Note 10 - Income taxes

At the end of each interim reporting period, the Company estimates its effective income tax rate expected to be applicable for the full year. This estimate is used to determine the income tax provision or benefit on a year-to-date basis and may change in subsequent interim periods.

The Company’s effective tax rate provision for the three months ended April 30, 2017 and 2016 was 82.0% and de minimis, respectfully. The Company’s effective tax rate provision for the nine months ended April 30, 2017 and 2016 was 4.2% and 3.1%, respectively. The tax provision for the 2017 periods was based on state, local and foreign taxes. The tax provision for the nine months ended April 30, 2016 included a provision for federal alternative minimum tax. The Company’s effective tax rate for all periods differed from the expected net operating loss carryforward benefit at the U.S. federal statutory rate of 34% primarily due to the inability to recognize such benefit. The carryforward benefit cannot be recognized because of uncertainties relating to future taxable income in terms of both its timing and its sufficiency, which would enable the Company to realize the federal carryforward benefit.

The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. The Company files combined returns in various states and New York City. Certain subsidiaries file separate state and foreign tax returns.