the deferred compensation plan liability. See further discussion in notes 2 and 13 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Depreciation and Amortization—Our furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the related assets. Furniture and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over lives ranging from 3 to 7.5 years and computer software placed into service is amortized on a straight-line basis over estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 5 years. While we believe our estimates are reasonable, a change in estimated useful lives could affect depreciation expense and net income/loss as well as resulting gains or losses on potential sales. Definite-lived intangible assets, which include customer relationships resulting from our acquisitions of J&S and Pure Rooms, are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. See note 4.
Equity-Based CompensationWe adopted an equity incentive plan that provides for the grant of restricted or unrestricted shares of our common stock, options to purchase our common stock and other share awards, share appreciation rights, performance shares, performance units and other equity-based awards or any combination of the foregoing. Equity-based compensation included in “salaries and benefits” is accounted for at fair value based on the market price of the shares/options on the date of grant in accordance with applicable authoritative accounting guidance. The fair value is charged to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the shares/options. Grants of restricted stock to independent directors are recorded at fair value based on the market price of our shares at grant date, and this amount is fully expensed in “general and administrative” expense as the grants of stock are fully vested on the date of grant. The amount of the expense may be subject to adjustment in future

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


periods depending on the specific characteristics of the equity-based award and the application of the accounting guidance. Options to purchase common stock granted to other non-employees are accounted for at fair value based on the market price of the options at period end in accordance with applicable authoritative accounting guidance that results in recording expense, included in “general and administrative,” equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period. Our officers and employees can be granted common stock and LTIP units from Ashford Trust and Braemar in connection with providing advisory services that result in expense, included in “salaries and benefits,” equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period, as well as offsetting revenue in an equal amount included in “advisory services” revenue.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)—Comprehensive loss for the three months ended March 31, 2018, consists of net loss and foreign currency translation adjustments. The foreign currency translation adjustment represents the unrealized impact of translating the financial statements of the J&S operations in Mexico and the Dominican Republic from their respective functional currencies to U.S. dollars. This amount is not included in net income and would only be realized upon the sale or upon complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign businesses. The accumulated other comprehensive loss is presented on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. There were no sources of other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2017.
Due to Affiliates—Due to affiliates represents current payables resulting from general and administrative expense, furniture, fixtures and equipment reimbursements, and contingent consideration. Due to affiliates is generally settled within a period not exceeding one year.
Recently Adopted Accounting StandardsIn May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, also referred to as “ASC 606” Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity shall recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. An entity is required to (a) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (b) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (c) determine the transaction price, (d) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (e) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. In determining the transaction price, an entity may include variable consideration only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized would not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. ASC 606 also specifies the accounting for certain costs to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer. In addition, the new guidance requires improved disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized.
Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted the new standard using the modified retrospective approach. Based on our assessment, adoption of the new guidance did not require a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening retained earnings on January 1, 2018. We expect the new standard’s impact on net income will be immaterial on an ongoing annual basis; however, the Company does anticipate that the new standard will have an impact on its revenues in interim periods due to timing. The primary impact of adopting the new standard relates to the timing of recognition of incentive advisory fees, which are a form of variable consideration and therefore must be (i) deferred until such fees are probable of not being subject to significant reversal, and (ii) tied to a performance obligation in the contract with the customer so that revenue recognition depicts the transfer of the related advisory services to the customer. Accordingly, the Company will no longer record incentive advisory fee revenue in interim periods prior to the fourth quarter of the year in which the incentive fee is measured. The Company expects that this could impact its revenues in future interim periods, but we are unable to estimate the impact because future incentive advisory fees are calculated based on future changes in total stockholder return of our REIT clients compared to the total stockholder return of their respective peer group. We do not expect any material changes in revenue recognition for audio visual, investment management reimbursements, debt placement fees, claims management services revenue, lease revenue or other services revenue. See note 3 for additional information regarding our adoption of ASC 606.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”), which requires an entity to: (i) measure equity investments at fair value through net income, with certain exceptions; (ii) present in OCI the changes in instrument-specific credit risk for financial liabilities measured using the fair value option; (iii) present financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset; (iv) calculate the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes based on an exit price; and (v) assess a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets related to unrealized losses of AFS debt securities in combination with other deferred tax assets. ASU 2016-01 provides an election to subsequently measure certain nonmarketable equity investments at cost less any impairment and adjusted for certain observable price changes. It also requires a qualitative impairment assessment of such equity investments and amends certain fair value disclosure requirements. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


interim periods within those fiscal years. Certain provisions of ASU 2016-01 are eligible for early adoption. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-03, as technical corrections and improvements to amend and clarify certain aspects of the guidance issued in ASU 2016-01. We have adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018, and the adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. See “Unconsolidated VIEs” above in note 2.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments - a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force (“ASU 2016-15”). The new guidance is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. Certain issues addressed in this guidance include debt payments or debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, distributions received from equity method investments and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. We have adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018, and the adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Clarifying the Definition of a Business (“ASU 2017-01”), which clarifies the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether a transaction should be accounted for as an acquisition (or disposal) of an asset or a business. We have adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards—In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016-02”). The new standard establishes a right-of-use (“ROU”) model that requires a lessee to record an ROU asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the income statement. The new standard requires a lessor to classify leases as either sales-type, finance or operating. A lease will be treated as a sale if it transfers all of the risks and rewards, as well as control of the underlying asset, to the lessee. If risks and rewards are conveyed without the transfer of control, the lease is treated as a financing lease. If the lessor doesn’t convey risks and rewards or control, an operating lease results. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. A modified retrospective transition approach is required for lessees for capital and operating leases as well as for lessors for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the condensed consolidated financial statements, with certain practical expedients available. The accounting for leases where we are the lessor remains largely unchanged. While we are currently in the initial stages of assessing the impact ASU 2016-02 will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements, we expect the primary impact to our condensed consolidated financial statements upon adoption will be the recognition, on a discounted basis, of any future minimum rentals due under noncancelable leases on our condensed consolidated balance sheets resulting in the recording of ROU assets and lease obligations.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). ASU 2016-13 sets forth an “expected credit loss” impairment model to replace the current “incurred loss” method of recognizing credit losses. The standard requires measurement and recognition of expected credit losses for most financial assets held. ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted for periods beginning after December 15, 2018. We are currently evaluating the impact that ASU 2016-13 will have on the condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017-04”), which removes the requirement to compare the implied fair value of goodwill with its carrying amount as part of step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. As a result, under ASU 2017-04, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and should recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. However, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. In addition, ASU 2017-04 clarifies that an entity should consider income tax effects from any tax deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. ASU 2017-04 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. We are evaluating the impact that ASU 2017-04 will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.



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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


3. Revenues
On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective method. As the adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements, no adjustments to opening retained earnings were made as of January 1, 2018. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018, are presented under ASC 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our historic accounting under ASC Topic 605-Revenue Recognition.
Revenue Recognition—Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
We determine revenue recognition through the following steps:
Identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer
Identification of the performance obligations in the contract
Determination of the transaction price
Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract
Recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation
Advisory Services Revenue
Advisory services revenue is reported within our REIT Advisory segment and primarily consists of advisory fees and expense reimbursements that are recognized when services have been rendered. Advisory fees consist of base fees and incentive fees. For Ashford Trust, the quarterly base fee ranges from 0.70% to 0.50% per annum of the total market capitalization ranging from less than $6.0 billion to greater than $10.0 billion plus the Key Money Asset Management Fee, as defined in the respective advisory agreement, subject to certain minimums. The Braemar base fee is fixed at 0.70% of Braemar’s total market capitalization plus the Key Money Asset Management Fee, as defined in the respective advisory agreement, subject to certain minimums. Reimbursements for overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory services and asset management services, including compensation, benefits and travel expense reimbursements, are recognized when services have been rendered. We record advisory revenue for equity grants of Ashford Trust and Braemar common stock and Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) units awarded to our officers and employees in connection with providing advisory services equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period, as well an offsetting expense in an equal amount included in “salaries and benefits.”
Incentive advisory fees are measured annually in each year that Ashford Trust’s and/or Braemar’s annual total stockholder return exceeds the average annual total stockholder return for each company’s respective peer group, subject to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (“FCCR”) Condition, as defined in the respective advisory agreements. Incentive advisory fees are paid over a three-year period and each payment is subject to the FCCR Condition, which relates to the ratio of adjusted EBITDA to fixed charges for Ashford Trust or Braemar, as applicable. Historically, during the incentive advisory fee measurement period (i.e. the first year of each three year period), incentive advisory fees have been accrued (or reversed) quarterly based on the amount that would be due pursuant to the applicable advisory agreements as of the interim balance sheet date. The second and third year installments of incentive advisory fees have been recognized as revenue on a pro-rata basis each quarter for the amounts determined in the first year measurement period, subject to the December 31 FCCR Condition each year. Effective with our January 1, 2018 adoption of ASC 606, we will no longer record the first year's installment of incentive advisory fee revenue in interim periods prior to the fourth quarter. Prior to measurement in the fourth quarter of each year, our first year installment of incentive advisory fees are subject to significant fluctuation (i.e. based on annual total stockholder returns) and are contingent on a future event during the measurement period (e.g. meeting the FCCR Condition). Accordingly, incentive advisory fees will generally be recognized only upon measurement in the fourth quarter of the first year of the three year period. The second and third year installments of incentive advisory fees are recognized as revenue on a pro-rata basis each quarter as such amounts are not subject to significant reversal.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The table below presents the impact of applying the new revenue recognition standard to the components of total revenue within the condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018, as a result of the change in the timing of revenue recognition of incentive advisory fees during interim periods prior to the fourth quarter of the year in which the incentive fee is measured (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
As Reported
 
Financial Results Prior to Adoption of Revenue Recognition Standard
 
Impact of Adoption of Revenue Recognition Standard
Advisory services revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
Base advisory fee
$
10,711

 
$
10,711

 
$

Incentive advisory fee
452

 
809

 
(357
)
Reimbursable expenses
1,949

 
1,949

 

Non-cash stock/unit-based compensation
9,292

 
9,292

 

Other advisory revenue
128

 
128

 

Total advisory services revenue
22,532

 
22,889

 
(357
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audio visual
23,310

 
23,310

 

Other
2,326

 
2,326

 

Total revenue
$
48,168

 
$
48,525

 
$
(357
)
Audio Visual Revenue
Audio visual revenue primarily consists of revenue generated within our J&S segment by providing event technology services such as audio visual services, audio visual equipment rental, staging and meeting services and event-related communication systems as well as related technical support, to our customers in various venues including hotels and convention centers. We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, services have been rendered, the fee is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenue is recognized in the period in which services are provided pursuant to the terms of the contractual arrangements with our customers. We also evaluate whether it is appropriate to present (i) the gross amount that our customers pay for our services as revenue, and the related commissions paid to the venue as cost of revenue, or (ii) the net amount (gross revenue less the related commissions paid to the venue) as revenue. We are responsible for the delivery of the services, including providing the necessary labor and equipment to perform the services. We are generally subject to inventory risk, have latitude in establishing prices and selecting suppliers and, while in many cases the venue bills the end customer on our behalf, we bear the risk of collection from the customer. The venues’ commissions are not dependent on collections. As a result, our revenue is primarily reported on a gross basis. Cost of revenues for audio visual principally includes commissions paid to venues, direct labor costs, the cost of equipment sub-rentals, depreciation of equipment, amortization of signing bonuses, as well as other costs such as supplies, freight, travel and other overhead from our venue and customer facing operations and any losses on equipment disposal.
Other Revenue
Debt placement fees are reported within our REIT Advisory segment and include revenues earned through provision of debt placement services by Lismore Capital, our wholly-owned subsidiary. These fees are recognized based on a stated percentage of the loan amount when services have been rendered and the subject loan has closed.
Certain of our consolidated entities enter into contracts with customers that contain multiple performance obligations. For these contracts, we account for individual performance obligations separately if they are distinct. The transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations on a relative standalone selling price basis. We determine the standalone selling prices based on our consolidated entities’ overall pricing objectives taking into consideration market conditions and other factors, including the customer and the nature and value of the performance obligations within the applicable contracts.
Deferred Revenue and Contract Balances
Deferred revenue primarily consists of customer billings in advance of revenues being recognized from our advisory agreements and other hospitality products and services contracts. Generally, deferred revenue that could result in a cash payment within the

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


next twelve-month period is recorded as current deferred revenue and the remaining portion is recorded as noncurrent. The increase in the deferred revenue balance is primarily driven by cash payments received or due in advance of satisfying our performance obligations, offset by revenues recognized that were included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period.
For the three months ended March 31, 2018, we recognized $2.7 million of revenues that were included in deferred revenue at the beginning of the period, including (a) $346,000 of advisory revenue primarily related to our advisory agreements with Ashford Trust and Braemar, and (b) $2.4 million of “Other services” revenue earned by our hospitality products and services companies.
We do not disclose information about remaining performance obligations pertaining to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less. The transaction price allocated to remaining unsatisfied or partially unsatisfied performance obligations with an original expected duration exceeding one year was primarily related to (i) reimbursed software costs that will be recognized evenly over the period the software is used to provide advisory services to Ashford Trust and Braemar, and (ii) a $5.0 million cash payment received in June 2017 from Braemar in connection with our Fourth Amended and Restated Braemar Advisory Agreement, which is recognized evenly over the 10-year initial contract period that we are providing Braemar advisory services. Incentive advisory fees that are contingent upon future market performance are excluded as the fees are considered variable and not included in the transaction price at March 31, 2018.
The timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of payment by customers. We record a receivable when revenue is recognized prior to payment and we have an unconditional right to payment. Alternatively, when payment precedes the provision of the related services, we record deferred revenue until the performance obligations are satisfied. We had receivables related to revenues from contracts with customers of $7.1 million and $5.1 million included in “accounts receivable, net” primarily related to our hospitality products and services segment, $11.4 million and $13.3 million in “due from Ashford Trust OP”, and $96,000 and $1.7 million included in “due from Braemar OP” related to REIT advisory services at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. We had no significant impairments related to these receivables during the three months ended March 31, 2018.
The following table presents revenue by reporting segment and geography for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands). See note 16 for more information about our segment reporting.
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
REIT
 Advisory
 
J&S
 
OpenKey
 
Corporate
 and Other (2)
 
Ashford Inc. Consolidated
United States
$
23,653

 
$
15,952

 
$
319

 
$
886

 
$
40,810

Mexico

 
5,460

 

 

 
5,460

All other countries

 
1,898

 

 

 
1,898

 
$
23,653

 
$
23,310

 
$
319

 
$
886

 
$
48,168

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 (1)
 
REIT
 Advisory
 
J&S
 
OpenKey
 
Corporate
 and Other (2)
 
Ashford Inc. Consolidated
United States
$
12,988

 
$

 
$
25

 
$

 
$
13,013

Mexico

 

 

 

 

All other countries

 

 

 

 

 
$
12,988

 
$

 
$
25

 
$

 
$
13,013

__________________
(1) Prior period amounts were not adjusted for the adoption of the new revenue recognition guidance under ASC 606.
(2) Represents Pure Rooms and RED.
4. Acquisitions
J&S
On November 1, 2017, we completed the acquisition of an 85% controlling interest in J&S Audio Visual Communications, Inc., J&S Audiovisual Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. and J&S Audio Visual Dominican Republic, L.P., collectively referred to as "J&S." J&S provides an integrated suite of audio visual services including show and event services, hospitality services, creative

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


services and design & integration services to its customers in various venues including hotels and convention centers in the United States, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
The purchase price of approximately $25.5 million consisted of (i) $19.2 million in cash of which $10.0 million was funded with a term loan; (ii) 70,318 shares of Ashford Inc. common stock, which was determined based on an agreed upon value of approximately $4.3 million using a thirty-day volume weighted average price per share of $60.44 and had an estimated fair value of approximately $5.1 million as of the acquisition date; and (iii) contingent consideration with an estimated fair value of approximately $1.2 million. The results of operations of J&S were included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.
The acquisition of J&S has been recorded using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with the authoritative guidance for business combinations, and the purchase price allocation is based on our valuation of the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. We have completed our preliminary valuation to determine the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The fair values of the assets acquired were determined using various valuation techniques, including an income approach. The fair value measurements were primarily based on significant inputs that are not directly observable in the market and are considered Level 3 under the fair value measurements and disclosure framework. Key assumptions include cash flow projections of J&S and the discount rate applied to those cash flows. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill.
We have allocated the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a preliminary basis using estimated fair value information currently available. We are in the process of evaluating the values assigned to working capital balances, furniture, fixtures and equipment, intangible assets, notes payable, capital leases, deferred taxes, noncontrolling interests and contingent consideration. Thus, the balances reflected below are subject to change, and any such changes could result in adjustments to the allocation. Any change to the amounts recorded within furniture, fixtures and equipment could also impact depreciation expense.
The fair value of the purchase price and preliminary allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
Cash
 
$
9,176

Term loan
 
10,000

Fair value of Ashford Inc. common stock
 
5,063

Fair value of contingent consideration
 
1,196

Purchase price consideration
 
25,435

Fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest
 
2,724

Fair value of noncontrolling interest
 
324

Total fair value of purchase price
 
$
28,483

 
 
Fair Value
 
Estimated Useful Life
Current assets including cash
 
$
6,564

 
 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
 
9,020

 
5 years
Goodwill
 
12,321

 
 
Trademarks
 
3,201

 
 
Customer relationships
 
6,519

 
7 years
Other assets
 
129

 
 
Total assets acquired
 
37,754

 
 
Current liabilities
 
7,080

 
 
Notes payable, current
 
445

 
 
Deferred income
 
1,213

 
 
Note payable, non-current
 
533

 
 
Total assumed liabilities
 
9,271

 
 
Net assets acquired
 
$
28,483

 
 

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


We expect approximately $9.9 million of the goodwill balance to be deductible for tax purposes. The qualitative factors that make up the recorded goodwill include value associated with an assembled workforce and value attributable to expanding J&S’ operations through our relationships with Ashford Trust and Braemar.
Results of J&S
The results of operations of J&S have been included in our results of operations since the acquisition date. Our consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018, included total revenue of $23.3 million and net income of $2.1 million from J&S. The unaudited pro forma results of operations as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017, are included below under “Pro Forma Financial Results.”
Pure Rooms
On April 6, 2017, we acquired a 70% interest in Pure Rooms. Pure Rooms’ patented 7-step purification process treats a room’s surfaces, including the air, and removes up to 99% of pollutants. To consummate the acquisition, Ashford Hospitality Services LLC (“AHS”), a subsidiary of Ashford Inc., entered into an Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement (the “LLC Agreement”) with PRE Opco, LLC (“Pure Rooms”), pursuant to which AHS became the sole owner of the common equity, or Series A Units. In conjunction with the LLC Agreement, AHS contributed $97,000 cash to Pure Rooms as required by the LLC Agreement. Pursuant to the Asset and Liability Contribution Agreement (the “Contribution Agreement”), by and among Pure Rooms (as contributee) and PAFR, LLC, the members of PAFR, LLC and Brault Enterprises, LLC (collectively, the “Sellers”), the Sellers contributed liabilities, net of assets, of the predecessor operating company, Pure Rooms NA, LLC, with a fair value of $532,000 in exchange for certain equity interests in Pure Rooms, including 30% of the Series A Units, 100% of the Series B-1 Units, and 50% of the Series B-2 Units. The fair value of the remaining equity consideration included $42,000 of Series A Units, $181,000 of Series B-1 Units, and $202,000 of Series B-2 Units, totaling $425,000. As a result of the Contribution Agreement, our equity interest in Pure Rooms was 70%.
Per the LLC Agreement, the Series A Units are voting units and have the voting rights set forth in the Contribution Agreement but do not have management participation rights. The Series B-1 Units and Series B-2 Units are non-voting units and do not have voting or management participation rights. The distribution waterfall provides seniority as follows: Series B-1, Series B-2, and then Series A. There is no coupon or other preference associated with the Series B-1 and B-2 unit classes. On August 29, 2017, the Series B-1 unit holders redeemed their Series B-1 units for $200,000.
The acquisition of Pure Rooms has been recorded using the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with the authoritative guidance for business combinations, and the purchase price allocation is based on our valuation of the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition. The fair values of the assets acquired were determined using various valuation techniques, including an income approach. The fair value measurements were primarily based on significant inputs that are not directly observable in the market and are considered Level 3 under the fair value measurements and disclosure framework. Key assumptions include cash flow projections of Pure Rooms and the discount rate applied to those cash flows. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The fair value of the equity consideration of $425,000 was allocated as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Fair Value
 
Estimated Useful Life
Cash
 
$
129

 
 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
 
170

 
3 years
Customer relationships
 
175

 
5 years
Goodwill
 
782

 
 
Total assets acquired
 
1,256

 
 
Line of credit
 
100

 
 
Note payable
 
375

 
 
Other assumed liabilities, net
 
356

 
 
Total assumed liabilities
 
831

 
 
Net assets acquired
 
$
425

 
 
We expect approximately $547,000 of the goodwill balance to be deductible for income tax purposes. The qualitative factors that make up the recorded goodwill include value associated with an assembled workforce and value attributable to expanding Pure Rooms’ operations through our relationships with Ashford Trust and Braemar.
Results of Pure Rooms
The results of operations of Pure Rooms have been included in our results of operations since the acquisition date. Our consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018, included total revenue of $630,000 and a net loss of $90,000 from Pure Rooms. The unaudited pro forma results of operations as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017, are included below under “Pro Forma Financial Results.”
Pro Forma Financial Results
The following table reflects the unaudited pro forma results of operations as if the J&S and Pure Rooms acquisitions had occurred and the applicable indebtedness was incurred on January 1, 2017, and the removal of $304,000 of transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisitions for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Total revenue
$
48,168

 
$
33,101

Net income (loss)
(5,835
)
 
(1,237
)
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
(5,723
)
 
(1,233
)
Pro forma income (loss) per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
(2.73
)
 
$
(0.59
)
Diluted
$
(2.84
)
 
$
(0.75
)
Pro forma weighted average common shares outstanding (in thousands):
 
 
 
Basic
2,094

 
2,085

Diluted
2,115

 
2,120

The acquisition of certain assets related to RED was treated as an acquisition of property and equipment so the pro forma results of operations of RED are not included above.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)



5. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended March 31, 2018, are as follows (in thousands):
 
 
J&S
Corporate and Other
Consolidated
Balance at January 1, 2018
 
$
12,165

$
782

$
12,947

Changes in goodwill:
 
 
 


Additions
 



Adjustments
 
156


156

Balance at March 31, 2018
 
$
12,321

$
782

$
13,103

Intangible assets, net as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, are as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
 
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Amortization
Net Carrying Amount
Definite-lived intangible assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pure Rooms customer relationships
$
175

$
(35
)
$
140

 
$
175

$
(26
)
$
149

J&S customer relationships
6,519

(388
)
6,131

 
6,519

(156
)
6,363

 
$
6,694

$
(423
)
$
6,271

 
$
6,694

$
(182
)
$
6,512

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
J&S trademarks
$
3,201

 
 
 
$
3,201

 
 
 
$
3,201





 
$
3,201

 
 
Amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets was $241,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Customer relationships for Pure Rooms and J&S were assigned a useful life of 5 years and 7 years, respectively.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


6. Notes Payable, net
Notes payable, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
Indebtedness
 
Subsidiary
 
Maturity
 
Interest Rate
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
Senior revolving credit facility
 
Ashford Inc.
 
March 1, 2021
 
Base Rate(3) + 2.00% to 2.50% or LIBOR(4) + 3.00% to 3.50%
 
$

 
$

Term loan
 
J&S
 
November 1, 2022
 
One-Month LIBOR(2) + 3.25%
 
9,667

 
9,917

Revolving credit facility
 
J&S
 
November 1, 2022
 
One-Month LIBOR(2) + 3.25%
 
1,226

 
814

Capital lease obligations
 
J&S
 
Various
 
Various - fixed
 
770

 
896

Equipment note
 
J&S
 
November 1, 2022
 
One-Month LIBOR(2) + 3.25%
 
825

 

Term Loan
 
J&S
 
November 1, 2022
 
One-Month LIBOR(2) + 3.25%
 

 

Revolving credit facility
 
OpenKey
 
October 31, 2018
 
Prime Rate(1) + 2.75%
 

 

Term loan
 
Pure Rooms
 
October 1, 2018
 
5.00%
 
160

 
220

Revolving credit facility
 
Pure Rooms
 
On demand
 
Prime Rate(1) + 1.00%
 
100

 
100

Term loan
 
RED
 
April 5, 2025
 
Prime Rate(1) + 1.75%
 
750

 

Revolving credit facility
 
RED
 
March 5, 2019
 
Prime Rate(1) + 1.75%
 
15

 

Total notes payable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
13,513

 
11,947

Less deferred loan costs, net
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(243
)
 
(240
)
Total notes payable less net deferred loan costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
13,270

 
11,707

Less current portion
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1,736
)
 
(1,751
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
11,534

 
$
9,956

__________________
(1) 
Prime Rate was 4.75% and 4.50% at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
(2) 
The one-month LIBOR rate was 1.88% and 1.56% at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.
(3) 
Base Rate, as defined in the senior revolving credit facility agreement, is the greater of (i) the prime rate set by Bank of America, or (ii) federal funds rate plus 0.50%, or (iii) LIBOR plus 1.00%.
(4) 
Ashford Inc. may elect a 1, 2, 3 or 6 month LIBOR period for each borrowing.
On March 23, 2018, our RED operating subsidiary entered into a term loan of $750,000 and a revolving credit facility of $250,000 for which the creditor has recourse to Ashford Inc. Approximately $225,000 of the proceeds from the term loan is held in an escrow account, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheet within “other assets” as of March 31, 2018. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $15,000 was drawn on the revolving credit facility. As of March 31, 2018, $235,000 of credit was available under the revolving credit facility.
On March 1, 2018, the Company and its subsidiary Ashford Hospitality Holdings LLC entered into a $35 million senior revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. The credit facility provides for a three-year revolving line of credit and bears interest at the Base Rate plus 2.00% to 2.50% or LIBOR plus 3.00% to 3.50%, depending on the leverage level of the Company. There is a one-year extension option subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The new credit facility includes the opportunity to expand the borrowing capacity by up to $40 million to an aggregate size of $75 million. At March 31, 2018, there were no outstanding borrowings under the facility.
On November 1, 2017, our J&S operating subsidiary entered into a series of financing transactions for which the creditors do not have recourse to Ashford Inc., including a $10.0 million term loan to finance the acquisition of J&S. The term loan bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and matures on November 1, 2022. Net deferred loan costs associated with this financing of $218,000 and $226,000, respectively, are included as a reduction to “Notes payable, net” on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, $1.0 million of the term loan was recorded in current portion of notes payable, net. In connection with the term loan, the subsidiary entered into an interest rate cap with an initial notional amount totaling $5.0 million and a strike rate of 4.0%. The fair value of the interest rate cap at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, was not material. The subsidiary also entered into a $3.0 million revolving credit facility which bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and matures on November 1, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $5.2 million was drawn and approximately $4.8 million of payments were made on the revolving credit facility. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, approximately $1.8 million and $2.2 million of credit, respectively, was available under the revolving c

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


redit facility. These debt agreements contain various financial covenants that, among other things, require the maintenance of certain fixed charge coverage ratios. Our J&S operating subsidiary is currently in compliance with all financial covenants.
Also on November 1, 2017, in connection with the acquisition of J&S, our J&S operating subsidiary entered into a $3.0 million equipment note and a $2.0 million term loan agreement. These loans each bear interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and mature on November 1, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $825,000 was drawn on the equipment note and no amounts were drawn on the term loan. All the loans in connection with the acquisition of J&S are partially secured by a security interest on all of the assets and equity interests of our operating subsidiary.
On April 13, 2017, OpenKey entered into a Loan and Security Agreement for a line of credit in the amount of $1.5 million. The line of credit is secured by all of OpenKey's assets and matures on October 31, 2018, with an interest rate of Prime Rate plus 2.75%. Creditors do not have recourse to Ashford Inc. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Loan Agreement. In connection with the line of credit, OpenKey granted the creditors a 10-year warrant to purchase approximately 28,000 shares of OpenKey's preferred stock at $1.61 per share. The fair value of the warrants, estimated to be $28,000, was recorded in noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities and debt issuance costs, which is amortized over the term of the line of credit.
On April 6, 2017, Pure Rooms entered into a term loan of $375,000 and a line of credit of $100,000 for which the creditor does not have recourse to Ashford Inc. The term loan has a fixed interest rate of 5.00% per annum with a stated maturity date of October 1, 2018. The line of credit has a variable interest rate of Prime Rate plus 1.00%. There is no stated maturity date related to the line of credit as it is payable on demand; accordingly, the balance has been classified as a current liability on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.
7. Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Hierarchy—Our financial instruments measured at fair value, either on a recurring or a non-recurring basis, are classified in a hierarchy for disclosure purposes consisting of three levels based on the observability of inputs in the market place as discussed below:
Level 1: Fair value measurements that are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets that we have the ability to access for identical assets or liabilities. Market price data generally is obtained from exchange or dealer markets.
Level 2: Fair value measurements based on inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.
Level 3: Fair value measurements based on valuation techniques that use significant inputs that are unobservable. The circumstances for using these measurements include those in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following tables present our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis aggregated by the level within which measurements fall in the fair value hierarchy (in thousands):
 
Quoted Market Prices (Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs
 (Level 3)
 
Total
 
March 31, 2018
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration
$

 
$

 
$
(2,475
)
 
$
(2,475
)
(1) 
Deferred compensation plan
(19,740
)
 

 

 
(19,740
)
 
Total
$
(19,740
)
 
$

 
$
(2,475
)
 
$
(22,215
)
 
 
Quoted Market Prices (Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration

 

 
(2,262
)
 
(2,262
)
(1) 
Deferred compensation plan
(19,259
)
 

 

 
(19,259
)
 
Total
$
(19,259
)
 
$

 
$
(2,262
)
 
$
(21,521
)
 
__________________
(1) Reported as “due to affiliates” in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
The following table presents the rollforward of our Level 3 contingent consideration liability (in thousands):
 
Contingent Consideration Liability (1)
Balance at December 31, 2017
$
(2,262
)
Acquisitions

Gains (losses) included in earnings (2)
(213
)
Dispositions and settlements

Transfers into/out of Level 3

Balance at March 31, 2018
$
(2,475
)
__________________
(1) Includes Ashford Inc.’s contingent consideration associated with the acquisition of J&S, which is carried at fair value in the condensed consolidated balance sheet within “Due to Affiliates”. The fair value was estimated using significant inputs that are not observable in the market and thus represent Level 3 fair value measurements. The significant inputs in the Level 3 measurement of the contingent consideration include the timing and amount of the ultimate payout based on our estimate of J&S operating performance during the earn-out period, calculated in accordance with the applicable agreement, and the risk adjusted discount rate used to discount the future payment.
(2) Reported as “other” operating expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


Effect of Fair Value Measured Assets and Liabilities on Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
The following table summarizes the effect of fair value measured assets and liabilities on the condensed consolidated statements of operations (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
Options on futures contracts
$

 
$
(75
)
 
Total

 
(75
)
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration
(213
)
 

 
Deferred compensation plan
(561
)
 
(3,340
)
 
Total
(774
)
 
(3,340
)
 
Net
$
(774
)
 
$
(3,415
)
 
Total combined
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments
$

 
$
125

(1) 
Realized gain (loss) on investments

 
(200
)
 
Contingent consideration
(213
)
(2) 

 
Deferred compensation plan
(561
)
(3) 
(3,340
)
(3) 
Net
$
(774
)
 
$
(3,415
)
 
________
(1) 
Includes unrealized gain associated with investments in unconsolidated entities and reported as “unrealized gain (loss) on investment in unconsolidated entity” in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.
(2) 
Represents the accretion of contingent consideration associated with the acquisition of J&S. Reported as a component of other operating expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
(3) 
Reported as a component of salaries and benefits in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


8. Summary of Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Certain of our financial instruments are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts at which these instruments could be purchased, sold or settled. The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments were as follows (in thousands):
 
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
 
 
Carrying
Value
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Value
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Financial liabilities measured at fair value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred compensation plan
 
$
19,740

 
$
19,740

 
$
19,259

 
$
19,259

Contingent consideration
 
2,475

 
2,475

 
2,262

 
2,262

Financial assets not measured at fair value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
34,910

 
$
34,910

 
$
36,480

 
$
36,480

Restricted cash
 
15,045

 
15,045

 
9,076

 
9,076

Accounts receivable, net
 
7,141

 
7,141

 
5,127

 
5,127

Due from Ashford Trust OP
 
11,376

 
11,376

 
13,346

 
13,346

Due from Braemar OP
 
96

 
96

 
1,738

 
1,738

Investments in unconsolidated entities
 
500

 
500

 
500

 
500

Financial liabilities not measured at fair value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
$
18,648

 
$
18,648

 
$
20,529

 
$
20,529

Due to affiliates
 
3,999

 
3,999

 
4,272

 
4,272

Other liabilities
 
13,979

 
13,979

 
9,076

 
9,076

Notes payable
 
13,513

 
13,613

 
11,947

 
12,040

Deferred compensation plan. The liability resulting from the deferred compensation plan is carried at fair value based on the closing prices of the underlying investments. This is considered a Level 1 valuation technique.
Contingent consideration. The liability associated with the acquisition of J&S is carried at fair value based on the terms of the acquisition agreement and any changes to fair value are recorded in “other” operating expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash. These financial assets bear interest at market rates and have maturities of less than 90 days. The carrying values approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments. This is considered a Level 1 valuation technique.
Accounts receivable, net, due from Ashford Trust OP, due from Braemar OP, accounts payable and accrued expenses, due to affiliates and other liabilities. The carrying values of these financial instruments approximate their fair values due primarily to the short-term nature of these financial instruments. This is considered a Level 1 valuation technique.
Investments in unconsolidated entities. The carrying value of the asset resulting from investment in unconsolidated entities approximates fair value based on recent observable transactions. This is considered a level 2 valuation technique.
Notes payable. The carrying value of notes payable was $13.5 million and $11.9 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. The estimated fair value at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 was approximately $13.6 million and $12.0 million, respectively. The fair value is based on credit spreads on observable transactions of a similar nature and is considered a Level 2 valuation technique.


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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


9. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation—On December 11, 2015, a purported stockholder class action and derivative complaint challenging the previously proposed but not completed 2015 Remington acquisition was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and styled as Campbell v. Bennett et al., Case No. 11796. The complaint names as defendants each of the members of the Company's Board of Directors, Archie Bennett, Jr., Mark A. Sharkey, MJB Investments GP, LLC and Remington Holdings GP, as well as the Company as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the members of the Company’s Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties to the Company’s stockholders in connection with the Remington acquisition and that Monty Bennett, Archie Bennett, Jr., Mark A. Sharkey, MJB Investments GP, LLC and Remington Holdings GP aided and abetted the purported breaches of fiduciary duty. In support of these claims, the complaint alleges, among other things, that the Company’s Board of Directors engaged in an unfair process with Remington Lodging and the Bennetts and as a result the Company overpaid for the 80% limited partnership and 100% general partnership interests in Remington Lodging. The complaint also alleges that the proxy statement filed with the SEC contains certain materially false and/or misleading statements. The action seeks injunctive relief, including enjoining the special meeting of stockholders and any vote on the contribution or the stock issuances or rescinding the Remington acquisition if they are consummated, or in the alternative an award of damages, as well as unspecified attorneys' and other fees and costs, in addition to any other relief the court may deem proper. Since the filing of the complaint, the special meeting of stockholders and related vote occurred with the stockholders approving the acquisition. On March 24, 2017, the Remington acquisition was terminated and therefore this action is moot. On April 13, 2017, the Court of Chancery entered an order dismissing the action with prejudice as to the named plaintiff, and without prejudice as to all other members of the class. Pursuant to the order, the Court of Chancery retained jurisdiction solely for the purpose of determining the plaintiff’s anticipated application for an award of mootness fees and reimbursement of expenses. After negotiations, and to eliminate any risk associated with the plaintiff’s fee petition, the Company agreed to pay fees and expenses in the amount of $150,000 within five (5) days of the entry of an order closing the case in the second quarter of 2017. Accordingly, this amount was recorded within “general and administrative” expenses on our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. The Court of Chancery has not and will not pass any judgment on the fee payment. On July 17, 2017, the Court of Chancery entered a stipulation and order closing the case.
Jesse Small v. Monty J. Bennett, et al., Case No. 24-C-16006020 (Md. Cir. Ct.) On November 16, 2016, Jesse Small, a purported stockholder of Braemar, commenced a derivative action in Maryland Circuit Court for Baltimore City asserting causes of action for breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste, and declaratory relief against the members of the Braemar board of directors, David Brooks (collectively, the “Individual Defendants”), Ashford Inc. and Ashford LLC. Braemar is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Individual Defendants breached their fiduciary duties to Braemar by negotiating and approving the termination fee provision set forth in Braemar’s advisory agreement with Ashford LLC, that Ashford Inc. and Ashford LLC aided and abetted the Individual Defendants’ fiduciary duty breaches, and that the Braemar board of directors committed corporate waste in connection with Braemar’s purchase of 175,000 shares of Ashford Inc. common stock. The complaint seeks monetary damages and declaratory and injunctive relief, including a declaration that the termination fee provision is unenforceable. The defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint on March 24, 2017. On June 6, 2017, the plaintiff notified the court that the plaintiff intends to dismiss the action as moot and seek a mootness fee and costs. On July 25, 2017, the action was dismissed with prejudice as to the plaintiff. A hearing on the plaintiff’s fee petition was held on October 25, 2017. On February 5, 2018, the court denied the plaintiff’s fee petition. The plaintiff did not appeal the denial of the fee petition and the case is resolved.
The Company is engaged in other various legal proceedings which have arisen but have not been fully adjudicated. The likelihood of loss for these legal proceedings, based on definitions within contingency accounting literature, ranges from remote to reasonably possible and to probable. Based on estimates of the range of potential losses associated with these matters, management does not believe the ultimate resolution of these proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect upon the financial position or results of operations of the Company. However, the final results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty and if the Company failed to prevail in one or more of these legal matters, and the associated realized losses were to exceed the Company’s current estimates of the range of potential losses, the Company’s financial position or results of operations could be materially adversely affected in future periods.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


10. Equity
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Entities—See note 2 for details regarding ownership interests, carrying values and allocations related to noncontrolling interests in our consolidated subsidiaries.
The following table summarizes the (income) loss allocated to noncontrolling interests for each of our consolidated entities (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
(Income) loss allocated to noncontrolling interests:
 
 
 
J&S
$
(11
)
 
$

OpenKey
156

 
121

Pure Rooms
35

 

RED
(7
)
 

Other (1)

 
(146
)
Total net (income) loss allocated to noncontrolling interests
$
173

 
$
(25
)
________
(1) 
Represents noncontrolling interests primarily in the AQUA Fund, which was fully dissolved as of December 31, 2017.
11. Mezzanine Equity
Redeemable noncontrolling interests are included in the mezzanine section of our condensed consolidated balance sheets as the ownership interests are redeemable for cash or registered shares outside of the Company’s control. As described below, our mezzanine equity includes redeemable noncontrolling interests in Ashford Holdings as well as subsidiary common stock. See note 2 for tables summarizing the redeemable noncontrolling ownership interests and carrying values.
The following table summarizes the net (income) loss allocated to our redeemable noncontrolling interests (in thousands). See note 2 to our condensed consolidated financial statements for tables summarizing the redeemable noncontrolling ownership interests and carrying values:
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Net (income) loss allocated to redeemable noncontrolling interests:
 
 
 
Ashford Holdings (1)
$
12

 
$
4

J&S
(355
)
 

OpenKey
282

 
359

Total net (income) loss allocated to redeemable noncontrolling interests
$
(61
)
 
$
363

________
(1) 
Represents the 0.2% interest in Ashford LLC prior to the legal restructuring of our organizational structure on April 6, 2017 and 0.2% interest in Ashford Holdings thereafter.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


12. Equity-Based Compensation
Equity-based compensation expense is primarily recorded in “salaries and benefits expense” in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The components of equity-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 are presented below by award type (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Equity-based compensation
 
 
 
Stock option amortization (1)
$
3,757

 
$
1,599

Director and other non-employee equity grants expense (2)
40

 

Pre-spin equity grants expense (3)

 
673

Total equity-based compensation
$
3,797

 
$
2,272

 
 
 
 
Other equity-based compensation
 
 
 
REIT equity-based compensation (4)
$
9,292

 
$
(1,283
)
 
$
13,089

 
$
989

________
(1) As of March 31, 2018, the Company had approximately $17.0 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we recorded approximately $2.5 million of equity-based compensation expense related to accelerated vesting of stock options, in accordance with the terms of the awards, as a result of the passing of an executive in March 2018. Additionally, during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, stock option amortization included $8,000 and $4,000, respectively, of amortization related to OpenKey stock options issued under OpenKey’s stock plan.
(2) Grants of restricted stock to independent directors are recorded at fair value based on the market price of our shares at grant date, and this amount is fully expensed in “general and administrative” expense as the grants of stock are fully vested on the date of grant. Options to purchase common stock granted to other non-employees are recorded at fair value based on the market price of the options at period end. The recorded expense, included in “general and administrative,” is equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period. See “Equity-based Compensation” in note 2.
(3) As a result of the spin-off, we assumed all of the unrecognized equity-based compensation associated with prior Ashford Trust equity grants of common stock and LTIP units. We recognized the equity-based compensation expense related to these assumed Ashford Trust equity grants through the April 2017 final vesting date.
(4) REIT equity-based compensation expense is associated with equity grants of Ashford Trust’s and Braemar’s common stock and LTIP units awarded to officers and employees of Ashford Inc. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, REIT equity-based compensation included $6.7 million of expense related to accelerated vesting, in accordance with the terms of the awards, as a result of the passing of an executive in March 2018. See notes 2 and 14.
13. Deferred Compensation Plan
We administer a non-qualified deferred compensation plan (“DCP”) for certain executive officers. The plan allowed participants to defer up to 100% of their base salary and bonus and select an investment fund for measurement of the deferred compensation obligation. For the periods the DCP was administered by Ashford Trust, the participants elected Ashford Trust common stock as their investment option. In accordance with the applicable authoritative accounting guidance, the deferred amounts and any dividends earned received equity treatment and were included in additional paid-in capital. In connection with our spin-off and the assumption of the DCP obligation by the Company, the DCP was modified to give the participants various investment options, including Ashford Inc. common stock, for measurement that can be changed by the participant at any time. These modifications resulted in the DCP obligation being recorded as a liability in accordance with the applicable authoritative accounting guidance. Distributions under the DCP are made in cash, unless the participant has elected Ashford Inc. common stock as the investment option, in which case any such distributions would be made in Ashford Inc. common stock. Additionally, the DCP obligation is carried at fair value with changes in fair value reflected in “salaries and benefits” in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The following table summarizes the DCP activity (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Change in fair value
 
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss)
$
(561
)
 
$
(3,340
)
 
 
 
 
Distributions
 
 
 
Fair value (1)
$
80

 
$
112

Shares (1)

 
2

________
(1) Distributions made to one participant.
As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 the carrying value of the DCP liability was $19.7 million and $19.3 million, respectively.
14. Related Party Transactions
As an asset manager providing advisory services to Ashford Trust and Braemar, as well as holding an ownership interest in other businesses providing products and services to the hospitality industry, including Ashford Trust and Braemar, related party transactions are inherent in our business. Details of our related party transactions are presented below.
We are a party to an amended and restated advisory agreement with Ashford Trust OP. The quarterly base fee is based on a declining sliding scale percentage of Ashford Trust’s total market capitalization plus the Key Money Asset Management Fee (defined in our advisory agreement as the aggregate gross asset value of all key money assets multiplied by 0.70%), subject to a minimum quarterly base fee, as payment for managing its day-to-day operations in accordance with its investment guidelines. Total market capitalization includes the aggregate principal amount of its consolidated indebtedness (including its proportionate share of debt of any entity that is not consolidated but excluding its joint venture partners’ proportionate share of consolidated debt). The range of base fees on the scale are between 0.70% and 0.50% per annum for total market capitalization that ranges from less than $6.0 billion to greater than $10.0 billion. At March 31, 2018, the quarterly base fee was 0.70% per annum. Reimbursement for overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory services and asset management services, including compensation, benefits and travel expense reimbursements, are billed monthly to Ashford Trust based on a pro rata allocation as determined by the ratio of Ashford Trust’s net investment in hotel properties in relation to the total net investment in hotel properties for both Ashford Trust and Braemar. We also record advisory revenue for equity grants of Ashford Trust common stock and LTIP units awarded to our officers and employees in connection with providing advisory services equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period, as well as an offsetting expense in an equal amount included in “salaries and benefits.” We are also entitled to an incentive advisory fee that is measured annually in each year that Ashford Trust’s annual total stockholder return exceeds the average annual total stockholder return for Ashford Trust’s peer group, subject to the FCCR Condition, as defined in the advisory agreement.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The following table summarizes the revenues and expenses related to Ashford Trust OP (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
REVENUE BY TYPE
 
 
 
Advisory services revenue
 
 
 
Base advisory fee
$
8,604

 
$
8,824

Reimbursable expenses (1)
1,529

 
1,567

Equity-based compensation (2)
6,745

 
402

Incentive advisory fee (3)
452

 
452

Total advisory services revenue
17,330

 
11,245

 
 
 
 
Other revenue
 
 
 
Investment management reimbursements (4)
182

 
417

Debt placement fees (5)
632

 

Claim management services (6)
18

 

Lease revenue (7)
168

 
56

Other services (8)
300

 
9

Total other revenue
1,300

 
482

 
 
 
 
Total revenue
$
18,630

 
$
11,727

 
 
 
 
REVENUE BY SEGMENT (9)
 
 
 
REIT advisory
$
18,330

 
$
11,718

J&S (10)

 

OpenKey
24

 
9

Corporate and other
276

 

Total revenue
$
18,630

 
$
11,727

 
 
 
 
COST OF REVENUES
 
 
 
Cost of audio visual revenues (10)
$
354

 
$

________
(1) 
Reimbursable expenses include overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory and asset management services. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, we recognized $202,000 and $51,000, respectively, of deferred income from reimbursable expenses related to software implementation costs.
(2) 
Equity-based compensation revenue is associated with equity grants of Ashford Trust’s common stock and LTIP units awarded to officers and employees of Ashford Inc. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, equity-based compensation revenue from Ashford Trust included $4.5 million of expense related to accelerated vesting, in accordance with the terms of the awards, as a result of the passing of an executive in March 2018.
(3) 
Incentive advisory fee for the three months ended March 31, 2018, includes the pro-rata portion of the third year installment of the 2016 incentive advisory fee, which is due in January 2019, and for the three months ended March 31, 2017, includes the pro-rata portion of the second year installment of the 2016 incentive advisory fee, which was paid in January 2018. Incentive fee payments are subject to meeting the December 31 FCCR Condition each year, as defined in the Ashford Trust advisory agreement. Ashford Trust's annual total stockholder return did not meet the relevant incentive fee thresholds during the 2017 and 2015 measurement periods. See note 3.
(4) 
Investment management reimbursements include AIM’s management of Ashford Trust’s excess cash under the Investment Management Agreement. AIM is not compensated for its services but is reimbursed for all costs and expenses.  

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


(5) 
Debt placement fees include revenues earned through provision of debt placement services by Lismore Capital, our wholly-owned subsidiary.  
(6) 
Claims management services include revenues earned through provision of insurance claim assessment and administration services.
(7) 
In connection with our key money transaction with Ashford Trust, we lease furniture, fixtures and equipment to Ashford Trust at no cost. A portion of the base advisory fee is allocated to lease revenue each period equal to the estimated fair value of the lease payments that would have been made.  
(8) 
Other services revenue is associated with other hotel services, such as mobile key applications and “allergy friendly” premium rooms, provided to Ashford Trust by our consolidated subsidiaries, OpenKey and Pure Rooms, respectively.
(9) 
See note 16 for discussion of segment reporting.
(10) 
J&S contracts directly with customers to whom it provides audio visual services. J&S recognizes the gross revenue collected from their customers by the hosting hotel or venue. Commissions retained by the hotel or venue, including Ashford Trust, are recognized in “cost of revenues for audio visual” in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. See note 2 for discussion of the audio visual revenue recognition policy.
At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had a net receivable of $11.4 million and $13.3 million, respectively, due from Ashford Trust OP associated primarily with advisory services and other revenues, as discussed above.
The following table summarizes amounts due (to) from Ashford Trust OP to each of our consolidated entities (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
Ashford LLC
$
19

 
$

AIM
(26
)
 
347

J&S
260

 
62

Pure Rooms
138

 
302

OpenKey
18

 
25


We are also a party to an amended and restated advisory agreement with Braemar OP. Braemar is required to pay a monthly base fee that is 1/12th of 0.70% of Braemar’s total market capitalization plus the Key Money Asset Management Fee (defined in the advisory agreement as the aggregate gross asset value of all key money assets multiplied by 1/12th of 0.70%), subject to a minimum monthly base fee, as payment for managing its day-to-day operations in accordance with its investment guidelines. Total market capitalization includes the aggregate principal amount of Braemar’s consolidated indebtedness (including its proportionate share of debt of any entity that is not consolidated but excluding its joint venture partners’ proportionate share of consolidated debt). Reimbursement for overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory and asset management services, including compensation, benefits and travel expense reimbursements, are billed monthly to Braemar based on a pro rata allocation as determined by the ratio of Braemar’s net investment in hotel properties in relation to the total net investment in hotel properties for both Ashford Trust and Braemar. We also record advisory revenue for equity grants of Braemar common stock and LTIP units awarded to our officers and employees in connection with providing advisory services equal to the fair value of the award in proportion to the requisite service period satisfied during the period, as well as an offsetting expense in an equal amount included in “salaries and benefits.” We are also entitled to an incentive advisory fee that is measured annually in each year that Braemar’s annual total stockholder return exceeds the average annual total stockholder return for Braemar’s peer group, subject to the FCCR Condition, as defined in the advisory agreement.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


The following table summarizes the revenues related to Braemar OP (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
REVENUE BY TYPE
 
 
 
Advisory services revenue
 
 
 
Base advisory fee
$
2,107

 
$
2,003

Reimbursable expenses (1)
420

 
549

Equity-based compensation (2)
2,547

 
(1,685
)
Incentive advisory fee (3)

 
319

Other advisory revenue (4)
128

 

Total advisory services revenue
5,202

 
1,186

 
 
 
 
Other revenue
 
 
 
Claims management services (5)
37

 

Lease revenue (6)
84

 
84

Other services (7)
211

 

Total other revenue
332

 
84

 
 
 
 
Total revenue
$
5,534

 
$
1,270

 
 
 
 
REVENUE BY SEGMENT (8)
 
 
 
REIT advisory
$
5,323

 
$
1,270

J&S (9)

 

OpenKey
5

 

Corporate and other
206

 

Total revenue
$
5,534

 
$
1,270

________
(1) 
Reimbursable expenses include overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory and asset management services. During the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, we recognized $15,000 and 4,000, respectively, of deferred income from reimbursable expenses related to software implementation costs.
(2) 
Equity-based compensation revenue is associated with equity grants of Braemar’s common stock and LTIP units awarded to officers and employees of Ashford Inc. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, equity-based compensation revenue from Braemar included $2.2 million of expense related to accelerated vesting, in accordance with the terms of the awards, as a result of the passing of an executive in March 2018.
(3) 
No incentive fee was recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2018, because Braemar's annual total stockholder return did not meet the relevant incentive fee thresholds during the 2017 and 2016 measurement periods. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, incentive advisory fee includes the pro-rata portion of the third year installment of the 2015 incentive advisory fee, which was paid in January 2018. Incentive fee payments are subject to meeting the December 31 FCCR Condition each year, as defined in the Braemar advisory agreement. See note 3.
(4) 
In connection with our Fourth Amended and Restated Braemar Advisory Agreement, a $5.0 million cash payment was made by Braemar upon approval by Braemar’s stockholders, which is recognized over the 10-year initial term.
(5) 
Claims management services include revenues earned through provision of insurance claim assessment and administration services.
(6) 
In connection with our key money transaction with Braemar, we lease furniture, fixtures and equipment to Braemar at no cost. A portion of the base advisory fee is allocated to lease revenue each period equal to the estimated fair value of the lease payments that would have been made.  

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


(7) 
Other services revenue is associated with other hotel services, such as mobile key applications, “allergy friendly” premium rooms and watersports activities & travel/transportation services, provided to Braemar by our consolidated subsidiaries, OpenKey, Pure Rooms and RED, respectively.
(8) 
See note 16 for discussion of segment reporting.
(9) 
J&S contracts directly with customers to whom it provides audio visual services. J&S recognizes the gross revenue collected from their customers by the hosting hotel or venue. Commissions retained by the hotel or venue are recognized in “cost of revenues for audio visual” in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, J&S had no cost of revenues for audio visual associated with Braemar.  
At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had receivables of $96,000 and $1.7 million, respectively, from Braemar OP associated with advisory services and other revenues, as discussed above. See note 2 for details regarding receivables held by our consolidated subsidiaries, due from our affiliates.
The following table summarizes amounts due from Braemar OP to each of our consolidated entities (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
Ashford LLC
$
38

 
$

Pure Rooms

 
50

OpenKey
3

 
6

Ashford Trust and Braemar have management agreements with Remington Holdings L.P. and its subsidiaries (“Remington Lodging”), which is beneficially owned by our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Ashford Trust’s Chairman Emeritus. Transactions related to these agreements are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Under the agreements, we pay Remington Lodging general and administrative expense reimbursements, approved by the independent directors of Ashford Trust and Braemar, including rent, payroll, office supplies, travel and accounting. These charges are allocated based on various methodologies, including headcount and actual amounts incurred, which are then rebilled to Ashford Trust and Braemar. These reimbursements are included in general and administrative expenses on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, these reimbursements totaled $1.2 million and $1.2 million, respectively. The amounts due under these arrangements as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, are included in “due to affiliates” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Ashford Trust held a 16.30% and 16.23% and Braemar held an 8.21% and 0% noncontrolling interest in OpenKey as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. Ashford Trust invested $667,000 and $650,000 and Braemar invested $2.0 million and $0 in OpenKey during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. See also notes 1, 2, 10, and 11.
 An officer of J&S owns the J&S headquarters property including the adjoining warehouse space. J&S leases this property for $300,000 per year, with escalating lease payments based on the Consumer Price Index. Rental expense for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was $84,000. We did not incur rental expense related to this lease for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


15. Income (Loss) Per Share
The following table reconciles the amounts used in calculating basic and diluted income (loss) per share (in thousands, except per share amounts):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders – basic and diluted:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to the Company
$
(5,723
)
 
$
(2,385
)
Undistributed net income (loss) allocated to common stockholders
(5,723
)
 
(2,385
)
Distributed and undistributed net income (loss) - basic
$
(5,723
)
 
$
(2,385
)
Effect of contingently issuable shares
(282
)
 
(359
)
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests in Ashford Holdings
(12
)
 

Distributed and undistributed net income (loss) - diluted
$
(6,017
)
 
$
(2,744
)
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic
2,094

 
2,015

Effect of contingently issuable shares
17

 
31

Effect of assumed conversion of operating partnership units
4

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted
2,115

 
2,046

 
 
 
 
Income (loss) per share – basic:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) allocated to common stockholders per share
$
(2.73
)
 
$
(1.18
)
Income (loss) per share – diluted:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) allocated to common stockholders per share
$
(2.84
)
 
$
(1.34
)
Due to their anti-dilutive effect, the computation of diluted income (loss) per share does not reflect the adjustments for the following items (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Net income (loss) allocated to common stockholders is not adjusted for:
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests in Ashford Holdings
$

 
$
(4
)
Net income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests in subsidiary common stock
355

 

Total
$
355

 
$
(4
)
Weighted average diluted shares are not adjusted for:
 
 
 
Effect of unvested restricted shares
9

 

Effect of assumed exercise of stock options
234

 

Effect of assumed conversion of Ashford Holdings units

 
4

Effect of contingently issuable shares
27

 

Total
270

 
4


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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


16. Segment Reporting
We have two business segments: (i) REIT Advisory, which provides asset management and advisory services to other entities, and (ii) Hospitality Products and Services (“HPS”), which provides products and services to clients primarily in the hospitality industry. HPS includes (a) J&S, which provides event technology and creative communications solutions services, (b) OpenKey, a hospitality focused mobile key platform that provides a universal smartphone app for keyless entry into hotel guest rooms, (c) Pure Rooms, which provides “allergy friendly” premium rooms in the hospitality industry, and (d) RED, a premier provider of watersports activities and other travel and transportation services in the U.S. Virgin Islands. OpenKey, Pure Rooms and RED operating segments do not individually meet the accounting criteria for separate disclosure as reportable segments. However, we have elected to disclose OpenKey as a reportable segment. Accordingly, we have three reportable segments: REIT Advisory, J&S and OpenKey. We combine the operating results of Pure Rooms and RED into an “all other” category, which we refer to as “Corporate and Other.” See footnote 3 for details of our segments’ material revenue generating activities. As of March 31, 2018, there were no material intercompany revenues or expenses between our operating segments.
Our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) uses multiple measures of segment profitability for assessing performance of our business. Our reported measure of segment profitability is net income, although the CODM also focuses on adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income, which exclude certain gains, losses and charges, to assess performance and allocate resources. Our CODM currently reviews assets at the corporate (consolidated) level and does not currently review segment assets to make key decisions on resource allocations.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


Certain information concerning our segments for the three months ended March 31, 2018, and 2017 is presented in the following table (in thousands). Consolidated subsidiaries are reflected as of their respective acquisition dates or as of the date we were determined to be the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities.

 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
 
REIT Advisory
 
J&S
 
OpenKey
 
Corporate and Other
 
Ashford Inc. Consolidated
 
REIT Advisory
 
J&S
 
OpenKey
 
Corporate and Other
 
Ashford Inc. Consolidated
REVENUE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advisory services
$
22,532

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
22,532

 
$
12,431

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
12,431

Audio visual

 
23,310

 

 

 
23,310

 

 

 

 

 

Other
1,121

 

 
319

 
886

 
2,326

 
557

 

 
25

 

 
582

Total revenue
23,653

 
23,310

 
319

 
886

 
48,168

 
12,988

 

 
25

 

 
13,013

EXPENSES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
390

 
454

 
6

 
190

 
1,040

 
259

 

 
5

 
204

 
468

Impairment
1,919

 

 

 

 
1,919

 

 

 

 

 

Other operating expenses (1)
11,241

 
19,803

 
1,171

 
18,030

 
50,245

 
833

 

 
825

 
13,023

 
14,681

Total operating expenses
13,550

 
20,257

 
1,177

 
18,220

 
53,204

 
1,092

 

 
830

 
13,227

 
15,149

OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
10,103

 
3,053

 
(858
)
 
(17,334
)
 
(5,036
)
 
11,896

 

 
(805
)
 
(13,227
)
 
(2,136
)
Interest expense

 
(139
)
 

 
(4
)
 
(143
)
 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of loan costs

 
(12
)
 
(6
)
 
(5
)
 
(23
)
 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

 

 
112

 
112

 

 

 

 
33

 
33

Other income (expense)
19

 
(58
)
 
(1
)
 
1

 
(39
)
 

 

 
(8
)
 
18

 
10

INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES
10,122

 
2,844

 
(865
)
 
(17,230
)
 
(5,129
)
 
11,896

 

 
(813
)
 
(13,176
)
 
(2,093
)
Income tax (expense) benefit
(2,263
)
 
(746
)
 

 
2,303

 
(706
)
 
(4,298
)
 

 

 
3,668

 
(630
)
NET INCOME (LOSS)
$
7,859

 
$
2,098

 
$
(865
)
 
$
(14,927
)
 
$
(5,835
)
 
$
7,598

 
$

 
$
(813
)
 
$
(9,508
)
 
$
(2,723
)
________
(1) 
Other operating expenses includes salaries and benefits, cost of revenues for audio visual and general and administrative expenses. REIT Advisory amounts represent expenses for which there is generally a direct offsetting amount included in revenues, including REIT equity-based compensation expense and reimbursable expenses.

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ASHFORD INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
(unaudited)


17. Subsequent Events
On April 6, 2018, Ashford Inc. signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Project Management business of Remington. The transaction, which is expected to close during the third quarter of 2018, is subject to approval by Ashford Inc.'s stockholders and customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the agreement, Ashford Inc. will acquire Remington's Project Management business for a total transaction value of $203 million. The purchase price will be paid by issuing shares of voting, convertible preferred stock to the sellers. The newly created convertible preferred stock will have a conversion price of $140 per share (a 45% premium to the trading level at the time of announcement) and, if converted immediately after the consummation of the transaction, would convert into 1,450,000 shares of our common stock. Dividends on the convertible preferred stock are payable at an annual rate of 5.5% in the first year, 6.0% in the second year, and 6.5% in the third year and each year thereafter. Voting rights of the convertible preferred stock will be on an as-converted basis and the holders of the convertible preferred stock will have a voting limit of 25% of Ashford Inc.'s voting securities for five years. Upon closing of the transaction, the sellers will have the right to nominate two directors to Ashford Inc.'s Board of Directors. The transaction does not require a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service. Remington is currently owned by Monty J. Bennett, Ashford Inc.’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and his father, Archie Bennett, Jr. Ashford Inc.'s Board of Directors, therefore, formed a special committee of independent and disinterested directors to analyze and negotiate the transaction on behalf of Ashford Inc. and deliver a recommendation to its Board of Directors with respect to the transaction.
On April 6, 2018, Ashford Inc. and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as Rights Agent, entered into Amendment No. 2 to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2015, as previously amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated October 31, 2016 (as amended, the “Rights Agreement”). Pursuant to Amendment No. 2, the Rights Agreement was amended to (i) extend the Final Expiration Date with respect to Ashford Inc.’s Rights (each as defined under the Rights Agreement) until the date of the 2018 annual meeting of stockholders and (ii) exclude Monty J. Bennett, Archie Bennett Jr. and their respective Affiliates and Associates (each as defined in the Rights Agreement) from the definition of “Acquiring Person.”


38



ITEM 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
As used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, unless the context otherwise indicates, the references to “we,” “us,” “our,” the “Company” refer to Ashford Inc., a Maryland corporation and, as the context may require, its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ashford Hospitality Advisors LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which we refer to as “Ashford LLC” or “our operating company” and Ashford Hospitality Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, which we refer to as “Ashford Holdings.” “Braemar” refers to Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc., a Maryland corporation, and, as the context may require, its consolidated subsidiaries, including Braemar Hospitality Limited Partnership, a Delaware limited partnership, which we refer to as “Braemar OP.” “Ashford Trust” or “AHT” refers to Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation, and, as the context may require, its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ashford Hospitality Limited Partnership, a Delaware limited partnership and Ashford Trust’s operating partnership, which we refer to as “Ashford Trust OP.” “Remington Lodging” refers to Remington Lodging and Hospitality LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and, as the context may require, its consolidated subsidiaries, a property management company owned by Mr. Monty J. Bennett, our chief executive officer and chairman, and his father, Mr. Archie Bennett, Jr., chairman emeritus of Ashford Trust.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “approximately,” “believe,” “could,” “project,” “predict,” or other similar words or expressions. Additionally, statements regarding the following subjects are forward-looking by their nature: 
our business and investment strategy;
our projected operating results and dividend rates;
our ability to obtain future financing arrangements;
our understanding of our competition;
market trends;
projected capital expenditures; and
the impact of technology on our operations and business.
Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, discuss future expectations, describe future plans and strategies, contain financial and operating projections or state other forward-looking information. Our ability to predict results or the actual effect of future events, actions, plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, taking into account all information currently available to us, our actual results and performance could differ materially from those set forth in our forward-looking statements. Factors that could have a material adverse effect on our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
the factors discussed in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 12, 2018 (the “2017 10-K”), including those set forth under the sections captioned “Item 1. Business,” “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations;”
general volatility of the capital markets, the general economy or the hospitality industry, whether the result of market events or otherwise, and the market price of our common stock;
availability, terms and deployment of capital;
changes in our industry and the market in which we operate, interest rates or the general economy;
the degree and nature of our competition;
actual and potential conflicts of interest with or between Remington Lodging, Braemar and Ashford Trust, our executive officers and our non-independent directors;
availability of qualified personnel;
changes in governmental regulations, accounting rules, tax rates and similar matters;
legislative and regulatory changes;
the parties’ ability to consummate the transaction to acquire the Project Management business of Remington;
the conditions to the completion of the transaction, including the receipt of approval of our stockholders;

39



the regulatory approvals required for the transaction not being obtained on the terms expected or on the anticipated schedule;
the parties’ ability to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and tax treatments of the transaction;
the possibility that we may not realize any or all of the anticipated benefits from the transaction;
disruptions from the transaction may harm relationships with customers, employees and regulators;
unexpected costs may be incurred; and
changes in our stock price prior to the closing of the transaction and following the transaction.
When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements summarized under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our 2017 10-K, the discussion in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations, and elsewhere which could cause our actual results and performance to differ significantly from those contained in our forward-looking statements. Accordingly, we cannot guarantee future results or performance. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements, which reflect our views as of the date of this Form 10-Q. Furthermore, we do not intend to update any of our forward-looking statements after the date of this Form 10-Q to conform these statements to actual results and performance, except as may be required by applicable law.
Overview
Ashford Inc. is a Maryland corporation formed on April 2, 2014, and became a public company on November 12, 2014, when Ashford Trust, a NYSE-listed REIT, completed the spin-off of our company through the distribution of our outstanding common stock to the Ashford Trust stockholders. As of May 7, 2018, Ashford Trust beneficially owned approximately 598,000 shares of our common stock, representing approximately 28.4% of our company. Braemar holds approximately 195,000 shares, which represents an approximate 9.3% ownership interest in Ashford Inc.
Our principal business objective is to provide asset management and other advisory services to other entities. The Company seeks to grow in three primary areas; (i) expanding its existing platforms accretively and accelerating performance to earn incentive fees; (ii) starting new platforms for additional base and incentive fees; and (iii) investing in or incubating strategic businesses that can achieve accelerated growth through doing business with our existing platforms and by leveraging our deep knowledge and extensive relationships within the hospitality sector. Currently, we, through our operating subsidiary Ashford LLC, act as the advisor to Ashford Trust and Braemar. In our capacity as the advisor to Ashford Trust and Braemar, we are responsible for implementing the investment strategies and managing the day-to-day operations of Ashford Trust and Braemar, in each case subject to the supervision and oversight of the respective board of directors of such entity. We provide the personnel and services necessary to allow each of Ashford Trust and Braemar to conduct its business. We may also perform similar functions for new or additional platforms. We are not responsible, but may in the future be responsible, for managing the day-to-day operations of the individual hotel properties owned by either Ashford Trust or Braemar, which duties are, and will continue to be, the responsibility of the property management companies that operate the hotel properties owned by Ashford Trust and Braemar.
As required for disclosure under the Fifth Amended and Restated Braemar Advisory Agreement, for the trailing twelve months ended March 31, 2018, the total incremental expenses incurred (including all reimbursable expenses), as reasonably determined, in connection with providing services to Braemar under the Fifth Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement was $6.2 million.
Recent Developments
On January 2, 2018, the Company granted 8,962 shares of restricted common stock to the OpenKey redeemable noncontrolling interest holder in connection with the purchase of 519,647 shares of the outstanding membership interests in OpenKey, Inc. The restricted common stock was granted pursuant to the exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act provided under Section 4(a)(2) thereunder and vests three years from the grant date.
On March 12, 2018, the Board of Directors of Ashford Inc. appointed Mr. J. Robison Hays, III, as a Co-President and Chief Strategy Officer of the Company, appointed Mr. Jeremy J. Welter as a Co-President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company, and appointed David A. Brooks as Chief Transactions Officer, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company, effective March 12, 2018. Also on March 12, 2018, Mr. Douglas A. Kessler ceased to serve as the Company’s President and was appointed to serve as Senior Managing Director of the Company, and Mr. David A. Brooks ceased to serve as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer. On April 2, 2018, Ashford Inc. announced the passing of long-time executive David A. Brooks, who served in multiple leadership roles with the Company and its advised platforms since 2003.

40



On March 21, 2018, Ashford Inc. entered into the First Amendment (the “Amendment”) to Credit Agreement dated March 1, 2018 (the “Credit Facility”), with Ashford Hospitality Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of Ashford Inc., Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and letters of credit issuer, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. The Amendment is effective as of March 1, 2018, the date of the Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Amendment, the financial covenant of consolidated tangible net worth was replaced with the consolidated net worth, and Ashford Inc. is required to maintain consolidated net worth not less than 75% of the consolidated net worth as of December 31, 2017, plus 75% of the net equity proceeds of any future equity issuances by Ashford Inc.
On April 4, 2018, the Board of Directors of Ashford Inc. approved the form of Amended and Restated Indemnification Agreement to be entered into by the Company and each of its directors and officers in connection with the 2016 reincorporation of the Company from Delaware to Maryland.
On April 6, 2018, Ashford Inc. signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Project Management business of Remington. The transaction, which is expected to close during the third quarter of 2018, is subject to approval by Ashford Inc.'s stockholders and customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the agreement, Ashford Inc. will acquire Remington's Project Management business for a total transaction value of $203 million. The purchase price will be paid by issuing shares of voting, convertible preferred stock to the sellers. The newly created convertible preferred stock will have a conversion price of $140 per share (a 45% premium to the trading level at the time of announcement) and, if converted immediately after the consummation of the transaction, would convert into 1,450,000 shares of our common stock. Dividends on the convertible preferred stock are payable at an annual rate of 5.5% in the first year, 6.0% in the second year, and 6.5% in the third year and each year thereafter. Voting rights of the convertible preferred stock will be on an as-converted basis and the holders of the convertible preferred stock will have a voting limit of 25% of Ashford Inc.'s voting securities for five years. Upon closing of the transaction, the sellers will have the right to nominate two directors to Ashford Inc.'s Board of Directors. The transaction does not require a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service. Remington is currently owned by Monty J. Bennett, Ashford Inc.’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and his father, Archie Bennett, Jr. Ashford Inc.'s Board of Directors, therefore, formed a special committee of independent and disinterested directors to analyze and negotiate the transaction on behalf of Ashford Inc. and deliver a recommendation to its Board of Directors with respect to the transaction.
On April 6, 2018, Ashford Inc. and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as Rights Agent, entered into Amendment No. 2 to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2015, as previously amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated October 31, 2016 (as amended, the “Rights Agreement”). Pursuant to Amendment No. 2, the Rights Agreement was amended to (i) extend the Final Expiration Date with respect to Ashford Inc.’s Rights (each as defined under the Rights Agreement) until the date of the 2018 annual meeting of stockholders and (ii) exclude Monty J. Bennett, Archie Bennett Jr. and their respective Affiliates and Associates (each as defined in the Rights Agreement) from the definition of “Acquiring Person.”
On April 23, 2018, in connection with the name change by Braemar, the Company entered into the Fifth Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement with Braemar (the “Fifth Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement”). The Fifth Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement amends the prior amended and restated advisory agreement only to reflect the name change and does not amend or otherwise alter the rights of any of the parties thereto.
Discussion of Presentation
The discussion below relates to the financial condition and results of operations of Ashford Inc. and its majority-owned subsidiaries and entities which it controls. The historical financial information is not necessarily indicative of our future results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

41



LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our short-term liquidity requirements consist primarily of funds necessary for operating expenses primarily attributable to paying our employees. We expect to meet our short-term liquidity requirements generally through net cash provided by operations, existing cash balances and, if necessary, short-term borrowings under our revolving credit facility.
Our long-term liquidity requirements consist primarily of funds necessary to pay for operating expenses attributable to paying our employees, investments to grow our business, key money consideration and certain recent subsidiary financing transactions noted below. We expect to meet our long-term liquidity requirements through various sources of capital, including net cash provided by operations, future equity issuances and availability under our revolving credit facilities.
On March 23, 2018, our RED operating subsidiary entered into a term loan of $750,000 and a revolving credit facility of $250,000 for which the creditor has recourse to Ashford Inc. Approximately $225,000 of the proceeds from the term loan are held in an escrow account, which is included in our consolidated balance sheet within “other assets” as of March 31, 2018. The term loan bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 1.75% and matures on April 5, 2025. The revolving credit facility bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 1.75% and matures on March 5, 2019. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $15,000 was drawn on the revolving credit facility. As of March 31, 2018, $235,000 of credit was available under the revolving credit facility.
On March 1, 2018, the Company and its subsidiary Ashford Hospitality Holdings LLC entered into a $35 million senior revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. The credit facility provides for a three-year revolving line of credit and bears interest at the Base Rate plus 2.00% to 2.50% or LIBOR plus 3.00% to 3.50%, depending on the leverage level of the Company. There is a one-year extension option subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The new credit facility includes the opportunity to expand the borrowing capacity by up to $40 million to an aggregate size of $75 million. At March 31, 2018, there were no outstanding borrowings under the facility.
On December 5, 2017, the Board of Directors of Ashford Inc. approved a stock repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) pursuant to which the Board granted a repurchase authorization to acquire shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share having an aggregate value of up to $20 million. No shares were repurchased during the three months ended March 31, 2018.
On November 1, 2017, our J&S operating subsidiary entered into a series of financing transactions for which the creditors do not have recourse to Ashford Inc., including a $10.0 million term loan to finance the acquisition of J&S. The term loan bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and matures on November 1, 2022. Net deferred loan costs associated with this financing of $218,000 and $226,000, respectively, are included as a reduction to notes payable on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. In connection with the term loan, the subsidiary entered into an interest rate cap with an initial notional amount totaling $5.0 million and a strike rate of 4.0%. The fair value of the interest rate cap at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, was not material. The subsidiary also entered into a $3.0 million revolving credit facility which bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and matures on November 1, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $5.2 million was drawn and approximately $4.8 million of payments were made on the revolving credit facility. As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, approximately $1.8 million and $2.2 million of credit, respectively, was available under the revolving credit facility. These debt agreements contain various financial covenants that, among other things, require the maintenance of certain fixed charge coverage ratios. Our J&S operating subsidiary is currently in compliance with all financial covenants.
Also on November 1, 2017, in connection with the acquisition of J&S, our J&S operating subsidiary entered into a $3.0 million equipment note and a $2.0 million term loan agreement. These loans each bear interest at LIBOR plus 3.25% and mature on November 1, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, $825,000 was drawn on the equipment note and no amounts were drawn on the term loan. All the loans in connection with the acquisition of J&S are partially secured by a security interest on all of the assets and equity interests of our J&S operating subsidiary.
On April 13, 2017, OpenKey entered into a Loan and Security Agreement for a line of credit in the amount of $1.5 million. The line of credit is secured by all of OpenKey's assets and matures on October 31, 2018, with an interest rate of Prime Rate plus 2.75%. Creditors do not have recourse to Ashford Inc. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Loan Agreement. In connection with the line of credit, OpenKey granted the creditors a 10-year warrant to purchase approximately 28,000 shares of OpenKey's preferred stock at $1.61 per share. The fair value of the warrants, estimated to be $28,000, was recorded in noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities and debt issuance costs, which will be amortized over the term of the line of credit.
On April 6, 2017, Pure Rooms entered into a term loan of $375,000 and a line of credit of $100,000 for which the creditor does not have recourse to Ashford Inc. The term loan has a fixed interest rate of 5.00% per annum with a stated maturity date of October 1, 2018. The line of credit has a variable interest rate of Prime Rate plus 1.00%. There is no stated maturity date related

42



to the line of credit as it is payable on demand; accordingly, the balance has been classified as a current liability on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Sources and Uses of Cash
As of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had $34.9 million and $36.5 million of cash and cash equivalents, respectively, and $15.0 million and $9.1 million of restricted cash, respectively.
Net Cash Flows Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities. Operating activities provided net cash flows of $4.4 million and $10.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The lower cash flows provided by operating activities in the three months ended March 31, 2018, was primarily due to the timing of receipts of advisory fees from Ashford Trust and Braemar, timing of paying vendors and timing of operating subsidiaries’ receipt of revenues.
Net Cash Flows Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, investing activities used net cash flows of $3.9 million, which is attributable to purchases of furniture, fixtures and equipment, including audio visual equipment and computer software, of $2.7 million and a $1.2 million payment for assets related to RED Hospitality and Leisure LLC. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, investing activities used net cash flows of $144,000, which was attributable to purchases of computer software, furniture, fixtures and equipment of $159,000, partially offset by proceeds from disposal of furniture, fixtures and equipment, net of $15,000.
Net Cash Flows Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities. For the three months ended March 31, 2018, net cash flows provided by financing activities was $4.1 million. These cash flows consisted of $2.7 million of contributions from noncontrolling interests in a consolidated entity, $1.4 million of proceeds from borrowings on notes payable, $412,000 of net borrowings on the J&S revolving credit facility, and net repayments in advances to employees of $105,000 associated with tax withholdings for restricted stock vestings, partially offset by $494,000 of payments on notes payable and $15,000 of loan cost payments. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, net cash flows used in financing activities was $51.0 million. These cash outflows consisted of $52.4 million of distributions to noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities and $24,000 for the repurchase of common stock, partially offset by $650,000 of contributions from noncontrolling interests in a consolidated entity and net repayments in advances to employees of $742,000 associated with tax withholdings for restricted stock vestings.

43



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
The following table summarizes the changes in key line items from our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Favorable (Unfavorable)
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
REVENUE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advisory services
$
22,532

 
$
12,431

 
$
10,101

 
81.3
 %
Audio visual
23,310

 

 
23,310

 


Other
2,326

 
582

 
1,744

 
299.7
 %
Total revenue
48,168

 
13,013

 
35,155

 
270.2
 %
EXPENSES
 
 
 

 
 

 


Salaries and benefits
26,517

 
11,032

 
(15,485
)
 
(140.4
)%
Cost of revenues for audio visual
16,587

 

 
(16,587
)
 


Depreciation and amortization
1,040

 
468

 
(572
)
 
(122.2
)%
General and administrative
6,295

 
3,649

 
(2,646
)
 
(72.5
)%
Impairment
1,919

 

 
(1,919
)
 


Other
846

 

 
(846
)
 


Total expenses
53,204

 
15,149

 
(38,055
)
 
(251.2
)%
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)
(5,036
)
 
(2,136
)
 
(2,900
)
 
(135.8
)%
Interest expense
(143
)
 

 
(143
)
 


Amortization of loan costs
(23
)
 

 
(23
)
 


Interest income
112

 
33

 
79

 
239.4
 %
Dividend income

 
93

 
(93
)
 
(100.0
)%
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments

 
125

 
(125
)
 
(100.0
)%
Realized gain (loss) on investments

 
(200
)
 
200

 
100.0
 %
Other income (expense)
(39
)
 
(8
)
 
(31
)
 
(387.5
)%
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES
(5,129
)
 
(2,093
)
 
(3,036
)
 
(145.1
)%
Income tax (expense) benefit
(706
)
 
(630
)
 
(76
)
 
(12.1
)%
NET INCOME (LOSS)
(5,835
)
 
(2,723
)
 
(3,112
)
 
(114.3
)%
(Income) loss from consolidated entities attributable to noncontrolling interests
173

 
(25
)
 
198

 
792.0
 %
Net (income) loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
(61
)
 
363

 
(424
)
 
(116.8
)%
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY
$
(5,723
)
 
$
(2,385
)
 
$
(3,338
)
 
(140.0
)%
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to the Company. Net loss attributable to the Company increased by $3.3 million, or 140.0%, to $5.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 (“the 2018 quarter”) compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017 (“the 2017 quarter”) as a result of the factors discussed below.

44



Total Revenue. Total revenue increased by $35.2 million, or 270.2%, to $48.2 million for the 2018 quarter compared to the 2017 quarter. The increase was driven primarily by an increase of $10.7 million in REIT advisory revenue principally as a result of increased non-cash stock/unit-based compensation, $23.3 million in audio visual revenues from the acquisition of J&S, an increase of $294,000 in revenue from OpenKey and an increase of $886,000 in other services revenue from Pure Rooms and RED. See notes 3 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements. The changes in total revenue consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Favorable (Unfavorable)
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Advisory services revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Base advisory fee (1)
$
10,711

 
$
10,827

 
$
(116
)
 
(1.1
)%
Incentive advisory fee (2)
452

 
771

 
(319
)
 
(41.4
)%
Reimbursable expenses (3)
1,949

 
2,116

 
(167
)
 
(7.9
)%
Non-cash stock/unit-based compensation (4)
9,292

 
(1,283
)
 
10,575

 
824.2
 %
Other advisory revenue (5)
128

 

 
128

 


Total advisory services revenue (11)
22,532

 
12,431

 
10,101

 
81.3
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Audio visual revenue (6)
23,310

 

 
23,310

 


 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Other revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 


Investment management reimbursements (7) (11)
182

 
417

 
(235
)
 
(56.4
)%
Debt placement fees (8) (11)
632

 

 
632

 


Claims management services (11) (12)
55

 

 
55

 


Lease revenue (9) (11)
252

 
140

 
112

 
80.0
 %
Other services (10)
1,205

 
25

 
1,180

 
4,720.0
 %
Total other revenue
2,326

 
582

 
1,744

 
299.7
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Total revenue
$
48,168

 
$
13,013

 
$
35,155

 
270.2
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


REVENUE BY SEGMENT (13)
 
 
 
 
 
 


REIT advisory
$
23,653

 
$
12,988

 
$
10,665

 
82.1
 %
J&S
23,310

 

 
23,310

 


OpenKey
319

 
25

 
294

 
1,176.0
 %
Corporate and other
886

 

 
886

 


Total revenue
$
48,168

 
$
13,013

 
$
35,155

 
270.2
 %
________
(1) 
The decrease in base advisory fee is due to lower revenue of $220,000 from Ashford Trust partially offset by higher revenue of $104,000 from Braemar.
(2) 
The decrease in incentive advisory fee is due to lower revenue of $319,000 from Braemar. The incentive advisory fee for the 2018 quarter includes the pro-rata portion of the third year installment of the Ashford Trust 2016 incentive advisory fee in the amount of $452,000 for which payment is due January 2019. The incentive advisory fee for the 2017 quarter includes the pro-rata portion of the second year installment of the Ashford Trust 2016 incentive advisory fee in the amount of $452,000 which was paid in January 2018 as well as the pro-rata portion of the third year installment of the Braemar 2015 incentive advisory fee, which was also paid in January 2018. Incentive fee payments are subject to meeting the December 31 FCCR Condition each year, as defined in our advisory agreements. Ashford Trust's annual total stockholder return did not meet the relevant incentive fee thresholds during the 2017 and 2015 measurement periods. Braemar's annual total stockholder return did not meet the relevant incentive fee thresholds during the 2017 and 2016 measurement periods.
(3)  
The decrease in reimbursable expenses revenue is due to lower revenue of $38,000 from Ashford Trust and lower revenue of $129,000 from Braemar. Reimbursable expenses include overhead, internal audit, risk management advisory and asset management services.

45



(4)  
The increase in non-cash stock/unit-based compensation revenue is due to higher revenue of $6.3 million from Ashford Trust and higher revenue of $4.2 million from Braemar. Non-cash stock/unit-based compensation revenue is associated with equity grants of Ashford Trust’s and Braemar’s common stock and LTIP units awarded to officers and employees of Ashford Inc. for which we recorded an offsetting expense in an equal amount included in “salaries and benefits.” During the 2018 quarter, $6.7 million of non-cash stock/unit-based compensation revenue, including $4.5 million and $2.2 million from Ashford Trust and Braemar, respectively, related to accelerated vesting, in accordance with the terms of the awards, as a result of the passing of an executive in March 2018.
(5)  
The increase in other advisory revenue is due to higher revenue of $128,000 from Braemar as a result of the $5.0 million cash payment received upon stockholder approval of the Fourth Amended and Restated Braemar Advisory Agreement in June 2017. The payment is included in “deferred income” on our condensed consolidated balance sheet and is being recognized over the initial ten-year term of the agreement.
(6)  
The increase in audio visual revenue is due to higher revenue of $23.3 million, as a result of our acquisition of J&S.
(7)  
The decrease in investment management reimbursements is due to lower revenue of $235,000 from Ashford Trust. Investment management reimbursements include AIM’s management of Ashford Trust’s excess cash under the Investment Management Agreement executed in 2017. AIM is not compensated for its services but is reimbursed for all costs and expenses.
(8)  
The increase in debt placement fee revenue is due to higher revenue of $632,000 from Ashford Trust. Debt placement fees include revenues earned through provision of debt placement services by Lismore Capital, our wholly-owned subsidiary.
(9)  
In connection with our key money transaction with our managed REITs, we lease furniture, fixtures and equipment to Ashford Trust and Braemar at no cost. A portion of the base advisory fee is allocated to lease revenue each period equal to the estimated fair value of the lease payments that would have been made.
(10)  
The increase in other services revenue is due to higher revenue of $291,000 from Ashford Trust, higher revenue of $211,000 from Braemar and higher revenue of $678,000 from third parties. Other services revenue is associated with the provision of other hotel services by our consolidated subsidiaries, OpenKey, Pure Rooms and RED, to Ashford Trust, Braemar and other third parties.
(11)  
Indicates REIT advisory revenue.
(12)  
Claims management services include revenues earned through provision of insurance claim assessment and administration services.
(13)  
See note 16 for discussion of segment reporting.

46



Salaries and Benefits Expense. Salaries and benefits expense increased by $15.5 million, or 140.4%, to $26.5 million for the 2018 quarter compared to the 2017 quarter. The change in salaries and benefits expense consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
Cash salaries and benefits:
 
 
 
 

Salary expense
$
6,258

 
$
4,600

 
$
1,658

Bonus expense
4,475

 
1,090

 
3,385

Benefits related expenses
2,174

 
1,013

 
1,161

Total cash salaries and benefits (1)
12,907

 
6,703

 
6,204

Non-cash equity-based compensation:
 
 
 
 

Stock option grants (2)
3,757

 
1,599

 
2,158

Pre spin-off Ashford Trust equity grants (3)

 
673

 
(673
)
Ashford Trust & Braemar equity grants (4)
9,292

 
(1,283
)
 
10,575

Total non-cash equity-based compensation
13,049

 
989

 
12,060

Non-cash (gain) loss in deferred compensation plan (5)
561

 
3,340

 
(2,779
)
Total salaries and benefits
$
26,517

 
$
11,032

 
$
15,485

________
(1) 
The change in cash salaries and benefits expense is primarily due to fluctuations in the number of employees, salary and bonus awards, group insurance costs, payroll taxes and employee participation in the benefits offered. Cash salaries and benefits recorded in the 2018 quarter included $1.3 million of severance costs and $716,000 of additional bonus expense recorded upon receiving approval from the board of directors in the first quarter of 2018. The acquisitions of J&S effective November 1, 2017 and Pure Rooms effective April 6, 2017 contributed $1.3 million and $229,000, respectively, to the increase over the 2017 quarter.
(2) 
The increase is primarily due to $2.5 million of expense related to the accelerated vesting of stock option awards upon the passing of one of our executive officers, in accordance with the terms of the awards, partially offset by forfeitures. See notes 2, 12 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
(3) 
As a result of our spin-off, we assumed all of the unrecognized equity-based compensation associated with prior Ashford Trust equity grants. As a result, we continued to recognize equity-based compensation expense related to these grants through the final vesting date in April 2017. See notes 2 and 12 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
(4) 
Equity grants of Ashford Trust’s and Braemar’s common stock and LTIP units are awarded to our officers and employees as part of our advisory agreements with each company, for which we record offsetting revenue in an equal amount. The increase is primarily attributable to $6.7 million of compensation expense related to the accelerated vesting of equity awards upon the passing of one of our executive officers, in accordance with the terms of the awards. See notes 2 and 12 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
(5) 
The DCP obligation is recorded as a liability in accordance with the applicable authoritative accounting guidance. The DCP obligation is carried at fair value with changes in fair value reflected in earnings. Losses in the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter are primarily attributable to an increase in the fair value of the DCP obligation. See note 13 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Cost of Revenues for Audio Visual. Cost of revenues for audio visual was $16.6 million during the 2018 quarter compared to $0 for the 2017 quarter, due to new costs associated with new audio visual revenues from the acquisition of J&S.
Depreciation and Amortization Expense. Depreciation and amortization expense increased by $572,000, or 122.2%, to $1.0 million for the 2018 quarter compared to the 2017 quarter, primarily as a result of furniture, fixtures and equipment additions related to software implementation, key money assets and the 2017 J&S acquisition. The increase was also due to the amortization of intangible assets related to the 2017 acquisitions of J&S and Pure Rooms. See note 4 to our condensed consolidated financial statements. Depreciation and amortization expense for the 2018 quarter excludes depreciation expense related to audio visual equipment of $430,000 which is included in cost of revenues for audio visual.

47



General and Administrative Expense. General and administrative expenses increased by $2.6 million, or 72.5%, to $6.3 million for the 2018 quarter compared to the 2017 quarter. The change in general and administrative expense consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
$ Change
Professional fees (1)
$
2,486

 
$
1,881

 
$
605

Office expense (1)
1,949

 
641

 
1,308

Public company costs
230

 
273

 
(43
)
Director costs
275

 
137

 
138

Travel and other expense (1)
1,328

 
658

 
670

Non-capitalizable costs - software implementation
27

 
59

 
(32
)
Total general and administrative
$
6,295

 
$
3,649

 
$
2,646

________
(1) 
The increase in expense is primarily due to our investments in J&S, Pure Rooms and RED.
Impairment. Impairment of capitalized software implementation costs was $1.9 million during the 2018 quarter compared to $0 for the 2017 quarter. See notes 2 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Other. Other operating expense was $846,000 and $0 for the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively. Other operating expense includes cost of goods sold and royalties associated with OpenKey, Pure Rooms and RED as well as expense from the increase in fair value of contingent consideration related to the J&S acquisition. See note 7 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Interest Expense. Interest expense was $143,000 and $0 for the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively, related to the notes payable, lines of credit and capital leases held by our consolidated subsidiaries. See notes 2 and 6 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Amortization of Loan Costs. Amortization of loan costs was $23,000 and $0 for the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively, related to the notes payable and lines of credit held by our consolidated subsidiaries. See notes 2 and 6 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Interest Income. Interest income was $112,000 and $33,000 for the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively.
Dividend Income. Dividend income was $0 and $93,000 for the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively, related to investments held by the AQUA U.S. Fund which was fully dissolved during the year ended December 31, 2017.
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments. Unrealized gain on investments was $0 for the 2018 quarter and $125,000 for the 2017 quarter, primarily related to investments held by the AQUA U.S. Fund which was fully dissolved during the year ended December 31, 2017. The unrealized gain (loss) on investments is based on changes in closing market prices during the period.
Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments. Realized loss on investments was $0 for the 2018 quarter and $200,000 in the 2017 quarter. The realized loss on investments is related to options on futures contracts and investments held by the AQUA U.S. Fund which was fully dissolved during the year ended December 31, 2017.
Other Income (Expense). Other expense was $39,000 and $8,000 in the 2018 quarter and the 2017 quarter, respectively.
Income Tax Benefit (Expense). Income tax expense increased by $76,000, from $630,000 in the 2017 quarter to $706,000 in the 2018 quarter. Current tax expense decreased by $2.6 million, from $3.3 million in the 2017 quarter to $706,000 in the 2018 quarter, due to lower taxable income which was primarily the result of a larger pretax loss and deductions for bonus depreciation. The decrease in current tax expense was partially offset by a decrease in deferred tax benefit. Deferred tax benefit decreased by $2.7 million from $2.7 million in the 2017 quarter to $0 in the 2018 quarter.
(Income) Loss from Consolidated Entities Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests. The noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities were allocated a loss of $173,000 in the 2018 quarter and income of $25,000 in the 2017 quarter. See notes 2 and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements for more details regarding ownership interests, carrying values and allocations.

48



Net (Income) Loss Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests. The redeemable noncontrolling interests were allocated income of $61,000 in the 2018 quarter and a loss of $363,000 in the 2017 quarter. Redeemable noncontrolling interests represented ownership interests in Ashford Holdings and certain of our consolidated subsidiaries. Prior to April 6, 2017, the noncontrolling interests represented ownership interests in Ashford LLC. See note 1 to our condensed consolidated financial statements. For a summary of ownership interests, carrying values and allocations, see notes 2, 11, and 14 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
In the normal course of business, we may form or invest in partnerships or joint ventures. We evaluate each partnership and joint venture to determine whether the entity is a VIE. If the entity is determined to be a VIE, we assess whether we are the primary beneficiary and need to consolidate the entity. For further discussion see notes 1 and 2 to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
There have been no material changes since December 31, 2017, outside the ordinary course of business, to contractual obligations specified in the table of contractual obligations included in the section “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in our 2017 Form 10-K.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our accounting policies that are critical or most important to understanding our financial condition and results of operations and that require management to make the most difficult judgments are described in the section “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in our 2017 Form 10-K. There have been no material changes in these critical accounting policies other than as discussed in note 2 to the condensed consolidated financial statements with respect to revenue recognition.
ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
Our primary market risk exposures consist of changes in interest rates on borrowings under our debt instruments that bear interest at variable rates that fluctuate with market interest rates as well as foreign currency exchange rate risk.
Interest Rate Risk-At March 31, 2018, our total indebtedness of $13.5 million included $12.6 million of variable-rate debt. The impact on our results of operations of a 100 basis point change in interest rate on the outstanding balance of variable-rate debt at March 31, 2018, would be approximately $126,000 annually. Interest rate changes have no impact on the remaining $930,000 of fixed rate debt.
The amount above was determined based on the impact of a hypothetical interest rate on our borrowings and assumes no changes in our capital structure. As the information presented above includes only those exposures that existed at March 31, 2018, it does not consider exposures or positions that could arise after that date. Accordingly, the information presented herein has limited predictive value. As a result, the ultimate realized gain or loss with respect to interest rate fluctuations will depend on exposures that arise during the period, the hedging strategies at the time, and the related interest rates.
Foreign Exchange Risk—The majority of our revenues, expenses and capital purchases are transacted in U.S. dollars. On November 1, 2017, we acquired a controlling interest in J&S Audiovisual, which has operations in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, and therefore we have exposure with respect to exchange rate fluctuations. Exchange rate gains or losses related to foreign currency transactions are recognized as transaction gains or losses in our income statement as incurred. We have chosen not to hedge foreign exchange risks related to our foreign currency denominated earnings and cash flows through the use of financial instruments. As of March 31, 2018, the impact to our net income of a 10% change (up or down) in the Mexican Peso exchange rate is estimated to be an increase or decrease of approximately $62,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Operations in the Dominican Republic are not material.
ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, our management has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of March 31, 2018. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the evaluation date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective (i) to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms; and (ii) to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated

49



to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2018, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
On December 11, 2015, a purported stockholder class action and derivative complaint challenging the previously proposed but not completed 2015 Remington acquisition was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and styled as Campbell v. Bennett et al., Case No. 11796. The complaint names as defendants each of the members of the Company's Board of Directors, Archie Bennett, Jr., Mark A. Sharkey, MJB Investments GP, LLC and Remington Holdings GP, as well as the Company as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the members of the Company’s Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties to the Company’s stockholders in connection with the Remington acquisition and that Monty Bennett, Archie Bennett, Jr., Mark A. Sharkey, MJB Investments GP, LLC and Remington Holdings GP aided and abetted the purported breaches of fiduciary duty. In support of these claims, the complaint alleges, among other things, that the Company’s Board of Directors engaged in an unfair process with Remington Lodging and the Bennetts and as a result the Company overpaid for the 80% limited partnership and 100% general partnership interests in Remington Lodging. The complaint also alleges that the proxy statement filed with the SEC contains certain materially false and/or misleading statements. The action seeks injunctive relief, including enjoining the special meeting of stockholders and any vote on the contribution or the stock issuances or rescinding the Remington acquisition if they are consummated, or in the alternative an award of damages, as well as unspecified attorneys' and other fees and costs, in addition to any other relief the court may deem proper. Since the filing of the complaint, the special meeting of stockholders and related vote occurred with the stockholders approving the acquisition. On March 24, 2017, the Remington acquisition was terminated and therefore this action is moot. On April 13, 2017, the Court of Chancery entered an order dismissing the action with prejudice as to the named plaintiff, and without prejudice as to all other members of the class. Pursuant to the order, the Court of Chancery retained jurisdiction solely for the purpose of determining the plaintiff’s anticipated application for an award of mootness fees and reimbursement of expenses. After negotiations, and to eliminate any risk associated with the plaintiff’s fee petition, the Company agreed to pay fees and expenses in the amount of $150,000 within five (5) days of the entry of an order closing the case in the second quarter of 2017. Accordingly, this amount was recorded within “general and administrative” expenses on our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. The Court of Chancery has not and will not pass any judgment on the fee payment. On July 17, 2017, the Court of Chancery entered a stipulation and order closing the case.
Jesse Small v. Monty J. Bennett, et al., Case No. 24-C-16006020 (Md. Cir. Ct.) On November 16, 2016, Jesse Small, a purported stockholder of Braemar, commenced a derivative action in Maryland Circuit Court for Baltimore City asserting causes of action for breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste, and declaratory relief against the members of the Braemar board of directors, David Brooks (collectively, the “Individual Defendants”), Ashford Inc. and Ashford LLC. Braemar is named as a nominal defendant. The complaint alleges that the Individual Defendants breached their fiduciary duties to Braemar by negotiating and approving the termination fee provision set forth in Braemar’s advisory agreement with Ashford LLC, that Ashford Inc. and Ashford LLC aided and abetted the Individual Defendants’ fiduciary duty breaches, and that the Braemar board of directors committed corporate waste in connection with Braemar’s purchase of 175,000 shares of Ashford Inc. common stock. The complaint seeks monetary damages and declaratory and injunctive relief, including a declaration that the termination fee provision is unenforceable. The defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaint on March 24, 2017. On June 6, 2017, the plaintiff notified the court that the plaintiff intends to dismiss the action as moot and seek a mootness fee and costs. On July 25, 2017, the action was dismissed with prejudice as to the plaintiff. A hearing on the plaintiff’s fee petition was held on October 25, 2017. On February 5, 2018, the court denied the plaintiff’s fee petition. The plaintiff did not appeal the denial of the fee petition and the case is resolved.
The Company is engaged in other various legal proceedings which have arisen but have not been fully adjudicated. The likelihood of loss for these legal proceedings, based on definitions within contingency accounting literature, ranges from remote to reasonably possible and to probable. Based on estimates of the range of potential losses associated with these matters, management does not believe the ultimate resolution of these proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect upon the financial position or results of operations of the Company. However, the final results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty and if the Company failed to prevail in one or more of these legal matters, and the associated realized losses were to exceed the Company’s current estimates of the range of potential losses, the Company’s financial position or results of operations could be materially adversely affected in future periods.

50



ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS
The discussion of our business and operations should be read together with the risk factors contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which describe various risks and uncertainties to which we are or may become subject. These risks and uncertainties have the potential to affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, strategies, or prospects in a material and adverse manner. At March 31, 2018, there have been no material changes to the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.
ITEM 2.
UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer
None.
ITEM 3.
DEFAULT UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
None.
ITEM 5.
OTHER INFORMATION
None.

51



ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS
Exhibit
 
Description
2.1
 
3.1
 
3.2
 
4.1
 
10.1
 
31.1*
 
31.2*
 
32.1*
 
32.2*
 
99.1
 
 
 
 
 
The following materials from the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018, are formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations; (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss); (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statement of Equity; (v) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (vi) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. In accordance with Rule 402 of Regulation S-T, the XBRL related information in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be part of any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.
 
 
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
Submitted electronically with this report.
101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
Submitted electronically with this report.
101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
Submitted electronically with this report.
101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
Submitted electronically with this report.
101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document.
Submitted electronically with this report.
101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document.
Submitted electronically with this report.
___________________________________
* Filed herewith.


52



SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
ASHFORD INC.
Date:
May 9, 2018
By:
/s/ MONTY J. BENNETT
 
 
 
 
Monty J. Bennett
 
 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
May 9, 2018
By:
/s/ DERIC S. EUBANKS
 
 
 
 
Deric S. Eubanks
 
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 


53