10-Q 1 form10-qjun2010.htm THE LACLEDE GROUP, INC. JUNE 2010 10-Q form10-qjun2010.htm



SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q

[ X ]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Quarter Ended June 30, 2010
OR
[     ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 
 
Commission File Number
 
 
Registrant
 
 
State of Incorporation
I.R.S.
Employer Identification
Number
1-16681
The Laclede Group, Inc.
Missouri
74-2976504
1-1822
Laclede Gas Company
Missouri
43-0368139

720 Olive Street
St. Louis, MO 63101
314-342-0500

Indicate by check mark if 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 report) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

The Laclede Group, Inc.:
Yes
[ X ]
No
[     ]
         
Laclede Gas Company:
Yes
[ X ]
No
[     ]

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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

The Laclede Group, Inc.:
Yes
[ X ]
No
[     ]
         
Laclede Gas Company:
Yes
[     ]
No
[     ]

is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

The Laclede Group, Inc.:
       
           
 
Large accelerated filer
[ X ]
 
Accelerated filer
[    ]
 
Non-accelerated filer
[     ]
 
Smaller reporting company
[    ]
           
Laclede Gas Company:
       
           
 
Large accelerated filer
[     ]
 
Accelerated filer
[    ]
 
Non-accelerated filer
[ X ]
 
Smaller reporting company
[    ]



is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act):

The Laclede Group, Inc.:
Yes
[     ]
No
[ X ]
         
Laclede Gas Company:
Yes
[     ]
No
[ X ]

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date:

   
Shares Outstanding At
Registrant
Description of Common Stock
July 29, 2010
The Laclede Group, Inc.:
Common Stock ($1.00 Par Value)
22,292,095
Laclede Gas Company:
Common Stock ($1.00 Par Value)
11,664  *

* 100% owned by The Laclede Group, Inc.

 







Page No.
       
       
    Item 1
 
       
 
The Laclede Group, Inc.:
 
   
   
   
   
   
       
   
   
Statements of Income
Ex. 99.1, p. 1
   
Statements of Comprehensive Income
Ex. 99.1, p. 2
   
Balance Sheets
Ex. 99.1, p. 3-4
   
Statements of Cash Flows
Ex. 99.1, p. 5
   
Notes to Financial Statements
Ex. 99.1, p. 6-18
       
    Item 2
 
   
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
 
   
Results of Operations (Laclede Gas Company)
Ex. 99.1, p. 19-29
       
    Item 3
       
    Item 4
       
 
       
    Item 1
       
    Item 2
       
    Item 6
       
       
       

 
FILING FORMAT
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is a combined report being filed by two separate registrants: The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group or the Company) and Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility).






 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
The interim financial statements included herein have been prepared by the Company, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009.





Item 1. Financial Statements
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME
 (UNAUDITED)

   
Three Months Ended
     
Nine Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
     
June 30,
 
(Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
   
2010
   
2009
       
2010
   
2009
 
                               
Operating Revenues:
                             
  Regulated Gas Distribution
 
$
124,745
 
$
160,332
     
$
781,194
 
$
958,901
 
  Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
199,307
   
148,442
       
658,305
   
681,071
 
  Other
   
455
   
1,170
       
11,499
   
3,296
 
          Total Operating Revenues
   
324,507
   
309,944
       
1,450,998
   
1,643,268
 
Operating Expenses:
                             
  Regulated Gas Distribution
                             
      Natural and propane gas
   
57,315
   
87,841
       
489,553
   
656,244
 
      Other operation expenses
   
33,227
   
33,900
       
108,469
   
110,452
 
      Maintenance
   
7,198
   
6,659
       
20,591
   
20,454
 
      Depreciation and amortization
   
9,396
   
9,190
       
28,144
   
27,489
 
      Taxes, other than income taxes
   
12,016
   
13,821
       
54,290
   
60,395
 
          Total Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses
   
119,152
   
151,411
       
701,047
   
875,034
 
  Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
192,230
   
141,512
       
641,121
   
637,600
 
  Other
   
258
   
818
       
5,029
   
2,503
 
          Total Operating Expenses
   
311,640
   
293,741
       
1,347,197
   
1,515,137
 
Operating Income
   
12,867
   
16,203
       
103,801
   
128,131
 
Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net
   
(191
)
 
1,331
       
1,714
   
2,317
 
Interest Charges:
                             
  Interest on long-term debt
   
6,146
   
6,146
       
18,437
   
18,437
 
  Other interest charges
   
631
   
737
       
1,720
   
4,551
 
          Total Interest Charges
   
6,777
   
6,883
       
20,157
   
22,988
 
Income Before Income Taxes and Dividends
                             
  on Laclede Gas Redeemable Preferred Stock
   
5,899
   
10,651
       
85,358
   
107,460
 
Income Tax Expense
   
1,168
   
3,774
       
29,721
   
38,451
 
Dividends on Laclede Gas Redeemable Preferred Stock
   
   
       
   
15
 
Net Income
 
$
4,731
 
$
6,877
     
$
55,637
 
$
68,994
 
                               
Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding:
                             
    Basic
   
21,997
   
21,904
       
21,978
   
21,884
 
    Diluted
   
22,048
   
21,950
       
22,025
   
21,959
 
                               
Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.31
     
$
2.51
 
$
3.12
 
                               
Diluted Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.31
     
$
2.50
 
$
3.11
 
                               
Dividends Declared Per Share of Common Stock
 
$
0.395
 
$
0.385
     
$
1.185
 
$
1.155
 
                               
                             



STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)

   
Three Months Ended
     
Nine Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
     
June 30,
 
(Thousands)
   
2010
   
2009
       
2010
   
2009
 
                               
Net Income
 
$
4,731
 
$
6,877
     
$
55,637
 
$
68,994
 
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Tax:
                             
  Net gains (losses) on cash flow hedging derivative instruments:
                             
    Net hedging (loss) gain arising during the period
   
(2,496
)
 
(635
)
     
4,980
   
6,406
 
    Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income
   
(4,334
)
 
(3,824
)
     
(9,950
)
 
(14,391
)
        Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedging
                             
          derivative instruments
   
(6,830
)
 
(4,459
)
     
(4,970
)
 
(7,985
)
  Amortization of actuarial loss included in net periodic
                             
      pension and postretirement benefit cost
   
98
   
49
       
295
   
149
 
Other Comprehensive Loss, Before Tax
   
(6,732
)
 
(4,410
)
     
(4,675
)
 
(7,836
)
Income Tax Benefit Related to Items of Other
                             
    Comprehensive Loss
   
(2,601
)
 
(1,695
)
     
(1,805
)
 
(3,012
)
Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax
   
(4,131
)
 
(2,715
)
     
(2,870
)
 
(4,824
)
Comprehensive Income
 
$
600
 
$
4,162
     
$
52,767
 
$
64,170
 
                               
                             














CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)

   
June 30,
     
Sept. 30,
     
June 30,
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
     
2009
     
2009
 
                             
ASSETS
                           
Utility Plant
 
$
1,311,881
     
$
1,280,238
     
$
1,268,173
 
Less:  Accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
438,435
       
424,309
       
419,165
 
      Net Utility Plant
   
873,446
       
855,929
       
849,008
 
                             
Non-utility property
   
4,449
       
4,061
       
4,554
 
Other investments
   
49,112
       
44,973
       
45,090
 
      Other Property and Investments
   
53,561
       
49,034
       
49,644
 
                             
Current Assets:
                           
  Cash and cash equivalents
   
109,287
       
74,591
       
89,075
 
  Accounts receivable:
                           
      Utility
   
79,729
       
81,262
       
95,691
 
      Non-utility
   
67,305
       
42,382
       
47,437
 
      Other
   
5,642
       
7,511
       
11,345
 
      Allowance for doubtful accounts
   
(13,037
)
     
(11,160
)
     
(13,409
)
  Delayed customer billings
   
12,535
       
       
10,530
 
  Inventories:
                           
      Natural gas stored underground at LIFO cost
   
54,308
       
93,313
       
53,202
 
      Propane gas at FIFO cost
   
15,625
       
19,847
       
19,846
 
      Materials, supplies, and merchandise at average cost
   
3,942
       
4,158
       
5,055
 
  Natural gas receivable
   
21,447
       
28,344
       
22,879
 
  Derivative instrument assets
   
13,657
       
17,178
       
17,429
 
  Unamortized purchased gas adjustments
   
       
       
4,769
 
  Deferred income taxes
   
3,807
       
1,707
       
 
  Prepayments and other
   
12,828
       
9,650
       
8,853
 
          Total Current Assets
   
387,075
       
368,783
       
372,702
 
                             
Deferred Charges:
                           
  Regulatory assets
   
457,034
       
482,999
       
388,869
 
  Other
   
5,804
       
5,273
       
5,781
 
          Total Deferred Charges
   
462,838
       
488,272
       
394,650
 
Total Assets
 
$
1,776,920
     
$
1,762,018
     
$
1,666,004
 
                             

 
 

 
 
 
 




THE LACLEDE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)
(UNAUDITED)


   
June 30,
     
Sept. 30,
     
June 30,
 
(Thousands, except share amounts)
 
2010
     
2009
     
2009
 
                             
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
                           
Capitalization:
                           
  Common stock (70,000,000 shares authorized, 22,282,410,
    22,168,120, and 22,157,980 shares issued, respectively)
 
$
22,282
     
$
22,168
     
$
22,158
 
  Paid-in capital
   
157,362
       
154,218
       
152,904
 
  Retained earnings
   
372,072
       
342,810
       
356,239
 
  Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    
(5,036
)
      
(2,166
)
      
(387
)
      Total Common Stock Equity
   
546,680
       
517,030
       
530,914
 
  Long-term debt (less current portion) – Laclede Gas
   
364,283
       
389,240
       
389,225
 
      Total Capitalization
    
910,963
        
906,270
        
920,139
 
                             
Current Liabilities:
                           
  Notes payable
   
76,200
       
129,800
       
133,000
 
  Accounts payable
   
107,288
       
72,765
       
79,303
 
  Advance customer billings
   
       
21,140
       
 
  Current portion of long-term debt
   
25,000
       
       
 
  Wages and compensation accrued
   
14,310
       
12,682
       
13,736
 
  Dividends payable
   
8,982
       
8,687
       
8,688
 
  Customer deposits
   
12,328
       
12,400
       
13,839
 
  Interest accrued
   
6,072
       
9,943
       
6,367
 
  Taxes accrued
   
23,758
       
15,951
       
24,712
 
  Unamortized purchased gas adjustments
   
392
       
3,130
       
 
  Deferred income taxes
   
       
       
9,717
 
  Other
   
11,491
       
12,642
       
10,752
 
      Total Current Liabilities
   
285,821
       
299,140
       
300,114
 
                             
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:
                           
  Deferred income taxes
   
274,787
       
256,196
       
244,971
 
  Unamortized investment tax credits
   
3,592
       
3,754
       
3,809
 
  Pension and postretirement benefit costs
   
199,563
       
202,681
       
101,991
 
  Asset retirement obligations
   
26,648
       
25,503
       
26,238
 
  Regulatory liabilities
   
45,468
       
44,225
       
45,231
 
  Other
   
30,078
       
24,249
       
23,511
 
      Total Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities
   
580,136
       
556,608
       
445,751
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 10)
                           
      Total Capitalization and Liabilities
 
$
1,776,920
     
$
1,762,018
     
$
1,666,004
 
                             
                           
                             
                             




STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
     
2009
 
                   
Operating Activities:
                 
  Net Income
 
$
55,637
     
$
68,994
 
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in)
      operating activities:
                 
    Depreciation, amortization, and accretion
   
28,358
       
27,709
 
    Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits
   
13,431
       
13,771
 
    Other – net
   
2,761
       
2,451
 
    Changes in assets and liabilities:
                 
      Accounts receivable – net
   
(19,644
)
     
57,895
 
      Unamortized purchased gas adjustments
   
(2,738
)
     
28,642
 
      Deferred purchased gas costs
   
31,765
       
(43,926
)
      Accounts payable
   
35,510
       
(78,306
)
      Delayed customer billings – net
   
(33,675
)
     
(36,078
)
      Taxes accrued
   
7,681
       
13,307
 
      Natural gas stored underground
   
39,005
       
142,979
 
      Other assets and liabilities
   
(294
)
     
22,319
 
          Net cash provided by operating activities
   
157,797
       
219,757
 
                   
Investing Activities:
                 
  Capital expenditures
   
(40,259
)
     
(39,535
)
  Other investments
   
(3,554
)
     
(460
)
          Net cash used in investing activities
   
(43,813
)
     
(39,995
)
                   
Financing Activities:
                 
  Repayment of short-term debt – net
   
(53,600
)
     
(82,900
)
  Changes in book overdrafts
   
(25
)
     
552
 
  Issuance of common stock
   
1,413
       
3,304
 
  Non-employee directors’ restricted stock awards
   
(406
)
     
(570
)
  Dividends paid
   
(26,067
)
     
(25,278
)
  Preferred stock reacquired
   
       
(627
)
  Employees’ taxes paid associated with restricted shares withheld upon vesting
   
(576
)
     
(675
)
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
   
99
       
724
 
  Other
   
(126
)
     
(116
)
          Net cash used in financing activities
   
(79,288
)
     
(105,586
)
                   
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
   
34,696
       
74,176
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
   
74,591
       
14,899
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period
 
$
109,287
 
 
 
$
89,075
 
                   
 
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Paid (Refunded) During the Period for:
                 
    Interest
 
$
23,535
     
$
26,355
 
    Income taxes
   
(1,937
)
     
9,738
 
                   
                 






NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

These notes are an integral part of the accompanying consolidated financial statements of The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group or the Company) and its subsidiaries. In the opinion of Laclede Group, this interim report includes all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring accruals) necessary for the fair presentation of the results of operations for the periods presented. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in the Company’s Fiscal Year 2009 Form 10-K.
The consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of Laclede Group are comprised primarily from the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility). Laclede Gas is a regulated natural gas distribution utility having a material seasonal cycle. As a result, these interim statements of income for Laclede Group are not necessarily indicative of annual results or representative of succeeding quarters of the fiscal year. Due to the seasonal nature of the business of Laclede Gas, earnings are typically concentrated in the November through April period, which generally corresponds with the heating season.
REVENUE RECOGNITION - Laclede Gas reads meters and bills its customers on monthly cycles. The Utility records its regulated gas distribution revenues from gas sales and transportation services on an accrual basis that includes estimated amounts for gas delivered, but not yet billed. The accruals for unbilled revenues are reversed in the subsequent accounting period when meters are actually read and customers are billed. The amounts of accrued unbilled revenues at June 30, 2010 and 2009, for the Utility, were $9.4 million and $10.1 million, respectively. The amount of accrued unbilled revenue at September 30, 2009 was $12.7 million.
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE - As discussed in the New Accounting Pronouncements section below, the Company adopted certain changes to the computation of earnings per share effective October 1, 2009. Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP) require dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS). EPS is computed using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation method for computing EPS that treats a participating security as having rights to earnings that would otherwise have been available to common shareholders. Certain of the Company’s stock-based compensation awards pay nonforfeitable dividends to the participants during the vesting period and, as such, are deemed participating securities. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding that are increased for additional shares that would be outstanding if potentially dilutive non-participating securities were converted to common shares, pursuant to the treasury stock method. Shares attributable to non-participating stock options and time-vested restricted stock/units are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share if the effect would be antidilutive. Shares attributable to non-participating performance-contingent restricted stock awards are only included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share to the extent the underlying performance and/or market conditions are satisfied (a) prior to the end of the reporting period or (b) would be satisfied if the end of the reporting period were the end of the related contingency period and the result would be dilutive. The Company’s EPS computations are set forth in Note 2, Earnings Per Common Share.
GROSS RECEIPTS TAXES - Gross receipts taxes associated with Laclede Gas’ natural gas utility service are imposed on the Utility and billed to its customers. These amounts are recorded gross in the Statements of Consolidated Income. Amounts recorded in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for the quarters ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $6.5 million, and $8.4 million, respectively. Amounts recorded in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $40.0 million and $47.0 million, respectively. Gross receipts taxes are expensed by the Utility and included in the Taxes, other than income taxes line.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Awards of stock-based compensation are made pursuant to The Laclede Group 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and the Restricted Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors. Refer to Note 1 of the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009 for descriptions of these plans.



Restricted Stock Awards

During the nine months ended June 30, 2010, the Company granted 95,400 performance-contingent restricted shares and share units to executive officers and key employees at a weighted average grant date fair value of $25.41 per share. This number represents the maximum shares that can be earned pursuant to the terms of the awards. The shares and share units have a performance period ending September 30, 2012, during which participants are entitled to voting rights on the target level, or 63,600 shares. Dividends on these target level of shares accrue during the performance period and will be paid to the participants up to the target level upon vesting, but are subject to forfeiture if the underlying shares do not vest. The number of shares and share units that will ultimately vest is dependent upon the attainment of certain levels of earnings growth and portfolio development performance goals; further, under the terms of the award, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has the discretion to reduce by up to 25% the number that vest if the Company’s total shareholder return (TSR) during the performance period ranks below the median relative to a comparator group of companies. This TSR provision is considered a market condition under generally accepted accounting principles.
During the nine months ended June 30, 2010, 58,250 shares of performance-contingent restricted stock, awarded on November 2, 2006 and December 5, 2007, vested. The Company withheld 18,899 of the vested shares at a weighted average price of $30.49 per share pursuant to elections by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations.
Performance-contingent restricted stock and performance-contingent restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 is presented below:

           
Weighted
           
Average
     
Shares/
   
Grant Date
     
Units
   
Fair Value
                   
 
Nonvested at September 30, 2009
 
225,950
     
$
37.85
 
                   
 
Granted (maximum shares that can be earned)
 
95,400
     
$
25.41
 
 
Vested
 
(58,250
)
   
$
34.75
 
 
Forfeited
 
(7,800
)
   
$
32.67
 
                   
 
Nonvested at June 30, 2010
 
255,300
     
$
34.07
 

During the nine months ended June 30, 2010, the Company granted 28,700 shares of time-vested restricted stock to executive officers and key employees at a weighted average grant date fair value of $30.49 per share. These shares were awarded on November 4, 2009, December 1, 2009, January 4, 2010, and May 3, 2010 and vest November 4, 2012, December 1, 2012, January 4, 2013, and May 3, 2013, respectively. In the interim, participants receive full voting rights and dividends, which are not subject to forfeiture.
During the nine months ended June 30, 2010, the Company granted 12,500 shares of time-vested restricted stock to non-employee directors at a weighted average grant date fair value of $32.32 per share. These shares vest depending on the participant’s age upon entering the plan and years of service as a director. The plan’s trustee acquires the shares for the awards in the open market and holds the shares as trustee for the benefit of the non-employee directors until the restrictions expire. In the interim, the participants receive full dividends and voting rights.
Time-vested restricted stock and time-vested restricted stock unit activity for nine months ended June 30, 2010 is presented below:

           
Weighted
           
Average
     
Shares/
   
Grant Date
     
Units
   
Fair Value
                   
 
Nonvested at September 30, 2009
 
90,150
     
$
39.08
 
                   
 
Granted
 
41,200
     
$
31.04
 
 
Vested
 
(7,000
)
   
$
34.18
 
 
Forfeited
 
(900
)
   
$
38.49
 
                   
 
Nonvested at June 30, 2010
 
123,450
     
$
36.68
 



Stock Option Awards

Stock option activity for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 is presented below:

                 
Weighted
       
                 
Average
       
           
Weighted
   
Remaining
   
Aggregate
 
           
Average
   
Contractual
   
Intrinsic
 
     
Stock
   
Exercise
   
Term
   
Value
 
     
Options
   
Price
   
(Years)
   
($000)
 
                               
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2009
 
356,225
   
$
30.84
               
                               
 
Granted
 
   
$
               
 
Exercised
 
(11,000
)
 
$
30.71
               
 
Forfeited
 
(1,375
)
 
$
34.95
               
 
Expired
 
(4,125
)
 
$
34.95
               
                               
 
Outstanding at June 30, 2010
 
339,725
   
$
30.78
   
4.6
   
$
938
 
                               
 
Fully Vested and Expected to Vest
  at June 30, 2010
 
338,045
   
$
30.76
   
4.6
   
$
938
 
                               
 
Exercisable at June 30, 2010
 
315,725
   
$
30.46
   
4.5
   
$
938
 

The closing price of the Company’s common stock was $33.13 at June 30, 2010.

Equity Compensation Costs

The amounts of compensation cost recognized for share-based compensation arrangements are presented below:

     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
                             
 
Total equity compensation cost
 
$
953
 
$
970
 
$
2,862
 
$
3,069
 
 
Compensation cost capitalized
   
(224
)
 
(198
)
 
(581
)
 
(631
)
 
Compensation cost recognized in net income
   
729
   
772
   
2,281
   
2,438
 
 
Income tax benefit recognized in net income
   
(282
)
 
(298
)
 
(880
)
 
(940
)
 
Compensation cost recognized in net income,
                         
 
  net of income tax
 
$
447
 
$
474
 
$
1,401
 
$
1,498
 

As of June 30, 2010, there was $5.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.2 years.


NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS – In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” as codified in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” This Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The Statement applies to fair value measurements required under other accounting guidance that require or permit fair value measurements. Accordingly, this Statement does not require any new fair value measurements. The guidance in this Statement does not apply to the Company’s stock-based compensation plans accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation.” The Company partially adopted SFAS No. 157 on October 1, 2008 and elected the one-year deferral allowed by FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. FAS 157-2, which permits delayed application of this Statement for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for those recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis. The partial adoption of this Statement had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. For disclosures required pursuant to ASC Topic 820, see Note 5, Fair Value Measurements. The Company adopted SFAS No. 157 for certain nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities as of October 1, 2009. Such adoption had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
In June 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. EITF 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” as codified is ASC Topic 260, “Earnings per Share.” This FSP addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing EPS under the two-class method described in ASC Topic 260. The guidance in this FSP states that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and shall be included in the computation of EPS pursuant to the two-class method. The FSP requires that the guidance be applied retrospectively to all prior-period EPS data presented. Certain of the Company’s stock-based compensation awards pay nonforfeitable dividends to the participants during the vesting period and, as such, are deemed participating securities under this FSP. The Company adopted this FSP effective October 1, 2009. EPS and diluted shares outstanding amounts for the quarter and nine months ended June 30, 2009 have been restated to reflect the retrospective application of the FSP. Reported basic and diluted EPS for quarter ended June 30, 2009 were unaffected by the adoption. For the nine months ended June 30, 2009, the effect of adoption reduced basic and diluted EPS by $0.03 and $0.02, respectively, compared to originally reported amounts. On an annual basis, reductions to previously reported EPS will not be more than $0.03 per share. Reported net income and cash flows were not affected by the adoption of the FSP. The Company’s EPS computations are set forth in Note 2, Earnings Per Common Share.
In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets,” as codified in ASC Topic 715, “Compensation–Retirement Benefits.” This FSP provides guidance on an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. The FSP requires disclosure of information regarding investment policies and strategies, the categories of plan assets, fair value measurements of plan assets, and significant concentrations of risk. The Company will be required to provide the additional disclosures with its annual financial statements for fiscal year 2010. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this FSP.
In August 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2009-05, “Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value,” to update ASC Topic 820. The guidance provides clarification on measuring liabilities at fair value when a quoted price in an active market is not available. In such circumstances, the ASU specifies that a valuation technique should be applied that uses either the quote of the identical liability when traded as an asset, the quoted prices for similar liabilities or similar liabilities when traded as assets, or another valuation technique consistent with existing fair value measurement guidance. Laclede Group’s adoption of this ASU in the first quarter of fiscal year 2010 had no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-06, “Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements,” which amends ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” The ASU requires separate disclosure of significant transfers in and out of level 1 and level 2 fair value measurements. It also requires disclosure of the policy for when transfers are recognized. Additionally, the ASU clarifies certain areas of the guidance, including the level of disaggregation required in fair value measurement disclosures. While the adoption of these updates during the quarter ended March 31, 2010 had no effect on the consolidated financial statements, the Company modified its disclosures in Note 5, Fair Value Measurements, accordingly. The ASU also requires that certain activity in the level 3 fair value measurements reconciliation be presented on a gross basis (instead of net). This change is effective for the Company’s disclosures in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012.
In February 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-09, “Amendments to Certain Recognition and Disclosure Requirements.” The ASU amends ASC Topic 855, “Subsequent Events.” Subsequent events or transactions occur after the balance sheet date, but prior to the financial statements being issued, and are required to be assessed by management for possible financial statement recognition and/or disclosure. For entities that are Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filers, this ASU removes the requirement to disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated to alleviate potential conflicts with SEC guidance. Laclede Group adopted this ASU during the quarter ended March 31, 2010. While the adoption of the ASU did not impact the consolidated financial statements or management’s process for assessing subsequent events, the Company did modify its disclosures accordingly.



EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

As mentioned in the New Accounting Pronouncements section of Note 1, the Company adopted the provisions of FSP No. EITF 03-6-1 effective October 1, 2009. EPS and diluted shares outstanding amounts for the quarter and nine months ended June 30, 2009 have been restated to reflect the retrospective application of the FSP. Reported basic and diluted EPS for quarter ended June 30, 2009 were unaffected by the adoption. For the nine months ended June 30, 2009, the effect of adoption reduced basic and diluted EPS by $0.03 and $0.02, respectively, compared to originally reported amounts. Reported net income and cash flows were not affected by the adoption of the FSP. For details on the methodology used to compute EPS, see the Earnings Per Common Share section of Note 1.

     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
                             
 
Basic EPS:
                         
 
Net Income
 
$
4,731
 
$
6,877
 
$
55,637
 
$
68,994
 
 
  Less: Income allocated to participating securities
   
44
   
74
   
550
   
744
 
 
Net Income Available to Common Shareholders
 
$
4,687
 
$
6,803
 
$
55,087
 
$
68,250
 
                             
 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding
   
21,997
   
21,904
   
21,978
   
21,884
 
 
Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.31
 
$
2.51
 
$
3.12
 
                             
 
Diluted EPS:
                         
 
Net Income
 
$
4,731
 
$
6,877
 
$
55,637
 
$
68,994
 
 
  Less: Income allocated to participating securities
   
44
   
74
   
549
   
743
 
 
Net Income Available to Common Shareholders
 
$
4,687
 
$
6,803
 
$
55,088
 
$
68,251
 
                             
 
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding
   
21,997
   
21,904
   
21,978
   
21,884
 
 
Dilutive Effect of Stock Options
                         
 
    and Restricted Stock
   
51
   
46
   
47
   
75
 
 
Weighted Average Diluted Shares
   
22,048
   
21,950
   
22,025
   
21,959
 
                             
 
Earnings Per Share of Common Stock
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.31
 
$
2.50
 
$
3.11
 
                             
 
Outstanding Shares Excluded from the
                         
 
Calculation of Diluted EPS Attributable to:
                         
 
Antidilutive stock options
   
77
   
83
   
77
   
 
 
Performance-contingent restricted stock
   
145
   
59
   
145
   
59
 
 
Total
   
222
   
142
   
222
   
59
 




PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

Pension Plans

Laclede Gas has non-contributory, defined benefit, trusteed forms of pension plans covering substantially all employees. Effective January 1, 2009, the Utility modified the calculation of future benefits under Laclede Gas’ primary plan from a years of service and final average compensation formula to a cash balance formula, which accrues benefits based on a percentage of compensation and provides interest credits on the balance. Benefits attributable to plan participation prior to January 1, 2009 will be based on final average compensation at the date of termination of employment and years of service earned at January 1, 2009. Effective January 1, 2010, the Utility modified the calculation of future benefits under its Missouri Natural Gas division plan from a career average formula to a cash balance formula, which accrues benefits based on a percentage of compensation, provides interest credits on the balance, and provides certain transition credits. Benefits attributable to plan participation prior to January 1, 2010 will be based on career average compensation earned as a participant prior to January 1, 2010. Plan assets consist primarily of corporate and U.S. government obligations and equity investments.
Pension costs for the quarters ending June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $1.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively, including amounts charged to construction. Pension costs for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $4.7 million and $4.6 million, respectively, including amounts charged to construction.
The net periodic pension costs include the following components:

     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
                             
 
Service cost – benefits earned
                         
 
during the period
 
$
2,189
 
$
1,817
 
$
6,652
 
$
7,119
 
 
Interest cost on projected
                         
 
benefit obligation
   
4,924
   
5,230
   
14,805
   
15,727
 
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(5,074
)
 
(5,234
)
 
(15,181
)
 
(15,703
)
 
Amortization of prior service cost
   
172
   
258
   
583
   
776
 
 
Amortization of actuarial loss
   
2,024
   
774
   
6,083
   
2,322
 
 
Sub-total
   
4,235
   
2,845
   
12,942
   
10,241
 
 
Regulatory adjustment
   
(2,656
)
 
(1,296
)
 
(8,206
)
 
(5,594
)
 
Net pension cost
 
$
1,579
 
$
1,549
 
$
4,736
 
$
4,647
 

Pursuant to the provisions of the Laclede Gas pension plans, pension obligations may be satisfied by lump-sum cash payments. Pursuant to a Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) Order, lump-sum payments are recognized as settlements (which can result in gains or losses) only if the total of such payments exceeds 100% of the sum of service and interest costs. No lump-sum payments were recognized as settlements during the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and June 30, 2009.
Pursuant to a MoPSC Order, the return on plan assets is based on the market-related value of plan assets implemented prospectively over a four-year period. Gains or losses not yet includible in pension cost are amortized only to the extent that such gain or loss exceeds 10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation or the market-related value of plan assets. Such excess is amortized over the average remaining service life of active participants. The recovery in rates for the Utility’s qualified pension plans is based on an allowance of $4.8 million annually. The difference between this amount and pension expense as calculated pursuant to the above and that otherwise would be included in the Statements of Consolidated Income and Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income is deferred as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability.



Postretirement Benefits

Laclede Gas provides certain life insurance benefits at retirement. Medical insurance is available after early retirement until age 65. The transition obligation not yet includible in postretirement benefit cost is being amortized over 20 years. Postretirement benefit costs for both the quarters ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $1.9 million, including amounts charged to construction. Postretirement benefit costs for both the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 were $5.7 million, including amounts charged to construction.
Net periodic postretirement benefit costs consisted of the following components:

     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
                             
 
Service cost – benefits earned
                         
 
during the period
 
$
1,610
 
$
1,283
 
$
4,831
 
$
3,849
 
 
Interest cost on accumulated
                         
 
postretirement benefit obligation
   
1,129
   
1,169
   
3,387
   
3,509
 
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(758
)
 
(594
)
 
(2,274
)
 
(1,782
)
 
Amortization of transition obligation
   
34
   
34
   
102
   
102
 
 
Amortization of prior service credit
   
(582
)
 
(582
)
 
(1,746
)
 
(1,746
)
 
Amortization of actuarial loss
   
995
   
878
   
2,985
   
2,632
 
 
Sub-total
   
2,428
   
2,188
   
7,285
   
6,564
 
 
Regulatory adjustment
   
(518
)
 
(278
)
 
(1,554
)
 
(833
)
 
Net postretirement benefit cost
 
$
1,910
 
$
1,910
 
$
5,731
 
$
5,731
 

Missouri state law provides for the recovery in rates of costs accrued pursuant to GAAP provided that such costs are funded through an independent, external funding mechanism. Laclede Gas established Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association (VEBA) and Rabbi trusts as its external funding mechanisms. VEBA and Rabbi trusts’ assets consist primarily of money market securities and mutual funds invested in stocks and bonds.
Pursuant to a MoPSC Order, the return on plan assets is based on the market-related value of plan assets implemented prospectively over a four-year period. Gains and losses not yet includible in postretirement benefit cost are amortized only to the extent that such gain or loss exceeds 10% of the greater of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation or the market-related value of plan assets. Such excess is amortized over the average remaining service life of active participants. The Commission ordered that the recovery in rates be based on an annual allowance of $7.6 million. The difference between this amount and postretirement benefit cost based on the above and that otherwise would be included in the Statements of Consolidated Income and Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income is deferred as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability.




FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments are as follows:

 
(Thousands)
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
 
As of June 30, 2010
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
109,287
 
$
109,287
 
 
Marketable securities
   
11,533
   
11,533
 
 
Derivative instrument assets
   
13,657
   
13,657
 
 
Derivative instrument liabilities
   
219
   
219
 
 
Short-term debt
   
76,200
   
76,200
 
 
Long-term debt, including current portion
   
389,283
   
432,675
 
                 
 
As of September 30, 2009
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
74,591
 
$
74,591
 
 
Marketable securities
   
11,110
   
11,110
 
 
Derivative instrument assets
   
17,178
   
17,178
 
 
Derivative instrument liabilities
   
976
   
976
 
 
Short-term debt
   
129,800
   
129,800
 
 
Long-term debt
   
389,240
   
423,375
 
                 
 
As of June 30, 2009
             
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
89,075
 
$
89,075
 
 
Marketable securities
   
9,506
   
9,506
 
 
Derivative instrument assets
   
17,429
   
17,429
 
 
Short-term debt
   
133,000
   
133,000
 
 
Long-term debt
   
389,225
   
387,996
 

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents and short-term debt approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The fair value of long-term debt is based on market prices for similar issues. The fair values of marketable securities, derivative instrument assets, and derivative instrument liabilities are valued as described in Note 5, Fair Value Measurements.




5.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The following table categorizes the assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis in periods subsequent to initial recognition.

 
(Thousands)
   
Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets
(Level 1)
   
Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Effects of Netting and Cash Margin Receivables
/Payables
   
Total
 
 
As of June 30, 2010
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
11,533
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
11,533
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
7,532
   
   
   
5,845
   
13,377
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
    oil contracts
   
96
   
   
   
91
   
187
 
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
   
   
113
   
   
(20
)
 
93
 
 
        Total
 
$
19,161
 
$
113
 
$
 
$
5,916
 
$
25,190
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
52,330
 
$
 
$
 
$
(52,330
)
$
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline & heating
    oil contracts
   
88
   
   
   
(88
)
 
 
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
   
   
239
   
   
(20
)
 
219
 
 
        Total
 
$
52,418
 
$
239
 
$
 
$
(52,438
)
$
219
 
                                   
 
As of September 30, 2009
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
11,110
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
11,110
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
10,803
   
   
   
4,057
   
14,860
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
    oil contracts
   
278
   
   
   
(1
)
 
277
 
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
   
   
1,688
   
558
   
(205
)
 
2,041
 
 
        Total
 
$
22,191
 
$
1,688
 
$
558
 
$
3,851
 
$
28,288
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
55,170
 
$
 
$
 
$
(55,170
)
$
 
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
   
   
522
   
659
   
(205
)
 
976
 
 
        Total
 
$
55,170
 
$
522
 
$
659
 
$
(55,375
)
$
976
 
                                   
 
As of June 30, 2009
                               
 
Assets
                               
 
  U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds
 
$
9,506
 
$
 
$
 
$
 
$
9,506
 
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
   
10,383
   
   
   
6,406
   
16,789
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating
    oil contracts
   
396
   
   
   
(156
)
 
240
 
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
   
   
400
   
   
   
400
 
 
        Total
 
$
20,285
 
$
400
 
$
 
$
6,250
 
$
26,935
 
                                   
 
Liabilities
                               
 
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
$
88,188
 
$
 
$
 
$
(88,188
)
$
 



The mutual funds included in Level 1 are valued based on quoted market prices of identical securities that are provided by the trustees of these securities. Derivative instruments included in Level 1 are valued using quoted market prices on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX). Derivative instruments included in Level 2 are valued using broker or dealer quotation services or by using observable market inputs. Derivative instruments included in Level 3 are valued using generally unobservable inputs that are based upon the best information available and reflect management’s assumptions about how market participants would price the asset or liability. During the quarter and nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, there were no transfers between the levels of the fair value hierarchy. The Company’s policy is to recognize such transfers, if any, as of the beginning of the interim reporting period in which circumstances change or events occur to cause the transfer. At October 1, 2009, the beginning net balance of derivatives measured using Level 3 inputs was $(101,000). During the nine months ended June 30, 2010, the balance increased by $53,000 due to settlements and increased $48,000 due to net gains included in earnings, leaving a net balance of $0 at June 30, 2010.
The mutual funds are included in the Other investments line of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Liabilities for derivative instruments, if any, are included in the Other line of the Current Liabilities section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Derivative assets and liabilities, including receivables and payables associated with cash margin requirements, are presented net in the Consolidated Balance Sheets when a legally enforceable netting agreement exists between the Company and the counterparty to a derivative contract.


6.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

Laclede Gas has a risk management policy that allows for the purchase of natural gas derivative instruments with the goal of managing price risk associated with purchasing natural gas on behalf of its customers. This policy prohibits speculation and permits the Utility to hedge up to 70% of its normal volumes purchased for up to a 36-month period. Costs and cost reductions, including carrying costs, associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments are allowed to be passed on to the Utility’s customers through the operation of its Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clause, through which the MoPSC allows the Utility to recover gas supply costs, subject to prudence review. Accordingly, Laclede Gas does not expect any adverse earnings impact as a result of the use of these derivative instruments. The Utility does not designate these instruments as hedging instruments for financial reporting purposes because gains or losses associated with the use of these derivative instruments are deferred and recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities pursuant to ASC Topic 980, “Regulated Operations,” and, as a result, have no direct impact on the Statements of Consolidated Income. The timing of the operation of the PGA clause may cause interim variations in short-term cash flows, because the Utility is subject to cash margin requirements associated with changes in the values of these instruments. Nevertheless, carrying costs associated with such requirements are recovered through the PGA Clause.
From time to time, Laclede Gas purchases NYMEX futures contracts to help stabilize operating costs associated with forecasted purchases of gasoline and diesel fuels used to power vehicles and equipment used in the course of its business. At June 30, 2010, Laclede Gas held 0.6 million gallons of gasoline futures contracts at an average price of $1.96 per gallon and 0.1 million gallons of heating oil futures contracts (to hedge diesel fuel purchases) at an average price of $2.34 per gallon. Most of these futures contracts, the longest of which extends to June 2011, are designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions pursuant to ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” The gains or losses on these derivative instruments are not subject to the Utility’s PGA Clause.
In the course of its business, Laclede Group’s non-regulated gas marketing subsidiary, Laclede Energy Resources, Inc. (LER), enters into commitments associated with the purchase or sale of natural gas. Many of LER’s derivative natural gas contracts are designated as normal purchases or normal sales and, as such, are excluded from the scope of ASC Topic 815 and are accounted for as executory contracts on an accrual basis. Any of LER’s derivative natural gas contracts that are not designated as normal purchases or normal sales are accounted for at fair value. At June 30, 2010, LER had 8.1 million MMBtu of non-exchange traded natural gas commodity contracts for which the normal purchases and normal sales scope exception was not elected. Of these contracts, 6.4 million MMBtu will settle during fiscal year 2010, while the remaining 1.7 million MMBtu will settle during fiscal year 2011. These contracts have not been designated as hedges; therefore, changes in the fair value of these contracts are reported in earnings each period. Furthermore, LER manages the price risk associated with its fixed-priced commitments by either closely matching the offsetting physical purchase or sale of natural gas at fixed prices or through the use of NYMEX futures contracts to lock in margins. At June 30, 2010, LER’s unmatched fixed-price positions were not material to Laclede Group’s financial position or results of operations. LER’s NYMEX natural gas futures contracts used to lock in margins are generally designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions for financial reporting purposes.


Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value and the change in the fair value of the effective portion of these hedge instruments is recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income (OCI). Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) is a component of Total Common Stock Equity. Amounts are reclassified from AOCI into earnings when the hedged items affect net income, using the same revenue or expense category that the hedged item impacts. Based on market prices at June 30, 2010, it is expected that essentially no net amounts will be reclassified into the Statements of Consolidated Income during the next twelve months. The net amount of pre-tax gains recognized in earnings for the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges was $0.5 million and $0.1 million for the quarters ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The net amount of pre-tax gains (losses) recognized in earnings for the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges was $(0.4) million and $2.6 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Cash flows from hedging transactions are classified in the same category as the cash flows from the items that are being hedged in the Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows.
The Company’s exchange-traded/cleared derivative instruments consist primarily of NYMEX positions. The NYMEX is the primary national commodities exchange on which natural gas derivatives are traded. NYMEX-traded contracts are supported by the financial and credit quality of the clearing members of the NYMEX and have nominal credit risk. Open NYMEX natural gas futures positions at June 30, 2010 were as follows:

     
Laclede Gas Company
 
Laclede Energy
Resources, Inc.
 
     
MMBtu
(millions)
 
Avg. Price
Per
MMBtu
 
MMBtu
(millions)
 
Avg. Price
Per
MMBtu
 
 
Open short futures positions
                         
 
    Fiscal 2010
 
0.14
 
$
4.43
   
2.54
 
$
5.44
   
 
    Fiscal 2011
 
0.14
   
4.57
   
4.35
   
5.08
   
                             
 
Open long futures positions
                         
 
    Fiscal 2010
 
3.56
 
$
8.56
   
0.54
 
$
4.83
   
 
    Fiscal 2011
 
12.18
   
7.00
   
4.40
   
6.37
   
 
    Fiscal 2012
 
0.94
   
7.24
   
1.40
   
7.16
   

At June 30, 2010, Laclede Gas also had 16.4 million MMBtu of other price risk mitigation measures in place through the use of NYMEX natural gas option-based strategies.



The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statements of Consolidated Income and Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income
 
                               
       
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
   
Location of Gain (Loss)
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
(Thousands)
 
Recorded in Income
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009 (a)
 
                               
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
                         
                               
  Effective portion of gain (loss) recognized
    in OCI on derivatives:
                             
       NYMEX natural gas contracts
     
$
(2,348
)
$
(907
)
$
4,902
 
$
3,989
 
       NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
       
(148
)
 
272
   
78
   
378
 
          Total
     
$
(2,496
)
$
(635
)
$
4,980
 
$
4,367
 
                               
  Effective portion of gain (loss) reclassified
    from AOCI to income:
                             
       NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Revenues
 
$
5,837
 
$
6,807
 
$
12,088
 
$
11,217
 
    Non-Regulated Gas Marketing                           
   
Operating Expenses
   
(1,580
)
 
(3,017
)
 
(2,351
)
 
(5,132
)
               Sub-total
       
4,257
   
3,790
   
9,737
   
6,085
 
                               
       NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Other Regulated Gas Distribution
Operating Expenses
   
77
   
34
   
213
   
34
 
          Total
     
$
4,334
 
$
3,824
 
$
9,950
 
$
6,119
 
                               
  Ineffective portion of gain (loss) on
    derivatives recognized in income:
                             
       NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Revenues
 
$
(53
)
$
300
 
$
1,336
 
$
482
 
    Non-Regulated Gas Marketing                           
   
Operating Expenses
   
541
   
(208
)
 
(1,703
)
 
(141
)
               Sub-total
       
488
   
92
   
(367
)
 
341
 
                               
       NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts   Other Regulated Gas Distribution                           
       
 
Operating Expenses
   
19
   
50
   
(60
)
 
81
 
          Total
     
$
507
 
$
142
 
$
(427
)
$
422
 
                               
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (b)
                         
                               
  Gain (loss) recognized in income on
    derivatives:
                             
                               
       Natural gas commodity contracts
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Revenues
 
$
229
 
$
286
 
$
4,344
 
$
450
 
   
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Expenses
   
(37
)
 
   
(3,745
)
 
 
       NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Revenues
   
(8
)
 
   
34
   
 
   
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
Operating Expenses
   
   
   
(552
)
 
 
       NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts   Other Income and (Income                           
       
 
Deductions) - Net
   
(11
)
 
10
   
(9
)
 
17
 
          Total
     
$
173
 
$
296
 
$
72
 
$
467
 

(a)
The Company prospectively adopted SFAS No. 161, as codified in ASC Topic 815, in the second quarter of fiscal year 2009. Accordingly, amounts disclosed in this column exclude activity prior to January 1, 2009.
(b)
Gains and losses on Laclede Gas’ NYMEX natural gas derivative instruments, which are not designated as hedging instruments for financial reporting purposes, are deferred pursuant to the Utility’s PGA Clause and recorded as regulatory assets or regulatory liabilities. These gains and losses are excluded from the table above because they have no direct impact on the Statements of Consolidated Income.




Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at June 30, 2010
 
           
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
3,627
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
8,156
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
95
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
79
 
        Sub-total
     
3,722
     
8,235
 
                   
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
3,905
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
44,174
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
93
 
Other Current Liabilities
 
239
 
   
Other Current Liabilities
 
20
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
1
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
9
 
        Sub-total
     
4,019
     
44,422
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
7,741
   
$
52,657
 
                   
  Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2009  
                   
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
3,001
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
2,019
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
278
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
 
        Sub-total
     
3,279
     
2,019
 
                   
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
7,802
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
53,151
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
2,062
 
Other Current Liabilities
 
1,160
 
   
Other Current Liabilities
 
184
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
21
 
        Sub-total
     
10,048
     
54,332
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
13,327
   
$
56,351
 
                   
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at June 30, 2009
 
                   
   
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
(Thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
*
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
4,632
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
$
982
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
387
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
 
        Sub-total
     
5,019
     
982
 
                   
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
             
                   
  NYMEX natural gas contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
5,751
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
87,206
 
  Natural gas commodity contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
400
 
Other Current Liabilities
 
 
  NYMEX gasoline and heating oil contracts
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
9
 
Derivative Instrument Assets
 
 
        Sub-total
     
6,160
     
87,206
 
  Total derivatives
   
$
11,179
   
$
88,188
 

*
The fair values of Asset Derivatives and Liability Derivatives exclude the fair value of cash margin receivables or payables with counterparties subject to netting arrangements. Fair value amounts of derivative contracts (including the fair value amounts of cash margin receivables and payables) for which there is a legal right to set off are presented net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As such, the gross balances presented in the table above are not indicative of the Company’s net economic exposure. Refer to Note 5, Fair Value Measurements, for information on the valuation of derivative instruments.
 

Following is a reconciliation of the amounts in the tables above to the amounts presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

     
June 30,
 
Sept. 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2009
 
                       
 
Fair value of asset derivatives presented above
 
$
7,741
 
$
13,327
 
$
11,179
 
 
Fair value of cash margin receivables
   
58,354
   
59,226
   
94,595
 
 
Netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty
   
(52,438
)
 
(55,375
)
 
(88,345
)
 
  Derivative instrument assets, per Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
$
13,657
 
$
17,178
 
$
17,429
 
                       
 
Fair value of liability derivatives presented above
 
$
52,657
 
$
56,351
 
$
88,188
 
 
Fair value of cash margin payables
   
   
   
157
 
 
Netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty
   
(52,438
)
 
(55,375
)
 
(88,345
)
 
  Derivative instrument liabilities, per Consolidated Balance Sheet*
 
$
219
 
$
976
 
$
 
                       
*
Included in the Other line of the Current Liabilities section
                   


7.
CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

A significant portion of LER’s transactions are with (or are associated with) energy producers, utility companies, and pipelines. These concentrations of transactions with these counterparties have the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that each of these three groups may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry, or other conditions. To manage this risk, as well as credit risk from large counterparties in other industries, LER has established procedures to determine the creditworthiness of its counterparties. These procedures include obtaining credit ratings and credit reports, analyzing counterparty financial statements to assess financial condition, and considering the industry environment in which the counterparty operates. This information is monitored on an ongoing basis. In some instances, LER may require credit assurances such as prepayments, letters of credit, or parental guarantees. In addition, LER may enter into netting arrangements to mitigate credit risk with counterparties in the energy industry from which LER both sells and purchases natural gas. Sales are typically made on an unsecured credit basis with payment due the month following delivery. Accounts receivable amounts are closely monitored, and provisions for uncollectible amounts are accrued when losses are probable. To date, losses have not been significant. LER records accounts receivable, accounts payable, and prepayments for physical sales and purchases of natural gas on a gross basis. The amount included in accounts receivable attributable to energy producers and their marketing affiliates amounted to $18.6 million, or 28.2% of LER’s total accounts receivable at June 30, 2010. Net receivable amounts from these customers on the same date, reflecting netting arrangements, were $1.6 million. Accounts receivable attributable to utility companies and their marketing affiliates comprised $31.7 million of LER’s total accounts receivable, or 48.0% at June 30, 2010 and net receivable amounts from these customers, reflecting netting arrangements, were $25.9 million. Additionally, LER has concentrations of credit risk with pipeline companies associated with its natural gas receivable amounts.




8.
OTHER INCOME AND (INCOME DEDUCTIONS) – NET

     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
                             
 
Interest income
 
$
402
 
$
631
 
$
1,298
 
$
2,433
 
 
Net investment gain (loss)
   
(433
)
 
853
   
237
   
(721
)
 
Other income
   
151
   
53
   
176
   
358
 
 
Other income deductions
   
(311
)
 
(206
)
 
3
   
247
 
 
Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net
 
$
(191
)
$
1,331
 
$
1,714
 
$
2,317
 

The decrease in Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, compared with the quarter ended June 30, 2009, was primarily due to higher net investment losses, lower income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, and lower interest income. Carrying costs on under-recoveries of gas costs are recovered through the Utility’s PGA Clause.
The decrease in Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net for the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with the nine months ended June 30, 2009, was primarily due to lower income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, lower interest income, and other minor variations, partially offset by higher net investment gains.


9.
INFORMATION BY OPERATING SEGMENT

All of Laclede Group’s subsidiaries are wholly owned. The Regulated Gas Distribution segment consists of the regulated operations of Laclede Gas and is the core business segment of Laclede Group. Laclede Gas is a public utility engaged in the retail distribution and sale of natural gas serving an area in eastern Missouri, with a population of approximately 2.1 million, including the City of St. Louis and parts of ten counties in eastern Missouri. The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment includes the results of LER, a subsidiary engaged in the non-regulated marketing of natural gas and related activities. Other includes Laclede Pipeline Company’s transportation of liquid propane regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as well as non-regulated activities, including real estate development, the compression of natural gas, and financial investments in other enterprises. These operations are conducted through five subsidiaries. Other also includes Laclede Gas’ non-regulated merchandise sales business, which was not material, and its non-regulated sale of propane. The merchandise sales business ceased operations on September 30, 2009. Certain intersegment revenues with Laclede Gas are not eliminated in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 980. Those types of transactions include sales of natural gas from Laclede Gas to LER, sales of natural gas from LER to Laclede Gas, and transportation services provided by Laclede Pipeline Company to Laclede Gas. These revenues are shown on the Intersegment revenues lines in the table under Regulated Gas Distribution, Non-Regulated Gas Marketing, and Other columns, respectively.
As Laclede Group’s non-regulated subsidiary, LER, continues to expand its business, the number of transactions accounted for through fair value measurements has increased. Beginning this fiscal year, management evaluates the performance of the operating segments based on the computation of net economic earnings. Net economic earnings exclude from reported net income the after-tax impact of net unrealized gains and losses on energy-related derivative contracts. For comparative purposes, the measurement of segment performance has been presented to conform to the current-period presentation.



         
Non-
             
     
Regulated
 
Regulated
             
     
Gas
 
Gas
             
 
(Thousands)
 
Distribution
 
Marketing
 
Other
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
 
Three Months Ended
                               
 
June 30, 2010
                               
 
Revenues from external customers
 
$
124,023
 
$
195,988
 
$
195
 
$
 
$
320,206
 
 
Intersegment revenues
   
722
   
3,319
   
260
   
   
4,301
 
 
Total Operating Revenues
   
124,745
   
199,307
   
455
   
   
324,507
 
 
Net Economic Earnings
   
32
   
4,053
   
340
   
   
4,425
 
 
Total assets
   
1,580,772
   
180,830
   
135,887
   
(120,569
)
 
1,776,920
 
                                   
 
Nine Months Ended
                               
 
June 30, 2010
                               
 
Revenues from external customers
 
$
778,332
 
$
638,196
 
$
10,720
 
$
 
$
1,427,248
 
 
Intersegment revenues
   
2,862
   
20,109
   
779
   
   
23,750
 
 
Total Operating Revenues
   
781,194
   
658,305
   
11,499
   
   
1,450,998
 
 
Net Economic Earnings
   
40,904
   
12,452
   
4,189
   
   
57,545
 
 
Total assets
   
1,580,772
   
180,830
   
135,887
   
(120,569
)
 
1,776,920
 
                                   
 
Three Months Ended
                               
 
June 30, 2009
                               
 
Revenues from external customers
 
$
157,626
 
$
144,580
 
$
892
 
$
 
$
303,098
 
 
Intersegment revenues
   
2,706
   
3,862
   
278
   
   
6,846
 
 
Total Operating Revenues
   
160,332
   
148,442
   
1,170
   
   
309,944
 
 
Net Economic Earnings
   
2,298
   
4,175
   
284
   
   
6,757
 
 
Total assets
   
1,488,404
   
151,360
   
125,070
   
(98,830
)
 
1,666,004
 
                                   
 
Nine Months Ended
                               
 
June 30, 2009
                               
 
Revenues from external customers
 
$
954,422
 
$
659,782
 
$
2,499
 
$
 
$
1,616,703
 
 
Intersegment revenues
   
4,479
   
21,289
   
797
   
   
26,565
 
 
Total Operating Revenues
   
958,901
   
681,071
   
3,296
   
   
1,643,268
 
 
Net Economic Earnings
   
40,592
   
25,212
   
883
   
   
66,687
 
 
Total assets
   
1,488,404
   
151,360
   
125,070
   
(98,830
)
 
1,666,004
 

 
Reconciliation of Consolidated Net Economic Earnings to Consolidated Net Income
   
             
     
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
     
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
(Thousands)
 
2010
 
2009
 
2010
 
2009
 
                             
 
Total Net Economic Earnings above
 
$
4,425
 
$
6,757
 
$
57,545
 
$
66,687
 
 
  Add: Unrealized gain (loss) on energy-related
                         
 
    derivative contracts, net of tax
   
306
   
120
   
(1,908
)
 
2,307
 
 
Net Income
 
$
4,731
 
$
6,877
 
$
55,637
 
$
68,994
 




COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Commitments

Laclede Gas and LER have entered into various contracts, expiring on dates through 2017, for the storage, transportation, and supply of natural gas. Minimum payments required under the contracts in place at June 30, 2010 are estimated at approximately $1.0 billion. Additional contracts are generally entered into prior to or during the heating season. Laclede Gas recovers its costs from customers in accordance with the PGA Clause.

Leases and Guarantees

Laclede Gas has several operating leases for the rental of vehicles that contain provisions requiring Laclede Gas to guarantee certain amounts related to the residual value of the leased property. These leases have various terms, the longest of which extends into 2015. At June 30, 2010, the maximum guarantees under these leases are $1.6 million. However, the Utility believes it is unlikely that it will be subject to the maximum payment amount because it estimates that the residual value of the leased vehicles will be adequate to satisfy most of the guaranteed amounts. At June 30, 2010, the carrying value of the liability recognized for these guarantees was $0.4 million.
Laclede Group had guarantees totaling $94.3 million for performance and payment of certain wholesale gas supply purchases by LER, as of June 30, 2010. Since that date, Laclede Group has not issued any additional guarantees on behalf of LER. No amounts have been recorded for these guarantees in the financial statements. As of June 30, 2010, management believes the probability is low that Laclede Group will be required to make payments under these guarantees.

Contingencies and Indemnifications

Laclede Gas owns and operates natural gas distribution, transmission, and storage facilities, the operations of which are subject to various environmental laws, regulations, and interpretations. While environmental issues resulting from such operations arise in the ordinary course of business, such issues have not materially affected the Company’s or Laclede Gas’ financial position and results of operations. As environmental laws, regulations, and their interpretations change, however, Laclede Gas may be required to incur additional costs.
As with other companies, Laclede Gas faces the risk of environmental liabilities. In the natural gas industry, these are typically associated with sites formerly owned or operated by gas distribution companies like Laclede Gas and/or its predecessor companies at which manufactured gas operations took place. At this time, Laclede Gas has identified three former manufactured gas plant (MGP) sites located in Missouri: one in Shrewsbury and two in the City of St. Louis.
To date, amounts required for remediation at these sites have not been material. However, the amount of costs relative to future remedial actions at these and other sites is unknown and may be material. In 2005, the Utility’s outside consultant completed an analysis of the MGP sites to determine cost estimates for a one-time contractual transfer of risk from each of the Utility’s insurers of environmental coverage for the MGP sites. That analysis demonstrated a range of possible future expenditures to investigate, monitor, and remediate these MGP sites from $5.8 million to $36.3 million based upon then currently available facts, technology, and laws and regulations. The actual costs that Laclede Gas may incur could be materially higher or lower depending upon several factors, including whether remedial actions will be required, final selection and regulatory approval of any remedial actions, changing technologies and governmental regulations, the ultimate ability of other potentially responsible parties to pay, and any insurance recoveries. Costs associated with environmental remediation activities are accrued when such costs are probable and reasonably estimable.
Laclede Gas anticipates that any costs it may incur in the future to remediate these sites, less any amounts received as insurance proceeds or as contributions from other potentially responsible parties, would be deferred and recovered in rates through periodic adjustments approved by the MoPSC. Accordingly, potential liabilities associated with remediating these sites are not expected to have a material impact on the future financial position and results of operations of Laclede Gas or the Company.


On December 28, 2006, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $7.2 million related to Laclede Gas’ recovery of its purchased gas costs applicable to fiscal year 2005. On September 14, 2007, the Staff withdrew its pursuit of $5.5 million of the disallowance it had originally proposed. The remaining $1.7 million pertains to Laclede Gas’ purchase of gas from a marketing affiliate, LER. The MoPSC Staff has also proposed disallowances of gas costs relating to Laclede Gas purchases of gas supply from LER for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. On December 31, 2007, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $2.8 million applicable to fiscal year 2006, and on December 31, 2008, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $1.5 million applicable to fiscal year 2007. On December 31, 2009, the MoPSC Staff proposed a number of non-monetary recommendations only, based on its review of gas costs for fiscal year 2008. Laclede Gas believes that the proposed disallowances lack merit and is vigorously opposing these adjustments in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for these proposed disallowances.
In the December 31, 2007 filing mentioned above, the MoPSC Staff also raised questions regarding whether certain sales and capacity release transactions subject to the FERC’s oversight were consistent with the FERC’s regulations and policies regarding capacity release. The Company commenced an internal review of the questions raised by the MoPSC Staff and notified the FERC Staff that it took this action. In June 2008, as a result of the internal review, the Company provided the FERC Staff with a self report regarding compliance of sales and capacity release activities with the FERC’s regulations and policies. On February 9, 2010, the FERC Staff informed the Company that it has closed its investigation of the Company’s self report without taking further action.
In connection with these same affiliate transaction matters, on July 7, 2010, the MoPSC Staff filed a complaint against Laclede Gas alleging that by stating that it was not in possession of proprietary LER documents, Laclede Gas violated the MoPSC Order approving a 2001 Stipulation and Agreement that permitted the Company’s corporate reorganization into a holding company structure. Laclede Gas believes the complaint has no merit and intends to vigorously oppose it.
Laclede Group is involved in other litigation, claims, and investigations arising in the normal course of business. While the results of such litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of the Company.



Laclede Gas Company’s Financial Statements and Notes to Financial Statements are included in Exhibit 99.1 to this report.


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE LACLEDE GROUP, INC.

This management’s discussion analyzes the financial condition and results of operations of The Laclede Group, Inc. (Laclede Group or the Company) and its subsidiaries. It includes management’s view of factors that affect its business, explanations of past financial results including changes in earnings and costs from the prior year periods, and their effects on overall financial condition and liquidity.

Certain matters discussed in this report, excluding historical information, include forward-looking statements. Certain words, such as “may,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” and similar words and expressions identify forward-looking statements that involve uncertainties and risks. Future developments may not be in accordance with our expectations or beliefs and the effect of future developments may not be those anticipated. Among the factors that may cause results to differ materially from those contemplated in any forward-looking statement are:

weather conditions and catastrophic events, particularly severe weather in the natural gas producing areas of the country;
volatility in gas prices, particularly sudden and sustained changes in natural gas prices, including the related impact on margin deposits associated with the use of natural gas derivative instruments;
the impact of changes and volatility in natural gas prices on our competitive position in relation to suppliers of alternative heating sources, such as electricity;
changes in gas supply and pipeline availability, particularly those changes that impact supply for and access to our market area;
legislative, regulatory and judicial mandates and decisions, some of which may be retroactive, including those affecting
 
allowed rates of return
 
incentive regulation
 
industry structure
 
purchased gas adjustment provisions
 
rate design structure and implementation
 
regulatory assets
 
franchise renewals
 
environmental or safety matters, including the potential impact of legislative and regulatory actions related to climate change
 
taxes
 
pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities and funding obligations
 
accounting standards, including the effect of potential changes relative to adoption of or convergence with international accounting standards;
the results of litigation;
retention of, ability to attract, ability to collect from, and conservation efforts of, customers;
capital and energy commodity market conditions, including the ability to obtain funds with reasonable terms for necessary capital expenditures and general operations and the terms and conditions imposed for obtaining sufficient gas supply;
discovery of material weakness in internal controls; and
employee workforce issues.

Readers are urged to consider the risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could affect our business as described in this report. All forward-looking statements made in this report rely upon the safe harbor protections provided under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We do not, by including this statement, assume any obligation to review or revise any particular forward-looking statement in light of future events.

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto.








THE LACLEDE GROUP, INC.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

Laclede Group’s earnings are primarily derived from the regulated activities of its largest subsidiary, Laclede Gas Company (Laclede Gas or the Utility), Missouri’s largest natural gas distribution company. Laclede Gas is regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC or Commission) and serves the City of St. Louis and parts of ten counties in eastern Missouri. Laclede Gas delivers natural gas to retail customers at rates and in accordance with tariffs authorized by the MoPSC. The Utility’s earnings are primarily generated by the sale of heating energy. The Utility’s weather mitigation rate design lessens the impact of weather volatility on Laclede Gas customers during cold winters and stabilizes the Utility’s earnings by recovering fixed costs more evenly during the heating season. Due to the seasonal nature of the business of Laclede Gas, Laclede Group’s earnings are seasonal in nature and are typically concentrated in the November through April period, which generally corresponds with the heating season.

Laclede Energy Resources, Inc. (LER) is engaged in the marketing of natural gas and related activities on a non-regulated basis. LER markets natural gas to both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas’ traditional service territory, including large retail and wholesale customers. LER’s operations and customer base are more subject to fluctuations in market conditions than the Utility.

Other subsidiaries provide less than 10% of consolidated revenues.

Based on the nature of the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, as well as current economic conditions, management focuses on the following key variables in evaluating the financial condition and results of operations and managing the business:

Regulated Gas Distribution Segment:

the Utility’s ability to recover the costs of distribution of natural gas from its customers;
the impact of weather and other factors, such as customer conservation, on revenues and expenses;
changes in the regulatory environment at the federal, state, and local levels, as well as decisions by regulators, that impact the Utility’s ability to earn its authorized rate of return;
the Utility’s ability to access credit markets and maintain working capital sufficient to meet operating requirements; and,
the effect of natural gas price volatility on the business.

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Segment:

the risks of competition;
regional fluctuations in natural gas prices;
new national pipeline infrastructure projects;
credit and/or capital market access;
counterparty risks; and,
the effect of natural gas price volatility on the business.
 
Further information regarding how management seeks to manage these key variables is discussed below.
 
Laclede Group’s strategy is to improve the performance of its core Utility, while developing non-regulated businesses and taking a measured approach in the pursuit of additional growth opportunities that complement the Utility business.



The Utility’s strategy focuses on improving performance and mitigating the impact of weather fluctuations on Laclede Gas’ customers while improving the ability to recover its authorized distribution costs and return. The Utility’s distribution costs are the essential, primarily fixed expenditures it must incur to operate and maintain more than 16,000 miles of mains and services comprising its natural gas distribution system and related storage facilities. The Utility’s distribution costs include wages and employee benefit costs, depreciation and maintenance expenses, and other regulated utility operating expenses, excluding natural and propane gas expense. Distribution costs are considered in the ratemaking process, and recovery of these types of costs is included in revenues generated through the Utility’s tariff rates, as approved by the MoPSC. As previously reported, Laclede Gas had undertaken an evaluation of the Utility’s natural gas storage field, which was developed more than 50 years ago, to assess the field’s current and future capabilities. Based on the initial assessment and management’s expectations regarding the future operation of the storage field, inventory balances included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at June 30, 2009, were reclassified. The assessment is now complete and information derived should result in improved efficiencies in managing the operation of the field. The completion of the assessment did not result in any further adjustment to the classification of inventory balances. In addition, Laclede Gas is working to improve its ability to provide reliable natural gas service at a reasonable cost, while maintaining and building a secure and dependable infrastructure. The settlement of the Utility’s 2007 rate case resulted in enhancements to the Utility’s weather mitigation rate design that better ensure the recovery of its fixed costs and margins despite variations in sales volumes due to the impacts of weather and other factors that affect customer usage.

The Utility’s income from off-system sales and capacity release remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. The Utility is allowed to retain 15% to 25% of the first $6 million in annual income earned (depending on the level of income earned) and 30% of income exceeding $6 million annually. Some of the factors impacting the level of off-system sales include the availability and cost of the Utility’s natural gas supply, the weather in its service area, and the weather in other markets. When Laclede Gas’ service area experiences warmer-than-normal weather while other markets experience colder weather or supply constraints, some of the Utility’s natural gas supply is available for off-system sales and there may be a demand for such supply in other markets. See the Regulatory and Other Matters section on page 37 of this report for additional information on regulatory issues relative to the Utility.

Laclede Gas works actively to reduce the impact of wholesale natural gas prices on its costs by strategically structuring its natural gas supply portfolio to increase its gas supply availability and pricing alternatives and through the use of derivative instruments to protect its customers from significant changes in the commodity price of natural gas. Nevertheless, the overall cost of purchased gas remains subject to fluctuations in market conditions. The Utility’s Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review, the cost of purchased gas supplies, including costs, cost reductions, and related carrying costs associated with the use of derivative instruments to hedge the purchase price of natural gas, as well as gas inventory carrying costs. The Utility believes it will continue to be able to obtain sufficient gas supply. The price of natural gas supplies and other economic conditions may affect sales volumes, due to the conservation efforts of customers, and cash flows associated with the timing of collection of gas costs and related accounts receivable from customers. Long-term increases in the wholesale cost of natural gas supplies may adversely impact the Utility’s competitive position compared with alternative energy sources.

The Utility relies on both short-term credit and long-term capital markets, as well as cash flows from operations, to satisfy its seasonal cash requirements and fund its cost of capital expenditures. Laclede Gas’ ability to issue commercial paper supported by lines of credit, to issue long-term bonds, or to obtain new lines of credit is dependent on current conditions in the credit and capital markets. Management focuses on maintaining a strong balance sheet and believes it currently has adequate access to credit and capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources to meet its foreseeable obligations. See the Liquidity and Capital Resources section on page 39 for additional information.



LER focuses on growing its markets on a long-term and sustainable basis by providing both on-system Utility transportation customers and customers outside of Laclede Gas’ traditional service area with another choice in non-regulated natural gas suppliers. LER is working to assemble the team, technology, and resources necessary to expand its geographic service area and the range of services that it now provides. Nevertheless, income from LER’s operations is more subject to fluctuations in market conditions than the Utility’s operations. LER’s business is directly impacted by the effects of competition in the marketplace and the impact of new pipeline infrastructure on regional commodity prices of natural gas.

In the course of its business, LER enters into commitments associated with the purchase or sale of natural gas. Many of LER’s physical purchase and sale transactions are recognized in earnings when the natural gas is delivered. However, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) require that some of LER’s energy-related transactions be accounted for as derivatives, with the changes in their fair value (representing unrealized gains or losses) recorded in earnings in periods prior to physical delivery. Because related transactions of a purchase and sale strategy may be accounted for differently, there may be timing differences in the recognition of earnings under GAAP and economic earnings realized upon settlement. The Company reports both GAAP and economic earnings, as discussed below.

In addition to its operating cash flows, LER relies on parental guarantees to secure its purchase and sales obligations of natural gas. A large portion of LER’s receivables are from customers in the energy industry. LER also enters into netting arrangements with many of its energy counterparties to reduce overall credit and collateral exposure. Although LER’s uncollectible amounts are closely monitored and have not been significant, increases in uncollectible amounts from customers are possible and could adversely affect LER’s liquidity and results.

LER carefully monitors the creditworthiness of counterparties to its transactions. LER performs in-house credit reviews of potential customers and requires prepayments or letters of credit from non-investment grade customers. Credit limits for customers are established and monitored.


EARNINGS

Laclede Group reports net income and earnings per share determined in accordance with GAAP. As Laclede Group’s non-regulated subsidiary, LER, continues to expand its business, the number of transactions accounted for through fair value measurements has increased. As a result, management also uses the non-GAAP measures of net economic earnings and net economic earnings per share when internally evaluating results of operations. Net economic earnings exclude from net income the after-tax impacts of net unrealized gains and losses on energy-related derivatives that are required by GAAP fair value accounting. This adjustment eliminates the impact of timing differences related to current changes in the fair value of financial and physical transactions prior to their completion and settlement. Management believes that excluding the earnings volatility caused by recognizing changes in fair value prior to settlement provides a useful representation of the economic impact of only the actual settled transactions and their effects on results of operations. These internal non-GAAP operating metrics should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, GAAP measures such as net income. While management uses these non-GAAP measures to evaluate both Laclede Gas and LER, the net effect of unrealized gains and losses on the Utility’s earnings is minimal because gains or losses on its natural gas derivative instruments are deferred pursuant to its PGA Clause, as authorized by the MoPSC. These unrealized gains and losses result primarily from two sources:

1)
Changes in fair values of physical and/or financial derivatives prior to the period of settlement
2)
Ineffective portions of accounting hedges, required to be recorded in earnings prior to settlement, due to differences in commodity price changes between the locations of the forecasted physical purchase or sale transactions and the locations of the underlying hedge instruments

Unrealized gains or losses are recorded in each period until being replaced with the actual gains or losses realized when the associated physical transaction(s) occur.



Reconciliations of net economic earnings and net economic earnings per share to the Company’s most directly comparable GAAP measures are provided below.

Quarter Ended June 30, 2010

(Millions, except per share amounts)
Net Economic Earnings
(Non-GAAP)
Add: Unrealized gain (loss) on energy-related derivative contracts*
Net Income
(GAAP)
Quarter Ended June 30, 2010
                       
 
Regulated Gas Distribution
 
$
   
$
   
$
 
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
4.1
     
0.3
     
4.4
 
 
Other
   
0.3
     
     
0.3
 
 
     Total
 
$
4.4
   
$
0.3
   
$
4.7
 
 
Per Share Amounts **
 
$
0.20
   
$
0.01
   
$
0.21
 
                           
Quarter Ended June 30, 2009
                       
 
Regulated Gas Distribution
 
$
2.3
   
$
   
$
2.3
 
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
4.2
     
0.1
     
4.3
 
 
Other
   
0.3
     
     
0.3
 
 
     Total
 
$
6.8
   
$
0.1
   
$
6.9
 
 
Per Share Amounts **
 
$
0.30
   
$
0.01
   
$
0.31
 
   
*
Amounts presented net of income taxes. Income taxes are calculated by applying federal, state, and local income tax rates applicable to ordinary income to the amounts of unrealized gain (loss) on energy-related derivative contracts. For the quarter ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 the amount of income tax expense included in the total reconciling item above is $0.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.
   
**
Net economic earnings per share is calculated by replacing consolidated net income with consolidated net economic earnings in the GAAP diluted earnings per share calculation.

Laclede Group’s net income was $4.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, compared with $6.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. Basic and diluted earnings per share for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 were $0.21 compared with basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.31 for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. Net economic earnings were $4.4 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 compared with $6.8 million for the same quarter last year. Net economic earnings per share were $0.20 for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 compared with $0.30 for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. Earnings decreased compared to last year primarily due to lower income reported by Laclede Group’s Regulated Gas Distribution segment.

Both Regulated Gas Distribution net income and Regulated Gas Distribution net economic earnings decreased by $2.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, compared with the quarter ended June 30, 2009. The decrease was primarily due to the following factors, quantified on a pre-tax basis:

the effect of lower system gas sales volumes, primarily due to warmer weather during the quarter ended June 30, 2010 compared with the same quarter last year, and other variations totaling $2.8 million;
higher net investment losses totaling $1.6 million; and,
lower income from off-system sales totaling $1.3 million.

These factors were partially offset by higher Infrastructure System Replacement Surcharge (ISRS) revenues totaling $1.3 million.



The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment reported GAAP earnings of $4.4 million and net economic earnings of $4.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010, essentially unchanged from the amounts reported for the same quarter last year. The effect of 12.6% higher sales volumes (mainly attributable to new customer growth and higher wholesale sales volumes), was largely offset by reduced margins on sales of natural gas.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues

Laclede Gas passes on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review) increases and decreases in the wholesale cost of natural gas in accordance with its PGA Clause. The volatility of the wholesale natural gas market results in fluctuations from period to period in the recorded levels of, among other items, revenues and natural gas cost expense. Nevertheless, increases and decreases in the cost of gas associated with system gas sales volumes have no direct effect on net revenues and net income.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 were $124.7 million, or $35.6 million less than the same period last year. Temperatures experienced in the Utility’s service area during the quarter were 57.6% warmer than the same quarter last year and 54.9% warmer than normal. Total system therms sold and transported were 102.2 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 compared with 124.8 million for the same period last year. Total off-system therms sold and transported were 31.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 compared with 38.6 million for the same period last year. The decrease in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues was primarily attributable to the following factors:

(Millions)
 
Lower system sales volumes and other variations
 
$
(22.1
)
Lower wholesale gas costs passed on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review by the MoPSC)
   
(13.5
)
Lower off-system sales volumes
   
(2.7
)
Higher prices charged for off-system sales
   
1.4
 
Higher ISRS revenues
   
1.3
 
Total Variation
 
$
(35.6
)

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 decreased $32.3 million from the same quarter last year. Natural and propane gas expense decreased $30.5 million, or 34.8%, from last year’s level, primarily attributable to decreased system volumes purchased for sendout, lower rates charged by our suppliers, and lower off-system gas expense. Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 0.3%, primarily due to a lower provision for uncollectible accounts, a higher rate of overheads capitalized, and decreased distribution charges. These factors were partially offset by the effect of a gain on the disposal of assets recorded last year and increased maintenance charges. Taxes, other than income taxes, decreased $1.8 million, or 13.1%, primarily due to decreased gross receipts taxes (attributable to the decreased revenues).

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues and Operating Expenses

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues increased $50.9 million primarily due to increased per unit gas sales prices by LER and the effect of 12.6% higher sales volumes. The increase in Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Expenses totaling $50.7 million was primarily associated with higher prices charged by suppliers and increased volumes purchased.




Other Income and (Income Deductions) - Net

Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net decreased $1.5 million primarily due to higher net investment losses, lower income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, and lower interest income. Carrying costs on under-recoveries of gas costs are recovered through the Utility’s PGA Clause.

Income Taxes

The $2.6 million decrease in income taxes was primarily due to lower pre-tax income.


Nine Months Ended June 30, 2010

(Millions, except per share amounts)
Net Economic Earnings
(Non-GAAP)
Add: Unrealized gain (loss) on energy-related derivative contracts*
Net Income
(GAAP)
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2010
                       
 
Regulated Gas Distribution
 
$
40.9
   
$
(0.1
)
 
$
40.8
 
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
12.4
     
(1.8
)
   
10.6
 
 
Other
   
4.2
     
     
4.2
 
 
     Total
 
$
57.5
   
$
(1.9
)
 
$
55.6
 
 
Per Share Amounts **
 
$
2.59
   
$
(0.09
)
 
$
2.50
 
                           
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2009
                       
 
Regulated Gas Distribution
 
$
40.6
   
$
   
$
40.6
 
 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing
   
25.2
     
2.3
     
27.5
 
 
Other
   
0.9
     
     
0.9
 
 
     Total
 
$
66.7
   
$
2.3
   
$
69.0
 
 
Per Share Amounts **
 
$
3.00
   
$
0.11
   
$
3.11
 
   
*
Amounts presented net of income taxes. Income taxes are calculated by applying federal, state, and local income tax rates applicable to ordinary income to the amounts of unrealized gain (loss) on energy-related derivative contracts. For the nine months ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, the amount of income tax expense (benefit) included in the total reconciling items above are $(1.2) million and $1.4 million, respectively.
   
**
Net economic earnings per share is calculated by replacing consolidated net income with consolidated net economic earnings in the GAAP diluted earnings per share calculation.

Laclede Group’s net income was $55.6 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with $69.0 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2009. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $2.51 and $2.50, respectively, for the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with basic and diluted earnings per share of $3.12 and $3.11, respectively for the same period last year. Net economic earnings were $57.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with $66.7 million for the same period last year. Net economic earnings per share were $2.59 for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with $3.00 for the nine months ended June 30, 2009. Earnings decreased compared to last year primarily due to lower income reported by Laclede Group’s Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment, partially offset by increased Other income.



Regulated Gas Distribution net income and Regulated Gas Distribution net economic earnings increased by $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with the nine months ended June 30, 2009. The increase was primarily due to the following factors, quantified on a pre-tax basis:

higher ISRS revenues totaling $3.3 million;
a lower provision for uncollectible accounts totaling $2.4 million; and,
increased net investment gains totaling $0.8 million.

These factors were partially offset by:

lower income from off-system sales and capacity release totaling $3.9 million; and,
the effect of lower system gas sales volumes and other variations totaling $2.1 million.

The Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segment reported a decrease in GAAP earnings of $16.9 million compared with the same period last year. Net economic earnings for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 decreased $12.8 million from the nine months ended June 30, 2009. These decreases were primarily due to LER’s significantly reduced margins on sales of natural gas. The reduced sales margins were driven primarily by narrower regional price differentials that have recently prevailed in the marketplace, as compared to the favorable market conditions that existed during the first half of fiscal year 2009. On a GAAP basis, the reduced sales margins this year also included the effect of after-tax net unrealized losses from certain of LER’s energy-related derivative contracts, totaling $1.8 million, recognized in earnings during the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with after-tax net unrealized gains, totaling $2.3 million, recognized during the nine months ended June 30, 2009.

Both Other net income and Other net economic earnings increased $3.3 million compared with the same period last year primarily due to a sale of propane in the wholesale market by Laclede Gas during the quarter ended December 31, 2009. This non-regulated sale resulted from an inventory exchange that the counterparty settled in cash instead of through a return of inventory, and resulted in income, net of income taxes, totaling $3.7 million, contributing $0.16 to both basic and diluted earnings per share.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues

Laclede Gas passes on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review) increases and decreases in the wholesale cost of natural gas in accordance with its PGA Clause. The volatility of the wholesale natural gas market results in fluctuations from period to period in the recorded levels of, among other items, revenues and natural gas cost expense. Nevertheless, increases and decreases in the cost of gas associated with system gas sales volumes have no direct effect on net revenues and net income.

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 were $781.2 million, or $177.7 million less than the same period last year. Temperatures experienced in the Utility’s service area during the nine months ended June 30, 2010 were 1.4% warmer than the same period last year and 1.9% warmer than normal. Total system therms sold and transported were 820.9 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with 830.9 million for the same period last year. Total off-system therms sold and transported were 70.7 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with 160.9 million for the same period last year. The decrease in Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Revenues was primarily attributable to the following factors:

(Millions)
 
Lower wholesale gas costs passed on to Utility customers (subject to prudence review by the MoPSC)
 
$
(132.4
)
Lower off-system sales volumes
   
(42.2
)
Lower system sales volumes and other variations
   
(5.0
)
Higher ISRS revenues
   
3.3
 
Lower prices charged for off-system sales
   
(1.4
)
Total Variation
 
$
(177.7
)



Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses

Regulated Gas Distribution Operating Expenses for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 decreased $174.0 million from the same period last year. Natural and propane gas expense decreased $166.7 million, or 25.4%, from last year’s level, primarily attributable to lower rates charged by our suppliers and lower off-system gas expense. Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased $1.8 million, or 1.4%, primarily due to a lower provision for uncollectible accounts and reduced distribution charges, partially offset by the effect of a gain on the disposal of assets recorded last year. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $0.7 million, or 2.4%, primarily due to additional depreciable property. Taxes, other than income taxes, decreased $6.1 million, or 10.1%, primarily due to decreased gross receipts taxes (attributable to the decreased revenues).

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues and Operating Expenses

Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Revenues decreased $22.8 million primarily due to lower per unit gas prices charged by LER, partially offset by increased volumes purchased. The increase in Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Operating Expenses totaling $3.5 million was primarily associated with increased sales volumes, partially offset by lower prices charged by suppliers. LER’s sales volumes increased 3.2% compared to the same period last year.

Other Operating Revenues and Operating Expenses

Other Operating Revenues increased $8.2 million primarily due to a sale of propane in the wholesale market by Laclede Gas during the quarter ended December 31, 2009. This non-regulated sale resulted from an inventory exchange that the counterparty settled in cash instead of through a return of inventory. The increase in Other Operating Expenses, totaling $2.5 million, was primarily due to expenses associated with this sale of propane.

Other Income and (Income Deductions) - Net

Other Income and (Income Deductions) – Net decreased $0.6 million primarily due to lower income associated with carrying costs applied to under-recoveries of gas costs, lower interest income, and other minor variations, partially offset by higher net investment gains. Carrying costs on under-recoveries of gas costs are recovered through the Utility’s PGA Clause.

Interest Charges

The $2.8 million decrease in interest charges was primarily due to lower interest on short-term debt. Average short-term interest rates were 0.3% for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with 1.7% for the nine months ended June 30, 2009. Average short-term borrowings were $107.7 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with $229.3 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2009.

Income Taxes

The $8.7 million decrease in income taxes was primarily due to lower pre-tax income.





During fiscal year 2006, the MoPSC approved permanent modifications to the Cold Weather Rule affecting the disconnection and reconnection practices of utilities during the winter heating season. Those modifications included provisions to allow the Utility to obtain accounting authorizations and defer for future recovery certain costs incurred with the modifications. During fiscal year 2007, the Utility deferred for future recovery $2.7 million of costs associated with the fiscal year 2007 heating season. On October 31, 2007, the Utility filed for determination and subsequent recovery of the deferred amount. On November 16, 2007, the MoPSC directed the MoPSC Staff and the Missouri Office of Public Counsel (Public Counsel) to submit their positions regarding the Utility’s filing and on February 28, 2008, the Utility and the MoPSC Staff filed a Non-Unanimous Stipulation & Agreement in which these parties agreed to a recovery of $2.5 million of costs. Public Counsel opposed the Non-Unanimous Stipulation & Agreement and a hearing in this matter was held before the Commission. On April 17, 2008, the Commission issued its Report and Order approving the $2.5 million cost recovery recommended by the Utility and the MoPSC Staff. Consistent with the approved amount, the Utility recorded a reduction in its deferral totaling $0.2 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2008. On May 29, 2008, Public Counsel appealed the MoPSC’s Order to the Cole County, Missouri Circuit Court, and on January 6, 2009, the Court issued its judgment affirming the Commission’s Order approving the Cold Weather Rule compliance cost amount that the Utility and Staff had recommended over Public Counsel’s objection. On February 9, 2009, Public Counsel appealed the Circuit Court’s affirmation of the MoPSC’s April 17, 2008 Order to the Court of Appeals for the Western District of Missouri. On December 22, 2009, the Court of Appeals also issued a judgment affirming the Commission’s Order. On January 5, 2010, Public Counsel sought rehearing of the decision or transfer to the Missouri Supreme Court. The Court subsequently denied this request.

On December 28, 2006, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $7.2 million related to Laclede Gas’ recovery of its purchased gas costs applicable to fiscal year 2005. On September 14, 2007, the Staff withdrew its pursuit of $5.5 million of the disallowance it had originally proposed. The remaining $1.7 million pertains to Laclede Gas’ purchase of gas from a marketing affiliate, LER. The MoPSC Staff has also proposed disallowances of gas costs relating to Laclede Gas purchases of gas supply from LER for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. On December 31, 2007, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $2.8 million applicable to fiscal year 2006, and on December 31, 2008, the MoPSC Staff proposed a disallowance of $1.5 million applicable to fiscal year 2007. On December 31, 2009, the MoPSC Staff proposed a number of non-monetary recommendations only, based on its review of gas costs for fiscal year 2008. Laclede Gas believes that the proposed disallowances lack merit and is vigorously opposing these adjustments in proceedings before the MoPSC. As such, no amount has been recorded in the financial statements for these proposed disallowances.

In the December 31, 2007 filing mentioned above, the MoPSC Staff also raised questions regarding whether certain sales and capacity release transactions subject to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)’s oversight were consistent with the FERC’s regulations and policies regarding capacity release. The Company commenced an internal review of the questions raised by the MoPSC Staff and notified the FERC Staff that it took this action. In June 2008, as a result of the internal review, the Company provided the FERC Staff with a self report regarding compliance of sales and capacity release activities with the FERC’s regulations and policies. On February 9, 2010, the FERC Staff informed the Company that it has closed its investigation of the Company’s self report without taking further action.

In connection with these same affiliate transaction matters, on July 7, 2010, the MoPSC Staff filed a complaint against Laclede Gas alleging that by stating that it was not in possession of proprietary LER documents, Laclede Gas violated the MoPSC Order approving a 2001 Stipulation and Agreement that permitted the Company’s corporate reorganization into a holding company structure. Laclede Gas believes the complaint has no merit and intends to vigorously oppose it.

On July 9, 2008, Laclede Gas made a tariff filing with the MoPSC that would make the payment provisions for the restoration of gas service under the Utility’s Cold Weather Rule available to customers in the summer of 2008 and enable the Utility to increase or decrease its PGA rates to correct for any shortfall or surplus created by the difference between the gas cost portion of the Utility’s actual net bad debt write-offs and the amount of such cost that is embedded in its existing rates. As a result of the ensuing procedural schedule, the Cold Weather Rule portion of the filing became moot. On April 15, 2009, the Commission issued its Order rejecting the Utility’s tariffs on the grounds that it did not have the legal authority to approve them. On May 28, 2009, Laclede Gas filed for a petition with the Circuit Court of Cole County seeking judicial review of the Commission’s decision. On January 11, 2010, the Court issued a judgment that the Commission did have the legal authority to approve such tariffs. The Commission has appealed this determination to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District.



On December 4, 2009, Laclede Gas filed tariff sheets in a new general rate case proceeding that are designed to increase revenues by approximately $52.6 million annually, or 6.9%. The Utility also proposed several alternatives to better ensure its recovery of its fixed costs of doing business. On December 10, 2009, the MoPSC suspended implementation of the Utility’s proposed rates and set the case for hearing during the summer of 2010. As of the date of this report, the Utility and other parties to the case have reached an agreement in principle that, together with a partial Stipulation and Agreement filed on July 23, 2010, will resolve all the issues in the case. It is anticipated that during the week of August 2, 2010 the parties will file a written Stipulation and Agreement embodying the terms of the proposed settlement. The proposed settlement remains subject to the Commission’s approval.

On January 15, 2010, the Utility made an ISRS filing with the Commission designed to increase revenues by $3.2 million annually. On March 24, 2010, the MoPSC approved a $2.8 million annual increase that became effective March 31, 2010.

On June 29, 2010, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs issued a Notice of Violations to Laclede Gas alleging lapses in certain employment selection procedures during a two-year period ending in February 2006. The Company believes that the allegations lack merit and will vigorously defend its position.



Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and capital resources is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Generally accepted accounting principles require that we make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Our critical accounting policies used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements are described in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009 and include the following:

 
Allowances for doubtful accounts
 
Employee benefits and postretirement obligations
 
Regulated operations

There were no significant changes to these critical accounting policies during the nine months ended June 30, 2010. For discussion of other significant accounting policies, see Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. As Laclede Group’s non-regulated subsidiary, LER, continues to expand its business, the number of transactions accounted for through fair value measurements has increased. Therefore, this fiscal year, the Company has included a critical accounting policy regarding certain energy contracts:

 
Non-Regulated Gas Marketing Energy Contracts – LER routinely enters into contracts for the physical purchase or sale of natural gas in a future period. To the extent LER’s contracts qualify for the normal purchases or normal sales election under GAAP, they are accounted for in the period the natural gas is delivered. Many of LER’s contracts are accounted for in this manner. However, pursuant to GAAP, certain contracts are required to be accounted for as derivatives with changes in fair value (representing unrealized gains or losses) recognized in earnings in the periods prior to physical delivery. Unrealized gains or losses on these contracts are recognized as either Non-Regulated Gas Marketing operating revenues or Non-Regulated Gas Marketing operating expenses in the Statements of Consolidated Income. In addition to these physical contracts, LER also utilizes exchange-traded/cleared New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) natural gas futures and swap contracts to manage the price risk associated with certain of its fixed-price commitments. These contracts are generally designated for hedge accounting treatment, as discussed in Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

The Company has evaluated or is in the process of evaluating the impact that recently issued accounting standards will have on the Company’s financial position or results of operations upon adoption. For disclosures related to the adoption of new accounting standards, see the New Accounting Standards section of Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


FINANCIAL CONDITION


CASH FLOWS

The Company’s short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during colder months when Laclede Gas borrows money to cover the lag between when it purchases its natural gas and when its customers pay for that gas. Changes in the wholesale cost of natural gas (including cash payments for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments), variations in the timing of collections of gas cost under the Utility’s PGA Clause, and the utilization of storage gas inventories cause short-term cash requirements to vary during the year and from year to year, and can cause significant variations in the Utility’s cash provided by or used in operating activities.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 was $157.8 million, compared with $219.8 million for the same period last year. The variation is primarily attributable to changes in the cost of natural gas storage inventories and certain other variations associated with the timing of the collections of gas cost under the Utility’s PGA clause. These factors were partially offset by a year-over-year reduction in cash paid for margin deposits associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments and a reduction in cash payments for income taxes.

Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 was $43.8 million compared with $40.0 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2009. Cash used in investing activities primarily reflected capital expenditures in both periods.

Net cash used in financing activities was $79.3 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010 compared with $105.6 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2009. The variation primarily reflects a reduction in repayments of short-term debt this year.



Short-term Debt

As indicated above, the Company’s short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during the colder months. These short-term cash requirements can be met through the sale of commercial paper supported by lines of credit with banks or through direct use of the lines of credit. Laclede Gas has a syndicated line of credit in place of $320 million from 10 banks, with the largest portion provided by a single bank being 17.5%. This line expires in December 2011. During the nine months ending June 30, 2010, Laclede Gas utilized only commercial paper for external short-term funding. Commercial paper outstanding at June 30, 2010 was $76.2 million. The weighted average interest rate on the short-term borrowings was 0.37% per annum at June 30, 2010. Based on total short-term borrowings at June 30, 2010, an increase in interest rate of 100 basis points would decrease pre-tax earnings and cash flows by approximately $0.8 million on an annual basis. Portions of such increases or decreases may be offset through the application of PGA carrying costs. The Utility had short-term borrowings aggregating to a maximum of $178.0 million at any one time during the nine months ended June 30, 2010.

Laclede Gas’ lines of credit include covenants limiting total debt, including short-term debt, to no more than 70% of total capitalization and requiring earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) to be at least 2.25 times interest expense. On June 30, 2010, total debt was 52% of total capitalization. For the twelve months ended June 30, 2010, EBITDA was 4.33 times interest expense.

Short-term cash requirements outside of Laclede Gas have generally been met with internally-generated funds. However, Laclede Group has $50 million in working capital lines of credit which expire in October 2010, to meet short-term liquidity needs of its subsidiaries. These lines of credit have covenants limiting the total debt of the consolidated Laclede Group to no more than 70% of the Company’s total capitalization. This ratio stood at 46% on June 30, 2010. These lines have been used to provide for seasonal funding needs of various subsidiaries from time to time. There were no borrowings under Laclede Group’s lines during the nine months ended June 30, 2010.



Long-term Debt and Equity

On June 30, 2009, the Utility filed an application with the MoPSC requesting authority to issue debt securities and preferred stock, including on a private placement basis, as well as to issue common stock, receive paid-in capital, and enter into capital lease agreements, all for a total of up to $600 million over the next three years. This application was approved on June 16, 2010, in the amount of $518 million, to be effective from June 30, 2010 through June 30, 2013. The amount, timing, and type of additional financing to be issued will depend on cash requirements and market conditions, as well as future MoPSC authorizations.

At June 30, 2010, Laclede Gas had fixed-rate long-term debt, including current obligations, totaling $390 million. While these long-term debt issues are fixed-rate, they are subject to changes in fair value as market interest rates change. However, increases or decreases in fair value would impact earnings and cash flows only if Laclede Gas were to reacquire any of these issues in the open market prior to maturity.

Guarantees

Laclede Gas has several operating leases for the rental of vehicles that contain provisions requiring Laclede Gas to guarantee certain amounts related to the residual value of the leased property. These leases have various terms, the longest of which extends into 2015. At June 30, 2010, the maximum guarantees under these leases were $1.6 million. However, the Utility believes it is unlikely that it will be subject to the maximum payment amount because it estimates that the residual value of the leased vehicles will be adequate to satisfy most of the guaranteed amounts. At June 30, 2010, the carrying value of the liability recognized for these guarantees was $0.4 million.

Laclede Group had guarantees totaling $94.3 million for performance and payment of certain wholesale gas supply purchases by LER, as of June 30, 2010. Since that date, Laclede Group has not issued any additional guarantees on behalf of LER. No amounts have been recorded for these guarantees in the financial statements.

Other

The Company’s and the Utility’s access to capital markets, including the commercial paper market, and their respective financing costs, may depend on the credit rating of the entity that is accessing the capital markets. These ratings, which are indicated below, were unchanged over the past quarter but remain subject to review and change by the rating agencies.

Type of Facility
S&P
Moody’s
Fitch
Laclede Group Issuer Rating
A
 
A-
Laclede Gas First Mortgage Bonds
A
A2
A+
Laclede Gas Commercial Paper
A-1
P-2
F1

Utility capital expenditures were $39.7 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with $38.6 million for the same period last year. Non-utility capital expenditures were $0.6 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2010, compared with $0.9 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2009.

Consolidated capitalization at June 30, 2010 consisted of 60.0% Laclede Group common stock equity and 40.0% Laclede Gas long-term debt.

It is management’s view that the Company has adequate access to capital markets and will have sufficient capital resources, both internal and external, to meet anticipated capital requirements, which primarily include capital expenditures, scheduled maturities of long-term debt, short-term seasonal needs, and dividends.

The seasonal nature of Laclede Gas’ sales affects the comparison of certain balance sheet items at June 30, 2010 and at September 30, 2009, such as Accounts receivable - net, Gas stored underground, Notes payable, Accounts payable, Regulatory assets and Regulatory liabilities, and Advance and Delayed customer billings. The Consolidated Balance Sheet at June 30, 2009 is presented to facilitate comparison of these items with the corresponding interim period of the preceding fiscal year.




CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

As of June 30, 2010, Laclede Group had contractual obligations with payments due as summarized below (in millions):

   
Payments due by period
 
       
Remaining
         
Fiscal Years
 
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Total
 
Fiscal Year
2010
 
Fiscal Years
2011-2012
 
Fiscal Years
2013-2014
 
2015 and
thereafter
 
Principal Payments on Long-Term Debt
 
$
390.0
 
$
 
$
25.0
 
$
25.0
 
$
340.0
 
Interest Payments on Long-Term Debt
   
487.3
   
2.4
   
46.7
   
43.5
   
394.7
 
Operating Leases (a)
   
14.7
   
1.5
   
8.1
   
4.5
   
0.6
 
Purchase Obligations – Natural Gas (b)
   
961.5
   
179.2
   
597.2
   
163.0
   
22.1
 
Purchase Obligations – Other (c)
   
92.4
   
7.0
   
23.0
   
17.3
   
45.1
 
Total (d)
 
$
1,945.9
 
$
190.1
 
$
700.0
 
$
253.3
 
$
802.5
 

    (a)
Operating lease obligations are primarily for office space, vehicles, and power operated equipment in the Regulated Gas Distribution segment. Additional payments will be incurred if renewal options are exercised under the provisions of certain agreements.
    (b)
These purchase obligations represent the minimum payments required under existing natural gas transportation and storage contracts and natural gas supply agreements in the Regulated Gas Distribution and Non-Regulated Gas Marketing segments. These amounts reflect fixed obligations as well as obligations to purchase natural gas at future market prices, calculated using June 30, 2010 forward market prices. Laclede Gas recovers the costs related to its purchases, transportation, and storage of natural gas through the operation of its PGA Clause, subject to prudence review; however, variations in the timing of collections of gas costs from customers affect short-term cash requirements. Additional contractual commitments are generally entered into prior to or during the heating season.
    (c)
These purchase obligations reflect miscellaneous agreements for the purchase of materials and the procurement of services necessary for normal operations.
    (d)
The categories of Capital Leases and Other Long-Term Liabilities have been excluded from the table above because there are no material amounts of contractual obligations under these categories. Long-term liabilities associated with unrecognized tax benefits, totaling $6.9 million, have been excluded from the table above because the timing of future cash outflows, if any, cannot be reasonably estimated. Also, commitments related to pension and postretirement benefit plans have been excluded from the table above. The Company does not expect to make contributions to its qualified, trusteed pension plans during the remainder of fiscal year 2010. Laclede Gas anticipates a $0.1 million contribution relative to its non-qualified pension plans during the remainder of fiscal year 2010. With regard to the postretirement benefits, the Company anticipates Laclede Gas will not contribute to the qualified trusts but will contribute $0.1 million directly to participants from Laclede Gas’ funds during the remainder of fiscal year 2010. For further discussion of the Company’s pension and postretirement benefit plans, refer to Note 3, Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



Laclede Gas’ commodity price risk, which arises from market fluctuations in the price of natural gas, is primarily managed through the operation of its PGA Clause. The PGA Clause allows Laclede Gas to flow through to customers, subject to prudence review, the cost of purchased gas supplies. The Utility is allowed the flexibility to make up to three discretionary PGA changes during each year, in addition to its mandatory November PGA change, so long as such changes are separated by at least two months. The Utility is able to mitigate, to some extent, changes in commodity prices through the use of physical storage supplies and regional supply diversity. Laclede Gas also has a risk management policy that allows for the purchase of natural gas derivative instruments with the goal of managing its price risk associated with purchasing natural gas on behalf of its customers. This policy prohibits speculation. Costs and cost reductions, including carrying costs, associated with the Utility’s use of natural gas derivative instruments are allowed to be passed on to the Utility’s customers through the operation of its PGA Clause. Accordingly, Laclede Gas does not expect any adverse earnings impact as a result of the use of these derivative instruments. However, the timing of recovery for cash payments related to margin requirements may cause short-term cash requirements to vary. Nevertheless, carrying costs associated with such requirements, as well as other variations in the timing of collections of gas costs, are recovered through the PGA Clause. For more information about the Utility’s natural gas derivative instruments, see Note 6, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



In the course of its business, Laclede Group’s non-regulated gas marketing subsidiary, LER, enters into fixed-price commitments associated with the purchase or sale of natural gas. As part of its risk management policy, LER manages the price risk associated with these commitments by either closely matching the offsetting physical purchase or sale of natural gas at fixed-prices or through the use of exchange-traded/cleared futures contracts and swap contracts to lock in margins. At June 30, 2010, LER’s unmatched positions were not material to Laclede Group’s financial position or results of operations. For details related to LER’s derivatives and hedging activities, see Note 6, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

LER has concentrations of counterparty credit risk in that a significant portion of its transactions are with (or are associated with) energy producers, utility companies, and pipelines. These concentrations of counterparties have the potential to affect the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that each of these three groups may be affected similarly by changes in economic, industry, or other conditions. LER closely monitors its credit exposure and, although uncollectible amounts have not been significant, increased counterparty defaults are possible and may result in financial losses and/or capital limitations. For more information on these concentrations of credit risk, including how LER manages these risks, see Note 7, Concentrations of Credit Risk, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company is also subject to interest rate risk associated with its long-term and short-term debt issuances. Refer to the Liquidity and Capital Resources section of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for information about the effect of changes in interest rates.


ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

Laclede Gas owns and operates natural gas distribution, transmission, and storage facilities, the operations of which are subject to various environmental laws, regulations, and interpretations. While environmental issues resulting from such operations arise in the ordinary course of business, such issues have not materially affected the Company’s or Laclede Gas’ financial position and results of operations. As environmental laws, regulations, and their interpretations change, however, Laclede Gas may be required to incur additional costs. For information relative to environmental matters, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. For changes during the nine months ended June 30, 2010, see Note 10, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Laclede Group has no off-balance sheet arrangements.


Laclede Gas Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition is included in Exhibit 99.1 of this report.
 
 


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

For this discussion, see Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Market Risk, on page 41 of this report.
 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, both The Laclede Group, Inc. and Laclede Gas Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15e and Rule 15d-15e under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures of the Company and Laclede Gas are effective.

There have been no changes in the internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the third fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the internal control over financial reporting for The Laclede Group, Inc. or Laclede Gas Company.






PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

For a description of environmental matters and legal proceedings, see Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009. For changes during the nine months ended June 30, 2010, see Note 10, Commitments and Contingencies, of the Notes to Financial Statements. For a description of pending regulatory matters of Laclede Gas, see Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Regulatory and Other Matters, on page 37 of this report.

Laclede Group and its subsidiaries are involved in litigation, claims and investigations arising in the normal course of business. While the results of such litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, management, after discussion with counsel, believes that the final outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations of the Company.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

On May 7, 2010, the Board of Directors of Laclede Gas approved the sale of 10 shares of Laclede Gas common stock to Laclede Group. The proceeds from the sale, totaling $0.4 million were used to reduce short-term borrowings. Exemption from registration was claimed under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.

Item 6. Exhibits

(a)












 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
     
The Laclede Group, Inc.
       
Dated:
 
July 30, 2010
 
By: 
/s/ Mark D. Waltermire
         
Mark D. Waltermire
         
Chief Financial Officer
         
(Authorized Signatory and Chief Financial Officer)









 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
     
Laclede Gas Company
       
Dated:
 
July 30, 2010
 
By: 
/s/ Mark D. Waltermire
         
Mark D. Waltermire
         
Senior Vice President and
         
Chief Financial Officer
         
(Authorized Signatory and Chief Financial Officer)







 


INDEX TO EXHIBITS


Exhibit No.
   
     
3.2*
-
Bylaws of The Laclede Group, Inc. as amended April 29, 2010, filed as exhibit 3.2 to Form 8-K filed on April 30, 2010.
     
12
-
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
     
31
-
CEO and CFO Certifications under Exchange Act Rule 13a – 14(a).
     
32
-
CEO and CFO Section 1350 Certifications.
     
99.1
-
Laclede Gas Company - Financial Statements, Notes to Financial Statements, and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
     
*
Incorporated by reference; Laclede File No. 1-16681.
 


 
47