form10-q.htm



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
 
For the Quarterly Period Ended July 31, 2008 
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
 
                                     For the transition period from        to
 
Commission File Number 1-16497
 
MOVADO GROUP, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

New York
 
13-2595932
(State or Other Jurisdiction
 
(IRS Employer
of Incorporation or Organization)
 
Identification No.)
     
650 From Road, Ste. 375
Paramus, New Jersey
 
 
07652-3556
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)

 
 (201) 267-8000
 
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
 

 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for that past 90 days.  Yes  x No ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer,'' "accelerated filer'' and "smaller reporting company'' in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ¨ Accelerated filer x Non-accelerated filer ¨ Smaller reporting company ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  ¨ No x
 
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's common stock and class A common stock as of August 29, 2008 were 17,644,661 and 6,634,319, respectively.





MOVADO GROUP, INC.

Index to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
July 31, 2008


     
Page
Part I
Financial Information (Unaudited)
 
       
 
Item 1.
Consolidated Balance Sheets at July 31, 2008, January 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007
3
       
   
Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months and six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007
4
       
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007
5
       
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6
       
 
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
13
       
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
24
       
 
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
25
     
Part II
Other Information
 
       
 
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
26
       
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
26
       
 
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
26
       
 
Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
28
       
 
Item 6.
Exhibits
29
     
Signature
 
30
     
     
     

 
 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
 
MOVADO GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
   
July 31, 2008
   
January 31, 2008
   
July 31, 2007
 
ASSETS
                 
Current assets:
                 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 84,503     $ 169,551     $ 112,456  
Trade receivables, net
    96,372       94,328       100,611  
Inventories, net
    238,736       205,129       215,557  
Other current assets
    48,352       50,317       37,443  
Total current assets
    467,963       519,325       466,067  
                         
Property, plant and equipment, net
    71,472       68,513       61,040  
Deferred income taxes
    20,223       20,024       27,863  
Other non-current assets
    38,404       38,354       37,417  
Total assets
  $ 598,062     $ 646,216     $ 592,387  
                         
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                       
Current liabilities:
                       
Current portion of long-term debt
  $ 10,000     $ 10,000     $ 5,000  
Accounts payable
    21,331       38,397       30,708  
Accrued liabilities
    43,543       42,770       38,037  
Deferred and current income taxes payable
    568       8,526       5,717  
Total current liabilities
    75,442       99,693       79,462  
                         
Long-term debt
    49,776       50,895       62,475  
Deferred and non-current income taxes payable
    6,577       6,363       32,181  
Other non-current liabilities
    24,306       24,205       24,384  
Total liabilities
    156,101       181,156       198,502  
                         
Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)
                       
                         
Minority interests
    1,977       1,865       1,467  
                         
Shareholders’ equity:
                       
Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued
    -       -       -  
Common Stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 24,364,427, 24,266,873 and 24,176,802 shares issued, respectively
      244         243         242  
Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value, 30,000,000 shares authorized; 6,634,319, 6,634,319 and 6,634,319 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
      66         66         66  
Capital in excess of par value
    131,702       128,902       124,393  
Retained earnings
    330,722       325,296       283,329  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    72,747       65,890       40,537  
Treasury Stock, 6,745,915, 4,830,669 and 4,785,701 shares, respectively, at cost
    (95,497 )     (57,202 )     (56,149 )
Total shareholders’ equity
    439,984       463,195       392,418  
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 598,062     $ 646,216     $ 592,387  

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 
3

 




MOVADO GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended July 31,
   
Six Months Ended July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Net sales
  $ 129,689     $ 139,467     $ 231,042     $ 240,830  
Cost of sales
    45,786       56,121       82,119       95,832  
                                 
Gross profit
    83,903       83,346       148,923       144,998  
Selling, general and administrative
    72,763       67,009       136,170       125,889  
                                 
Operating income
    11,140       16,337       12,753       19,109  
                                 
Interest expense
    (794 )     (872 )     (1,500 )     (1,751 )
Interest income
    523       1,062       1,480       2,309  
                                 
Income before income taxes and minority interests
    10,869       16,527       12,733       19,667  
Provision for income taxes (Note 9)
    2,669       4,117       3,236       4,764  
Minority interests
    64       146       112       239  
                                 
Net income
  $ 8,136     $ 12,264     $ 9,385     $ 14,664  
                                 
Basic income per share:
                               
Net income per share
  $ 0.33     $ 0.47     $ 0.37     $ 0.56  
Weighted basic average shares outstanding
    24,581       26,016       25,146       25,967  
                                 
Diluted income per share:
                               
Net income per share
  $ 0.32     $ 0.45     $ 0.36     $ 0.54  
Weighted diluted average shares outstanding
    25,384       27,272       26,033       27,259  
                                 
Dividends paid per share
  $ 0.08     $ 0.08     $ 0.16     $ 0.16  
 










 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements



 
4

 

MOVADO GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Six Months Ended July 31,
   
2008
 
2007
Cash flows from operating activities:
       
Net income
  $ 9,385   $ 14,664  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) / provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    9,097     7,911  
Deferred income taxes
    (3,795 )   (2,505 )
Provision for losses on accounts receivable
    819     754  
Provision for losses on inventory
    749     312  
Loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment
    11     1,075  
Stock-based compensation
    2,477     2,253  
Excess tax expense / (benefit) from stock-based compensation
    102     (1,528 )
Minority interests
    112     239  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Trade receivables
    (1,925 )   12,151  
Inventories
    (30,973 )   (18,100 )
Other current assets
    (442 )   (1,290 )
Accounts payable
    (17,671 )   (2,705 )
Accrued liabilities
    444     (7,001 )
Current income taxes payable
    (2,315 )   1,237  
Other non-current assets
    (63 )   (1,804 )
Other non-current liabilities
    101     1,291  
Net cash (used in) / provided by operating activities
    (33,887 )   6,954  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures
    (11,293 )   (12,612 )
Trademarks
    (436 )   (132 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (11,729 )   (12,744 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Proceeds from bank borrowings
    20,000     -  
Repayments of bank borrowings
    (22,325 )   (13,979 )
Stock options exercised and other changes
    425     2,804  
Purchase of treasury stock
    (38,295 )   (3,612 )
Excess tax (expense) / benefit from stock-based compensation
    (102 )   1,528  
Investment from JV interest
    -     787  
Dividends paid
    (3,958 )   (4,155 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (44,255 )   (16,627 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
    4,823     1,862    
                 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (85,048 )   (20,555 )
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    169,551     133,011  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 84,503   $ 112,456  




See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 
5

 


MOVADO GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared by Movado Group, Inc. (the “Company”) in a manner consistent with that used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s fiscal 2008 Annual Report filed on Form 10-K.  In the opinion of management, the accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting of only normal and recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented.  These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the aforementioned Annual Report.  Operating results for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.

NOTE 1 – RECLASSIFICATIONS

Certain reclassifications were made to prior year’s financial statement amounts and related note disclosures to conform to the fiscal 2009 presentation.

NOTE 2 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
 
As of February 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”, for financial assets and liabilities.  FSP No. FAS 157-2 , “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157”, delays, for one year, the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed in the financial statements on at least an annual basis.  SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.  SFAS No. 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels as follows:
 
·     Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
 
·
Level 2 - Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly.
 
·
Level 3 - Unobservable inputs based on the Company’s assumptions.
 
 
SFAS No. 157 requires the use of observable market data if such data is available without undue cost and effort.  The Company’s adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not result in significant changes to the accounting for its financial assets and liabilities.  Therefore, the primary impact to the Company upon its adoption of SFAS No. 157 was to expand its fair value measurement disclosures.

 



 
6

 

The following table presents the fair value hierarchy for those assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of July 31, 2008 (in thousands):
 
   
Fair Value at July 31, 2008
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets:
                       
Available-for-sale securities
  $ 530     $ -     $ -     $ 530  
Hedge derivatives
    -       1,985       -       1,985  
SERP assets - employer
    1,184       -       -       1,184  
SERP assets - employee
    16,637       -       -       16,637  
Total
  $ 18,351     $ 1,985     $ -     $ 20,336  
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
SERP liabilities - employee
  $ 16,637     $ -     $ -     $ 16,637  
Total
  $ 16,637     $ -     $ -     $ 16,637  
 
The fair values of the Company’s available-for-sale securities are based on quoted prices.  The hedge derivatives are entered into by the Company principally to reduce its exposure to the Swiss franc exchange rate risk.  Fair values of the Company’s hedge derivatives are calculated based on quoted foreign exchange rates, quoted interest rates and market volatility factors.  The assets related to the Company’s defined contribution supplemental executive retirement plan (“SERP”) consist of both employer (employee unvested) and employee assets which are invested in investment funds with fair values calculated based on quoted prices.  The SERP liability represents the Company’s liability to the employees in the plan for their vested balances.

NOTE 3 – COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The components of comprehensive income for the three months and six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 are as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
July 31,
   
Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Net income
  $ 8,136     $ 12,264     $ 9,385     $ 14,664  
Net unrealized (loss) / gain on investments,
net of tax
    (22 )     (118 )     50       (100 )
Effective portion of unrealized (loss) / gain
      on hedging contracts, net of tax
    (850 )     211       19       1,017  
Foreign currency translation adjustments (1)
    (3,866 )     1,469       6,788       7,313  
Total comprehensive income
  $ 3,398     $ 13,826     $ 16,242     $ 22,894  

(1) The foreign currency translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes as they relate to permanent investments in international subsidiaries.

NOTE 4 – SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company follows SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information." This statement requires disclosure of segment data based on how management makes decisions about allocating resources to segments and measuring their performance.

 
7

 

The Company conducts its business primarily in two operating segments: Wholesale and Retail.  The Company’s Wholesale segment includes the designing, manufacturing and distribution of quality watches, in addition to revenue generated from after sales service activities and shipping. The Retail segment includes the Movado Boutiques and outlet stores.

The Company divides its business into two major geographic segments: United States operations, and International, which includes the results of all other Company operations.  The allocation of geographic revenue is based upon the location of the customer. The Company’s international operations are principally conducted in Europe, Asia, Canada, the Middle East, South America and the Caribbean.  The Company’s international assets are substantially located in Switzerland.

Operating Segment Data for the Three Months Ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):

       
   
Net Sales
   
Operating Income
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Wholesale
  $ 107,026     $ 116,746     $ 10,899     $ 16,251  
Retail
    22,663       22,721       241       86  
Consolidated total
  $ 129,689     $ 139,467     $ 11,140     $ 16,337  

Operating Segment Data for the Six Months Ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):
       
   
Net Sales
   
Operating Income (Loss)
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Wholesale
  $ 192,277     $ 200,482     $ 15,474     $ 21,031  
Retail
    38,765       40,348       (2,721 )     (1,922 )
Consolidated total
  $ 231,042     $ 240,830     $ 12,753     $ 19,109  

   
Total Assets
 
   
July 31,
2008
   
January 31,   2008
   
July 31, 2007
 
                   
Wholesale
  $ 539,888     $ 580,665     $ 525,916  
Retail
    58,174       65,551       66,471  
Consolidated total
  $ 598,062     $ 646,216     $ 592,387  
 
Geographic Segment Data for the Three Months Ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):
       
   
Net Sales
   
Operating (Loss) Income
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
United States
  $ 70,673     $ 81,228     $ (3,264 )   $ 2,003  
International
    59,016       58,239       14,404       14,334  
Consolidated total
  $ 129,689     $ 139,467     $ 11,140     $ 16,337  

United States and International net sales are net of intercompany sales of $68.4 million and $68.5 million for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 
8

 

Geographic Segment Data for the Six Months Ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):

       
   
Net Sales
   
Operating (Loss) Income
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
United States
  $ 123,954     $ 142,103     $ (12,771 )   $ (6,350 )
International
    107,088       98,727       25,524       25,459  
Consolidated total
  $ 231,042     $ 240,830     $ 12,753     $ 19,109  

United States and International net sales are net of intercompany sales of $141.5 million and $129.9 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

   
Total Assets
 
   
July 31,
2008
   
  January 31,            2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
                   
United States
  $ 292,855     $ 304,370     $ 343,322  
International
    305,207       341,846       249,065  
Consolidated total
  $ 598,062     $ 646,216     $ 592,387  

   
Long-Lived Assets
 
   
July 31,
2008
   
  January 31,            2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
                   
United States
  $ 53,024     $ 51,544     $ 45,293  
International
    18,448       16,969       15,747  
Consolidated total
  $ 71,472     $ 68,513     $ 61,040  

NOTE 5 – INVENTORIES, NET

Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
   
July 31,
2008
   
January 31, 2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
                   
Finished goods   $ 144,138     $ 117,027     $ 138,777  
Component parts
    83,192       76,222       66,345  
Work-in-process
    11,406       11,880       10,435  
    $ 238,736     $ 205,129     $ 215,557  
 
NOTE 6 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

The Company presents net income per share on a basic and diluted basis.  Basic earnings per share are computed using weighted-average shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share are computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding adjusted for dilutive common stock equivalents.

The weighted-average number of shares outstanding for basic earnings per share were 24,581,000 and 26,016,000 for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  For diluted earnings per share, these amounts were increased by 803,000 and 1,256,000 for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007,

 
9

 

respectively, due to potentially dilutive common stock equivalents issuable under the Company’s stock compensation plans.

The weighted-average number of shares outstanding for basic earnings per share were 25,146,000 and 25,967,000 for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  For diluted earnings per share, these amounts were increased by 887,000 and 1,292,000 for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, due to potentially dilutive common stock equivalents issuable under the Company’s stock compensation plans.

For the three months and six months ended July 31, 2008, approximately 73,000 and 56,000 of potentially dilutive common stock equivalents, respectively, were excluded from the computation of dilutive earnings per share because their effect would have been antidilutive.  There were no antidilutive shares for the three months and six months ended July 31, 2007.

NOTE 7 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

At July 31, 2008, the Company had outstanding letters of credit totaling $1.2 million with expiration dates through August 31, 2009.  One bank in the domestic bank group has issued 11 irrevocable standby letters of credit for retail and operating facility leases to various landlords, for the administration of the Movado Boutique private-label credit card and Canadian payroll to the Royal Bank of Canada.

As of July 31, 2008, two European banks have guaranteed obligations to third parties on behalf of two of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries in the amount of $1.4 million in various foreign currencies.

The Company is involved from time to time in legal claims involving trademarks and other intellectual property, contracts, employee relations and other matters incidental to the Company’s business.  Although the outcome of such matters cannot be determined with certainty, the Company’s general counsel and management believe that the final outcome would not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

NOTE 8 – TREASURY STOCK

On December 4, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Shares of Common Stock were repurchased from time to time as market conditions warranted either through open market transactions, block purchases, private transactions or other means.  The objective of the program was to reduce or eliminate earnings per share dilution caused by the shares of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of stock options and in connection with other equity based compensation plans.  As of April 14, 2008, the Company had completed the one million share repurchase during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 and the first quarter of fiscal 2009, at a total cost of approximately $19.4 million, or $19.38 per share.

On April 15, 2008, the Board of Directors announced a new authorization to repurchase up to an additional one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Under this authorization, the Company has the option to repurchase shares over time, with the amount and timing of repurchases depending on market conditions and corporate needs.  The Company entered into a Rule 10b5-1 plan to facilitate repurchases of its shares under this authorization.  A Rule 10b5-1 plan permits a company to repurchase shares at times when it might otherwise be prevented from doing so, provided the plan is adopted when the company is not aware of material non-public information.  The Company may suspend or discontinue the repurchase of stock at any time.  Under this share repurchase program, as of July 31, 2008, the Company had repurchased a total of 937,360 shares of Common Stock in the open market during the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2009 at a total cost of approximately $19.5 million or $20.76 per share.

 
10

 

In addition to the shares repurchased pursuant to the Company’s share repurchase programs, an aggregate of 21,843 shares have been repurchased during the six months ended July 31, 2008 as a result of the surrender of shares in connection with the vesting of certain restricted stock awards and the exercise of certain stock options.  At the election of an employee, shares having an aggregate value on the vesting date equal to the employee’s withholding tax obligation may be surrendered to the Company.

NOTE 9 - INCOME TAXES

The Company recorded tax expense of $2.7 million and $4.1 million for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Taxes for the three month period ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007 reflected a 24.6% and 24.9% effective tax rate, respectively.

The Company recorded tax expense of $3.2 million and $4.8 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Taxes for the six month period ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007 reflected a 25.4% and 24.2% effective tax rate, respectively.

NOTE 10 – RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007) “Business Combinations” (“SFAS No. 141(R)”).  SFAS No. 141(R) states that all business combinations (whether full, partial or step acquisitions) will result in all assets and liabilities of an acquired business being recorded at their acquisition date fair values.  Earn-outs and other forms of contingent consideration and certain acquired contingencies will also be recorded at fair value at the acquisition date.  SFAS No. 141(R) also states acquisition costs will generally be expensed as incurred; in-process research and development will be recorded at fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset at the acquisition date; changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and income tax uncertainties after the acquisition date generally will affect income tax expense; and restructuring costs will be expensed in periods after the acquisition date.  This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company will apply the provisions of this standard to any acquisitions that it completes on or after December 15, 2008.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51”.  This statement amends ARB No. 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest (minority interest) in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. Upon its adoption, noncontrolling interests will be classified as equity in the consolidated balance sheets.  This statement also provides guidance on a subsidiary deconsolidation as well as stating that entities need to provide sufficient disclosures that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 160 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133”.  This statement requires enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.  SFAS No. 161 also requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation and requires cross-referencing within the footnotes.  This statement also suggests disclosing the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format.  This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 161 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 
11

 

NOTE 11 – SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On August 7, 2008, the Company announced initiatives designed to streamline operations, reduce expenses, and improve efficiencies and effectiveness across the Company’s global organization.  Following an extensive review of its current cost structure, the Company implemented an expense reduction plan during the three months ended July 31, 2008.  As part of the plan, the Company expects to reduce its payroll expense by approximately 10%, which represents approximately 90 filled positions and 6% of the Company’s full-time workforce.  The payroll reductions are spread primarily across its corporate and shared service departments, predominantly in the Company’s North American and European operations.  The Company expects its expense reduction plan to result in annualized pre-tax cost savings of approximately $25.0 million. The Company expects to realize approximately $6.0 million of these savings in fiscal 2009. Throughout fiscal 2009, the Company expects to record a total pre-tax charge of approximately $9.0 million related to the completion of this program.  For the six months ended July 31, 2008, the Company has recorded severance related expenses of $2.2 million associated with the plan.  The remaining expenses associated with the plan are expected to be recorded in the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2009.


 
12

 

Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including, without limitation, statements under Item 2 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in this report, as well as statements in future filings by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in the Company’s press releases and oral statements made by or with the approval of an authorized executive officer of the Company, which are not historical in nature, are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, “forward-looking statements” for purposes of the safe harbor provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the Company, its future performance, the industry in which the Company operates and management’s assumptions. Words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “targets”, “goals”, “projects”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “seeks”, “estimates”, “may”, “will”, “should” and variations of such words and similar expressions are also intended to identify such forward-looking statements. The Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those relating to the Company’s future business prospects, projected operating or financial results, revenues, working capital, liquidity, capital needs, plans for future operations, expectations regarding capital expenditures and operating expenses, effective tax rates, margins, interest costs, and income as well as assumptions relating to the foregoing.  Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified.  Actual results and future events could differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, due to several important factors herein identified, among others, and other risks and factors identified from time to time in the Company’s reports filed with the SEC including, without limitation, the following: general economic and business conditions which may impact disposable income of consumers in the United States and the other significant markets where the Company’s products are sold, general uncertainty related to possible terrorist attacks and the impact on consumer spending, changes in consumer preferences and popularity of particular designs, new product development and introduction, competitive products and pricing, seasonality, availability of alternative sources of supply in the case of the loss of any significant supplier, the loss of significant customers, the  Company’s dependence on key employees and officers, the ability to successfully integrate the operations of acquired businesses without disruption to other business activities, the continuation of licensing arrangements with third parties, the ability to secure and protect trademarks, patents and other intellectual property rights, the ability to lease new stores on suitable terms in desired markets and to complete construction on a timely basis, the ability of the Company to successfully implement its expense reduction plan, the continued availability to the Company of financing and credit on favorable terms, business disruptions, disease, general risks associated with doing business outside the United States including, without limitation, import duties, tariffs, quotas, political and economic stability, and success of hedging strategies with respect to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

These risks and uncertainties, along with the risk factors discussed under Item 1A “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, should be considered in evaluating any forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or incorporated by reference herein. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report or, in the case of any document incorporated by reference, the date of that document. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or any person acting on its behalf are qualified by the cautionary statements in this section. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances or changes in expectations after the date of this report.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of

 
13

 

assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements. These estimates and assumptions also affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses.  Estimates by their nature are based on judgments and available information. Therefore, actual results could materially differ from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions.

Critical accounting policies are those that are most important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and the results of operations and require management’s most difficult, subjective and complex judgments as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. The Company’s most critical accounting policies have been discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2008.  In applying such policies, management must use significant estimates that are based on its informed judgment. Because of the uncertainty inherent in these estimates, actual results could differ from estimates used in applying the critical accounting policies. Changes in such estimates, based on more accurate future information, may affect amounts reported in future periods.

As of July 31, 2008, except as noted below, there have been no material changes to any of the critical accounting policies as disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2008.
 
Effective February 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” for the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value.  SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  The Company’s adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not result in significant changes to the accounting for its financial assets and liabilities.  Therefore, the primary impact to the Company upon its adoption of SFAS No. 157 was to expand its fair value measurement disclosures.
 
Effective February 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – Including an Amendment of FAS 115”.  SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected will be recognized in earnings at each subsequent reporting date.  The Company has not elected the option for fair value measurement for any additional financial assets or financial liabilities under SFAS No. 159.
 
Recent Developments

On August 7, 2008, the Company announced initiatives designed to streamline operations, reduce expenses, and improve efficiencies and effectiveness across the Company’s global organization.  Following an extensive review of its current cost structure, the Company implemented an expense reduction plan during the three months ended July 31, 2008.  As part of the plan, the Company expects to reduce its payroll expense by approximately 10%, which represents approximately 90 filled positions and 6% of the Company’s full-time workforce.  The payroll reductions are spread primarily across its corporate and shared service departments, predominantly in the Company’s North American and European operations.  The Company expects its expense reduction plan to result in annualized pre-tax cost savings of approximately $25.0 million. The Company expects to realize approximately $6.0 million of these savings in fiscal 2009. Throughout fiscal 2009, the Company expects to record a total pre-tax charge of approximately $9.0 million related to the completion of this program.  For the six months ended July 31, 2008, the Company has recorded severance related expenses of $2.2 million associated with the plan.  The remaining expenses associated with the plan are expected to be recorded in the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2009.

 
14

 

Overview

The Company conducts its business primarily in two operating segments: Wholesale and Retail.  The Company’s Wholesale segment includes the designing, manufacturing and distribution of quality watches. The Retail segment includes the Movado Boutiques and outlet stores.

The Company divides its watch business into distinct categories.  The luxury category consists of the Ebel® and Concord® brands.  The accessible luxury category consists of the Movado® and ESQ® brands.  The licensed brands category represents brands distributed under license agreements and includes Coach®, HUGO BOSS®, Juicy Couture®, Lacoste® and Tommy Hilfiger®.

Results of operations for the three months ended July 31, 2008 as compared to the three months ended July 31, 2007

Net Sales: Comparative net sales by business segment were as follows (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Wholesale:
           
United States
  $ 48,010     $ 58,507  
International
    59,016       58,239  
Total Wholesale
    107,026       116,746  
                 
Retail
    22,663       22,721  
                 
Net Sales
  $ 129,689     $ 139,467  

Net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2008 were $129.7 million.  Net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2007 were $139.5 million and included $8.3 million of sales of excess discontinued inventory.  Net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2008 were favorably impacted by the growth in the international segment and the effect of foreign currency.  As a result of the weak U.S. dollar and the translation from the international subsidiaries’ financial results, the effect of foreign currency increased net sales by $6.6 million.

Net sales in the wholesale segment decreased by $9.7 million or 8.3% to $107.0 million.  The decrease was the net result of lower sales in the luxury and accessible luxury categories, partially offset by higher sales in the licensed brand category.  The luxury category was below prior year by $8.8 million or 29.4%.  The decrease was primarily the result of sales of excess discontinued inventory of $8.1 million recorded in the prior year period.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory in the prior year, the luxury category decreased by 3.3%.  The luxury category was also negatively affected by the challenging U.S. economy.  The accessible luxury category was below prior year by $9.5 million or 18.5%.  The decrease was primarily recorded in the United States where the retail environment has been challenging.  The decrease is attributable to retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders, as well as higher sell-in of new products in the prior year.  The licensed brand category was above prior year by $8.6 million or 28.5%.  Sales for all licensed brands were above prior year with growth in both the U.S. and international markets.

Net sales in the U.S. wholesale segment were $48.0 million, below prior year by $10.5 million or 17.9%.  The decrease was primarily the result of lower sales in the luxury and accessible luxury categories, partially offset by higher sales in the licensed brand category.  The luxury category was below prior year by $4.8 million or
 
 
15

 

62.9%.  The lower sales are primarily attributed to sales of excess discontinued inventory of $2.7 million recorded in the prior year period.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory in the prior year, the luxury category  decreased by 43.0%.  The luxury category was also negatively affected by the unfavorable impact of the challenging U.S. economy and retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders.  The accessible luxury category sales were below prior year by $8.2 million or 20.2%.  The decrease is attributed to retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders, as well as higher sell-in of new products in the prior year.  The licensed brand category sales were above prior year by $2.8 million or 37.0%.  Sales for all licensed brands were above prior year.

Net sales in the international wholesale segment were $59.0 million, above prior year by $0.8 million or 1.3%.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory recorded in the prior year, sales in the international wholesale segment were above prior year by $6.2 million or 11.8%.  The increase in sales was primarily the result of growth and market expansion in the licensed brand category of $5.9 million.

Net sales in the retail segment were $22.7 million, or flat to the prior year.   Net sales in the Company’s outlet stores were above prior year by $1.2 million or 8.8% while net sales in the Movado Boutiques were below prior year by $1.2 million or 12.8%.

Gross Profit.  Gross profit for the three months ended July 31, 2008 was $83.9 million or 64.7% of net sales as compared to $83.3 million or 59.8% of net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2007.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory recorded in the prior year, the gross margin percentage for the three months ended July 31, 2007 was 63.6%.  The higher gross profit dollars of $0.6 million benefited from the favorable impact of foreign exchange on the Company’s international business which contributed in part to the increase in the gross margin percentage year-over-year.  The increase in gross margin percentage is also the result of higher margins in the accessible luxury and licensed brand categories.

Selling, General and Administrative  (“SG&A”). SG&A expenses for the three months ended July 31, 2008 were $72.8 million as compared to $67.0 million for the three months ended July 31, 2007.  The increase of $5.8 million or 8.6% included $2.2 million of severance related costs associated with the Company’s previously announced initiatives to streamline operations and reduce expenses, the negative foreign exchange impact from translating the European subsidiaries’ financial results of $2.1 million and higher accounts receivable related expenses of $0.8 million resulting from favorable settlements in the prior year period.  Additionally, spending increased by $0.5 million to support the Company’s growing joint venture activities.

Wholesale Operating Income.  Operating income of $10.9 million and $16.3 million was recorded in the wholesale segment for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The $5.4 million decrease was the net result of higher gross profit of $0.7 million offset by an increase in SG&A expenses of $6.1 million.  The higher gross profit of $0.7 million benefited from the favorable impact of foreign exchange on the Company’s international business and the increased gross margin percentage year-over-year.  The increase in SG&A expenses of $6.1 million related principally to the $2.2 million of severance related costs associated with the Company’s initiatives to streamline operations and reduce expenses, the negative impact of $2.1 million due to the translation impact from the European subsidiaries’ financial results, higher accounts receivable related costs of $0.8 million and increased spending to support the Company’s joint venture activities of $0.5 million.

Retail Operating Income.  Operating income of $0.2 million and $0.1 million were recorded in the retail segment for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The $0.1 million increase was the result of lower gross profit of $0.2 million and lower SG&A expenses of $0.3 million.  The decreased gross profit was the result of lower gross profit percentages year-over-year.  The decrease in SG&A expenses was primarily the result of reduced selling and occupancy expenses related to the operation of two less stores when compared to the prior year.
 
 
16

 

Interest Expense.  Interest expense for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 was $0.8 million and $0.9 million, respectively.  Interest expense declined due to lower borrowings.  Average borrowings were $62.8 million at an average borrowing rate of 4.6% for the three months ended July 31, 2008 compared to average borrowings of $75.1 million at an average borrowing rate of 4.5% for the three months ended July 31, 2007.

Interest Income.  Interest income was $0.5 million for the three months ended July 31, 2008 as compared to $1.1 million for the three months ended July 31, 2007.  The lower interest income is attributed to less cash invested in the U.S. as the Company used the cash for the share repurchase programs, as well as lower average interest rate earned year-over-year.

Income Taxes.  The Company recorded tax expense of $2.7 million and $4.1 million for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Taxes for the three month period ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007 reflected a 24.6% and 24.9% effective tax rate, respectively.

Net Income.  For the three months ended July 31, 2008, the Company recorded net income of $8.1 million as compared to $12.3 million for the three months ended July 31, 2007.

Results of operations for the six months ended July 31, 2008 as compared to the six months ended July 31, 2007

Net Sales: Comparative net sales by business segment were as follows (in thousands):

   
Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Wholesale:
           
United States
  $ 85,189     $ 101,755  
International
    107,088       98,727  
Total Wholesale
    192,277       200,482  
                 
Retail
    38,765       40,348  
                 
Net Sales
  $ 231,042     $ 240,830  

Net sales for the six months ended July 31, 2008 were $231.0 million.  Net sales for the six months ended July 31, 2007 were $240.8 million and included $11.0 million of sales of excess discontinued inventory.  Net sales for the six months ended July 31, 2008 were favorably impacted by the growth in the international segment and the effect of foreign currency.  As a result of the weak U.S. dollar and the translation from the international subsidiaries’ financial results, the effect of foreign currency increased net sales by $11.9 million.

Net sales in the wholesale segment decreased by $8.2 million or 4.1% to $192.3 million.  The decrease was the net result of lower sales in the luxury and accessible luxury brand categories, partially offset by higher sales in the licensed brand category.  The luxury category was below prior year by $11.2 million or 23.0%.  The decrease was primarily the result of the sales of excess discontinued inventory of $9.6 million recorded in the prior year period.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory in the prior year, the luxury category decreased by 4.2%.  The luxury category was also negatively affected by the challenging U.S. economy.  The accessible luxury category was below prior year by $16.0 million or 17.7%.  The decrease was primarily recorded in the United States where the retail environment has been challenging.  The decrease is attributable to retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders, as well as higher sell-in of new products in the
 
 
17

 
 
prior year.  The results of the U.S. accessible luxury category in the prior year period also included sales of excess discontinued inventory of $1.5 million.  The licensed brand category was above prior year by $18.3 million or 35.1%.  All licensed brands were above prior year with growth in both the U.S and international markets.
 
Net sales in the U.S. wholesale segment were $85.2 million, below prior year by $16.6 million or 16.3%.  The decrease was the net result of lower sales in the luxury and accessible luxury brand categories, partially offset by higher sales in the licensed brand category.  The luxury category was below prior year by $4.6 million or 40.2%.  The lower sales are primarily attributed to sales of excess discontinued inventory of $3.0 million recorded in the prior year period.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory in the prior year, the luxury category decreased by 18.4%.  The luxury category was also negatively affected by the unfavorable impact of the challenging U.S. economy and retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders.  The accessible luxury category sales were below prior year by $16.6 million or 23.3%.  The decrease in sales was primarily due to sales of excess discontinued inventory of $1.5 million recorded in the prior year period, the unfavorable impact of the challenging U.S. economy, retailers waiting until later in the season to place their orders, as well as higher sell-in of new products in the prior year.  The licensed brand category was above prior year by $4.8 million or 36.2%.  Sales for all licensed brands were above the prior year.

Net sales in the international wholesale segment were $107.1 million, above prior year by $8.4 million or 8.5%.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory recorded in the prior year, sales in the international wholesale segment were above prior year by $14.9 million or 16.1%.  The increase in sales was primarily the result of growth and market expansion in the licensed brand category of $13.5 million.

Net sales in the retail segment were $38.8 million, below prior year sales by $1.6 million or 3.9%.   Net sales in the Company’s outlet stores were above prior year by $1.0 million or 4.4% while net sales in the Movado Boutiques were below prior year by $2.6 million or 14.2%.

Gross Profit.  Gross profit for the six months ended July 31, 2008 was $148.9 million or 64.5% of net sales as compared to $145.0 million or 60.2% of net sales for the six months ended July 31, 2007.  Excluding the sales of excess discontinued inventory recorded in the prior year, the gross margin percentage for the six months ended July 31, 2007 was 63.3%.  The higher gross profit dollars of $3.9 million benefited from the favorable impact of foreign exchange on the Company’s international business which contributed in part to the increase in the gross margin percentage year-over-year.  The increase in gross margin percentage is also the result of higher margins in the accessible luxury and licensed brand categories.

Selling, General and Administrative. SG&A expenses for the six months ended July 31, 2008 were $136.2 million as compared to $125.9 million for the six months ended July 31, 2007.  The increase of $10.3 million or 8.2% included the negative foreign exchange impact of $4.3 million from translating the European subsidiaries’ financial results, $2.2 million of severance related costs associated with the Company’s initiatives to streamline operations and reduce expenses, and higher payroll and related expenses of $1.8 million reflecting compensation and benefit cost increases primarily to support international and licensed brand growth.  Additionally, spending increased by $1.0 million to support the Company’s growing joint venture activities.

Wholesale Operating Income.  Operating income of $15.5 million and $21.0 million was recorded in the wholesale segment for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The $5.5 million decrease was the net result of higher gross profit of $4.7 million offset by an increase in SG&A expenses of $10.2 million.  The higher gross profit of $4.7 million benefited from the favorable impact of foreign exchange on the Company’s international business and the increased gross margin percentage year-over-year.  The increase in SG&A expenses of $10.2 million related principally to the negative impact of $4.3 million due to the translation impact from European subsidiaries’ financial results, $2.2 million of severance related costs associated with the
 
 
18

 
 
Company’s initiatives to streamline operations and reduce expenses, higher payroll and related costs of $1.8 million and increased spending to support the Company’s joint venture activities of $1.0 million.
 
Retail Operating Loss.  Operating losses of $2.7 million and $1.9 million were recorded in the retail segment for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The $0.8 million increase in the loss was the result of lower gross profit of $0.7 million and higher SG&A expenses of $0.1 million.  The decreased gross profit was the result of lower sales volume.  The increase in SG&A expenses was primarily the result of increased selling and occupancy expenses due to a full six months of expenses for stores opened during or after the first half of fiscal year 2008, partially offset by reduced expenses from stores that have been closed.

Interest Expense.  Interest expense for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007 was $1.5 million and $1.8 million, respectively.  Interest expense declined due to lower borrowings somewhat offset by higher average interest rates.  Average borrowings were $60.7 million at an average borrowing rate of 4.6% for the six months ended July 31, 2008 compared to average borrowings of $77.8 million at an average rate of 4.4% for the six months ended July 31, 2007.

Interest Income.  Interest income was $1.5 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 as compared to $2.3 million for the six months ended July 31, 2007.  The lower interest income is attributed to less cash invested in the United States as the Company used the cash for the share repurchase program, as well as lower average interest rate earned year-over-year.

Income Taxes.  The Company recorded tax expense of $3.2 million and $4.8 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Taxes for the six month period ended July 31, 2008 and July 31, 2007 reflected a 25.4% and 24.2% effective tax rate, respectively.

Net Income.  For the six months ended July 31, 2008, the Company recorded net income of $9.4 million as compared to $14.7 million for the three months ended July 31, 2007.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash used in operating activities was $33.9 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 as compared to cash provided of $7.0 million for the six months ended July 31, 2007.  The cash used in operating activities for the six months ended July 31, 2008 was primarily the result of an inventory build of $31.0 million, as well as increases in other components of working capital.  This reflects the seasonal nature of the business with the Company building inventory for the upcoming holiday season, as well as higher inventory resulting from the lower sales volume year-over-year.  The cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended July 31, 2007 was primarily attributed to improvements in accounts receivable and sales of excess discontinued inventory.

Cash used in investing activities amounted to $11.7 million and $12.7 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The cash used during both periods consisted of the capital expenditures primarily related to the expansion and renovation of retail stores, the acquisition of computer hardware and software and construction of booths used at the Baselworld watch and jewelry show.  The acquisition of computer hardware and software in both periods is primarily related to the development and implementation of the new SAP enterprise resource planning system.

Cash used in financing activities amounted to $44.3 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008 compared to cash used of $16.6 million for the six months ended July 31, 2007.  Cash used in financing activities for the current period was primarily to repurchase stock and to pay out dividends.  Cash used in financing activities for the prior period was primarily to pay down long-term debt and to pay out dividends.
 
 
19

 
 
During the first quarter fiscal 2009, the Company made a cash payment in the amount of $3.3 million (exclusive of interest) for a tax assessment pursuant to the Internal Revenue Service audit settlement agreement for fiscal years 2004 through 2006, concluded during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008.  As a result, the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits of $10.1 million as of January 31, 2008 were reduced by $4.8 million, leaving a balance of $5.3 million as of July 31, 2008.

During fiscal 1999, the Company issued $25.0 million of Series A Senior Notes under a Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, dated November 30, 1998 (the “1998 Note Purchase Agreement”), between the Company and The Prudential Insurance Company of America (“Prudential”).  These notes bear interest of 6.90% per annum, mature on October 30, 2010 and are subject to annual repayments of $5.0 million commencing October 31, 2006.  These notes contained certain financial covenants including an interest coverage ratio and maintenance of consolidated net worth and certain non-financial covenants that restricted the Company’s activities regarding investments and acquisitions, mergers, certain transactions with affiliates, creation of liens, asset transfers, payment of dividends and limitation of the amount of debt outstanding.  On June 5, 2008, the Company amended its Series A Senior Notes under an amendment to the 1998 Note Purchase Agreement (as amended, the “First Amended 1998 Note Purchase Agreement”) with Prudential and an affiliate of Prudential.  No additional senior promissory notes are issuable by the Company pursuant to the First Amended 1998 Note Purchase Agreement. Certain provisions and covenants were modified including the interest coverage ratio, elimination of the maintenance of consolidated net worth and the addition of a debt coverage ratio.  At July 31, 2008, $15.0 million of these notes were issued and outstanding and the Company was in compliance with all financial and non-financial covenants.

As of March 21, 2004, the Company amended its Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement, originally dated March 21, 2001 (as amended, the “First Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement”), among the Company, Prudential and certain affiliates of Prudential (together, the “Purchasers”).  This agreement allowed for the issuance of senior promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of up to $40.0 million with maturities up to 12 years from their original date of issuance.  On October 8, 2004, the Company issued, pursuant to the First Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement, 4.79% Senior Series A-2004 Notes due 2011 (the "Senior Series A-2004 Notes") in an aggregate principal amount of $20.0 million, which will mature on October 8, 2011 and are subject to annual repayments of $5.0 million commencing on October 8, 2008.  Proceeds of the Senior Series A-2004 Notes have been used by the Company for capital expenditures, repayment of certain of its debt obligations and general corporate purposes.  These notes contained certain financial covenants, including an interest coverage ratio and maintenance of consolidated net worth and certain non-financial covenants that restricted the Company’s activities regarding investments and acquisitions, mergers, certain transactions with affiliates, creation of liens, asset transfers, payment of dividends and limitation of the amount of debt outstanding.

On June 5, 2008, the Company amended the First Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement (as amended, the “Second Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement”), with Prudential and the Purchasers.  The Second Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement permits the Company to issue senior promissory notes for purchase by Prudential and the Purchasers, in an aggregate principal amount of up to $70.0 million inclusive of the Senior Series A-2004 Notes described above, until June 5, 2011, with maturities up to 12 years from their original date of issuance. The remaining aggregate principal amount of senior promissory notes issuable by the Company that may be purchased by Prudential and the Purchasers pursuant to the Second Amended 2001 Note Purchase Agreement is $50.0 million. Certain provisions and covenants were modified including the interest coverage ratio, elimination of the maintenance of consolidated net worth and addition of a debt coverage ratio. As of July 31, 2008, $20.0 million of these notes were issued and outstanding and the Company was in compliance with all financial and non-financial covenants.

On December 15, 2005, the Company as parent guarantor, and its Swiss subsidiaries, MGI Luxury Group S.A. and Movado Watch Company SA as borrowers, entered into a credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank,
 
 
20

 
 
N.A., JPMorgan Securities, Inc., Bank of America, N.A., PNC Bank and Citibank, N.A. (the "Swiss Credit Agreement") which provides for a revolving credit facility of 90.0 million Swiss francs and matures on December 15, 2010.  The obligations of the Company’s two Swiss subsidiaries under this credit agreement are guaranteed by the Company under a Parent Guarantee, dated as of December 15, 2005, in favor of the lenders.  The Swiss Credit Agreement contains financial covenants, including an interest coverage ratio, average debt coverage ratio and limitations on capital expenditures and certain non-financial covenants that restrict the Company’s activities regarding investments and acquisitions, mergers, certain transactions with affiliates, creation of liens, asset transfers, payment of dividends and limitation of the amount of debt outstanding.  Borrowings under the Swiss Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to LIBOR (as defined in the Swiss Credit Agreement) plus a margin ranging from .50% per annum to .875% per annum (depending upon a leverage ratio).  As of July 31, 2008,  5.0 million Swiss francs, with a dollar equivalent of $4.8 million, was outstanding under this revolving credit facility and the Company was in compliance with all financial and non-financial covenants.

On December 15, 2005, the Company and its Swiss subsidiaries, MGI Luxury Group S.A. and Movado Watch Company SA, entered into a credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., JPMorgan Securities, Inc., Bank of America, N.A., PNC Bank and Citibank, N.A. (the "US Credit Agreement") which provides for a revolving credit facility of $50.0 million (including a sublimit for borrowings in Swiss francs of up to an equivalent of $25.0 million) with a provision to allow for an increase of an additional $50.0 million subject to certain terms and conditions. The US Credit Agreement will mature on December 15, 2010.  The obligations of MGI Luxury Group S.A. and Movado Watch Company SA are guaranteed by the Company under a Parent Guarantee, dated as of December 15, 2005, in favor of the lenders. The obligations of the Company are guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries of the Company under subsidiary guarantees, in favor of the lenders.  The US Credit Agreement contains financial covenants, including an interest coverage ratio, average debt coverage ratio and limitations on capital expenditures and certain non-financial covenants that restrict the Company’s activities regarding investments and acquisitions, mergers, certain transactions with affiliates, creation of liens, asset transfers, payment of dividends and limitation of the amount of debt outstanding.  Borrowings under the US Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate equal to the adjusted LIBOR (as defined in the US Credit Agreement) plus a margin ranging from .50% per annum to .875% per annum (depending upon a leverage ratio), or the Alternate Base Rate (as defined in the US Credit Agreement).  As of July 31, 2008, $20.0 million was outstanding under this revolving credit facility and the Company was in compliance with all financial and non-financial covenants.

On June 16, 2008, the Company renewed a line of credit letter agreement with Bank of America and an amended and restated promissory note in the principal amount of up to $20.0 million payable to Bank of America, originally dated December 12, 2005.  Pursuant to the line of credit letter agreement, Bank of America will consider requests for short-term loans and documentary letters of credit for the importation of merchandise inventory, the aggregate amount of which at any time outstanding shall not exceed $20.0 million. The Company's obligations under the agreement are guaranteed by its subsidiaries, Movado Retail Group, Inc. and Movado LLC.  Pursuant to the amended and restated promissory note, the Company promised to pay Bank of America $20.0 million, or such lesser amount as may then be the unpaid balance of all loans made by Bank of America to the Company thereunder, in immediately available funds upon the maturity date of June 16, 2009. The Company has the right to prepay all or part of any outstanding amounts under the amended and restated promissory note without penalty at any time prior to the maturity date. The amended and restated promissory note bears interest at an annual rate equal to either (i) a floating rate equal to the prime rate or (ii) such fixed rate as may be agreed upon by the Company and Bank of America for an interest period which is also then agreed upon. The amended and restated promissory note contains various representations and warranties and events of default that are customary for instruments of that type.  As of July 31, 2008, there were no outstanding borrowings against this line.

 
21

 
 
On July 31, 2008, the Company renewed a promissory note, originally dated December 13, 2005, in the principal amount of up to $37.0 million, at a revised amount of up to $7.0 million, payable to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ("Chase").  Pursuant to the promissory note, the Company promised to pay Chase $7.0 million, or such lesser amount as may then be the unpaid balance of each loan made or letter of credit issued by Chase to the Company thereunder, upon the maturity date of July 31, 2009. The Company has the right to prepay all or part of any outstanding amounts under the promissory note without penalty at any time prior to the maturity date. The promissory note bears interest at an annual rate equal to (i) a floating rate equal to the prime rate, (ii) a fixed rate equal to an adjusted LIBOR plus 0.625% or (iii) a fixed rate equal to a rate of interest offered by Chase from time to time on any single commercial borrowing. The promissory note contains various events of default that are customary for instruments of that type. In addition, it is an event of default for any security interest or other encumbrance to be created or imposed on the Company's property, other than as permitted in the lien covenant of the US Credit Agreement.  Chase issued 11 irrevocable standby letters of credit for retail and operating facility leases to various landlords, for the administration of the Movado Boutique private-label credit card and Canadian payroll to the Royal Bank of Canada totaling $1.2 million with expiration dates through August 31, 2009.  As of July 31, 2008, there were no outstanding borrowings against this promissory note.

A Swiss subsidiary of the Company maintains unsecured lines of credit with an unspecified length of time with a Swiss bank. Available credit under these lines totaled 8.0 million Swiss francs, with dollar equivalents of $7.6 million and $6.7 million at July 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  As of July 31, 2008, two European banks have guaranteed obligations to third parties on behalf of two of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries in the amount of $1.4 million in various foreign currencies.  As of July 31, 2008, there were no outstanding borrowings against these lines.

On December 4, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Shares of Common Stock were repurchased from time to time as market conditions warranted either through open market transactions, block purchases, private transactions or other means.  The objective of the program was to reduce or eliminate earnings per share dilution caused by the shares of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of stock options and in connection with other equity based compensation plans.  As of April 14, 2008, the Company had completed the one million share repurchase during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 and the first quarter of fiscal 2009, at a total cost of approximately $19.4 million, or $19.38 per share.

On April 15, 2008, the Board of Directors announced a new authorization to repurchase up to an additional one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Under this authorization, the Company has the option to repurchase shares over time, with the amount and timing of repurchases depending on market conditions and corporate needs.  The Company entered into a Rule 10b5-1 plan to facilitate repurchases of its shares under this authorization.  A Rule 10b5-1 plan permits a company to repurchase shares at times when it might otherwise be prevented from doing so, provided the plan is adopted when the company is not aware of material non-public information.  The Company may suspend or discontinue the repurchase of stock at any time.  Under this share repurchase program, as of July 31, 2008, the Company had repurchased a total of 937,360 shares of Common Stock in the open market during the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2009 at a total cost of approximately $19.5 million or $20.76 per share.

The Company paid dividends of $0.16 per share or approximately $4.0 million, for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and $0.16 per share or approximately $4.2 million for the six months ended July 31, 2007.

Cash at July 31, 2008 amounted to $84.5 million compared to $112.5 million at July 31, 2007. The decrease in cash is primarily the result of cash used for the share repurchase programs.
 
 
22

 
 
Management believes that the cash on hand in addition to the expected cash flow from operations and the Company’s short-term borrowing capacity will be sufficient to meet its working capital needs for at least the next 12 months.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
The Company does not have off-balance sheet financing or unconsolidated special-purpose entities.
 
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007) “Business Combinations” (“SFAS No. 141(R)”).  SFAS No. 141(R) states that all business combinations (whether full, partial or step acquisitions) will result in all assets and liabilities of an acquired business being recorded at their acquisition date fair values.  Earn-outs and other forms of contingent consideration and certain acquired contingencies will also be recorded at fair value at the acquisition date.  SFAS No. 141(R) also states acquisition costs will generally be expensed as incurred; in-process research and development will be recorded at fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset at the acquisition date; changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and income tax uncertainties after the acquisition date generally will affect income tax expense; and restructuring costs will be expensed in periods after the acquisition date.  This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company will apply the provisions of this standard to any acquisitions that it completes on or after December 15, 2008.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51”.  This statement amends ARB No. 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest (minority interest) in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. Upon its adoption, noncontrolling interests will be classified as equity in the consolidated balance sheets.  This statement also provides guidance on a subsidiary deconsolidation as well as stating that entities need to provide sufficient disclosures that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 160 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133”.  This statement requires enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.  SFAS No. 161 also requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation and requires cross-referencing within the footnotes.  This statement also suggests disclosing the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format.  This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 161 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 
23

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Foreign Currency and Commodity Price Risk

A significant portion of the Company’s purchases are denominated in Swiss francs.  The Company reduces its exposure to the Swiss franc exchange rate risk through a hedging program.  Under the hedging program, the Company manages most of its foreign currency exposures on a consolidated basis, which allows it to net certain exposures and take advantage of natural offsets.  The Company uses various derivative financial instruments to further reduce the net exposures to currency fluctuations, predominately forward and option contracts.  These derivatives either (a) are used to hedge the Company’s Swiss franc liabilities and are recorded at fair value with the changes in fair value reflected in earnings or (b) are documented as cash flow hedges with the gains and losses on this latter hedging activity first reflected in other comprehensive income, and then later classified into earnings in accordance with SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities", as amended by SFAS No. 137, SFAS No. 138 and SFAS No. 149.  In both cases, the earnings impact is partially offset by the effects of currency movements on the underlying hedged transactions.  If the Company did not engage in a hedging program, any change in the Swiss franc to local currency would have an equal effect on the Company’s cost of sales.  In addition, the Company hedges its Swiss franc payable exposure with forward contracts.  As of July 31, 2008, the Company’s entire net forward contracts hedging portfolio consisted of 97.0 million Swiss francs equivalent for various expiry dates ranging through January 29, 2009.  If the Company were to settle its Swiss franc forward contracts at July 31, 2008, the net result would have been a gain of $1.2 million, net of tax of $0.8 million.  As of July 31, 2008, the Company had no Swiss franc option contracts related to cash flow hedges.

The Company’s Board of Directors authorized the hedging of the Company’s Swiss franc denominated investment in its wholly-owned Swiss subsidiaries using purchase options under certain limitations. These hedges are treated as net investment hedges under SFAS No. 133.  As of July 31, 2008, the Company did not hold a purchased option hedge portfolio related to net investment hedging.

Commodity Risk

Additionally, the Company has the ability under the hedging program to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices, primarily related to gold used in the manufacturing of the Company’s watches. Under this hedging program, the Company can purchase various commodity derivative instruments, primarily future contracts. These derivatives are documented as SFAS No. 133 cash flow hedges, and gains and losses on these derivative instruments are first reflected in other comprehensive income, and later reclassified into earnings, partially offset by the effects of gold market price changes on the underlying actual gold purchases.  The Company did not hold any futures contracts in its gold hedge portfolio related to cash flow hedges as of July 31, 2008, thus any changes in the gold price will be reflected fully in the Company’s cost of sales.

Debt and Interest Rate Risk

In addition, the Company has certain debt obligations with variable interest rates, which are based on Swiss LIBOR plus a fixed additional interest rate.  The Company does not hedge these interest rate risks.  The Company also has certain debt obligations with fixed interest rates.  The differences between the market based interest rates at July 31, 2008, and the fixed rates were unfavorable.  The Company believes that a 1% change in interest rates would affect the Company’s net income by approximately $0.2 million.

 
24

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company, under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, as such terms are defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act, as amended. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

It should be noted that while the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer believe that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures provide a reasonable level of assurance that they are effective, they do not expect that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures or internal control over financial reporting will prevent all errors and fraud.  A control system, no matter how well conceived or operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the six months ended July 31, 2008, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.




 
25

 


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.                  Legal Proceedings

The Company is involved in pending legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of business.  Although the outcome of such matters cannot be determined with certainty, the Company’s general counsel and management believe that the final outcome would not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.               Risk Factors

As of July 31, 2008, except as noted below, there have been no material changes to any of the risk factors previously reported in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2008.

If the Company is unable to successfully implement its expense reduction plan, its future operating results could suffer.

On August 7, 2008, the Company announced the implementation of an expense reduction plan designed to streamline operations, reduce expenses, and improve efficiencies and effectiveness across the Company’s global organization.  As part of the plan, the Company expects to reduce its payroll expense by approximately 10%, which represents approximately 90 filled positions and 6% of the Company’s full-time workforce.  The Company expects its expense reduction plan to result in annualized pre-tax cost savings of approximately $25.0 million. The Company expects to realize approximately $6.0 million of these savings in fiscal 2009. Throughout fiscal 2009, the Company expects to record a total pre-tax charge of approximately $9.0 million related to the completion of this program.  There is risk that the Company may not be able to fully realize its expense reductions and sustain them in subsequent periods.  In addition, the Company could incur additional unforeseen expenses that may fully or partially offset these expected expense savings.  Furthermore, there is risk that the Company’s human resources could be strained as a result of the streamlining of operations and the reduction of workforce.  The inability to successfully implement its expense reduction plan could adversely affect the Company’s future financial condition and results of operations.

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

On December 4, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Shares of Common Stock were repurchased from time to time as market conditions warranted either through open market transactions, block purchases, private transactions or other means.  The objective of the program was to reduce or eliminate earnings per share dilution caused by the shares of Common Stock issued upon the exercise of stock options and in connection with other equity based compensation plans.  As of April 14, 2008, the Company had completed the one million share repurchase during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 and the first quarter of fiscal 2009, at a total cost of approximately $19.4 million, or $19.38 per share.

On April 15, 2008, the Board of Directors announced a new authorization to repurchase up to an additional one million shares of the Company’s Common Stock.  Under this authorization, the Company has the option to repurchase shares over time, with the amount and timing of repurchases depending on market conditions and corporate needs.  The Company entered into a Rule 10b5-1 plan to facilitate repurchases of its shares under this authorization.  A Rule 10b5-1 plan permits a company to repurchase shares at times when it might otherwise be prevented from doing so, provided the plan is adopted when the company is not aware of material non-public information.  The Company may suspend or discontinue the repurchase of stock at any time.  Under this share

 
26

 

repurchase program, as of July 31, 2008, the Company had repurchased a total of 937,360 shares of Common Stock in the open market during the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2009 at a total cost of approximately $19.5 million or $20.76 per share.

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s purchases for the period ended July 31, 2008 of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:

Issuer Repurchase of Equity Securities
 
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
Average Price Paid Per Share
   
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
   
Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
 
February 1, 2008 - February 29, 2008
    148,500     $
20.11
      148,500       807,543  
March 1,  2008 - March 31, 2008
    406,750     $ 18.57       406,750       400,793  
April 1, 2008 – April 14, 2008
    422,066     $ 19.48       400,793       -  
April 15, 2008 – April 30, 2008
    238,491     $ 20.27       238,115       761,885  
May 1, 2008 – May 31, 2008
    286,733     $ 21.56       286,539       475,346  
June 1, 2008 – June 30, 2008
    396,006     $ 20.52       396,006       79,340  
July 1, 2008 – July 31, 2008
    16,700     $ 20.05       16,700       62,640  
Total
    1,915,246     $ 19.97       1,893,403       62,640  

In addition to the shares repurchased pursuant to the Company’s share repurchase programs, an aggregate of 21,843 shares have been repurchased during the six months ended July 31, 2008 as a result of the surrender of shares in connection with the vesting of certain restricted stock awards and the exercise of certain stock options.  At the election of an employee, shares having an aggregate value on the vesting date equal to the employee’s withholding tax obligation may be surrendered to the Company.




















 
27

 

Item 4.                 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

On June 19, 2008, the Company held its annual meeting of shareholders at its New York office and showrooms in New York, New York.

The following matters were voted upon at the meeting:

(i)     
Margaret Hayes Adame, Richard Coté, Efraim Grinberg, Gedalio Grinberg, Alan H. Howard, Richard Isserman, Nathan Leventhal, Donald Oresman and Leonard L. Silverstein were elected directors of the Company. The results of the vote were as follows:

 
Nominee
 
 
For
 
Withheld/
Against
         
Margaret Hayes Adame
 
82,740,056
 
327,044
Richard Coté
 
82,583,404
 
483,695
Efraim Grinberg
 
82,728,407
 
338,693
Gedalio Grinberg
 
82,580,713
 
486,387
Alan H. Howard
 
82,738,785
 
328,315
Richard Isserman
 
82,928,359
 
138,741
Nathan Leventhal
 
82,928,060
 
139,040
Donald Oresman
 
82,732,315
 
334,785
Leonard L. Silverstein
 
76,624,344
 
6,442,756

(ii)     
A proposal to ratify the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s independent public accountants for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2009 was approved. The results of the vote were as follows:

For
 
Withheld/Against
 
Exception/Abstain
82,808,235
 
200,044
 
58,821



















 
28

 

Item 6.                      Exhibits

10.1  
Line of Credit Letter Agreement dated as of June 16, 2008 between the Registrant and Bank of America, N.A. and Amended and Restated Promissory Note dated as of June 16, 2008 to Bank of America, N.A.

10.2  
Promissory Note dated as of July 31, 2008 to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

10.3  
Omnibus Amendment to Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreements between the Registrant, Prudential Insurance Company of America and the Purchasers as defined therein, entered into as of June 5, 2008.

10.4  
Amendment Number 1 to the April 8, 2004 Amendment and Restatement of the Movado Group, Inc. 1996 Stock Incentive Plan.*

10.5  
Movado Group, Inc. Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Executives, effective January 1, 2008.*

31.1  
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2  
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2  
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.





 
*  Constitutes a compensatory plan or arrangement.




 
29

 


SIGNATURE


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


                MOVADO GROUP, INC.
                                           (Registrant)

Dated:         September 5, 2008
By:
/s/ Sallie DeMarsilis
   
Sallie DeMarsilis
   
Senior Vice President,
   
Chief Financial Officer and
   
Principal Accounting Officer
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     























 
30