SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

☐       REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR
 
☒       ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019
 
OR
 
☐       TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from __________ to __________
 
☐       SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Date of event requiring this shell company report .................
 
Commission file number: 0‑21388
 
MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its charter
and translation of Registrant’s name into English)
 
Israel
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

P.O. Box 70, Industrial Zone, Yehud 5621617, Israel
(Address of principal executive offices)

Yaacov Vinokur, Chief Financial Officer
Magal Security Systems Ltd.
P.O. Box 70, Industrial Zone
 Yehud 5621617, Israel
+972-3-5391444 (phone), +972-3-5366245 (fax)
(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of each class
 
Trading Symbol(s)
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Ordinary Shares, NIS 1.0 Par Value
 
MAGS
 
Nasdaq Global Market
 
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
 
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report: 23,153,985 Ordinary shares as of December 31, 2019.
 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
 
Yes ☐   No ☒
 
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

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

Yes ☒   No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).   

Yes ☒   No ☐
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See definition of "accelerated filer", "large accelerated filer" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☐
   
Non-accelerated filer ☒
Emerging growth company ☐
 
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
     
U.S. GAAP ☒
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ☐
Other ☐

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow:

Item 17 ☐   Item 18 ☐
 
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes ☐   No ☒

This Annual Report on Form 20-F is incorporated by reference into the Registrant’s Registration Statements on Form S-8, File Nos. 333-164696, 333-174127 and 333-190469.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

     
Page No.
 

 

1

1

1

A.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data.
1

B.
Capitalization and Indebtedness.
2

C.
Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds.
2

D.
Risk Factors.
2

15

A.
History and Development of the Company.
15

B.
Business Overview.
16

C.
Organizational Structure.
27

D.
Property, Plants and Equipment.
27

28

28

A.
Operating Results.
28

B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
40

C.
Research and Development, Patents and Licenses.
43

D.
Trend Information.
44

E.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.
44

F.
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations.
45

45

A.
Directors and Senior Management.
45

B.
Compensation
48

C.
Board Practices
49

D.
Employees
59

E.
Share Ownership.
60

61

A.
Major Shareholders.
61

B.
Related Party Transactions.
62

C.
Interests of Experts and Counsel.
62

62

A.
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information.
62

B.
Significant Changes.
63

63

A.
Offer and Listing Details.
63

B.
Plan of Distribution.
63

C.
Markets.
63

D.
Selling Shareholders.
63

E.
Dilution.
64

F.
Expenses of the Issue.
64

64

A.
Share Capital.
64

B.
Memorandum and Articles of Association.
64

C.
Material Contracts.
65

D.
Exchange Controls.
65

E.
Taxation.
65

F.
Dividends and Paying Agents.
75

G.
Statements by Experts.
75

H.
Documents on Display.
76

I.
Subsidiary Information.
76

- i -


76

76
 
77

77

77

77

77

78

78

78

79

79

79

Mine Safety Disclosure 79
 
79

79

80

81

- ii -

INTRODUCTION
 
Magal Security Systems Ltd. is a leading international provider of turn-key projects, solutions and products for physical security, as well as site management. Since 1969, we have delivered our products as well as tailor-made security solutions and turnkey projects to customers in over 100 countries under some of the most challenging conditions. We offer comprehensive integrated solutions for critical sites, which leverage our broad portfolio of homegrown PIDS (Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems), advanced VMS (Video Management Software) with native IVA (Intelligent Video Analytics) security solutions, as well as a proprietary command and control platform.
 
Based on our multi decade industry experience and interaction with customers, we have developed a comprehensive set of solutions and products, optimized for perimeter, outdoor and general security applications. Our broad portfolio of critical infrastructure protection and site protection technologies includes a variety of smart barriers and fences, fence mounted sensors, virtual gates, buried and concealed detection systems and sophisticated sensors for sub-surface intrusion such as to secure pipelines, as well as advanced video analytics software and video management systems. Our turnkey solutions are typically integrated and managed by sophisticated modular command and control software, supported by expert systems for real-time decision support. We have successfully installed customized solutions and products in more than 100 countries worldwide. Our ordinary shares are traded on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “MAGS”.  Our website is www.magalsecurity.com.  The information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.  As used in this annual report, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” and “Magal” mean Magal Security Systems Ltd. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated.

CYBERSEAL, DTR, FENSOR, FORTIS, MAESTRO DB, MAGAL, ROBOGUARD, AIMETIS SYMPHONY, FIBERPATROL, FLARE, FLEXPI, FLEXZONE, OMNITRAX, PINPOINTER, SENNET, SENSTAR, SENSTAR & DESIGN, SENTIENT, ULTRAWAVE DESIGN and XFIELD are registered trademarks.

ARMOURFLEX, ENTERPRISE MANAGER, GALLIUM PDS, INTELLI-FLEX, INTELLIFIBER, LM100, the MAGAL logo, NETWORK MANAGER, RUBIDIUM, STARLED, STARNET, SENSTAR CARE, SENSTAR SYMPHONY, TUNGSTEN and VANADIUM and all other marks used to identify particular products and services associated with our businesses are trademarks.  Any other trademarks and trade names appearing in this annual report are owned by their respective holders.

Our consolidated financial statements appearing in this annual report are prepared in U.S. dollars and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or U.S. GAAP.  All references in this annual report to “dollars” or “$” are to U.S. dollars, all references to “NIS” are to New Israeli Shekels and all references to “CAD” are to Canadian dollars.

Statements made in this annual report concerning the contents of any contract, agreement or other document are summaries of such contracts, agreements or documents and are not complete descriptions of all of their terms.  If we filed any of these documents as an exhibit to this annual report or to any registration statement or annual report that we previously filed, you may read the document itself for a complete description of its terms.

This Annual Report on Form 20-F contains various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and within the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended.  Such forward-looking statements reflect our current view with respect to future events and financial results.  Forward-looking statements usually include the verbs, “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “understands” and other verbs suggesting uncertainty.  We remind readers that forward-looking statements are merely predictions and therefore inherently subject to uncertainties and other factors and involve known and unknown risks that could cause the actual results, performance, levels of activity, or our achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance, levels of activity, or our achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.  We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.  We have attempted to identify additional significant uncertainties and other factors affecting forward-looking statements in the Risk Factors section which appears in Item 3.D “Key Information -- Risk Factors.”
 
- iii -

PART I
 
ITEM 1.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 2.
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 3.
KEY INFORMATION
 
A.
Selected Consolidated Financial Data.
 
The following selected consolidated financial data for and as of the five years ended December 31, 2019 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  We have derived the following selected consolidated financial data as of December 31, 2018 and 2019 and for each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 from our consolidated financial statements set forth elsewhere in this annual report that have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  We have derived the following selected consolidated financial data as of December 31, 2015, 2016 and 2017 and for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016 from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this annual report.  The selected consolidated financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with and are qualified entirely by reference to Item 5.  “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report.
 
   
2015
   
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
                               
Revenues          
 
$
63,736
   
$
67,825
   
$
64,292
   
$
92,602
   
$
86,831
 
Cost of revenues          
   
32,722
     
34,570
     
32,967
     
52,299
     
48,070
 
Gross profit          
   
31,014
     
33,255
     
31,325
     
40,303
     
38,761
 
Operating expenses:
                                       
Research and development, net          
   
4,814
     
6,779
     
6,558
     
6,852
     
6,373
 
Selling and marketing          
   
14,785
     
17,536
     
18,158
     
18,557
     
16,902
 
General and administrative          
   
7,026
     
7,445
     
7,853
     
11,139
     
9,447
 
Total operating expenses          
   
26,625
     
31,760
     
32,569
     
36,548
     
32,722
 
Operating income (loss)          
   
4,389
     
1,495
     
(1,244
)
   
3,755
     
6,039
 
Financial income (expenses), net          
   
642
     
(591
)
   
(3,961
)
   
1,361
     
(1,667
)
Income (loss) before income taxes          
   
5,031
     
904
     
(5,205
)
   
5,116
     
4,372
 
Taxes on income (tax benefit)          
   
1,923
     
(122
)
   
1,695
     
2,072
     
1,553
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
3,108
   
$
1,026
   
$
(6,900
)
 
$
3,044
   
$
2,819
 
Less: net income (loss) attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests and non-controlling interest
   
(33
)
   
(3
)
   
14
     
95
     
526
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Magal’s shareholders
 
$
3,141
   
$
1,029
   
$
(6,914
)
 
$
2,949
   
$
2,293
 
Basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share
 
$
0.19
   
$
0.06
   
$
(0.30
)
 
$
0.12
   
$
0.07
 

1

   
2015
   
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in computing basic net earnings per share
   
16,347,948
     
17,999,779
     
22,989,009
     
23,040,436
     
23,129,394
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in computing diluted net earnings per share
   
16,410,711
     
18,031,433
     
22,989,009
     
23,287,751
     
23,144,740
 

   
2015
   
2016
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:
                             
Cash and cash equivalents          
 
$
27,319
   
$
19,692
   
$
22,463
   
$
38,665
   
$
34,531
 
Short and long-term deposits and restricted deposits
   
3,977
     
32,971
     
30,022
     
16,431
     
17,207
 
Working capital          
   
43,996
     
58,752
     
59,401
     
61,023
     
67,202
 
Total assets
   
74,996
     
105,993
     
112,545
     
119,171
     
127,049
 
Total shareholders’ equity          
 
$
55,695
   
$
81,918
   
$
82,949
   
$
81,216
   
$
87,806
 

B.          Capitalization and Indebtedness.
 
Not applicable.

C.          Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds.
 
Not applicable.

D.          Risk Factors.
 
Investing in our ordinary shares involves a high degree of risk and uncertainty.  You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below before investing in our ordinary shares.  If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations could be harmed.  In that case, the value of our ordinary shares could decline, and you could lose all or part of your investment.
 
Risks Related to Our Business
 
We depend on large orders from a relatively small number of customers for a substantial portion of our revenues.  The loss of one or more of our key customers could result in a loss of a significant amount of our revenues.
 
Historically, a relatively small number of customers account for a significant percentage of our revenues.   The Israeli Ministry of Defense, or the MOD, and the Israeli Defense Forces, or the IDF accounted for 10.2%, 10.9% and 17.2% of our revenues in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. In addition, revenues from a national electricity company in Latin America accounted for 14.6%, 25.3% and 5.4% of our revenues in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. The MOD, the IDF or any of our other major continuing customers may not maintain their volume of business with us or, if such volume is reduced, other customers generating similar revenues may not replace the lost business. Our inability to replace business from large contracts will adversely affect our financial results.  Any unanticipated delays in a large project, changes in customer requirements or priorities during the project implementation period, or a customer’s decision to cancel a project, may adversely impact our operating results and financial performance. Our revenues may also be affected in the future if there is a reduction in Israeli government defense spending for our programs or a change in priorities to purchase products other than ours.  Accordingly, changes in government contracting policies, budgetary constraints and delays or changes in the appropriations process could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

2

While we were profitable in 2019, we have incurred major losses in past years and may not operate profitably in the future.
 
We reported an operating profit of $6.0 million and net income of $2.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2019. We may not be able to sustain profitable operations in the future due to a number of factors, including the recent outbreak of the novel Coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19), which  has negatively impacted  our operations.  If we do not generate sufficient cash from operations, we will be required to obtain financing or reduce our level of expenditure or cash balance.  Such financing may not be available in the future, or, if available, may not be on terms favorable to us.  If adequate funds are not available to us, our business, results of operations and financial condition will be materially and adversely affected.
 
Our operations may be negatively impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.
 
International health epidemics from communicable diseases, such as the recent outbreak of the novel Coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19), may impair our operations. We are actively assessing the potential impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on our operations, including on our employees, customers, suppliers and logistics/transport providers. In addition, we are evaluating the possible impact of governmental actions being taken to curtail the spread of the virus, such as instructions regarding quarantine of individuals, restrictions on holding of large scale events, workplace restrictions and international travel. We also are monitoring the impact of the pandemic on our industry and on governmental priorities, both in Israel and worldwide, as well as its macro-economic implications. We cannot presently estimate the impact of Covid-19 on our company, but the continued spread of that disease could prevent our employees, customers, suppliers and other business partners from conducting normal activities, potentially resulting in cessation, reduction or delay of business either voluntarily or by governmental mandate and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flow.
 
Our operating results may fluctuate from quarter to quarter and year to year.

Our sales and operating results may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year in the future.  Our operating results are characterized by a seasonal pattern, with a higher volume of revenues towards the end of the year and lower revenues in the first part of the year.  In addition, our operating results are affected by a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control.  Factors contributing to these fluctuations include the following:


changes in customers’ or potential customers’ budgets as a result of, among other things, government funding and procurement policies;
 

changes in demand for our existing products and services;
 

our long and variable sales cycle;
 

our ability to maintain sales volumes at a level sufficient to cover fixed manufacturing and operating costs;
 

the timing of the introduction and market acceptance of new products, product enhancements and new applications.

Our expense levels are based, in part, on expected future sales.  If the level of sales in a particular quarter does not meet expectations, we may be unable to adjust operating expenses quickly enough to compensate for the shortfall of sales, and our results of operations may be adversely affected.  Due to these and other factors, we believe that quarter to quarter and year to year comparisons of our past operating results may not be meaningful.  You should not rely on our results for any quarter or year as an indication of our future performance.  Our operating results in future quarters and years may be below expectations, which would likely cause the price of our ordinary shares to fall.

3

Our financial results may be significantly affected by currency fluctuations.
 
Most of our sales are made in North America, Latin America, Africa, Israel and Europe.  Our revenues are primarily denominated in Dollars, NIS, Mexican Pesos and Euros, while a portion of our expenses, primarily labor expenses, is incurred in NIS and Canadian Dollars.  Additionally, certain assets, especially trade receivables, as well as part of our liabilities are denominated in NIS.  As a result, fluctuations in rates of exchange between the dollar and non-dollar currencies may affect our operating results and financial condition.  The dollar cost of our operations in Israel may be adversely affected by the appreciation of the NIS against the dollar.  In addition, the value of our non-dollar revenues could be adversely affected by the depreciation of the dollar against such currencies. Our financial expenses may also be adversely affected by the depreciation of a currency in which we maintain our monetary assets.
 
We recorded foreign exchange losses, net of $4 million and $2 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2019, respectively and a foreign exchange gain, net of $1.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2018. As a result of our rights offering in late 2016, we held a significant amount of cash and cash equivalents in U.S. dollars at year end 2017 and during 2018 and 2019. These balances were translated into Israeli Shekels, which depreciated by 9.8% and 7.8% against the U.S. dollar in 2017 and 2019, respectively, and which appreciated by 8.1% against the U.S. dollar in 2018. We may incur exchange losses in the future which may materially affect our operating results.

Because our project related sales tend to be concentrated among a small number of customers during any period, our operating results may be subject to substantial fluctuations. Accordingly, our revenues and operating results for any particular quarter may not be indicative of our performance in future quarters, making it difficult for investors to evaluate our future prospects based solely on the results of any one quarter.
 
Given the nature of our customers and projects, we receive relatively large orders for projects from a relatively small number of customers. Consequently, a single order from one customer may represent a substantial portion of our sales in any one period and significant orders by any customer during one period may not be followed by further orders from the same customer in subsequent periods. Our sales and operating results are subject to very substantial periodic variations. Since quarterly performance is likely to vary significantly, our results of operations for any quarter or calendar year are not necessarily indicative of the results that we might achieve for any subsequent period. Accordingly, quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year comparisons of our operating results may not be meaningful. In addition, our order backlog is generally composed of orders that are mostly fulfilled within a period of three to twelve months after receipt, which makes revenues in any quarter substantially dependent upon orders received in prior quarters.

We may be unable to successfully integrate our recent acquisitions to fully realize targeted synergies, revenues and other expected benefits of the acquisitions. We expect to make additional acquisitions in the future that could disrupt our operations and harm our operating results.
 
In April 2018, we completed the acquisition of a 55% controlling interest in ESC BAZ Ltd., an Israeli-based company, focused on the development and manufacturing of military-grade smart Security Video Observation and Surveillance systems. In April 2016, Senstar, our fully owned Canadian subsidiary, acquired Aimetis, a Canadian-based company, which specializes in advanced video analytics software and intelligent IP video management software (VMS). In July 2017 we amalgamated our two Canadian subsidiaries. Following the amalgamation, the company maintained the name Senstar Corporation.

Achieving the targeted synergies, such as operating and long-term strategic cost-savings, of the acquisitions will depend in part upon whether we can continue to integrate their businesses and technologies in an efficient and effective manner. We may not be able to accomplish this integration process smoothly or successfully. The integration of our respective operations will require the dedication of significant management resources, which may distract management’s attention from day-to-day operations. Employee uncertainty and lack of focus during the integration process may also disrupt our business and result in undesired employee attrition. An inability of management to successfully integrate the operations into our business could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

An inability to realize the full extent of, or any of, the anticipated benefits and synergies of the acquisitions, as well as any delays encountered in the integration process, could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. We may also be required in the future to record impairment charges relating to the carrying value of our intangible assets and goodwill arising from such acquisitions.  Moreover, future acquisitions by us could result in potentially dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities and amortization expenses related to identifiable intangible assets, any of which could materially adversely affect our operating results and financial position.  Acquisitions also involve other risks, including risks inherent in entering markets in which we have no or limited prior experience.
 
4

Mergers and acquisitions of companies are inherently risky and subject to many factors outside of our control and no assurance can be given that our future acquisitions will be successful and will not adversely affect our business, operating results, or financial condition.  In the future, we may seek to acquire or make strategic investments in complementary businesses, technologies, services or products, or enter into strategic partnerships or alliances with third parties in order to expand our business. Failure to manage and successfully integrate such acquisitions could materially harm our business and operating results. Prior acquisitions have resulted in a wide range of outcomes, from successful introduction of new products technologies and professional services to a failure to do so.  Even when an acquired company has previously developed and marketed products, there can be no assurance that new product enhancements will be made in a timely manner or that pre-acquisition due diligence will have identified all possible issues that might arise with respect to such products. If we acquire other businesses, we may face difficulties, including:
 

Difficulties in integrating the operations, systems, technologies, products, and personnel of the acquired businesses or enterprises;
 

Diversion of management’s attention from normal daily operations of the business and the challenges of managing larger and more widespread operations resulting from acquisitions;
 

Integrating financial forecasting and controls, procedures and reporting cycles;
 

Difficulties in entering markets in which we have no or limited direct prior experience and where competitors in such markets have stronger market positions;
 

Insufficient revenue to offset increased expenses associated with acquisitions; and
 

The potential loss of key employees, customers, distributors, vendors and other business partners of the companies we acquire following and continuing after announcement of acquisition plans.
 
Our revenues depend on government procurement procedures and practices.  A substantial decrease in our customers’ budgets would adversely affect our results of operations.
 
Our products are primarily sold to governmental agencies, governmental authorities and government-owned companies, many of which have complex and time-consuming procurement procedures.  A substantial period of time often elapses from the time we begin marketing a product until we actually sell that product to a particular customer.  In addition, our sales to governmental agencies, authorities and companies are directly affected by these customers’ budgetary constraints and the priority given in their budgets to the procurement of our products.  A decrease in governmental funding for our customers’ budgets would adversely affect our results of operations.  This risk is heightened during periods of global economic slowdown.
 
Accordingly, governmental purchases of our systems, products and services may decline in the future as the governmental purchasing agencies may terminate, reduce or modify contracts or subcontracts if:
 

their requirements or budgetary constraints change;
 

they cancel multi-year contracts and related orders if funds become unavailable;
 

they shift spending priorities into other areas or for other products; or
 

they adjust contract costs and fees on the basis of audits.
 
Any such event may have a material adverse effect on us.
 
5

Because competition in our industry is intense, our business, operating results and financial condition may be adversely affected.
 
The global market for security, safety, site management solutions and products is highly fragmented and intensely competitive.  We compete principally in the market for perimeter intrusion detection systems, or PIDS, Video Management Software, or VMS, Intelligent Video Analytics, or IVA, and turnkey projects and solutions.  Some of our competitors and potential competitors have greater research, development, financial and personnel resources, including governmental support, as well as established greater penetration into certain vertical markets or geographical market segments. We cannot assure you that we will be able to compete effectively relative to our competitors or continue to develop and market new products effectively. Continued competitive pressures could cause us to lose significant market share or erode profitability margins.
 
Increased competition and bid protests in a budget-constrained environment may make it more difficult to maintain our financial performance.
 
A substantial portion of our business is awarded through competitive bidding. Governments increasingly have relied upon competitive contract award types and multi-award contracts, which has the potential to create pricing pressure and increase our cost by requiring that we submit multiple bids and proposals. The competitive bidding process entails substantial costs and managerial time to prepare bids and proposals for contracts that may not be awarded to us or may be split among competitors. Multi award contracts require that we make sustained efforts to obtain follow-on orders under the contract. Following award, we may encounter significant expenses, delays, contract modifications, or even loss of the contract if our competitors protest or challenge contracts that are awarded to us.
 
Unfavorable global economic conditions may adversely affect our customers, which directly impact our business and results of operations. We have significant operations in countries that may be adversely affected by political events, economic instability, regime replacement, major hostilities or acts of terrorism.
 
During periods of slowing economic activity, such as is expected as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, our customers may reduce their demand for our products, technology and professional services, which would reduce our sales, and our business, operating results and financial condition may be adversely affected. Economic challenges may develop, including threatened sovereign defaults, credit downgrades, restricted credit for businesses and consumers and potentially falling demand for a variety of products and services. These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, could result in longer sales cycles, slower adoption of new technologies and increased price competition for our products and services. We could also be exposed to credit risk and payment delinquencies on our accounts receivable, which are not covered by collateral.

In particular, there is currently significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the U.S. and various other countries, with respect to trade policies, treaties, government regulations, and tariffs. For example, the recent imposition of tariffs and/or changes in tariffs on various products by the U.S. and other countries, including China and Canada, have introduced greater uncertainty with respect to trade policies and government regulations affecting trade between the U.S. and other countries, and new and/or increased tariffs have subjected, and may in the future subject, us to additional costs and expenditure of resources. Major developments in trade relations, including the imposition of new or increased tariffs by the U.S. and/or other countries, and any emerging nationalist trends in specific countries could alter the trade environment and consumer purchasing behavior which, in turn, could have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations. While the U.S. and China recently signed a “phase one” trade deal on January 15, 2020 to reduce planned increases to tariffs, concerns over the stability of bilateral trade relations remain. In addition, the UK’s exit from the European Union on January 31, 2020, known as Brexit, and the ongoing negotiations of the future trading relationship between the UK and the European Union during the transition period set to end December 31, 2020 have yet to provide clarity on what the outcome will be for the UK or Europe. Changes related to Brexit could subject us to heightened risks in that region, including disruptions to trade and free movement of goods, services and people to and from the UK, disruptions to the workforce of our business partners, increased foreign exchange volatility with respect to the British pound and additional legal, political and economic uncertainty. If these actions impacting our international distribution and sales channels result in increased costs for us or our international partners, such changes could result in higher costs to us, adversely affecting our operations, particularly as we expand our international presence.
 
Significant portions of our operations are conducted outside the markets in which our products and solutions are manufactured or generally sold, and accordingly, we often export a substantial number of products into such markets. We may, therefore, be denied access to potential customers or suppliers or denied the ability to ship products from any of our subsidiaries into the countries in which we currently operate or wish to operate, as a result of economic, legislative, political and military conditions, including hostilities and acts of terrorism, in such countries.

6

We may also be required in the future to increase our reserves for doubtful accounts.  In addition, the fair value of some of our assets may decrease as a result of an uncertain economy and as a result, we may be required to record impairment charges in the future.  If global economic and market conditions or economic conditions in key markets remain uncertain or weaken, our financial condition and operating results may be materially adversely affected.
 
We may be adversely affected by our long sales cycles.
 
We have in the past and expect in the future to experience long time periods between initial sales contacts and the execution of formal contracts for our products and completion of product installations.  The cycle from first contact to revenue generation in our business involves, among other things, selling the concept of our technology and products, developing and implementing a pilot program to demonstrate the capabilities and accuracy of our products, negotiating prices and other contract terms, and, finally, installing and implementing our products on a full-scale basis.  This cycle entails a substantial period of time, sometimes as much as one or more years, and the lack of revenues during this cycle and the expenses involved in bringing new sales to the point of revenue generation may put a substantial strain on our resources.
 
Our business involves significant risks and uncertainties that may not be covered by indemnity or insurance.
 
A significant portion of our business relates to designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced security, site management and systems and products.  New technologies may be untested or unproven. Failure of some of these products and services could result in extensive loss of life or property damage. Accordingly, we also may incur liabilities that are unique to our products and services. In some, but not all circumstances, we may be entitled to certain legal protections or indemnifications from our customers, either through regulatory protections, contractual provisions or otherwise. The amount of insurance coverage that we maintain may not be adequate to cover all claims or liabilities, and it is not possible to obtain insurance to protect against all operational risks and liabilities.
 
Substantial claims resulting from an accident, failure of our products or services, or other incident, or liability arising from our products and services in excess of any indemnity and our insurance coverage (or for which indemnity or insurance is not available or not obtained) could adversely impact our financial condition, cash flows, or operating results. Any accident, even if fully indemnified or insured, could negatively affect our reputation among our customers and the public, and make it more difficult for us to compete effectively. It also could affect the cost and availability of adequate insurance in the future.
 
The market for our products may be affected by changing technology, requirements, standards and products, and we may be adversely affected if we do not respond promptly and effectively to these changes.
 
The market for our products may be affected by evolving technologies, changing industry standards, changing regulatory environments, new product introductions and changes in customer requirements.  The introduction of products embodying new technologies and the emergence of new industry standards and practices can render existing products obsolete and unmarketable.  Our future success will depend on our ability to enhance our existing products and to develop and introduce, on a timely and cost-effective basis, new products and product features that keep pace with technological developments and emerging industry standards. In the future:
 

we may not be successful in developing and marketing new products or product features that respond to technological change or evolving industry standards;
 

we may experience difficulties that could delay or prevent the successful development, introduction and marketing of these new products and features; or
 

our new products and product features may not adequately meet the requirements of the marketplace and achieve market acceptance.
 
If we are unable to respond promptly and effectively to changing technologies and market requirements, we will be unable to compete effectively in the future.
 
7

Our failure to retain and attract personnel could harm our business, operations and product development efforts.
 
Our products require sophisticated research and development, marketing and sales and technical customer support.  Our success depends on our ability to attract, train and retain qualified research and development, marketing and sales and technical customer support personnel.  Competition for personnel in all of these areas is intense and we may not be able to hire adequate personnel to achieve our goals or support the anticipated growth in our business. Competition may be amplified by evolving restrictions on immigration, travel, or availability of visas for skilled technology workers. If we fail to attract and retain qualified personnel, our business, operations and product development efforts would suffer.
 
Our international operations require us to comply with anti-corruption laws and regulations of various governments and different international jurisdictions, and our failure to comply with these laws and regulations could adversely affect our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Doing business on a worldwide basis requires us and our subsidiaries to comply with the laws and regulations of various governments and different international jurisdictions, and our failure to successfully comply with these rules and regulations may expose us to liabilities. These laws and regulations apply to companies, individual directors, officers, employees and agents, and may restrict our operations, trade practices, investment decisions and partnering activities. In particular, as a company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, we are subject to the regulations imposed by the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or FCPA. The FCPA prohibits us from providing anything of value to foreign officials for the purposes of influencing official decisions or obtaining or retaining business or otherwise obtaining favorable treatment, and requires companies to maintain adequate record-keeping and internal accounting practices to accurately reflect the transactions of the company. As part of our business, we deal with state-owned business enterprises, the employees and representatives of which may be considered foreign officials for purposes of the FCPA. If our efforts to screen third-party agents and detect cases of potential misconduct fail, we could be held responsible for the noncompliance of these third parties under applicable laws and regulations, which may have a material adverse effect on our reputation and our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, some of the international locations in which we operate lack a developed legal system and have elevated levels of corruption. As a result of the above activities, we are exposed to the risk of violating anti-corruption laws. We have established policies and procedures designed to assist us and our personnel to comply with applicable U.S. and international laws and regulations. However, there can be no assurance that our policies and procedures will effectively prevent us from violating these regulations in every transaction in which we may engage, and such a violation could adversely affect our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
We face risks associated with doing business in international markets.
 
A large portion of our sales is to markets outside of Israel.  For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 approximately 85.1%, 85.3% and 78.1%, respectively, of our revenues were derived from sales to markets outside of Israel.  A key component of our strategy is to continue to expand in such international markets.  Our international sales efforts are affected by costs associated with the shipping of our products and risks inherent in doing business in international markets, including:
 

different and changing regulatory requirements in the jurisdictions in which we currently operate or may operate in the future;
 

fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;
 

export restrictions, tariffs and other trade barriers;
 

difficulties in staffing, managing and supporting foreign operations;
 

longer payment cycles;
 

difficulties in collecting accounts receivable;
 
8


political and economic changes, hostilities and other disruptions in regions where we currently sell or products or may sell our products in the future; and
 

seasonal changes in business activity.
 
Negative developments in any of these areas in one or more countries could result in a reduction in demand for our products, the cancellation or delay of orders already placed, difficulty in collecting receivables, and a higher cost of doing business, any of which could adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition.
 
We may be vulnerable to physical and electronic security breaches and cyber-attacks which could disrupt our operations and have a material adverse effect on our financial performance and operating results.
 
A party who is able to compromise the security measures on our networks or the security of our infrastructure could, among other things, misappropriate our proprietary information and the personal information of our customers and employees, cause interruptions or malfunctions in our or our customers’ operations, cause delays or interruptions to our ability to meet customer needs, cause us to breach our legal, regulatory or contractual obligations, create an inability to access or rely upon critical business records or cause other disruptions in our operations. These breaches may result from human errors, equipment failure, or fraud or malice on the part of employees or third parties. Our exposure to cybersecurity threats and negative consequences of cybersecurity breaches will likely increase as we store increasing amounts of customer data. Additionally, as we increasingly market the security features in our data centers, our data centers may be targeted by computer hackers seeking to compromise data security.
 
We expend significant financial resources to protect against such threats and may be required to further expend financial resources to alleviate problems caused by physical, electronic, and cyber security breaches. As techniques used to breach security are growing in frequency and sophistication and are generally not recognized until launched against a target, regardless of our expenditures and protection efforts, we may not be able to implement security measures in a timely manner or, if and when implemented, these measures could be circumvented. Any breaches that may occur could expose us to increased risk of lawsuits, loss of existing or potential future customers, harm to our reputation and increases in our security costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial performance and operating results.
 
In the event of a breach resulting in loss of data, such as personally identifiable information or other such data protected by data privacy or other laws, we may be liable for damages, fines and penalties for such losses under applicable regulatory frameworks despite not handling the data. Furthermore, if a high-profile security breach or cyber-attack occurs with respect to another provider of mission-critical data center facilities, our customers and potential customers may lose trust in the security of these business models generally, which could harm our reputation and brand image as well as our ability to retain existing customers or attract new ones. In addition, the regulatory framework around data custody, data privacy and breaches varies by jurisdiction and is an evolving area of law. We may not be able to limit our liability or damages in the event of such a loss.
 
 We may not be able to protect our proprietary technology and unauthorized use of our proprietary technology by third parties may impair our ability to compete effectively.
 
Our success and ability to compete depend in large part upon protecting our proprietary technology. We have 13 patents and have 3 patent applications pending. We also rely on a combination of trade secret and copyright law and confidentiality, non-disclosure and assignment-of-inventions agreements to protect our proprietary technology.  It is our policy to protect our proprietary rights in our products and operations through contractual obligations, including confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements with certain employees, distributors and agents, suppliers and subcontractors.  These measures may not be adequate to protect our technology from third-party infringement, and our competitors may independently develop technologies that are substantially equivalent or superior to ours.  Additionally, our products may be sold in foreign countries that provide less protection to intellectual property than that provided under U.S. or Israeli laws.
 
Claims that our products infringe upon the intellectual property of third parties may require us to incur significant costs, enter into licensing agreements or license substitute technology.
 
Third parties may in the future assert infringement claims against us or claims asserting that we have violated a patent or infringed upon a copyright, trademark or other proprietary right belonging to them.  Any infringement claim, even one without merit, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources to defend against the claim.  In addition, we purchase components for our turnkey products from independent suppliers.  Certain of these components contain proprietary intellectual property of these independent suppliers.  Third parties may in the future assert claims against our suppliers that such suppliers have violated a patent or infringed upon a copyright, trademark or other proprietary right belonging to them.  If such infringement by our suppliers or us were found to exist, a party could seek an injunction preventing the use of their intellectual property.  Moreover, a successful claim of product infringement against us or a settlement could require us to pay substantial amounts or obtain a license to continue to use such technology or intellectual property.  Infringement claims asserted against us could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.
 
9

Undetected defects in our products may increase our costs and impair the market acceptance of our products.
 
Despite our regular quality assurance testing, the development, enhancement and implementation of our complex systems entail substantial risks of product defects or failures.  Undetected errors or “bugs” may be found in existing or new products, resulting in delays, loss of revenues, warranty expense, loss of market share, failure to achieve market acceptance, adverse publicity, product returns, loss of competitive position or claims against us by customers. Any such problems could be costly to remedy and could cause interruptions, delays, or cessation of our product sales, which could cause us to lose existing or prospective customers and could negatively affect our results of operations.  Moreover, the complexities involved in implementing our systems entail additional risks of performance failures.  We may encounter substantial difficulties due to such complexities which could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Systems and information technology interruptions or cyber-attacks could adversely impact our ability to operate.
 
Our operations rely on computer, information and communications technology and related systems.  From time to time, we may experience system interruptions and delays.  If we are unable to continually add software and hardware, effectively upgrade our systems and network infrastructure and take other steps to improve the efficiency of and protect our systems, our operations could be interrupted or delayed.  Our computer and communications systems and operations could be damaged or interrupted by natural disasters, telecommunications failures, acts of war, terrorism or similar events or disruptions.  Any of these or other events could cause system interruption, delays and loss of critical data, or delay or stoppage of our operations, and adversely affect our operating results.
 
If subcontractors and suppliers terminate our arrangements with them, or amend them in a manner detrimental to us, we may experience delays in production and implementation of our products and our business may be adversely affected.
 
We acquire most of the components utilized in our products, including our turnkey solutions, from a limited number of suppliers.  We may not be able to obtain such items from these suppliers in the future or we may not be able to obtain them on satisfactory terms.  Temporary disruptions of our manufacturing operations would result if we were required to obtain materials from alternative sources, which may have an adverse effect on our financial results.
 
We currently benefit from government programs and tax benefits that may be discontinued or reduced in the future, which would increase our future tax expenses. 
 
We currently benefit from grants and tax benefits under Israeli government programs, which require us to meet specified conditions, including, but not limited to, making specified investments from our equity in fixed assets and paying royalties with respect to grants received.  In addition, some of these programs restrict our ability to manufacture particular products or transfer particular technology outside of Israel.  We also benefit from tax credits pursuant to the Scientific Research and Experimental Development Tax Incentive Program in Canada, and from research grant programs such as the “Industrial Research Assistance Program” (IRAP).
 
If we fail to comply with the conditions imposed by the Israeli law or the Canadian tax program in the future, the benefits we receive could be cancelled and we could be required to refund any payments previously received under these programs, including any accrued interest, or pay increased taxes or royalties.  Canadian research grant programs are dependent on the Government’s continued commitment to support R&D, on availability of funding, and may be more difficult to realize or may not be available in the future.  Such a result would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
10

The Israeli government has reduced the benefits available under these programs in recent years and these programs and benefits may be discontinued or curtailed in the future. If the Israeli or Canadian governments resolve to end these programs and benefits, our business, financial condition, results of operations and net income could be materially adversely affected.
 
We may fail to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, which could result in material misstatements in our financial statements.
 
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 imposes certain duties on us and our executives and directors.  Our efforts to comply with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 governing internal controls and procedures for financial reporting have resulted in increased general and administrative expense and a diversion of management time and attention, and we expect these efforts to require the continued commitment of significant resources.  Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires management’s annual review and evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting in connection with the filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for each fiscal year.  We may identify material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting.  Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in material misstatements in our financial statements.  Any such failure could also adversely affect the results of our management’s evaluations and annual auditor reports regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.  We have documented and tested our internal control systems and procedures in order for us to comply with the requirements of Section 404. While our assessment of our internal control over financial reporting resulted in our conclusion that as of December 31, 2019, our internal control over financial reporting was effective, we cannot predict the outcome of our testing in future periods. If we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting. Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could result in investigation or sanctions by regulatory authorities and could have a material adverse effect on our operating results, investor confidence in our reported financial information and the market price of our ordinary shares.
 
We may be adversely affected by regulations and market expectations related to sourcing and our supply chain, including conflict minerals.
 
The SEC has adopted disclosures and reporting requirements for companies whose products contain certain minerals and their derivatives, namely tin, tantalum, tungsten, or gold, known as conflict minerals. Companies must report annually whether or not such minerals originate from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and adjoining countries. These requirements could adversely affect the sourcing, availability, and pricing of materials used in the manufacturing of our products. In addition, we have incurred additional costs to comply with the disclosure requirements, including cost related to determining the source of any of the relevant minerals used in our products. Since our supply chain is complex, due diligence procedures we have implemented to understand the origins of the minerals we use in our operations may not enable us to ascertain with sufficient certainty the origins for these minerals or determine that these minerals are DRC conflict free, which may harm our reputation. We may also face difficulties in satisfying customers who may require that our products be certified as DRC conflict free, which could harm our relationships with these customers and/or lead to a loss of revenue. These requirements also could have the effect of limiting the pool of suppliers from which we source these minerals, and we may be unable to obtain conflict-free minerals at prices similar to the past, which could increase our costs and adversely affect our manufacturing operations and our profitability.
 
Future laws, regulations, or customers may make additional demands on supply chain transparency. These demands can include more transparency into the activities of our suppliers with regard to human rights and sustainable sourcing. We have significant protections in place to ensure we partner with responsible suppliers, but increased demands may cause us to incur increased supply chain costs. If we cannot satisfy customers' demands, we may lose business, and if we cannot meet new regulatory requirements, we may have to alter our sourcing at increased expense.

11

Risks Relating to Our Ordinary Shares
 
Volatility of the market price of our ordinary shares could adversely affect our shareholders and us.
 
The market price of our ordinary shares has been, and is likely to be, highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to numerous factors, including the following:
 

actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results or those of our competitors;
 

announcements by us or our competitors of technological innovations or new and enhanced products;
 

developments or disputes concerning proprietary rights;
 

introduction and adoption of new industry standards;
 

changes in financial estimates by securities analysts;
 

market conditions or trends in our industry;
 

changes in the market valuations of our competitors;
 

announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions;
 

entry into strategic partnerships or joint ventures by us or our competitors;
 

additions or departures of key personnel;
 

political and economic conditions, such as a recession or interest rate or currency rate fluctuations or political events; and
 

other events or factors in any of the countries in which we do business, including those resulting from war, incidents of terrorism, natural disasters or responses to such events.
 
In addition, the stock market in general, and the market for Israeli companies and homeland security companies in particular, has been highly volatile.  Many of these factors are beyond our control and may materially adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares, regardless of our performance.  In the past, following periods of market volatility, shareholders have often instituted securities class action litigation relating to the stock trading and price volatility of the company in question.  If we were involved in any securities litigation, it could result in substantial cost to us to defend and divert resources and the attention of management from our business.
 
The FIMI Partnerships owned approximately 42.6% of our outstanding ordinary shares as of April 20, 2020. For as long as FIMI has a controlling interest in our company, it will have the ability to exercise a controlling influence over our business and affairs, including any determinations with respect to potential mergers or other business combinations involving us, our acquisition or disposition of assets, our incurrence of indebtedness, our issuance of any additional ordinary shares or other equity securities, our repurchase or redemption of ordinary shares and our payment of dividends. Because the interests of FIMI may differ from the interests of our other shareholders, actions taken by FIMI with respect to us may not be favorable to our other shareholders.

We have not distributed dividends in the past.
 
While we have historically retained our earnings to finance operations and expand our business, we have not determined whether we will maintain such policy for the future.  According to the Israeli Companies Law, a company may distribute dividends out of its profits (as defined by the Israeli Companies Law), provided that there is no reasonable concern that such dividend distribution will prevent the company from paying all its current and foreseeable obligations, as they become due, or otherwise upon the permission of the court.  The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and would depend on various factors, including our operating results, financial condition, future prospects and any other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors.  You should not rely on an investment in our company if you require dividend income from your investment.
 
12

As a foreign private issuer whose shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Market, we may follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of certain NASDAQ requirements.  We follow Israeli law and practice instead of NASDAQ rules regarding the director nomination process, compensation of executive officers and the requirement that our independent directors have regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present.
 
As a foreign private issuer listed on the NASDAQ Global Market, we may also follow home country practice with regard to, among other things, the composition of the board of directors and quorum at shareholders’ meetings.  In addition, we may follow home country practice instead of the NASDAQ requirement to obtain shareholder approval for certain dilutive events (such as for the establishment or amendment of certain equity-based compensation plans, an issuance that will result in a change of control of the company, certain transactions other than a public offering involving issuances of a 20% or more interest in the company and certain acquisitions of the stock or assets of another company).  A foreign private issuer that elects to follow a home country practice instead of NASDAQ requirements must submit to NASDAQ in advance a written statement from an independent counsel in such issuer’s home country certifying that the issuer’s practices are not prohibited by the home country’s laws.  In addition, a foreign private issuer must disclose in its annual reports filed with the SEC, each such requirement that it does not follow and describe the home country practice followed by the issuer instead of any such requirement.  Accordingly, our shareholders may not be afforded the same protection as provided under NASDAQ’s corporate governance rules.
 
We may in the future be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, which would subject our U.S. investors to adverse tax rules.
 
U.S. holders of our ordinary shares may face income tax risks. There is a risk that we will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company” or PFIC in the future.  Our treatment as a PFIC could result in a reduction in the after-tax return to the holders of our ordinary shares and would likely cause a reduction in the value of such shares. A foreign corporation will be treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for any taxable year consists of certain types of “passive income,” or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation’s gross assets produce, or are held for the production of, such types of “passive income.” For purposes of these tests, “passive income” includes dividends, interest, gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than rents and royalties that are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of trade or business. For purposes of these tests, income derived from the performance of services does not constitute “passive income”. If we are treated as a PFIC, U.S. holders of ordinary shares would be subject to a special adverse U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by us, the distributions they receive from us, and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their ordinary shares. In particular, any dividends paid by us, if any, would not be treated as “qualified dividend income” eligible for preferential tax rates in the hands of non-corporate U.S. shareholders.  We believe that we were not a PFIC for the taxable year of 2019.  However, since PFIC status depends upon the composition of our income and the market value of our assets from time to time, there can be no assurance that we will not become a PFIC in any future taxable year. U.S. Holders should carefully read Item 10E. “Additional Information – Taxation” for a more complete discussion of the U.S. federal income tax risks related to owning and disposing of our ordinary shares.

Risks Relating to Our Location in Israel 
 
Political, economic and military instability in Israel may disrupt our operations and negatively affect our business condition, harm our results of operations and adversely affect our share price.
 
We are incorporated under the laws of Israel and our principal executive offices, as well as approximately one-third of our manufacturing and research and development facilities are located in the State of Israel.  As a result, political, economic and military conditions affecting Israel directly influence us.  Any major hostilities involving Israel, a full or partial mobilization of the reserve forces of the Israeli army, the interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners, or a significant downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Conflicts in North Africa and the Middle East, including in Egypt and Syria which border Israel, have resulted in continued political uncertainty and violence in the region. Efforts to improve Israel’s relationship with the Palestinian Authority have failed to result in a permanent solution, and there have been numerous periods of hostility in recent years. In addition, relations between Israel and Iran continue to be seriously strained, especially with regard to Iran’s nuclear program. Such instability may affect the local and global economy, could negatively affect business conditions and, therefore, could adversely affect our operations. To date, these matters have not had any material effect on our business and results of operations; however, the regional security situation and worldwide perceptions of it are outside our control and there can be no assurance that these matters will not negatively affect us in the future.
 
13

Furthermore, we could be adversely affected by the interruption or reduction of trade between Israel and its trading partners.  Some countries, companies and organizations continue to participate in a boycott of Israeli companies and others doing business with Israel or with Israeli companies.  As a result, we are precluded from marketing our products to these countries, companies and organizations.  Foreign government defense export policies towards Israel could also make it more difficult for us to obtain the export authorizations necessary for our activities.  Over the past several years there have also been calls in Europe and elsewhere to reduce trade with Israel.  Restrictive laws, policies or practices directed towards Israel or Israeli businesses may have an adverse impact on our operations, our financial results or the expansion of our business.
 
Our results of operations may be negatively affected by the obligation of our personnel to perform reserve military service.
 
Many of our employees and some of our directors and officers in Israel are obligated to perform annual reserve duty in the Israeli Defense Forces and may be called for active duty under emergency circumstances at any time.  If a military conflict or war arises, these individuals could be required to serve in the military for extended periods of time.  Our operations could be disrupted by the absence for a significant period of one or more of our executive officers or key employees or a significant number of other employees due to military service.  Any disruption in our operations could adversely affect our business.
 
The rights and responsibilities of the shareholders are governed by Israeli law and differ in some respects from the rights and responsibilities of shareholders under U.S. law.
 
We are incorporated under Israeli law.  The rights and responsibilities of holders of our ordinary shares are governed by our Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association and by Israeli law.  These rights and responsibilities differ in some respects from the rights and responsibilities of shareholders in typical U.S. corporations.  In particular, a shareholder of an Israeli company has a duty to act in good faith in exercising his or her rights and fulfilling his or her obligations toward the company and other shareholders and to refrain from abusing his power in the company, including, among other things, in voting at the general meeting of shareholders on certain matters.  Israeli law provides that these duties are applicable in shareholder votes on, among other things, amendments to a company’s articles of association, increases in a company’s authorized share capital, mergers and interested party transactions requiring shareholder approval.  In addition, a controlling shareholder of an Israeli company or a shareholder who knows that it possesses the power to determine the outcome of a shareholder vote or who has the power to appoint or prevent the appointment of a director or executive officer in the company has a duty of fairness toward the company.  However, Israeli law does not define the substance of this duty of fairness.  There is little case law available to assist in understanding the implications of these provisions that govern shareholder behavior.
 
Provisions of Israeli law may delay, prevent or make difficult a change of control and therefore depress the price of our shares.
 
Some of the provisions of Israeli law could discourage potential acquisition proposals, delay or prevent a change in control and limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for our ordinary shares. Israeli Companies law regulates mergers and acquisitions of shares through tender offers, requires approvals for transactions involving significant shareholders and regulates other matters that may be relevant to these types of transactions. Furthermore, Israel tax law treats stock-for-stock acquisitions between an Israeli company and a foreign company less favorably than does U.S. tax law. For example, Israeli tax law may subject a shareholder who exchanges his ordinary shares for shares in a foreign corporation to immediate taxation or to taxation before his investment in the foreign corporation becomes liquid. These provisions may adversely affect the price of our shares.
 
Our shareholders generally may have difficulties enforcing a U.S. judgment against us, our executive officers and directors and some of the experts named in this annual report, or asserting U.S. securities law claims in Israel.
 
We are incorporated in Israel and all of our executive officers and directors named in this annual report reside outside the United States. Service of process upon them may be difficult to effect within the United States. Furthermore, since substantially all of our assets and all of our directors and officers are located outside the United States, any judgment obtained in the United States against us or these individuals may not be collectible within the United States and may not be enforced by an Israeli court. It also may be difficult for you to assert U.S. securities law claims in original actions instituted in Israel.
 
14

There is doubt as to the enforceability of civil liabilities under the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act in original actions instituted in Israel.  However, subject to certain time limitations and other conditions, Israeli courts may enforce final judgments of U.S. courts for liquidated amounts in civil matters, including judgments based upon the civil liability provisions of those and similar acts.
 
ITEM 4.
Information on the Company
 
A.          History and Development of the Company. 
 
We were incorporated under the laws of the State of Israel on March 27, 1984 under the name Magal Security Systems Ltd.  We are a public limited liability company under the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999, and operate under this law and associated legislation.  Our principal executive offices are located near Tel Aviv, Israel, in the Yehud Industrial Zone.  Our mailing address is P.O. Box 70, Industrial Zone, Yehud 5621617, Israel and our telephone number is +972-3-539-1444.  Our agent for service of process in the United States is Senstar Inc., 13800 Coppermine Road, Second Floor, Herndon, Virginia 20171. Our website address is www.magalsecurity.com. The information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.
 
We are a leading international provider of products and solutions for physical security, safety and site management. We commenced operations in 1969 as a department of Israel Aircraft Industries Ltd., specializing in perimeter security systems and have delivered products, tailor-made solutions and turnkey projects to thousands of satisfied customers in over 100 countries in some of the world’s most demanding locations.
 
We offer broad portfolio of homegrown Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), Video Management Software (VMS), Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA), technology and cyber security solutions. We also provide full turn-key projects for physical security for critical sites. Our offering is complemented by our comprehensive integrated solutions for critical sites, managed by Fortis4G – our 4th generation cutting edge Physical Security Information Management system (PSIM).
 
We intend to increase our revenues from our Products segment, which includes our PIDS, VMS and IVA products by (i) focusing our efforts on our strategic verticals; (ii) locating new channels to promote and market our products; (iii) investing in research and development thus maintaining technology leadership; (iv) entering into OEM agreements which will increase our offerings  for the verticals on which we focus; and (v) acquiring new technologies relevant to our target verticals independently or through mergers and acquisitions.
 
In April 2018, we completed the acquisition of a 55% controlling interest in ESC BAZ Ltd. an Israeli-based company, focused on the development and manufacturing of military-grade smart security video observation and surveillance systems.

In April 2016, we acquired Aimetis, a Canadian-based company, which specializes in advanced video analytics software and intelligent IP video management software (VMS). In July 2017 we amalgamated our two Canadian subsidiaries. Following the amalgamation, the company maintained the name Senstar Corporation.

In April 2014, we acquired a U.S. based fiber-optic technology company which provides advanced solutions for sensing, security, and communication. In January 2013, we purchased CyberSeal Ltd., an Israeli cyber security company whose products and services complement our physical security products and services.

Our capital expenditures for property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 were approximately $0.9 million, $2.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively.

15

B.          Business Overview.
 
Overview and Strategy
 
We develop, manufacture, market and sell comprehensive lines of perimeter intrusion detection sensors, physical barriers, video analytics and video management systems, cyber security products and systems as well as security video observation and surveillance systems to high profile customers.  Our systems are used in more than 100 countries to protect sensitive facilities, including national borders, military bases, power plants, airports, seaports, prisons, industrial sites, large retailer organizations, banks, oil and gas facilities, sporting events including athlete villages and stadiums, and municipalities from intrusion, terror, crime, sabotage or vandalism to infrastructure, assets and personnel.
 
Based on our decades of experience and interaction with customers, we have developed a comprehensive set of solutions and products, optimized for perimeter, outdoor and general security applications.  Our portfolio of mission critical infrastructure and site protection technologies includes a variety of smart fences and barriers, fence mounted sensors, fence mounted sensors with perimeter lighting, virtual (volumetric) fences and gates, buried and concealed detection systems and tunneling sensors to secure prisons, bank vaults and pipelines.  We deliver comprehensive IP technology and traditional closed-circuit television, or CCTV, solutions, supported by our own advanced Video Management Software, or VMS solutions, which include Video Motion Detection, or VMD and Intelligent Video Analytics, or IVA.
 
Since the addition of Aimetis’ products and expertise, we were able to address new markets and offer solutions incorporating advanced video analytics and VMS for physical indoor and outdoor security applications. Since the addition of the newly acquired state of the art technology and expertise, we were able to expand our overall solution, offer a wider range of products in addition to our PSIM and PIDS solutions, and address new markets.
 
Our primary objective is to become a leading international solution provider of security products and site security management solutions.  To achieve this objective, we are implementing a business strategy incorporating the following key elements:
 

Leverage existing customer relationships. We believe that we have the capability to offer certain of our customers a comprehensive security package.  As part of our product development process, we seek to maintain close relationships with our customers to identify market needs and to define appropriate product specifications.  We intend to expand the depth and breadth of our existing customer relationships while initiating similar new relationships. Our VMS offering is an excellent opportunity to revisit our existing customers.
 

Refine and broaden our product portfolio.  We have identified the security needs of our customers and intend to enhance our current products’ capabilities, develop new products, acquire complementary technologies and products and enter into OEM agreements with third parties in order to meet those needs.
 

Refine and broaden our integration and turnkey delivery capabilities.  As a solution provider we depend on our capability to tailor specific solutions for each customer.  Our integration building blocks and our execution skills are key factors in achieving our growth and profitability.
 

Develop and enhance our presence in verticals which we have identified as strategic. We intend to enhance our presence in our target vertical markets: critical infrastructure, correctional facilities (mainly in the USA), logistics and oil and gas terminals as well as oil and gas pipelines infrastructure. Many if not all of the verticals are highly regulated and require unique security solutions. As a solution provider with a wide selection of security technologies and products we believe that we can offer a comprehensive security solution that meets the standards required by the applicable regulations.
 

Enhance our presence in emerging markets. We intend to enhance our presence in emerging markets such as India and China, in order to increase our exposure to small and medium size business opportunities for both our products and projects segments.
 

Strengthen our presence in existing markets.   We intend to increase our marketing efforts in our existing markets mainly in North America and Latin America region and to acquire or invest in complementary businesses and joint ventures
 
16

Emerging Opportunities
 
We believe that the proliferation of digital communication and information technology into the security market provides us with the opportunity to consolidate safety and site management with security applications.  Cities and municipalities, air and sea ports, chemical factories, oil and gas terminals and pipeline infrastructure, large logistics warehouses, and critical infrastructure sites are currently utilizing the benefits of this approach to security management.  This integration allows users to share diverse sensors (such as cameras and emergency buttons), IT systems, traffic management tools, Cyber solutions and other resources and feed them into a single command and control platform. Users from different departments within organizations can now share the same information, allowing for improved communication and coordination, whether it is a routine operation or crisis situation.  We believe that we are well positioned and are in the forefront of this emerging market opportunity.
 
The unrest in Africa and the Middle East along with terrorist actions by ISIS, Boco Haram and El Shabab and massive migration of refugees may generate new requirements in these regions and in Europe.
 
Products and Services
 
General
 
Our principal physical (PIDS), VMS, EAC and cyber security products and solutions include:
 

Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), fence mounted, buried and free standing;
 

PIDS fence sensor with intelligent perimeter LED based lighting;
 

VMS, including IVA applications;
 

EAC (Electronic Access Control) systems;
 

CCTV systems;
 

Security Video Observation & Surveillance systems;
 

Pipeline security, third party interference (TPI);
 

Cyber security systems for security networks;
 

Life safety/duress alarm systems;
 

Command and control systems; and
 

Miscellaneous systems tailored for specific vertical market needs.
 
Commencing on January 1, 2019, in order to more accurately reflect management’s focus, we reorganized our structure into two divisions: Magal Integrated Solutions (“Projects” segment) and Senstar Product division (“Products” segment). Each division represents and reports as a separate business segment. The financial results of each division are reported under respective operating segments. We analyze our operating segments based on each operating segment’s operational profit. The Products Division includes products oriented subsidiaries with R&D and production centers in Canada. The Integrated Solutions Division (for simplicity purposes and consistency with 2019 previous reports referred to in this document as the Project Division) includes our project-oriented subsidiaries with R&D, production and integration technology excellence center in Israel.  The Products Division is managed and led by the Managing Director of Senstar Corporation and the Projects Division is managed and led by the General Manager of our Magal Israel Business Unit.  Previously, we operated in three segments, Products, Turnkey Projects, and Video and Cyber Security.
 
17

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated revenues for the calendar years 2017, 2018 and 2019 by operating segments:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 

 
(In thousands)
 
Products          
 
$
28,471
   
$
35,169
   
$
36,633
 
Projects          
   
38,247
     
61,119
     
52,426
 
Eliminations          
   
(2,426
)
   
(3,686
)
   
(2,228
)
Total          
 
$
64,292
   
$
92,602
   
$
86,831
 

Perimeter security products enable customers to monitor, limit and control access by unauthorized personnel to specific regions or areas.  High-end perimeter products are sophisticated in nature and are used for correctional facilities, borders, nuclear and conventional power plants, air and sea ports, military installations and other high security installations.
 
Our line of perimeter security products utilizes sophisticated sensor devices to detect and locate intruders and identify the nature of intrusions.  Our perimeter security products have been installed along tens of thousands of kilometers of borders and facility boundaries throughout the world, including more than 600 correctional institutions and prisons in the United States and several other countries.  We have installed several hundred kilometers of high security smart perimeter systems along Israel’s borders.
 
Our line of outdoor perimeter security products consists of the following:
 

Fence mounted detection systems – mechanical sensors, “microphonic” wire sensors, fiber optic sensors and electronic ranging sensors;
 

Smart barriers – a variety of robust detection grids, gates and innocent looking fences, designed to protect water passages, VIP residences and other outdoor applications;
 

Buried sensors –buried coaxial cable volumetric sensors and buried fiber sensors to secure pipelines, borders and critical assets against intrusion by targets on the surface and excavation;
 

Taut wire – hybrid perimeter intrusion detection system with physical barrier;
 

Electrical field disturbance sensors (volumetric);
 

Microwave sensors; and
 

Hybrid perimeter intrusion detection and intelligent lighting system.
 
Fence Mounted Detection Systems
 
We offer various types of detection systems. While less robust than taut wire installations, the adaptability of these systems to a wide range of pre-existing barrier structures makes these products viable alternatives for cost-conscious customers.  Our detection devices are most effective when installed on common metal fabric perimeter systems, such as chain link or welded mesh. In our BARRICADE system, electro-mechanical sensors are attached to fence panels approximately three meters apart on any of several common types of fence structures.  Once attached to the fence, each sensor detects vibrations in the underlying structures.  The sensor system’s built-in electro-mechanical filtering combines with system input from a weather analysis component to minimize the rate of alarms from wind, hail or other sources of nuisance vibrations. Our most recent product is the FENSOR – an accelerometer-based fence mounted detection system that is capable of locating the exact location of an intrusion within 3 meters and is optimized for rigid fences such as palisade. FENSOR has been approved by various Israeli security and military authorities.
 
18

FlexZone, our latest coaxial cable based fence mounted ranging sensor can pinpoint intrusions to within ±3 m (±10 ft); it provides long physical cable lengths (up to 600 m (1,968 ft) per processor) configurable through software to many smaller virtual zones for site operations. Power and data between processors is supported through the sensor cable significantly reducing the requirement for supporting infrastructure. A novel wireless gate sensor module is available with FlexZone providing an accelerometer based gate sensor integrated via wireless communications into a FlexZone network eliminating the need to have sensor cables attached to sliding gates.

FiberPatrol, our newest FP1150 product featuring long distance ranging to 50 Km (31 mi) via a fence mounted fiber optic cable detects and locates fence cut and climb events with an accuracy of approximately 4m (13 ft).  Released in 2019 our latest FP400 product zone based fiber optic cable PIDS solution replaces the IntelliFiber product line.  Its advanced features include processing of 4 fence mounted fiber optic cable detection zones from a single remote processor with an alarm given for each zone independently.

Buried Sensors

Omnitrax is a fifth generation covert outdoor perimeter security intrusion detection sensor that generates an invisible radar detection field around buried sensor cables.  The exact location of an intruder is identified within approximately one meter when an intruder disturbs the detection field.  Targets are detected by their conductivity, size and movement and the digital processor is able to filter out nuisance alarms that could be caused by environmental conditions and small animals.
 
FiberPatrol, our newest FP1150 product featuring long distance ranging fiber optic cable based detection technology in a single rack mount unit is also offered as a buried solution detecting surface intrusion and to protect pipelines against sabotage or accidental third party interference (TPI) for example by manual or machine excavation. FiberPatrol has the capability to protect distances of up to 80 Km (50 Miles) with a single indoor processor.
 
Taut Wire Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems
 
Our taut wire perimeter systems consist of wire strung at high tension between anchor posts.  Sensor posts are located at the middle between anchor posts.  These sensor posts contain one or more devices that detect changes in the tension being exerted on and by the taut wires.  Any abnormal force applied against these wires or released from them (such as by cutting) automatically triggers an alarm. Taut wire technology provides three critical elements of protection against unauthorized intruders: deterrence, detection and delay (until first responders may react and intercept the intruder).
 
Our sealed sensors are not affected by radio frequency interference, climatic or atmospheric conditions, or electrical transients from power lines or passing vehicles. The sensors self-adjust to, or remain unaffected by, extreme temperature variation, minor soil movements and other similar environmental changes that might trigger false alarms in less sophisticated systems. Our taut wire perimeter systems are designed to distinguish automatically between fence tension changes such as caused by small animals, violent weather or forces more typically exerted by a human intruder.
 
Our taut wire perimeter systems offer customers a wide range of installation options. Sensor posts can be as far as 200 feet apart, with relatively inexpensive ordinary fence support posts and anchor posts between them. These systems may stand alone, be mounted on a variety of fence posts or added to an existing wall or other structure, or mounted on short posts, with or without outriggers.
 
Taut wire perimeter systems have been approved by various Israeli and U.S. security and military authorities.  We have installed several hundred kilometers of these perimeter systems along Israel’s borders to assist in preventing unauthorized entry and infiltration.
 
Electro-static Field Disturbance Sensors
 
Terrain following volumetric sensors detect intrusions without requiring an intruder to touch the sensor.  They can be installed on buildings, free-standing posts, existing fences, walls or rooftops, and will sense changes in the electrostatic field when events, such as intruders penetrating through the wires takes place.  The system’s tall, narrow, well contained detection zone allows the sensor to be installed in almost any application and minimizes nuisance alarms caused by nearby moving objects.  Our flagship product is X-Field; it consists of a set of four to as many as eight parallel field generating and sensing wires that form a volumetric detection field as much as 5m (16.4 ft) in height.
 
19

Microwave Products
 
Ultrawave is our K-band all digital bi-static microwave beam perimeter intrusion detection system designed for reliable operation in extreme outdoor environments.  Coverage distance range from 5 meters to 200 meters. Older generations of X band microwaves are retired but still supported.
 
Hybrid Perimeter Intrusion Detection and Intelligent Lighting System
 
The Senstar LM100 is the world’s first 2-in-1 perimeter intrusion detection and intelligent lighting system. Combining high performance LED lighting with accelerometer-based vibration sensors, the LM100 deters potential intruders by detecting and illuminating them at the fence line.
 
Video
 
VMS / IVA Solutions
 
Senstar Symphony 7, has been designed to become a new benchmark for intelligent Video Management Software (VMS). The Symphony software package includes a proprietary seamless set of Electronic Access Control (EAC) features.  Symphony Access Control provides control over a broad array of security functions, integrating Symphony’s VMS feature set to one of the broadest arrays of trusted hardware brands for access control, intrusion, HVAC and elevator control.
 
Senstar Symphony 7 is highly scalable, easy to set up and use, and can be used in both single server installations and multi-server deployments. Symphony 7 offers web-based administrator capabilities, centralized cloud management, native analytics applications which include motion tracking, auto-PTZ (pan–tilt–zoom) tracking, people counting, and high security and server and storage failover reducing the need for costly Microsoft clustering and extra servers. We intend to expand the Symphony product line over time to address a broad new market of applications.
 
Our intelligent video analytics (IVA) transforms IP video into more than a passive monitoring tool with video analytics that are seamlessly incorporated into Senstar Symphony 7. Each video analytic is specially designed for physical security and business intelligence applications, providing value across many vertical markets.
 
Our intelligent video analytics (IVA) capabilities include:
 

Face Recognition - A robust video analytic, ideally suited for securing facilities that require a stronger layer of protection for access control. With real-time alarms and intuitive searching when paired with Senstar Symphony, the Face Recognition video analytic transforms what is possible with a video surveillance system.
 

Automatic License Plate Recognition - Automatically recognize and record vehicle license plates from over 100 countries. Set alarms for specific plates to deny or approve entry.
 

Outdoor People and Vehicle Tracking - Detect and track all moving objects and classify them as a person, vehicle, or unknown. Movement tracks are recorded to know exactly where each object came from and where it left the camera’s point-of-view.
 

Left and Removed Item Detection - Monitor changes in an environment to detect when objects are added or removed from a scene. Set alarms to notify security staff when an item has been removed from an area or left unattended for a designated amount of time. This solution designed for use in airports, train stations, and other public spaces.
 

Indoor People Tracking - Detect and track people moving within the frame of a camera. Alarms can be set when unauthorized entry into an area is detected and dwell times can be tracked and recorded for the detection of unwanted loitering. Heat maps can also be created in retail stores and public spaces to determine areas of highest traffic and interest.
 
20


Crowd Detection - Real-time occupancy estimation for indoor and outdoor deployments, ideal for monitoring public spaces, event venues, and capacity restricted environments. Crowd Detection also offers numerous business intelligence applications.
 

PTZ Auto-Tracking (Auto PTZ) - Auto PTZ can automatically control a PTZ camera, enabling it to zoom in and follow moving people and vehicles within the field of the camera. This is designed for use in outdoor perimeter monitoring and provides a closer look at people and vehicles for future forensic purposes.
 
Hardware solutions offered supporting our VMS software products are an “R series” of preconfigured servers, “E series” of physical appliances for smaller applications and a novel POE powered Thin Client device for convenient network access for monitors or other applications.
 
Cyber Security
 
Our solutions monitor, detect and protect against abnormal network activity, both landline and wireless, within and close to protected sites. Our current solutions are:
 

Tungsten – A hardened managed edge switch with built in security capabilities to monitor unauthorized traffic which is optimized for outdoors security and ICS networks (Industrial Control System); and
 

Rubidium – An easily operated SIEM (Security Information & Event Management) software application, designed to manage an array of Tungsten products as well as third party network and cyber monitoring devices.
 
Anti-Drone
 
In 2019, we introduced our new concept for anti-drone perimeter security solution called MAG 3D, an advance and modular solution for drone detection, identification and defeat. The MAG 3D is based on Fortis 4G , our powerful command and control system which integrates complementary sub systems such as: radar, RF signal detector, electro-optic sensor and drone maneuverable jamming system to a single easy to deploy and operate system . The MAG 3D enables operators to detect, identify, track and defeat malicious drones threats, thus providing another critical layer of physical security.
 
A typical MAG – 3D configuration includes:
 

Fortis4G – our fourth-generation high-end comprehensive command and control system;
 

One or more radars to detect small Arial targets;
 

RF signal detectors to recognize commercial drones;
 

Electro-Optical sensors; and
 

Drone maneuverable jamming system.
 
21

Other Products
 
Life Safety / Duress Alarm Systems
 
Our products include high reliability, personal, portable duress alarm systems to protect personnel in prisons.  These products identify individuals in distress and can pinpoint the location of the distress signal with an indoor-to-outdoor and floor-to-floor accuracy unmatched by any other product.
 
Flash and Flare personal emergency locating systems use radio frequency technology to provide a one touch emergency system that can be worn on a belt, or used with our newly released pendant style alarm initiation device.  The systems, sold to prisons, consist of transmitters that send distress signals to receivers mounted throughout the building.  Receivers relay the signal to a central location, indicating that someone requires assistance and their exact location in the building.  As a radio frequency based product, it can also perform its function in outdoor areas surrounding a building. The systems employ an automated testing mechanism that helps to reduce maintenance costs.
 
PAS is another personal alarm system that uses an ultrasonic based emergency notification system. The system, sold mainly to jails and prisons in the United States, allows individuals moving throughout a facility to quickly indicate the location of an indoor crisis situation.
 
CCTV Systems
 
We have a proven track record in delivering CCTV and IVA solutions that are designed for use in outdoor applications. Following the ESC BAZ and Aimetis acquisitions, our VMS outdoor and indoor solutions present advanced technologies. These capabilities are now fully embedded as part of our Fortis4G Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) system.
 
Following the ESC BAZ acquisition, our portfolio includes a wide range of modular and customizable medium and long-range dual technology (thermal Imaging and CCD) surveillance systems for distances of 500m (1,640 ft) up to 25Km (15.6 Miles). These surveillance systems include:
 

AVIV - a short to mid-range surveillance system designed for perimeter defense and border protection.
 

Giraffe - a long-range surveillance system designed to provide powerful Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance capabilities (ISR) for commercial ports and merchant ships.
 

TOM Vehicle - a vehicle-mounted surveillance system that offers any type of patrol vehicle patrol vehicles a high quality, mobile video surveillance unit that gives vehicles operators real-time video enabling them to be fully aware of what is happening outside and around the vehicle.
 

Hawk-Eye - a surveillance system, designed for perimeter defense and border protection. It is ideal for strategic locations such as airports, borders, critical utilities, nuclear plants and oil refineries.
 

C-HAWK - a surveillance system designed for maritime environments, such as civilian ports and ships that are often difficult to protect.
 

MODOS - a discreet early-warning multi-sensor intruder detection and observation system that includes motion-detection radar, seamlessly integrated with an AVIV Video Surveillance system that can play a significant role in urban security architecture.
 
22

Command and Control Systems
 
The development of communication and IT technology has significantly affected the security market.  Multiple security systems and technologies, sometimes supplied by different vendors, can now be integrated into a unified command and control system.  We offer three types of command and control systems:
 

Fortis4G – a fourth generation high-end comprehensive command and control system;
 

StarNet 2 – our security management system, or SMS, was launched in the latter part of 2015 and replaces the legacy StarNet 1000; and
 

Network Manager – a middleware (software) package which is essential for integration with 3rd party control systems and offers an entry level alarm management system called AIM.
 
Fortis 4G
 
FORTIS4G is our PSIM system.  It is a comprehensive, wide area and real time command and control solution, designed for entities requiring management of security, safety and site management as well as cyber events (Integrated PSIM with SEIM).  It is designed to manage daily routines and site activities, security, regular and irregular events as well as crisis situations.
 
FORTIS4G architecture integrates with legacy systems and sensors from the physical and logical (cyber) levels through a configuration and business logic layer and up to the situational awareness and management levels.  It is based on a strong GIS engine (Geospatial Information System), which creates a common layer for inputs, outputs and presentation.  The GIS engine enables the display of synchronized information in time and space across all screens such as location of mobile forces, located alarms from stationary sensors, video of related cameras, pop-ups of associated radar screens and managed voice communication related to the managed area.  Real-time information enables security personnel to respond immediately, while maintaining a full two-way communication and situational awareness between the command and control center(s) and the first responder(s). The target markets for Fortis4G are safe city applications airports, seaports border and homeland security applications. Fortis4G incorporates the Symphony advanced video management system with its full suite of native IVA features:
 

Our investments in IVA tools help eliminate dependency on constant human monitoring.  Automatic tools and algorithms extract abnormalities and only irregular events are transferred and analyzed for verification.  This approach saves bandwidth and storage and more importantly requires human intervention only when needed.
 

Our IVA / VMD have been developed to meet the challenge of the outdoor environment (such as weather effects, moving objects like trees, glare and flashing lights).
 

Our video solutions have a proven track record in high-end vertical markets that require outdoor security such as military bases, government organizations, airports, seaports, mass transportation, correctional facilities, utilities, banks, retail chains, hospitals and industrial sites.
 
StarNet 2
 
StarNet 2, an SMS, is designed to manage basic sites, consisting of a PIDS with a few other devices.
 
Network Manager
 
Network Manager is a middleware (software) package interfacing between our family of PIDS sensors and any command and control solution, be it our own system or an external third party application. It is provided to integrators with a full software development kit to enable fast integration of our PIDS into any other SMS and physical security information system.  It offers an entry level operator display system called the Alarm Information Module (AIM), typically for management of a single PIDS sensor.
 
Marketing, Sales and Distribution
 
We believe that our reputation as a vendor of sophisticated security products in one of the world’s most security conscious countries often provides us and our sales representatives with direct access to senior government and corporate officials in charge of security matters elsewhere.
 
23

Our sales efforts focus on:
 

PIDS products are sold indirectly through system integrators and distribution channels.  Due to the sophistication of our products, we often need to approach end-users directly and be in contact with system integrators; however, sales are directed through third-parties. Our sales team is trained on cross-selling PIDS, VMS, IVA and EAC.
 

VMS and IVA.  Video management system software and Intelligent Video Applications licenses, the associated maintenance and support services, are sold primarily through locally based distributor partners. Some key accounts are managed directly with the end-users. Our sales team is trained on cross-selling PIDS, VMS, IVA and EAC.
 

Projects.  This part of the business deals with end-customers or high-end system integrators.  We offer full comprehensive solutions, which include our in-house portfolio of products and products manufactured by third parties.  Solutions are focused around our core competencies -outdoor and cyber security, safety and site management, VMS, IVA and EAC applications.  In many cases we take responsibility for the full turnkey solution and we integrate and deliver a full solution, including civil works infrastructure, installation, training, warranty and after sale support. Cyber security solutions are now offered as an integrated part of our comprehensive solutions.
 

Cyber. In addition to cyber solutions provided as part of our projects that are tailored to the customer’s requirements, in 2019 we entered into a license agreement with a commercial switch manufacturer and distributor, licensing our Tungsten and Rubidium technologies to be offered with commercially standard switches.
 
In addition to our main facilities in Israel, Canada, the United States and Mexico, we have sales and technical support offices in India, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, China, the Philippines and other countries.
 
Customers 
 
The following table shows the geographical breakdown of our consolidated revenues for the three years ended December 31, 2019:
 
   
Year ended in December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Israel          
 
$
9,599
   
$
13,577
   
$
18,975
 
North America          
   
15,547
     
24,324
     
19,713
 
Europe          
   
11,232
     
14,021
     
18,896
 
South and Latin America          
   
13,152
     
25,471
     
8,077
 
Africa          
   
9,370
     
7,126
     
11,144
 
Others          
   
5,392
     
8,083
     
10,026
 
Total          
 
$
64,292
   
$
92,602
   
$
86,831
 

For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, revenues generated from sales to the MOD and IDF accounted for 10.2%, 10.9% and 17.2% of our revenues, respectively. In addition, revenues from the national electricity company in Latin America, accounted for 14.6%, 25.3% and 5.4% of our revenues in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. We cannot assure you that any of our major customers will maintain their level of business with us or that, if such business is reduced, other customers generating similar revenues will replace the lost business. The failure to replace these customers with one or more customers generating similar revenues will have a material adverse effect on our financial results.

Installation, Support and Maintenance
 
Our systems are installed by us or by an integrating partner or in some cases by the customer after appropriate training, depending on the size of the specific project and the location of the customer’s facilities, as well as prior experience with our systems. We generally provide our customers with training on the use and maintenance of our systems, that we conduct either on-site or at our facilities. In addition, some of our local perimeter security products customers have signed maintenance contracts with us. The life expectancy of a high-security perimeter system is approximately ten years. Consequently, many miles of perimeter systems need to be replaced each year.
 
24

For systems installed outside of Israel, maintenance is provided by our local subsidiaries, by an independent third party, by partners or by the end-user. We also provide services, maintenance and support on an “as needed” basis. During the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, we derived approximately 26.7%, 19.3% and 20.4% of our total revenues, respectively, from maintenance and services.
 
Research and Development; Royalties
 
We place considerable emphasis on research and development to improve our existing products and technology and to develop new products and technology.  We believe that our future success will depend upon our ability to enhance our existing products and technology and to introduce on a timely basis new commercially viable products and technology addressing the needs of our customers.  We intend to continue to devote a significant portion of our personnel and financial resources to research and development.  As part of our product development process, we seek to maintain close relationships with our customers to identify market needs and to define appropriate product specifications.  Our development activities are a direct result of the input and guidance we receive from our marketing personnel during our annual meetings with such personnel.  In addition, the heads of research and development for each of our development centers discussed below meet annually to identify market needs for new products.
 
We have development centers in Israel, Canada and the United States, each of which develops products and technologies based on its area of expertise.
 
Our research and development expenses during 2017, 2018 and 2019 were $6.6 million, $6.9 million and $6.4 million, respectively.  In addition to our own research and development activities, we also acquire know-how from external sources.  We cannot assure you that any of our research and development projects will yield profitable results in the future.
 
Manufacturing and Supply
 
Our manufacturing operations consist of engineering, fabricating, assembly, quality control, final testing and shipping of finished products.  Substantially all of our manufacturing operations are currently performed at our facilities in Canada and Israel. In 2018 we launched a “Made in USA” version of our FlexZone product to better serve our US - based partners and customers. See Item 4D. “Information on the Company – Property, Plants and Equipment.”
 
We acquire most of the components utilized in our products, including our turnkey products, and certain services from a limited number of suppliers and subcontractors.  We cannot assure you that we will continue to be able to obtain such items from these suppliers on satisfactory terms.  Alternative sources of supply are available, and therefore we are not dependent upon these suppliers and subcontractors.  We also maintain an inventory of systems and spare parts in order to enable us to overcome potential temporary supply shortages until an alternate source of supply is available.  Nevertheless, temporary disruptions of our manufacturing operations would result if we were required to obtain materials from alternative sources, which may have an adverse effect on our financial results.
 
Competition
 
PIDS Sensors.  The principal factors affecting competition in the market for security systems are a system’s high probability for detection and low probability of false and nuisance alarms.  We believe that a manufacturer’s reputation for reliable equipment is a major competitive advantage, and that such a reputation will usually be based on the performance of the manufacturer’s installed systems.  Additional competitive factors include quality of customer support, maintenance and price.
 
The PIDS market is very fragmented.  Our most frequently encountered competitors include EL-FAR Electronics Systems 2000 LTD, Afcon Security and Parking Ltd. in Israel and Southwest Microwave Inc., Future Fiber Technologies, Fibersensys Inc. (an Optex Company), GPS Standard SpA, CIAS Elettronica Srl, Sorhea and Gallagher (New Zealand) outside of Israel.
 
25

We believe that our principal competitors for our pipeline security products (FiberPatrol) are; Future Fibre Technologies Pty. Ltd., Optasense, a QinetiQ Company, Omnisens SA, and Fotech Solutions Ltd; and that our principal competitors for personal emergency location systems are Actall Corp., Bosch LLC and Visonic Networks.
 
The video management software market is well developed internationally with several large manufacturers.  Our most frequently encountered competitors are Genetec Inc., Avigilon Corp., Milestone Systems A/S, and SeeTec GmbH.  There are a large number of entrants into the cyber security market which is expected to mature over the next few years.
 
We also face indirect competition from competing technologies such as ground based radar and thermal cameras as PIDS sensors with principal competitors being, SpotterRF, Navtech, FLIR, SightLogix and PureTech.
 
Turn Key Projects and Solutions.   Thousands of solution providers offer security products and services.  Most of the integrators focus on indoor applications, but some also offer outdoor solutions.  Most of the market players are local to their countries; however, some are global, such as ADT, Honeywell, Johnson Controls and Siemens.  In some cases, we may cooperate with global integrators or may supply equipment to them.  We believe that our principal competitors in Israel for security solutions are C. Mer Industries Ltd., Afcon Industries Ltd., Shamrad Electronics (1977) Ltd., EL-FAR Electronics Systems 2000 LTD and Orad Ltd.
 
Some of our competitors and potential competitors have greater research, development, financial and personnel resources, including governmental support, or more extensive business experience than we do.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain the quality of our products relative to those of our competitors or continue to develop and market new products effectively.
 
Intellectual Property Rights 
 
We have 13 patents and have 3 patent applications pending in the U.S. and in several other countries and have obtained licenses to use proprietary technologies developed by third parties.  We cannot assure you:
 

that patents will be issued from any pending applications, or that the claims allowed under any patents will be sufficiently broad to protect our technology;
 

that any patents issued or licensed to us will not be challenged, invalidated or circumvented; or
 

as to the degree or adequacy of protection any patents or patent applications may or will afford.
 
In addition, we claim proprietary rights in various technologies, know-how, trade secrets and trademarks relating to our principal products and operations.  We cannot assure you as to the degree of protection these claims may or will afford.  It is our policy to protect our proprietary rights in our products and operations through contractual obligations, including confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements with certain employees and distributors.  We cannot assure you as to the degree of protection these contractual measures may or will afford.  Although we are not aware that we are infringing upon the intellectual property rights of others, we cannot assure you that an infringement claim will not be asserted against us in the future.  We believe that our success is less dependent on the legal protection that our patents and other proprietary rights may or will afford than on the knowledge, ability, experience and technological expertise of our employees.  We cannot provide any assurance that we will be able to protect our proprietary technology.  The unauthorized use of our proprietary technology by third parties may impair our ability to compete effectively.  We could become subject to litigation regarding intellectual property rights, which could seriously harm our business.
 
CYBERSEAL, DTR, FENSOR, FORTIS, MAESTRO DB, MAGAL, ROBOGUARD, AIMETIS SYMPHONY, FIBERPATROL, FLARE, FLEXPI, FLEXZONE, OMNITRAX, PINPOINTER, SENNET, SENSTAR, SENSTAR & DESIGN, SENTIENT, ULTRAWAVE DESIGN and XFIELD are our registered trademarks.
 
ARMOURFLEX, ENTERPRISE MANAGER, GALLIUM PDS, INTELLI-FLEX, INTELLIFIBER, LM100, the MAGAL logo, NETWORK MANAGER, RUBIDIUM, STARLED, STARNET, SENSTAR CARE, SENSTAR SYMPHONY, TUNGSTEN and VANADIUM and all other marks used to identify particular products and services associated with our businesses are also our trademarks.  Any other trademarks and trade names appearing in this annual report are owned by their respective holders.
 
26

Government Regulations
 
Current Israeli governmental policy encourages the export of security related products to approved customers, as long as the export is consistent with Israeli government policy.  We are also subject to regulations related to the export of “dual use” items (items that are typically sold in the commercial market, but which may also be used for military use).  Israel enhanced enforcement of export control legislation under the Defense Export Control Law, 2007, under which a license is required to initiate marketing activities and a specific export license is required for any hardware, software and knowhow exported from Israel.  The law provides for certain exemptions from the licensing requirement and broadens certain areas of licensing, particularly with respect to transfer of technology.
 
At present, only a limited number of our products require a permit or license for export. We cannot assure that we will receive all the required permits and licenses for which we may apply in the future. In addition, our participation in governmental procurement processes in Israel and other countries is subject to specific regulations governing the conduct of the process of procuring defense contracts.  Furthermore, solicitations for procurements by governmental purchasing agencies in Israel and other countries are governed by laws, regulations and procedures relating to procurement integrity, including avoiding conflicts of interest and corruption in the procurement process.
 
In addition, antitrust laws and regulations in Israel and other countries often require governmental approvals for transactions that are considered to limit competition.  Such transactions may include cooperative agreements for specific programs or areas, as well as mergers and acquisitions.
 
C.          Organizational Structure.
 
We have wholly owned and majority-owned active subsidiaries that operate world-wide.   Set forth below are our significant subsidiaries.
 
Subsidiary Name
 
Country of Incorporation/Organization
 
Ownership Percentage
 
Senstar Corporation
 
Canada
 
100%
 
Senstar Inc.
 
United States (Delaware)
 
100%
 
Senstar GmbH.
 
Germany
 
100%
 
Senstar Latin America, S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
100%
 
MAGAL-S3 CANADA INC.
 
Canada
 
100%
 
ESC BAZ LTD.
 
Israel
 
55%
 

 D.          Property, Plants and Equipment.
 
We own a two-story 2,533 square meter facility located on a 4,352 square meter parcel in the Yehud Industrial Zone, Israel, which is used as our principal facility.  Approximately 600 square meters are devoted to administrative, marketing and management functions and approximately 800 square meters are used for engineering, system integration and customer service.  We use the remaining area of approximately 1,100 square meters for production management and production operations, including manufacturing, assembly, testing, warehousing, shipping and receiving.  We also lease a one-story 810 square meter facility located on a 1,820 square meter parcel in the Yehud Industrial Zone for approximately $135,000 per year for use in production and operations.  The lease terminates in 2029.  The products that we manufacture at our facilities in the Yehud Industrial Zone include our taut-wire intrusion detection systems, our detection systems Fortis4G, Fensor and other perimeter systems.
 
We own a 33,000 square foot facility in Carp, Ontario, Canada.  Approximately 9,000 square feet are devoted to administrative, marketing and management functions, and approximately 8,000 square feet are used for engineering, system integration and customer service.  We use the remaining area of approximately 16,000 square feet for production operations, including cable manufacturing, assembly, testing, warehousing, shipping and receiving.  We own an additional 182,516 square feet of vacant land adjacent to this property, which is being held for future expansion.  We also lease 358,560 square feet of land near this facility for use as an outdoor sensor test and demonstration site for our products including the Omnitrax buried cable intrusion detection system, the X-Field volumetric system, the FlexZone microphonic fence detection system, Flash and Flare, and various perimeter monitoring and control systems.  The lease for this site is approximately $3,500 per year plus taxes under a lease that expires in November 2024.
 
27

We own a 999 square meter facility in Cuernavaca, Mexico, which we built in August 2013.
 
We lease office space in Waterloo, Canada, which houses our video management software operations. We also lease a 8,000 square foot facility in Carp, Ontario, Canada for Magal-S3 Canada Inc. and lease other sites world-wide. The aggregate annual rent for such offices was approximately $730,000 in 2019.
 
We believe that our facilities are suitable and adequate for our current operations and the foreseeable future.
 
ITEM 4A.
Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.
 
ITEM 5.
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
 
The following discussion of our results of operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report.  This discussion contains forward‑looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward‑looking statements as a result of certain factors, including, but not limited to, those set forth in Item 3.D. “Key Information–Risk Factors.”
 
A.          Operating Results.
 
Overview
 
We develop, manufacture, market and sell complex computerized security systems.  Our systems are used in more than 100 countries to protect national borders and sensitive facilities, including military bases, power plant installations, airports, sea ports, postal facilities, prisons, banks, retail operations, municipal security, sporting events including athlete villages and stadiums, and industrial locations from terrorism, theft and other security threats.
 
The Company’s operating segments are strategic business units that offer different services and are managed accordingly. Beginning January 1, 2019, we presented for the first time our new operating segments. We analyze our operating segments based on each segment’s gross profit.
 
Our two reportable segments are (i) Products and (ii) Projects.
 
Products Segment (PIDS, VMS, IVA and EAC)
 
The Products segment sells its products worldwide and this segment primarily includes the operations of Senstar Canada, Senstar US and Senstar Germany as one reporting unit.
 
This segment includes Video Management Software (VMS), Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA) and PIDS products. The PIDS, VMS and IVA activities which are operated and managed by Senstar, offer an unmatched portfolio of PIDS technologies, as well as, integrated intelligent video management solutions for security surveillance and business intelligence applications worldwide.

Integrated Solutions Division Segment (Projects Segment)
 
The Projects segment, which is led by the General manager of our Magal Israel business unit, has operations worldwide and includes a number of reporting units operating in Israel, Mexico, Canada, India, Spain, Kenya and Romania.
 
28

Business Challenges/Areas of Focus

Our primary business challenges and areas of focus include:
 

continuing the growth of revenues and profitability of our perimeter security system and video management system lines of products;
 

enhancing the introduction and recognition of our new products into the markets;
 

penetrating new markets and strengthening our presence in existing markets;
 

strengthening our presence in our strategic verticals;
 

succeeding in selling our comprehensive turnkey solutions; and
 

succeeding in selling our comprehensive PIDS, VMS and EAC products as a combined solution.
 
Our business is subject to the effects of general global economic conditions.  If general economic conditions or economic conditions in key markets will be uncertain or weaken further, demand for our products could be adversely affected.
 
Key Performance Indicators and Sources of Revenues
 
Our management believes that our revenues and operating income are the two key performance indicators for our business.
 
Our revenues from our Products and Projects segments for the three years ended December 31, 2019 were as follows:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 

 
(In thousands)
 
Products          
 
$
28,471
   
$
35,169
   
$
36,633
 
Projects          
   
38,247
     
61,119
     
52,426
 
Eliminations          
   
(2,426
)
   
(3,686
)
   
(2,228
)
Total          
 
$
64,292
   
$
92,602
   
$
86,831
 

The increase in revenues from products was primarily due to the change in our leadership in the USA and EMEA, including better management of our sales force. The decrease in revenues from projects was primarily due to a reduction in revenue from customers in LATAM and in Canada, partially compensated by increase in project revenue in other geographies. Our operating income (loss) from our Products and Projects segments for the three years ended December 31, 2019 were as follows:

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Products          
 
$
(2,483
)
 
$
1,425
   
$
3,880
 
Projects          
   
2,576
     
4,356
     
3,536
 
Eliminations          
   
(1,337
)
   
(2,026
)
   
(1,377
)
Total          
 
$
(1,244
)
 
$
3,755
   
$
6,039
 

Despite the reduction in total revenues, our operating profit in 2019 increased mainly due to the increase in sales in our products segment and reduction in operational expenses. The latter is a result of one-off expenses recorded in 2018 as well as cost efficiencies in 2019.
 
29

Key Factors Affecting our Business
 
Our operations and the operating metrics discussed below have been, and will likely continue to be affected by certain key factors as well as certain historical events and actions. The key factors affecting our business and results of operations include among others, reliance on large orders from a small number of customers, reliance on government contracts and competition. For further discussion of the factors affecting our results of operations, see “Risk Factors.”
 
Reliance on large orders from a small number of customers
 
We receive relatively large orders for products from a relatively small number of customers. Consequently, a single order from one customer may represent a substantial portion of our sales in any one period and significant orders by any customer during one period may not be followed by further orders from the same customer in subsequent periods. Our sales and operating results are subject to very substantial periodic variations. Since quarterly performance is likely to vary significantly, our results of operations for any quarter or calendar year are not necessarily indicative of the results that we might achieve for any subsequent period. Accordingly, quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year comparisons of our operating results may not be meaningful. In addition, we have a limited order backlog that is generally composed of orders that are fulfilled within a period of three to twelve months after receipt, which makes revenues in any quarter substantially dependent upon orders received in prior quarters.

Growth Strategy

During 2019 we initiated a strategic plan to implement our growth strategy for the following 3-4 years, which was also adopted by our board of directors. Pursuant to the plan, we reorganized our group structure and clearly separated our two core areas of operation - Products and Projects. We also streamlined our product sales activity in our four main regions, the Americas, EMEA, APAC and LATAM, identifying and focusing on strategic verticals: critical infrastructure, oil and gas, logistics and correctional facilities (mainly in the US). We intend to continue to expand our sales to the verticals of focus through allocation of resources and funds, including mergers and acquisitions of complementary technologies that will increase our offerings to these targeted verticals versus our competition.
 
We may not be able to implement our growth strategy plan and may not be able to successfully expand our business activity and increase our sales.  If we are successful in the implementation of our strategic plan, we may be required to hire additional employees in order to meet customer demands. If we are unable to attract or retain qualified employees, our business could be adversely affected.
 
Our failure to successfully integrate the operations of an acquired business or to retain key employees of acquired businesses and integrate and manage our growth may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operation or prospects.  We may not be able to realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisition.  Moreover, future acquisitions by us could result in potentially dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt and contingent liabilities and amortization expenses related to identifiable intangible assets, any of which could materially adversely affect our operating results and financial position.  Acquisitions also involve other risks, including risks inherent in entering markets in which we have no or limited prior experience.
 
Reliance on government contracts
 
Our products are primarily sold to governmental agencies, governmental authorities and government-owned companies, many of which have complex and time consuming procurement procedures.  A substantial period of time often elapses from the time we begin marketing a product until we actually sell that product to a particular customer.  In addition, our sales to governmental agencies, authorities and companies are directly affected by these customers’ budgetary constraints and the priority given in their budgets to the procurement of our products.  A decrease in governmental funding for our customers’ budgets would adversely affect our results of operations.  This risk is heightened during periods of global economic slowdown. Accordingly, governmental purchases of our systems, products and services may decline in the future if governmental purchasing agencies terminate, reduce or modify contracts.
 
30

Competition
 
The global market for safety, security, video management, site management solutions and products is highly fragmented and intensely competitive.  It is characterized by changing technology, new product introductions and changing customer requirements.  We compete principally in the market for perimeter intrusion detection systems, or PIDS, video management systems, and turnkey projects and solutions.  Some of our competitors and potential competitors have greater research, development, financial and personnel resources, including governmental support.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain the quality of our products relative to those of our competitors or continue to develop and market new products effectively. Continued competitive pressures could cause us to lose significant market share.
 
Explanation of Key Income Statement Items
 
Cost of revenues.  Our cost of revenues for perimeter products consists of component and material costs, direct labor costs, subcontractor costs, shipping expenses, overhead related to manufacturing and depreciation.  Our cost of revenues for turnkey projects consists primarily of component and material costs, subcontractor costs, direct labor costs and overhead related to the turnkey projects. Our cost of revenues for Video and Cyber Security sales consists primarily of direct labor costs, some component, material and subcontractor costs and overhead related to those sales.
 
Our gross margin is affected by the proportion of our revenues generated from our Products and Projects segments.  Our revenues from Products generally have higher gross margins than our Projects revenues.
 
Research and development expenses, net.  Research and development expenses, net consists primarily of expenses for on-going research and development activities and other related costs.
 
Selling and marketing expenses.  Selling and marketing expenses consist primarily of commission payments, compensation and related expenses of our sales teams, attendance at trade shows and advertising expenses and related costs for facilities and equipment.
 
General and administrative expenses.  Our general and administrative expenses consist primarily of salary and related costs associated with our executive and administrative functions, public company related expenses, legal and accounting expenses, allowances for doubtful accounts and bad debts and other miscellaneous expenses.  Staff costs include direct salary costs and related costs, such as severance pay, social security and retirement fund contributions, vacation and other pay.

Depreciation and Amortization and impairment of goodwill. The amount of depreciation and amortization attributable to our Products and Projects segments for the three years ended December 31, 2019 were as follows:
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Products          
 
$
1,369
   
$
2,273
   
$
1,260
 
Projects          
   
507
     
951
     
840
 
Total          
 
$
1,876
   
$
3,224
   
$
2,100
 
                         
Financial Expenses, Net.  Financial expenses, net include exchange rate differences arising from changes in the value of monetary assets and monetary liabilities stated in currencies other than the functional currency of each entity, currency transactions as well as interest income on our cash and cash equivalents and short term investments.

31

Discussion of Critical Accounting Policies
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates and the use of different assumptions would likely result in materially different results of operations.  Critical accounting policies are those that are both most important to the portrayal of our financial position and results of operations and require management’s most difficult, subjective or complex judgments.  Although not all of our significant accounting policies require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments or estimates, the following policies and estimates are those that we deem most critical.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
We generates our revenues mainly from (1) performance of turn-key security projects for which revenues are generated from long-term fixed price contracts; (2) sales of security products; (3) services and maintenance, which are performed either on a fixed-price basis or as time-and-materials based contracts; and (4) software license fees and related services.

Revenues from our contracts are recognized using the five-step model in ASC 606 - "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" ("ASC 606"). At first, we determine if an agreement with a customer is considered to be a contract to the extent it has a commercial substance, it is approved in writing by both parties, all rights and obligations including payment terms are identifiable, the agreement between the parties creates enforceable rights and obligations, and collectability in exchange for goods and services that will be transferred to the customer is considered as probable. We then assess the transaction price for a contract in order to determine the consideration we expects to receive for satisfying the performance obligations called for in the contract. To the extent, the transaction price includes variable consideration (e.g., contract penalties, unpriced change orders or like measures), we usually estimate the most likely amount that should be included in the transaction price subject to constraints based on the specific facts and circumstances.

At the inception of a contract, we also evaluate and determines if a contract should be separated into more than one performance obligation. Our installation of comprehensive security systems contracts usually includes one-performance obligations due to a significant customization for each customer's specific needs and integrated system or solution.
 
For most of our turn-key security projects contracts, where our performance does not create an asset with an alternative use, we recognizes revenue over performance time because of continuous transfer of control to the customer. For these performance obligations that are satisfied over time, we generally recognize revenue using an input method with revenue amounts being recognized proportionately as costs are incurred relative to the total expected costs to satisfy the performance obligation. We believe that costs incurred as a portion of total estimated costs is an appropriate measure of progress towards satisfaction of the performance obligation since this measure reasonably depicts the progress of the work effort and we have the ability to make reasonably dependable estimates of the extent of progress towards completion, contract revenues and contract costs. In addition, contracts executed include provisions that clearly specify the enforceable rights regarding services to be provided and received by the parties to the contracts, the consideration to be exchanged, the manner, and the terms of settlement, including in cases of termination for convenience. Project costs include materials purchased to produce the system, related labor, overhead expenses and subcontractor's costs. The performance costs are measured by monitoring costs and efforts devoted using records of actual costs incurred to date in the project compared to the total estimated project requirements, which corresponds to the costs related to earned revenues. We estimate the profit on a contract as the difference between the total estimated transaction price and the total expected performance costs of the contract and recognizes revenue and costs over the life of the contract. Estimated gross profit or loss from long-term contracts may change due to changes in estimates resulting from differences between actual performance and original forecasts. Such changes in estimated gross profit are recorded in results of operations when they are reasonably determinable by management, on a cumulative catch-up basis.
 
For contracts that are deemed to be loss contracts, we establish forward loss reserves for total estimated costs that are in excess of total estimated consideration under a contract in the period in which they become probable.
 
32

Fees are payable upon completion of agreed upon milestones and subject to customer acceptance. Amounts of revenues recognized in advance of contractual billing are recorded as unbilled accounts receivable. In most instances, the period between the advanced recognition of revenues and the customers' billing generally ranges between one to six months.
 
Revenues for performance obligations that are not recognized over time are recognized at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer (which is generally upon delivery) and include mainly revenues from the sales of security products and software license fees without significant installation work. We generally do not provide a right of return to our customers. For performance obligations that are satisfied at a point in time, we evaluates the point in time when the customer can direct the use of, and obtain the benefits from, the products. Shipping and handling costs are not considered performance obligations and are included in cost of sales as incurred.
 
Services and maintenance are performed under either fixed-price or time-and-materials based contracts. Under fixed-price contracts, we agree to perform certain work for a fixed price. Under time-and-materials contracts, we are reimbursed for labor hours at negotiated hourly billing rates and for materials. Our service contracts include contracts in which the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided as the performance obligations are satisfied, accordingly, related revenues are recognized, as those services are performed or over the term of the related agreements.
 
Maintenance and support agreements provide customers with rights to unspecified software product updates, if and when available. These services grant the customers on line and telephone access to technical support personnel during the term of the service. We recognize maintenance and support services revenues ratably over the term of the agreement, usually one year.
 
We generate revenues from the sales of our software products user licenses as well as from maintenance, support, consulting and training services.
 
As required by ASC 606, following the determination of the performance obligations in the contract, we allocate the total transaction price to each performance obligation in an amount based on the estimated relative standalone selling prices of the promised license fees or services underlying each performance obligation. Standalone selling price is the price at which we would sell a promised license or service separately to a customer.
 
We capitalizes sales commission as costs of obtaining a contract when they are incremental and if they are expected to be recovered. Amortization of sales commission expense is included in selling and marketing expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. For costs that we would have capitalized and amortized over one year or less, we have elected to apply the practical expedient and expense these contract costs as incurred.
 
Inventories
 
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value.  We periodically evaluate the quantities on hand relative to historical and projected sales volumes, current and historical selling prices and contractual obligations to maintain certain levels of parts.  Based on these evaluations, inventory write-offs are provided to cover risks arising from slow-moving items, discontinued products, excess inventories, market prices lower than cost and adjusted revenue forecasts.  Cost is determined as follows:
 

Raw materials, parts and supplies – using the “first-in, first-out” method.
 

Work-in-progress and finished products – on the basis of direct manufacturing costs with the addition of allocable indirect manufacturing costs.
 
During the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 we recorded inventory write-offs from continuing operations in the amounts of $0.1 million, $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively.  Such write-offs were included in cost of revenues.
 
33

Income taxes
 
We account for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740 “Income Taxes.”  This statement prescribes the use of the liability method whereby deferred tax asset and liability account balances are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse.  We provide a valuation allowance, if necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value.
 
As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.  This process involves estimating our actual current tax exposure together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes.  These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheet.  We must then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and we must establish a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized.  Increases in the valuation allowance result in additional expense to be reflected within the tax provision in the consolidated statement of income.
 
As of December 31, 2019, we had a net deferred tax asset of $4 million, out of it $3.2 million foreign and $0.8 million domestic.  We had total estimated available operating tax loss carryforwards of $9.3 million with respect to our operations in Israel. Our non-Israeli subsidiaries had estimated total available operating tax loss carryforwards of $15.3 million, of which $6.5 million was attributable to our U.S. subsidiaries (Federal and State net operating losses), which may be used as an offset against future taxable income for periods ranging between 1 and 20 years.  As of December 31, 2019, we recorded a partial valuation allowance on these carryforward tax losses due to the uncertainty of their future realization. Utilization of U.S. net operating losses may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to the “change in ownership” provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and similar state provisions.  The annual limitation may result in the expiration of net operating losses before utilization.

Goodwill
 
We have recorded goodwill as a result of acquisitions, which represents the excess of the cost over the net fair value of the assets of the businesses acquired.  We follow ASC 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other,” which requires goodwill to be tested for impairment, at the reporting unit level.

ASC 350 allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the qualitative assessment does not result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, no further impairment testing is required. If it does result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, the quantitative impairment test is performed. Alternatively, ASC 350 permits an entity to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit and proceed directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test.  We perform annual impairment test of goodwill as of December 31 of each year, or more frequently if impairment indicators are present

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment". ASU 2017-04 eliminates the requirement to measure the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all assets and liabilities within that unit (the "Step 2 Test") from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited by the amount of goodwill in that reporting unit. ASU 2017-04 will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2020 and must be applied to any annual or interim goodwill impairment assessments after that date. We will adopt this standard on a prospective basis as of January 1, 2020 and does not expect this standard to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

With effect from January 1, 2019, as a result of the reorganization of the Company’s reporting structure into two business segments, we identify two reporting unite to which our goodwill relates: (1) the Products reporting unit which comprises the Products segment and; (2) the BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment. During the year ended December 31, 2019 we did not record any goodwill impairment charges.

34

Goodwill annual impairment test for the year ended December 31, 2019:

Goodwill annual impairment test for the Products segment. The material assumptions used for the goodwill annual impairment test for the Products segment, according to the income approach for 2019, were five years of projected net cash flows, a weighted average cost of capital rate of 13% and a long-term growth rate of 3%. We considered historical rates and current market conditions when determining the discount and growth rates to use in this analysis. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record impairment charges for our goodwill. As required by ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures," we apply assumptions that marketplace participants would consider in determining the fair value of its reporting unit.

Goodwill annual impairment test for the BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment. The material assumptions used for the goodwill annual impairment test for the BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment, according to the income approach for 2019, were five years of projected net cash flows, a weighted average cost of capital rate of 15% and a long-term growth rate of 1.5%. We considered historical rates and current market conditions when determining the discount and growth rates to use in this analysis. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record impairment charges for our goodwill. As required by ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures," we apply assumptions that marketplace participants would consider in determining the fair value of its reporting unit.

Goodwill annual impairment test for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

In 2018 and 2017, for the purposes of impairment testing of goodwill, we identified four reporting units: (1) PIDS reporting unit within the Products segment, (2) BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment, (3) Cyber security and (4) Video reporting units, both the Cyber security and the Video reporting units were included within the former Video and Cyber security segment.

In 2018, the excess of the  carrying amount over its fair value of the Cyber security reporting unit within the former Video and Cyber security segment (currently included within the Products segment), represented an impairment loss of goodwill in the amount of $979, which was recorded as part of the general and administrative expenses in the statements of operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2017 we did not record any goodwill impairment charges.

Intangible assets
 
Our intangible assets are comprised of patents, acquired technology, customer relations and backlog. Intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives using a method of amortization that reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible assets are consumed or otherwise used up, in accordance with ASC 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other.”
 
During the three years ended December 31, 2019, we did not record any impairment charges relating to intangible assets.
 
Impairment of long lived assets
 
We periodically evaluate our intangible assets and long-lived assets (mainly property and equipment) in all of our reporting units for potential impairment indicators in accordance with ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment”, or “ASC 360”.  Our judgments regarding the existence of impairment indicators are based on legal factors, market conditions, operational performance and prospects of our acquired businesses and investments. Our long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the assets. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. In measuring the recoverability of assets, we are required to make estimates and judgments in assessing our future cash flows which derive from the estimated useful life of our current primary assets, and compare that with the carrying amount of the assets. Additional significant estimates used by management in the methodologies employed to assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets include estimates of future short-term and long-term growth rates, useful lives of assets, market acceptance of products and services, our success in winning bids and other judgmental assumptions, which are also affected by factors detailed in our risk factors section in this annual report.

During the three years ended December 31, 2019, we did not record any impairment charges relating to long lived assets.

35

Functional Currency and Financial Statements in U.S. Dollars
 
While our functional currency in Israel is the NIS, our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar.  Translation adjustments resulting from translating our financial statements from NIS and other local operation currencies to the U.S. dollar are reported as a separate component in shareholders’ equity.
 
The first step in the translation process is to identify the functional currency for each entity included in the financial statements.  The accounts of each entity are then “re-measured” in its functional currency.  All transaction gains and losses from the re-measurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the statement of operations as financial income or expenses, as appropriate. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency and measured at cost are translated at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction.
 
After the re-measurement process is complete the financial statements are translated into our reporting currency, which is the U.S. dollar, using the current rate method.  Equity accounts are translated using historical exchange rates.  All other balance sheet accounts are translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date.  Statement of operations amounts have been translated using the average exchange rate for the year.  The resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of shareholders’ equity. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our foreign currency translation adjustments totaled $5.9 million, $2.8 million and $5.9 million respectively. We recorded foreign exchange losses, net of $4 million and $2 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2019, respectively and a foreign exchange gain, net of $1.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2018. The losses in 2017 and 2019 were exacerbated as a result of our increased cash balances.  In late 2016 we completed a rights offering that provided us with proceeds of $ 23.6 million, which we deposited into our bank accounts in Israel. These balances were translated into NIS, which depreciated by 9.8% and 7.8% against the U.S. dollar in 2017 and 2019, respectively. In 2018 the NIS appreciated by 8.1% against the U.S. dollar.
 
Concentrations of credit risk
 
Financial instruments that are potentially subject to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, short and long-term bank deposits, unbilled accounts receivable, trade receivables, long-term trade receivables and long-term loans.
 
Of our cash and cash equivalents and short-term and restricted bank deposits at December 31, 2019, $28.2 million were deposited with major Israeli banks.  An additional $23.4 million was deposited mainly with the Royal Bank of Canada, Bank Leumi USA, BBVA Bancomer, Comerica Bank, Natwest Bank and Deutsche Bank. Cash and cash equivalents deposited with U.S. banks or other banks may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions. Generally, these deposits maybe redeemed upon demand and therefore bear low risk.
 
The trade receivables and the unbilled accounts receivable of our company and our subsidiaries are derived from sales to large and solid organizations located mainly in Israel, the United States, Canada, Africa, Mexico and Europe.  We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and to date have generally not experienced any material losses.  An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that we have determined to be doubtful of collection and in accordance with an aging policy.  In certain circumstances, we may require letters of credit, other collateral or additional guarantees.  During the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 we recorded $0.3 million, $1.5 million and $0.1 million of expenses related to doubtful accounts, respectively.  As of December 31, 2019, our allowance for doubtful accounts amounted to $2.1 million.
 
We have no significant off-balance sheet concentration of credit risks, such as foreign exchange contracts or foreign hedging arrangements, except derivative instruments, which are detailed below.
 
36

Results of Operations
 
Due to the nature of our customers and products, our revenues are often generated from a relatively small number of large orders.  Consequently, individual orders from individual customers can represent a substantial portion of our revenues in any one period and significant revenues from a customer during one period may not be followed by additional significant revenues from the same customer in subsequent periods.  Accordingly, our revenues and operating results may vary substantially from period to period.  Consequently, we do not believe that our revenues and operating results should necessarily be judged on a quarter-to-quarter comparative basis.
 
The following table presents certain financial data expressed as a percentage of revenues for the periods indicated:
 
   
Year Ended December 31
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
Revenues          
   
100
%
   
100
%
   
100
%
Cost of revenues          
   
51.3
     
56.5
     
55.4
 
Gross profit          
   
48.7
     
43.5
     
44.6
 
Operating expenses:
                       
Research and development, net          
   
10.2
     
7.4
     
7.3
 
Selling and marketing, net          
   
28.2
     
20.0
     
19.5
 
General and administrative          
   
12.2
     
12.0
     
10.9
 
Operating income (loss)          
   
(1.9
)
   
4.1
     
7.0
 
Financial income (expenses), net          
   
(6.2
)
   
1.5
     
(1.9
)
Income before income taxes          
   
(8.1
)
   
5.5
     
5.0
 
Taxes on income (tax benefit)
   
(2.6
)
   
(2.2
)
   
(1.8
)
Net income          
   
(10.8
)
   
3.3
     
3.2
 
 
Year Ended December 31, 2019 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2018
 
Revenues.  Revenues decreased by 6.2% to $86.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $92.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  Revenues from sales of products increased by 4.2% to $36.6 million in 2019 from $35.2 million in 2018, primarily due to the improved management and improved market conditions. Revenues from projects decreased by 14.2% to $52.4 million in 2019 from $61.1 million in 2018, primarily due to a reduction in revenues from customers in LATAM and Canada, mostly compensated by an increase in project revenues from other geographies.
 
Cost of revenues.  Cost of revenues decreased by 8.1% to $48.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $52.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. This decrease was primarily due the decrease in revenues. Cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues decreased slightly to 55.4% in 2019 from 56.5% in 2018, primarily due to the increased percentage of higher margin products sales within our revenue mix.

Research and development expenses, net.  Research and development expenses, net decreased by 7% to $6.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $6.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.
 
Selling and marketing expenses.  Selling and marketing expenses decreased by 8.9% to $16.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $18.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily due to the decrease in revenues in 2019.  Selling and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues, decreased to 19.5% in 2019 from 20% in 2018.
 
General and administrative expensesGeneral and administrative expenses decreased by 7% to $9.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 from $10.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease is mainly due to the one-off provision for a doubtful account and impairment of goodwill, recorded during 2018, which did not recur in 2019. General and administrative expenses amounted to 10.9% and 11% of revenues in 2019 and 2018, respectively.
 
37

Impairment of goodwill.  During 2019 we did not record any impairment of goodwill compared to a $1 million impairment charge recorded in 2018.
 
Operating income (loss)We had operating income of $6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to operating income of $3.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase in operating income, despite the reduction in revenues, was primarily attributable to our revenue mix, one-time expenses incurred  in 2018 and the beneficial impact of operating cost reduction initiatives. The operating income (loss) of our business segments in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2019 were as follows:
 
   
Year Ended December 31
 
   
2018
   
2019
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Products          
 
$
1,425
   
$
3,880
 
Projects          
   
4,356
     
3,536
 
Eliminations          
   
(2,026
)
   
(1,377
)
Total          
 
$
3,755
   
$
6,039
 

Our products segment recorded operating income of $3.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to operating income of $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily as a result of an increase in revenues and one-off provision for doubtful debt recorded in 2018. Our projects segment recorded operating income of $3.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to operating income of $4.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily as a result of a decrease in revenues.
 
Financial income (expenses) , net.  Our financial expenses, net, for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $1.7 million compared to financial income, net of $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The financial expenses in 2019 were primarily attributable to foreign exchange loss, net of $2 million compared to foreign exchange gain, net of $1.1 million in 2018.
 
Income taxes.  We recorded tax expenses of $1.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to tax expenses of $2.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2018,  primarily due to our higher pre-tax income and changes in our net deferred tax assets.
 
Year Ended December 31, 2018 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Please see Item 5 on Form 20-F for the Year ended December 31, 2018 filed on April 15, 2019 for this comparison.
 
Seasonality
 
Our operating results are characterized by a seasonal pattern, with a higher volume of revenues towards the end of the year and lower revenues in the first part of the year.  This pattern, which is expected to continue, is mainly due to two factors:
 

our customers are mainly budget-oriented organizations with lengthy decision processes, which tend to mature late in the year; and
 

due to harsh weather conditions in certain areas in which we operate during the first quarter of the calendar year, certain projects and services are put on hold and consequently revenues are delayed.
 
Our revenues are dependent on government procurement procedures and practices, and because we receive large product orders from a relatively small number of customers, our revenues and operating results are subject to substantial periodic variations.
 
38

Impact of Inflation and Currency Fluctuations on Results of Operations, Liabilities and Assets
 
We sell most of our products in North America, Africa, Latin America Europe and Israel.  Our financial results, which are reported in U.S. dollars, are affected by changes in foreign currency.  Our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars, Euros, Mexican Peso and NIS, while a portion of our expenses, primarily labor expenses, is incurred in NIS, CAD and Mexican Peso.  Additionally, certain assets, especially cash, trade receivables and other accounts receivables, as well as part of our liabilities are denominated in NIS and CAD.  As a result, fluctuations in rates of exchange between the U.S. dollar and non-U.S. dollar currencies may affect our operating results and financial condition.  The dollar cost of our operations in Israel and Canada may be adversely affected by the appreciation of the NIS and the CAD against the U.S. dollar.  In addition, the value of our non-U.S. dollar revenues could be adversely affected by the depreciation of the U.S. dollar against such currencies.
 
The appreciation of the NIS, the Mexican Pesos and the CAD in relation to the U.S. dollar has the effect of increasing the U.S. dollar value of any unlinked assets and the U.S. dollar amounts of any unlinked liabilities and increasing the U.S. dollar value of revenues and expenses denominated in other currencies.  Conversely, the depreciation of the NIS, the Mexican Peso and the CAD in relation to the U.S. dollar has the effect of reducing the U.S. dollar value of any of our liabilities which are payable in NIS, Mexican Pesos or in Canadian dollars (unless such costs or payables are linked to the U.S. dollar).  Such depreciation also has the effect of decreasing the U.S. dollar value of any asset that is denominated in NIS, Mexican Pesos and CADs or receivables payable in NIS, Mexican Pesos or CAD (unless such receivables are linked to the U.S. dollar).  In addition, the U.S. dollar value of revenues and expenses denominated in NIS, Mexican Pesos or CAD would increase.  Because foreign currency exchange rates fluctuate continuously, exchange rate fluctuations may have an impact on our profitability and period-to-period comparisons of our results.  The effects of foreign currency re-measurements are reported in our consolidated financial statements in current operations.
 
The following table presents information about the rate of inflation in Israel, the rate of devaluation or appreciation of the NIS against the dollar, and the rate of inflation in Israel adjusted for the devaluation:
 
Year ended
December 31,
 
Israeli inflation
rate %
 
NIS devaluation
(appreciation) rate %
 
Israeli inflation adjusted
for devaluation
(appreciation) %
2015
 
(1.0)

(0.3)

(0.7)
2016
 
(0.2)

(1.5)

1.3
2017
 
0.4
 
(9.8)

10.2
2018
 
1.3
 
8.1
 
(6.8)
2019
 
0.6
 
(7.8)

8.4

The U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Canada is influenced by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the CAD.  In 2017 and 2019 the CAD appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 7% and 4.4%, respectively. In 2018 the CAD depreciated against the U.S. dollar by 8.6%. In addition, the U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Mexico is influenced by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Mexican Peso.  In 2017, 2018 and 2019 the Mexican Peso appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 4.5%, 0.4% and 4%, respectively.
 
In 2017 and 2019, foreign currency fluctuations had a negative impact on our results of operations as we recorded foreign exchange loss, net of $4 million and $2 million, compared to $1.1 million of foreign exchange gain, net in 2018.  We expect that our results of operations will continue to be affected by currency fluctuations in the future.

Conditions in Israel
 
We are incorporated under the laws of, and our principal executive offices and manufacturing and research and development facilities are located in, the State of Israel.  See Item 3D “Key Information – Risk Factors – Risks Relating to Our Location in Israel” for a description of governmental, economic, fiscal, monetary and political policies or factors that have materially affected or could materially affect our operations.
 
39

Effective Corporate Tax Rate
 
The Israeli corporate tax rate was 24% in 2017 and 23% in 2018 and 2019.

Our effective corporate tax rate may substantially exceed the Israeli tax rate since our U.S.-based subsidiaries will generally be subject to applicable federal, state, local and foreign taxation, and we may also be subject to taxation in the other foreign jurisdictions in which we own assets, have employees or conduct activities.  Because of the complexity of these local tax provisions, it is not possible to anticipate the actual combined effective corporate tax rate, which will apply to us.
 
As of December 31, 2019, we had net deferred tax assets of $4 million, out of it $3.2 million foreign and $0.8 million domestic. We had total estimated available carryforward operating tax losses of $9.3 million with respect to our operations in Israel to offset against future taxable income. We have recorded a partial valuation allowance for such carryforward tax losses due to the uncertainty of their future realization. As of December 31, 2019, our subsidiaries outside of Israel had estimated total available carryforward operating tax losses of $15.3 million, of which $6.5 million was attributable to our U.S. subsidiaries (Federal and State net operating losses), which may be used as an offset against future taxable income for periods ranging between 1 and 20 years.  Utilization of U.S. net operating losses may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to the “change in ownership” provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and similar state tax law provisions.  The annual limitation may result in the expiration of net operating losses before utilization.
 
Trade Relations
 
Israel is a member of the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Finance Corporation.  Israel is a member of the World Trade Organization and is a signatory to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.  Israel is also a member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, or the OECD, an international organization whose members are governments of mostly developed economies.  The OECD’s main goal is to promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world.  In addition, Israel has been granted preferences under the Generalized System of Preferences from the United States, Australia, Canada and Japan.  These preferences allow Israel to export products covered under such programs either duty-free or at reduced tariffs.
 
Israel and the European Union Community, known as the “European Union,” concluded a Free Trade Agreement in July 1975 that confers some advantages with respect to Israeli exports to most European countries and obligates Israel to lower its tariffs with respect to imports from these countries over a number of years.  In 1985, Israel and the United States entered into an agreement to establish a Free Trade Area.  The Free Trade Area has eliminated all tariff and some non-tariff barriers on most trade between the two countries.  On January 1, 1993, an agreement between Israel and the European Free Trade Association, known as the “EFTA,” established a free-trade zone between Israel and the EFTA nations.  In November 1995, Israel entered into a new agreement with the European Union, which includes a redefinition of rules of origin and other improvements, such as allowing Israel to become a member of the Research and Technology programs of the European Union.  In recent years, Israel has established commercial and trade relations with a number of other nations, including Russia, China, India, Turkey and other nations in Eastern Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.  In addition, Israel has entered into a free trade agreement with the MercoSur countries (Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay) which became fully effective in September 2011.  Generally, the purpose of this agreement is to reduce the custom rates between Israel and these countries and to abolish them completely in certain cases.  Israel is the first country outside of Latin America to enter into such an agreement with the MercoSur countries.
 
B.          Liquidity and Capital Resources 
 
Our working capital at December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $67.2 million and $60.8 million, respectively.  Cash and cash equivalents amounted to $34.5 million at December 31, 2019 compared to $38.7 million at December 31, 2018.  The decrease in cash and cash equivalents is primarily due to net cash used in operating activities and investing activities. Our cash and cash equivalents, short and long-term bank deposits are held in various banks, mainly in U.S. dollars, Euros, NIS and CAD.
 
40

From our inception until our initial public offering in March 1993, we financed our activities mainly through cash flow from operations and bank loans.  In March 1993, we received proceeds of $9.8 million from our initial public offering of 1,380,000 ordinary shares.  Subsequently, we made follow-on public offerings, in February 1997 (of 2,085,000 ordinary shares) and in April 2005 (of 1,700,000 ordinary shares), in which we raised $9.4 million and $14.9 million, respectively.  To allow us to begin to implement a new strategic plan, on September 8, 2010, a company affiliated with Mr. Nathan Kirsh, our former principal shareholder, provided us with a bridge loan of $10.0 million.  To repay the loan and to raise permanent capital for general working capital purposes including facilitating the implementation of our new business strategy, in July and August 2011 we raised $16.2 million from a rights offering of 5,273,274 ordinary shares and a private placement of 150,000 of our ordinary shares.
 
In October 2016, we completed a rights offering in which we received gross proceeds of approximately $23.8 million from the sale of 6,170,386 ordinary shares. Our controlling shareholders, FIMI V Funds purchased 3,392,869 ordinary shares including through an exercise of over-subscription rights.
 
In 2016, we paid approximately $12.1 million, (including $0.8 million placed in escrow to secure potential indemnity obligations and net of cash acquired) in consideration of our acquisition of Aimetis in 2016, and approximately $0.4 million (net of $2.4 million of acquired cash) in consideration of our acquisition of a majority interest in ESC BAZ Ltd. in 2018.
 
In connection with our acquisition of CyberSeal, we issued warrants to purchase 898,203 of our ordinary shares at an exercise price of $4.16 per share to CyberSeal's former owners.  Of such warrants, 60,000 warrants were exercised in 2017. In October 2018, we agreed to purchase the remaining 838,203 warrants from the warrant holders for an aggregate consideration of $375,000. Under Israeli law, the consummation of such transaction was subject to court approval, which was granted on January 16, 2019. The closing of the purchase of the warrants occurred in March 2019.

We expect that our total research and development expenses in 2020 will be approximately $7.4 million.  Our research and development plan for 2020 covers development of new and innovative products, as well as improvement of existing technologies.
 
We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, bank facilities, bank deposits and our expected cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our ongoing cash requirements through 2020.  However, our liquidity could be negatively affected by a decrease in demand for our products, including the impact of potential reductions in customer purchases that may result from the current general economic climate.

Cash Flows

The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods presented:
 
   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2017
   
2018
   
2019
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
(1,952
)
   
7,326
     
(4,523
)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
3,176
     
10,121
     
(4,779
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
   
504
     
77
     
178
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
2,076
     
(1,029
)
   
2,089
 
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
   
3,804
     
16,495
     
(7,035
)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the year
   
21,501
     
25,305
     
41,800
 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the year
 
$
25,305
     
41,800
     
34,765
 
 
Net cash used in operating activities of approximately $2 million and $4.5 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2019, respectively compared to net cash provided by operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2018 of approximately $7.3 million.
 
Net cash used in operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2019 was primarily attributable to a decrease of $5.1 million in customer advances, an increase of $4 million in trade receivables, an increase of $2.3 million in unbilled receivables, a decrease of $1.3 million in trade payables and an increase of $0.6 million in deferred income taxes. This was offset in part by 2019 profit, as well as $2.1 million of depreciation and amortization expenses, a decrease of $2.1 million in inventories, an increase of $1 million in other accounts payable and accrued expenses and deferred revenues and an increase of $0.7 million in accrued interest and exchange differences on short-term and other long-term liabilities.
 
41

Net cash provided by operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily attributable to our profit in 2018, as well as $3.2 million of depreciation and amortization expenses, an increase of $3.2 million in customer advances, an increase of $3.1 million in other accounts payable and accrued expenses and deferred revenues, an increase of $1.1 million in trade payables and a decrease of $0.6 million in trade receivables. This was offset in part by an increase of $4 million in inventories, an increase of $1.2 million in deferred income taxes, an increase of $1.1 million in other accounts receivables and prepaid expenses and an increase of $0.5 million in accrued interest and exchange differences on short-term and other long-term liabilities.
 
Net cash used in operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2017 was primarily attributable to our 2017 loss, as well as an increase of $2.1 million in inventories, an increase of $1.6 million in unbilled receivables and an increase of $0.5 million in deferred income taxes. This was offset in part by an increase of $3 million in accrued interest and exchange differences on short-term and other long-term liabilities, $1.9 million of depreciation and amortization expenses, an increase of $1.5 million in other accounts payable and accrued expenses and deferred revenues, an increase of $1.2 in customer advances, an increase of $0.8 million in trade payables and a decrease of $0.5 million in short-term and long-term trade receivables.
 
Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $4.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to net cash provided by investing activities of approximately $3.2 million and $10.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018, respectively.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2019, our net cash used in investing activities was primarily attributable to investment in short-term deposits of $3.1 million, investment in technology of $0.9 million and purchase of property and equipment for $0.8 million.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2018, our net cash provided by investing activities was primarily attributable to sale of short-term bank deposits of $12.9. This was offset in part by purchase of property and equipment for $2.1 million, payments for business acquisitions of ESC BAZ of $0.4 million (net of acquired cash) and investment in technology of $0.3 million.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2017, our net cash provided by investing activities was primarily attributable sale of short-term bank deposits of $4.1 million. This was offset in part by purchase of property and equipment for $0.9 million.
 
Net cash provided by financing activities was $0.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to net cash provided by financing activities of approximately $0.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2018 and net cash used in financing activities of approximately $0.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2017.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2019, our net cash provided by financing activities was attributable to issuance of shares upon exercise of options of $0.5 million. This was offset in part by our purchase of outstanding warrants of $0.4 million.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2018, our net cash provided by financing activities was attributable to issuance of shares upon exercise of options of $0.1 million.
 
In the year ended December 31, 2017, our net cash provided by financing activities was primarily attributable to issuance of shares upon exercise of options and warrants of $0.6 million.
 
We had capital expenditures for property and equipment of approximately $0.9 million, $2.1 million and $0.8 million in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively.  We estimate that our capital expenditures for 2020 will total approximately $0.9 million.  We expect to finance these expenditures primarily from our cash and cash equivalents and our operating cash flows.  However, the actual amount of our capital expenditures will depend on a variety of factors, including general economic conditions and changes in the demand for our products.
 
42

Credit Lines and Other Debt
 
As of December 31, 2019, we had credit lines with Bank Leumi Le-Israel B.M., or Bank Leumi and Union Bank of Israel Ltd., or Union Bank, totaling $15 million in the aggregate (of which $11.1 million is reserved exclusively for guarantees, out of which $3.9 million was available as of December 31, 2019).  Our credit lines at Bank Leumi and Union Bank have no restrictions as to our use of the credit.  We are not under any obligation to maintain financial ratios or other terms in respect of our credit lines. In addition, as of December 31, 2019, our foreign subsidiary had credit lines with the Royal Bank of Canada of $1.2 million in the aggregate, of which $1.1 million was available at December 31, 2019.
 
As of December 31, 2019, our outstanding balances under our credit lines in Israel consisted of several bank performance, advance payment and bid guarantees totaling approximately $9 million, at an annual cost of 0.65%-1%.  As of December 31, 2019, the outstanding balances under the credit lines of our subsidiary consisted of several bank performance, advance payment and bid guarantees totaling approximately $0.1 million, at an annual cost of 1.7%.
 
C.          Research and Development, Patents and Licenses.
 
Government Grants
 
We participate in programs sponsored by the Israeli Government for the support of research and development activities.  In the past we have received royalty-bearing grants from the Innovation Authority (formerly the Office of the Chief Scientist) for certain of our research and development projects for perimeter security products. We are obligated to pay royalties to the Innovation Authority amounting to 3.5% of revenues derived from sales of the products funded with these grants and ancillary services, up to 100% of the grants received, linked to the U.S. dollar.  All grants received after January 1, 1999 also bear interest equal to the 12 month LIBOR rate.  The obligation to pay these royalties is contingent on actual sales of the products, and in the absence of such sales no payment is required. On July 27, 2017, the Financial Conduct Authority (the authority that regulates LIBOR) announced that it intends to stop compelling banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR after 2021. It is unclear whether new methods of calculating LIBOR will be established such that it continues to exist after 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve, in conjunction with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, is considering replacing U.S. dollar LIBOR with a newly created index, calculated based on repurchase agreements backed by treasury securities. It is not possible to predict the effect of these changes, other reforms or the establishment of alternative reference rates in the United Kingdom, the United States or elsewhere. To the extent these interest rates increase, interest expense will increase. If sources of capital for FirstEnergy are reduced, capital costs could increase materially. Restricted access to capital markets and/or increased borrowing costs could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and liquidity. 
 
In 2018, Magal received approval for a grant of $301,000 from the Innovation Authority, subject to development milestones achievement. The grant is for further development of Roboguard.
 
For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, we paid the Innovation Authority royalties in the amount of $33,000, $6,000 and $23,000, respectively.  These royalties related to sales of perimeter security products and management security systems. As of December 31, 2019, we had a contingent obligation to pay royalties to the Innovation Authority in the amount of approximately $1.7 million upon the successful sale of perimeter security products developed under research and development programs sponsored by the Innovation Authority.
 
We participate in programs sponsored by the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) in Canada. During 2018 our Canadian subsidiary received grants in the amount of $6,000. During 2019 our Canadian subsidiary did not receive any grants with respect to such programs.
 
43

Investment Tax Credit
 
Our Canadian subsidiary is eligible for investment tax credits for its research and development activities and for certain current expenditures.  For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, our Canadian subsidiary recognized $180,000, $189,000 and $107,000, respectively, of investment tax credits.
 
In addition, as of December 31, 2019, our U.S. subsidiary had available investment tax credits of approximately $209,000 to reduce future federal and state income taxes payable.  These credits will expire in 2020 through 2025 in the U.S. As of December 31, 2019, our subsidiaries made a full valuation allowance in respect of such investment tax credits.
 
D.          Trend Information.
 
Our 2019 results were impacted by a decrease in revenues from project customers in LATAM and Canada due to budgetary delays in infrastructure security spending by these customers. On the other hand, we saw a continuous growth in our product sales across our major territories. In addition, our project division managed to acquire new customers and enter new geographies, partially compensating for the reduction in projects in LATAM and Canada. We expect that the continued spending on critical infrastructure security within our focus verticals, coupled with the growth in VMS and IVA global demand will positively affect the industry in the near future.
 
Recent Developments
 
An outbreak of infectious respiratory illness caused by a novel Coronavirus known as COVID-19 was first detected in China in December 2019 and has now spread globally. This outbreak has resulted in travel restrictions, closed international borders, enhanced health screenings at ports of entry and elsewhere, disruption of and delays in deliveries, prolonged quarantines, supply chain disruptions, and lower customer demand, layoffs and other significant economic impacts, as well as general concern and uncertainty. The impact of this outbreak has adversely affected the economies of many nations and the entire global economy and may impact our company in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen.
 
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse effect on the Company's industry and the markets in which it operates. The  COVID-19 outbreak has impacted the verticals in which our customers operate and has resulted in a slowdown in our business with some of our customers. We have experienced postponed orders and suspended decision making in the markets that are likely to be negatively affected by COVID-19. Further, the guidance of social distancing and the requirements to work from home in key territories such as Israel, USA, Canada, Germany, Spain, Mexico and other countries, in addition to greatly reduced travel globally, has resulted in a substantial curtailment of business activities, which has affected and is likely to continue to affect our ability to conduct fieldwork as well as deliver products and services, thus, delaying some of the revenues expected in the first part of 2020 to a later date. We are unable at this time to estimate the extent of the effect of COVID-19on our business.  In order to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on our business, we have adopted a plan to reduce expenses and have enacted cost savings measures.
 
Most of our administrative functions can be performed remotely.  Our ability to collect money, pay bills, handle customer communications, schedule production, and order raw materials necessary for our production has not been materially impacted. To date we have not experienced a significant change in the timeliness of payments of our invoices and our cash position remains stable with approximately $53 million of cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2020.
 
E.           Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.
 
We are not a party to any material off-balance sheet arrangements.  In addition, we have no unconsolidated special purpose financing or partnership entities that are likely to create material contingent obligations.
 
44

F.           Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations.
 
The following table summarizes our minimum contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2019 and the effect we expect them to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods.
 
 
Payments due by period
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Total
   
Less than 1 year
   
1-2 years
   
3-4 years
   
More than 4 years
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Operating lease obligations (nominal)
   
3,945
     
1,052
     
1,176
     
644
     
1,073
 
Other long-term liabilities reflected on our balance sheet under U.S. GAAP
   
2,251
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,251
 
Total
   
6,196
     
1,052
     
1,176
     
644
     
3,324
 

In addition, we have guaranteed advance payments, the performance of our work and provided warranties for the performance of our work to certain of our customers (usually governmental entities).  Such guarantees are required by contract for our performance during the installation and operational period of projects throughout Israel and the rest of the world.  The performance guarantees typically expire soon after certain milestones are met and warranty guarantees typically expire at the end of the warranty period.  The maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make under our guarantees at December 31, 2019 was $9.1 million.  We have not recorded any liability for such amounts as we believe our performance will not result in any claims.
 
ITEM 6.
Directors, Senior Management and Employees
 
A.          Directors and Senior Management.
 
Set forth below are the name, age, principal position and a biographical description of each of our directors and executive officers:
 
Name
 
Age
 
Position
         
Gillon Beck          
 
58
 
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Ron Ben-Haim          
 
50
 
Director
Jacob Berman          
 
71
 
Director
Avraham Bigger (1)(2)          
 
 74
 
Director
Limor Steklov (1)(2)          
 
49
 
External Director
Moshe Tsabari (1)(2)          
 
66
 
External Director
Dror Sharon          
 
54
 
Chief Executive Officer
Yaacov Vinokur          
 
42
 
Chief Financial Officer
Brian Rich          
 
63
 
President and CTO of Senstar Corporation
Doron Kerbel          
 
48
 
Vice President – General Counsel and Company Secretary
Arnon Bram (3)          
 
45
 
Vice President & General Manager Magal Israel and Head of the Integrated Solutions Division
Fabien Haubert
 
45
 
Vice President & Managing Director Senstar and Head of the Product Division
____________
(1) Member of our Audit Committees.
(2) Member of our Compensation Committee
(3) Effective February 16, 2020.

45

Gillon Beck has served as a director and Executive Chairman of our board of directors since September 2014. Since 2003, Mr. Beck has been a Senior Partner at FIMI Opportunity Funds, the controlling shareholder of Magal, as well as a Director of the FIMI Opportunity Funds’ General Partners and SPV companies. In addition, Mr. Beck currently serves as Chairman of the Board of ImageSat NV, Bet Shemesh Engines Ltd. (TASE:BSEN), Ham-Let (Israel-Canada) Ltd. (TASE:HAML), Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., Inrom Industries Ltd., Oxygen and Argon Works Ltd and Overseas Commerce Ltd., Bird Aerosystems Ltd, and is a director of Inrom Construction Industries Ltd. (TASE:INRM), Orbit Technologies Ltd (TASE:ORBI), Carmel Forge Ltd., Monfort Medical Ltd,  AITECH Ltd,  and Unitronics (1989) (RG) Ltd (TASE:UNIT).  During the past five years, Mr. Beck had served as a member of the Board of Directors of the following public companies: Overseas Commerce Ltd (TASE:OVRS), Ormat Technologies Inc. (NYSE:ORA) and Ormat Industries Ltd. From 1999 to 2003, Mr. Beck served as Chief Executive Officer and President of Arad Ltd., a publicly-traded water measurement and automatic meter reading company, and from 1995 to 1999, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Arad Ltd. Mr. Beck received a Bachelor of Science degree (Cum Laude) in Industrial Engineering in 1990 from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance in 1992 from Bar-Ilan University.

Ron Ben-Haim has served as a director since September 2014.  Mr. Ben-Haim has been a partner in FIMI Opportunity Funds since 2006. Mr. Ben-Haim currently serves on the boards of directors of  Poliram Plastic Industries Ltd., Oxygen and Argon Works Ltd., Tadir-Gan (Precision Products) 1993, Ltd. (TASE:TDGN), Aitech Rugged Group, Inc., Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., Inrom Industries Ltd., Inrom Construction Industries Ltd. (TASE:INRM), Nirlat Paints Ltd., Alony Ltd., Orbit Technologies, Ltd. (TASE:ORBI), G1 Security Solutions Ltd (TASE:GOSS) and TAT Technologies, Ltd. (TASE, NASDAQ:TATT). Mr. Ben Haim formerly served as a member of the boards of directors of the following public companies: Hadera Paper Ltd., Overseas Commerce, Ltd., Medtechnica, Ltd., Ginegar Plastic Products, Ltd., Raval Acs, Ltd., Merhav Ceramic and Building Materials Center, Ltd. and Ophir Optronics, Ltd. Mr. Ben Haim was previously with Compass Advisers, LLP, an investment banking firm based in New York and in Tel Aviv and with the Merrill Lynch Mergers and Acquisitions group in New York. Prior to Merrill Lynch, Mr. Ben-Haim worked at Teva Pharmaceuticals in production management. Mr. Ben-Haim holds a B.Sc. degree in industrial engineering from the Tel Aviv University and an M.B.A. degree from New York University.

Jacob Berman has served as a director since November 2013. Mr. Berman served as the chairman of the board of directors of Israel Discount Bank of New York between November 2014 and March 2019 and acted as a member of our audit committee and compensation committee between September 2014 and December 2014. Mr. Berman has been President of JB Advisors, Inc., a New York based financial advisory firm with extensive experience in international private banking, real estate investment counseling, and commercial/retail banking since 2002.  Mr. Berman served as a director of Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. Previously, Mr. Berman was the founder, President and CEO of the Commercial Bank of New York.

Avraham Bigger has served as a director since September 2014.  Mr. Bigger has been, since 2010, the owner and a member of the Board of Directors of Bigger Investments Ltd. Mr. Bigger currently serves as a board member of Migdal insurance, chairman of the board at Recha, board member at MCA (car import and distributor), international board member of the Weitzman Science Institute and president of the Israel Nature and Heritage Foundation. He formerly served as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Makhteshim Agam Industries Ltd., Chairman of the Boards of Directors of Supersol Ltd. (TASE:SAE), Caniel Beverages & Caniel Packaging Industries Ltd., the Edmond Benjamin de Rothschild Caesarea Foundation and as managing director of Paz Oil Company Ltd. (TASE:PZOL) and Israel General Bank (U Bank). Mr. Bigger also served as a member of the Boards of Directors of Bank Leumi Le-Israel Ltd. (TASE:LUMI), First International Bank of Israel Ltd. (TASE:FIBI), Strauss Group Ltd. (formerly known as Strauss-Elite Ltd.) (TASE:STRS), Partner Communications Company Ltd. (TASE, NASDAQ:PTNR), Cellcom Israel Ltd. (TASE, NYSE:CEL), El-Al Israel Airlines Ltd. and various private companies. Mr. Bigger received a Bachelor of Economics degree and an M.B.A. degree, both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Limor Steklov has served as an external director since August 2019. Ms. Steklov serves as the CFO of TNT Express Worldwide (Israel) Ltd. Ms. Steklov has extensive experience in business partnering, combining business and financial visions, leading economic and business analytics, leading worldwide/local projects, creating effective and efficient processes, and leading, coaching, motivating and mentoring large finance teams. Ms. Steklov currently serves as a board member of the parent company of FEDEX Israel. Ms. Steklov holds a B.A. degree in economics and accountancy from College of Management – Academic Studies (COMAS) in Rishon LeZion and a M.A. degree in law from Bar-Ilan University.

46

Moshe Tsabari has served as an external director since December 2014.  Mr. Tsabari is the owner and serves as the joint CEO of GME Trust, a company that advises on crisis management and improvement of work processes, in Israel and worldwide.  Since 2005, Mr. Tsabari has served as the owner and director of Osher – Training & Consulting Ltd.  From 2006 to 2011 Mr. Tsabari served as a senior partner in the International Company for Defense and Rescue Ltd. and in QG Company, two companies that are engaged in the provision of consultancy and training projects in the security field in Israel.  In addition, Mr. Tsabari is the founder of the International Institute for Researching the Arab World, is a former director in Links Aviation and is the former CEO of SYS-TRY, an electronic equipment development company.  Prior to that, Mr. Tsabari served for 15 years, until 2004, in the Israeli Security Agency (ISA) in a number of positions, including Director of Personal in the Human Resources Division, Director of Security Assistance Division (rank in both positions equivalent to Major General) and Head of the Operations Division (rank equivalent to Brigadier).  Mr. Tsabari holds a B.Sc. degree in Geodetic Engineering, a M.A. degree in Industrial and Management Engineering and a PhD degree in Science, all from the Technion – The Israeli Institute of Technology. In addition, Mr. Tsabari is an A.M.P. graduate from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Dror Sharon has served as our Chief Executive Officer since June 24, 2018 following a six years career as President and CEO of Controp Precision Technology Ltd., a company specializing in developing, manufacturing and selling electro optical and precision motion control systems for the global defense and homeland security (HLS) markets. Prior to that, Mr. Sharon served in various positions at Opgal Optronics Ltd., the last four years as its President and CEO. Mr. Sharon holds an MBA degree from Derby University, United Kingdom and a B.Sc. degree in Mechanical Engineering (Dean’s award of excellence) from the Technion -Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.

Yaacov (Kobi) Vinokur joined our company as Chief Financial Officer in September 2016. Prior to joining our company, Mr. Vinokur served for three years as Chief Financial Officer of Miya (Arison Group), a global provider of comprehensive water efficiency solutions and a water utilities operator. Prior to that, Mr. Vinokur served in several key leadership positions at Brink’s Company (NYSE:BCO), a global leader in cash logistics, including Chief Financial Officer - Developing Markets division, Director of Procurement - EMEA division and Director of Finance - Global Services division. Prior to his career with Brink’s, Mr. Vinokur served as an Executive Director at Shapira Films, one of the leading film distribution and production companies in Israel, as well as a Head of Treasury at the Ministry of Defense of Israel. In 2017, the Israeli CFO Forum honored Mr. Vinokur with its annual CFO Excellence award. Mr. Vinokur, a certified public accountant in the United States and Israel, holds a B.A. degree in Accounting and Economics (magna cum laude) from Haifa University and a M.B.A. degree (cum laude) from Tel Aviv University. Mr. Vinokur is also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Leadership Development Program and Stanford University's Executive M&A Program.
 
Brian Rich serves as CTO and President of Senstar Corporation, our Canadian subsidiary since May 2015.  Prior to such date, he served as President of Senstar Corporation since September 2000.  Prior to joining Magal, Mr. Rich served as Vice President, Engineering and Operations at Intelligent Detection Systems (IDS), a designer and manufacturer of trace explosives and narcotics detection equipment.  Prior to IDS he was a founding member of Senstar Corporation Canada from October 1981 to February 1998, during which time he held positions of increasing responsibility ending as Vice President, Engineering and Systems, and prior to that was a research engineer at Computing Devices Company of Canada (a Control Data company).  Mr. Rich holds a B.A.Sc. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto.

Doron Kerbel has served as our General Counsel since July 2015.  Prior to joining Magal, Mr. Kerbel had served for more than eight years as legal counsel at Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT) Aerospace Division.  Mr. Kerbel has extensive experience in advising on variety of commercial legal issues, mergers and acquisitions as well as (private finance initiatives) PFI and BOT (Build Operate Transfer) projects, both locally and internationally.  Prior to his work at Elbit Systems, Mr. Kerbel was an associate lawyer at M. Firon & Co. and Senior Legal Counsel for International Law at the Israeli Embassy to the Netherlands.  Mr. Kerbel holds a LL.B. degree from the Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) Herzliya and a LL.M. degree (with distinction) from the International Law School, University of Amsterdam.

Arnon Bram joined our company in February 2020 as Vice President - General Manager Magal Israel and Head of the Integrated Solutions (Projects) Division.  Prior joining the Company, Mr. Bram was DIRCM (Directional Infrared Counter Measures) Business Unit Manager at Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ:ESLT). Mr. Bram's previous roles include CEO of UAV Tactical Systems, a JV between Elbit Systems and Thales in the UK in the field of Unmanned Air Vehicles. He has also held various leadership roles in program management, operations and engineering at Elbit Systems. Mr. Bram brings extensive experience in international sales, multi-year strategy setting and execution, international customers management, multi-disciplinary engineering development programs, production and large scale supply chain management. Mr. Bram holds a B.Sc. in Information Systems Engineering from Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.

47

Fabien Haubert joined our company in February 2018 as Vice President Sales – EMEA Region, based in Paris, France.  Mr. Haubert’s most recent experience (February 2014 – February 2018) was with UK based CCTV solution provider Indigo Vision located in Edinburgh where he was Regional Director – EMEA South.  Previous to his 4 years at Indigo he worked with several companies in the VMS, IP CCTV, intrusion, access control and integration areas since 2002.  He has extensive experience in sales management with past responsibility for the EMEA region.  Mr. Haubert has a technical background with a Master of Science degree in Electronics Engineering (Ecole Supérieure d’Ingénieurs en Electrontechnique et Electronique) as well as a Master of Strategy and Engineering of International business (Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Economiques et Commerciales).  He speaks French, English, Spanish, and Italian and has a working knowledge of Dutch.
 
The terms of office of Messrs. Beck, Berman, Ben-Haim and Bigger will expire at our 2020 annual general meeting of shareholders.  The terms of our external directors, Mr. Tsabari and Ms. Steklov, expire in 2020 and 2022, respectively.
 
B.          Compensation
 
Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers
 
The aggregate compensation costs on behalf of our directors and executive officers as a group during 2019 consisted of approximately $3.6 million in salary, fees, bonus, equity based compensation, commissions and directors’ fees, but excluding dues for professional and business associations, business travel and other expenses commonly reimbursed or paid by companies. As of December 31, 2019, the aggregate amount set aside or accrued for pension, retirement and vacation or similar benefits for our directors and executive officers was approximately $0.2 million.  In addition, we provide automobiles to our executive officers at our expense.
 
We pay our directors an annual fee of NIS 90,000 (approximately $26,000) and a fee of NIS 4,000 (approximately $1,150) for each board or committee meeting that they attend.  Such amounts are linked to the Israeli consumer price index, or CPI, and are updated on a semi-annual basis and accordingly, are adjusted to reflect changes in the CPI in February and August, each year. In addition, we pay to our Executive Chairman a monthly payment of NIS 15,000 (approximately $4,350).  Our executive Chairman is also entitled to a director fees paid to all of our directors as described above. In addition, Mr. Beck is entitled to annual cash bonus of $30,000 payable in the event our net profit pursuant to our annual audited and consolidated financial statement exceeds $5,000,000.  
 
As of December 31, 2019, our directors and executive officers as a group, then consisting of 12 persons, held options to purchase an aggregate of 641,666 ordinary shares, having exercise prices ranging from $4.15 to $5.61 and expiration dates ranging from 2020 to 2026.  Generally, the options vest over a two to four year period.  See this Item 6E. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Share Ownership – Stock Option Plans.”
 
48

Compensation of Senior Office Holders – Israel Companies Law Disclosure

The table below sets forth the compensation paid to our five most highly compensated senior office holders (as defined in the Israeli Companies Law) during the year ended December 31, 2019 (which include one former senior officer), in the disclosure format of Regulation 21 of the Israeli Securities Regulations (Periodic and Immediate Reports), 1970. We refer to the five individuals for whom disclosure is provided herein as our “Covered Executives.”
 
Information Regarding the Covered Executive(1)
(in thousands)
Name and Principal Position(2)
Base Salary
Benefits and
Perquisites(3)
Variable 
Compensation(4)
Equity-Based
Compensation(5)
Total
Dror Sharon – Chief Executive Officer
                         297
                         141
                         233
                         222
                         893
Yaniv Shachar – Former Senior Vice President & General Manager Magal Israel
                         169
                           67
                           70
                           55
                         361
Fabien Haubert –, Vice President Managing Director Senstar Corp. & head of the Products Division (former VP EMEA Sales)
                         168
                           93
                           75
                           16
                         352
Yaacov (Kobi) Vinokur - Chief Financial Officer
                         156
                           64
                           91
                           22
                         333
Doron Kerbel - Vice President General Counsel and Company Secretary
                         135
                           55
                           59
                             2
                         251
(1)
All amounts reported in the table are in terms of cost to our company, as recorded in our financial statements.
(2)
All current Covered Executives listed in the table are full-time employees. Cash compensation amounts denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar were converted into U.S. dollars at the average conversion rate for the year ended December 31, 2019.
(3)
Amounts reported in this column include benefits and perquisites or on account of such benefits and perquisites, including those mandated by applicable law. Such benefits and perquisites may include, to the extent applicable to each executive, payments, contributions and/or allocations for savings funds, pension, severance, vacation, car or car allowance, medical insurances and benefits, risk insurances (e.g., life, disability, accident), convalescence pay, payments for social security, tax gross-up payments and other benefits and perquisites consistent with our guidelines.
(4)
Amounts reported in this column refer to Variable Compensation such as commission, incentive and bonus payments as recorded in our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019.
(5)
Amounts reported in this column represent the expense recorded in our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019.
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, we have adopted a compensation policy and are required to follow certain approval requirements with respect to the compensation of our directors and executive officers.  See below “Board of Directors – Compensation Committee” and Item 10. Additional Information –– Office Holders.
 
We follow Israeli law and practice instead of the requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market Rules regarding the compensation of our chief executive office and other executive officers.  See Item 16G. “Corporate Governance.”
 
C.          Board Practices 
 
Introduction
 
According to the Israeli Companies Law and our articles of association, the management of our business is vested in our board of directors.  The board of directors may exercise all powers and may take all actions that are not specifically granted to our shareholders.  Our executive officers are responsible for our day-to-day management.  The executive officers have individual responsibilities established by our chief executive officer and board of directors.  Executive officers are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the board of directors, subject to any applicable agreements.
 
49

Election of Directors
 
Our articles of association provide for a board of directors of not less than three and not more than 11 members, as may be determined from time to time at our annual general meeting.  Our board of directors is currently composed of six (6) directors.
 
Our directors (except the external directors, as detailed below), are elected by our shareholders at our annual general meeting and hold office until the next annual general meeting.  All the members of our board of directors (except the external directors), may be reelected upon completion of their term of office.  Our annual general meetings of shareholders are held at least once every calendar year, but not more than 15 months after the last preceding annual general meeting.  In the intervals between our annual general meetings of shareholders, the board of directors may from time to time appoint a new director to fill a casual vacancy or to add to their number, and any director so appointed will remain in office until our next annual general meeting of shareholders and may be re-elected.
 
Under the Israeli Companies Law, our board of directors is required to determine the minimum number of directors who must have “accounting and financial expertise,” as such term is defined in regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law.  Our board of directors has determined that at least one director must have “accounting and financial expertise.”  Our board of directors has further determined that Ms. Limor Steklov has the requisite “accounting and financial expertise.”
 
We do not follow the requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market Rules regarding the nomination process of directors, and instead, we follow Israeli law and practice, in accordance with which our directors are recommended by our board of directors for election by our shareholders.  See Item 16G. “Corporate Governance.”
 
External and Independent Directors
 
External directors.  The Israeli Companies Law requires Israeli companies with shares that have been offered to the public in or outside of Israel to appoint at least two external directors.  The Israeli Companies Law provides that a person may not be appointed as an external director if the person, or the person’s relative, partner, employer or an entity under that person’s control, has or had during the two years preceding the date of appointment any affiliation with the company, or any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the company.  The term “relative” means a spouse, sibling, parent, grandparent, child or child of spouse or spouse of any of the above as well as a sibling, brother, sister or parent of the foregoing relatives.  In general, the term “affiliation” includes an employment relationship, a business or professional relationship maintained on a regular basis, control and service as an office holder.  Furthermore, if the company does not have a controlling shareholder or a shareholder holding at least 25% of the voting rights, “affiliation” also includes a relationship, at the time of the appointment, with the chairman of the board, the chief executive officer, a substantial shareholder or the most senior financial officer of such company. Regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law include certain additional relationships that would not be deemed an “affiliation” with a company for the purpose of service as an external director. In addition, no person may serve as an external director if the person’s position or other activities create, or may create a conflict of interest with the person’s responsibilities as director or may otherwise interfere with the person’s ability to serve as director or if such person is an employee of the Israel Securities Authority or of an Israeli stock exchange.  If, at the time an external director is appointed, all current members of the board of directors are of the same gender, then that external director must be of the other gender.  A director of one company may not be appointed as an external director of another company if a director of the other company is acting as an external director of the first company at such time.
 
At least one of the elected external directors must have “accounting and financial expertise” and any other external director must have “accounting and financial expertise” or “professional qualification,” as such terms are defined by regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law.
 
The external directors are elected by shareholders at a general meeting.  The shareholders voting in favor of their election must include at least a majority of the shares voted by shareholders other than controlling shareholders or shareholders who have a personal interest in the election of the external director (unless such personal interest is not related to such persons relationship with the controlling shareholder) present and voting at such meeting (excluding abstentions).  This majority requirement will not be required if the total number of shares of such non-controlling shareholders and disinterested shareholders who vote against the election of the external director represent 2% or less of the voting rights in the company.
 
50

In general, under the Israeli Companies Law, external directors serve for a three-year term and may be reelected to two (2) additional three-year terms.  However, Israeli companies listed on certain stock exchanges outside Israel, including The NASDAQ Global Market, such as our company, may appoint an external director for additional terms of not more than three years subject to certain conditions.  Such conditions include the determination by the audit committee and board of directors, that in view of the director’s professional expertise and special contribution to the company’s board of directors and its committees, the appointment of the external director for an additional term is in the best interest of the company.  External directors can be removed from office only by the same special percentage of shareholders that can elect them, or by a court order, and then only if the external directors cease to meet the statutory qualifications with respect to their appointment or if they violate their fiduciary duty to the company.
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, external directors up for re-election are nominated either by the board of directors or by any shareholder(s) holding at least 1% of the voting rights in the company.  If the board of directors proposed the nominee, the reelection must be approved by the shareholders in the same manner required to appoint external directors for an initial term, as described above. If such reelection is proposed by shareholders, such reelection requires the approval of the majority of the shareholders voting on the matter, and satisfaction of all of the following requirements: (i) In calculating the majority votes, the votes of the controlling shareholders and other shareholders that have personal interest in such reelection (unless such personal interest is not related to such persons relationship with the controlling shareholder) as well as abstentions are not included; (ii) the votes of the non-controlling shareholders in favor of the reelection and of the shareholders who do not have personal interest in the reelection (unless such personal interest is not related to such person’s relationship with the controlling shareholder) is greater than 2% of the voting rights in the company; and (iii) the external director is not, at the time of such reelection, a related shareholder or competitor or a relative thereof and does not have any affiliation to any related shareholder, competitor or any relative thereof during the two years prior to such re-election. A related shareholder or a competitor are defined as the shareholder proposing the reelection, any substantial shareholder (within the meaning of the Israeli Companies Law) if at the time of reelection either such shareholder, its controlling shareholder or any company controlled by either of them has business relations with the company or that either such shareholder, its controlling shareholder or a company controlled by either of them is a competitor of the company.
 
Each committee of the board of directors that is authorized to exercise powers vested in the board of directors must include at least one external director and the audit committee must include all the external directors.  An external director is entitled to compensation as provided in regulations adopted under the Israeli Companies Law and is otherwise prohibited from receiving any other compensation, directly or indirectly, in connection with such service.
 
Ms. Steklov and Mr. Tsabari serve as our external directors under the Israeli Companies Law.  Ms. Steklov’s first term will expire in August 2022 and Mr. Tsabari’s second term will expire in October 2020.
 
Independent Directors.  Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, a director may be qualified as an independent director if such director is either (i) an external director; or (ii) or a director who is appointed or classified as such, and who meets the qualifications of an external director (other than the professional qualifications/accounting and financial expertise requirement), who the audit committee has confirmed meets the external director qualifications, and who has not served as a director for more than nine consecutive years (with any period of up to two years during which such person does not serve as a director not being viewed as interrupting a nine-year period).
 
In general, NASDAQ Stock Market Rules require that the board of directors of a NASDAQ-listed company has a majority of independent directors and that its audit committee has at least three members and be comprised only of independent directors, each of whom satisfies the “independence” requirements of NASDAQ and the SEC.  However, foreign private issuers, such as our company, may follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of certain requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market Rules.  On June 30, 2006, we provided NASDAQ with a notice that instead of maintaining a majority of independent directors, we follow Israeli law, under which we are required to appoint at least two external directors, within the meaning of the Israeli Companies Law, to our board of directors.  In addition, in accordance with the rules of the SEC and NASDAQ, our audit committee is composed of three independent directors, as defined in the rules of the SEC and NASDAQ.  At present the majority of our directors satisfy the independence requirements of NASDAQ and the SEC.
 
Our board of directors has determined that our external directors, Ms. Steklov and Mr. Tsabari, qualify as independent directors under the requirements of the SEC and NASDAQ.  Our board of directors has further determined that Messrs. Bigger and Berman also qualify as independent directors under the requirements of the SEC and NASDAQ.
 
51

Audit Committee under Israeli Law
 
Under the Israeli Companies Law, the board of directors of any public company must establish an audit committee, or the Israeli Audit Committee.  The Israeli Audit Committee must consist of at least three directors and must include all of the external directors, the majority of which must be independent directors.  The Israeli Audit Committee may not include the chairman of the board of directors; any director employed by the company or providing services to the company on an ongoing basis (other than as a director); a controlling shareholder or any of the controlling shareholder’s relatives; and any director who is employed by, or rendered services to, the controlling shareholder or an entity controlled by the controlling shareholder, or a director whose main livelihood is from the controlling shareholder.  Any person who is not permitted to be a member of the Israeli Audit Committee may not be present in the meetings of the Israeli Audit Committee unless the chairman of the Israeli Audit Committee determines that such person’s presence is necessary in order to present a specific matter.  However, an employee who is not a controlling shareholder or relative of a controlling shareholder may participate in the audit committee’s discussions but not in any vote, and at the request of the Israeli Audit Committee, the secretary of the company and its legal counsel may be present during the meeting. The chairman of the Israeli Audit Committee must be an external director.
 
The role of the Israeli Audit Committee, pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, includes:
 

monitoring deficiencies in the management of the company, including in consultation with the independent auditors or the internal auditor, and to advise the board of directors on how to correct such deficiencies. If the audit committee finds a material deficiency, it will hold at least one meeting regarding such material deficiency, with the presence of the internal auditor or the independent auditors but without the presence of the senior management of the company. However, a member of the company’s senior management can participate in the meeting in order to present an issue which is under his or her responsibility;
 

determining, on the basis of detailed arguments, whether to classify certain engagements or transactions as material or extraordinary, as applicable, and therefore as requiring special approval under the Israeli Companies Law. The audit committee may make such determination according to principles and guidelines predetermined on an annual basis;
 

determining if transactions (excluding extraordinary transactions) with a controlling shareholder, or in which a controlling shareholder has a personal interest, are required to be rendered pursuant to a competitive procedure;
 

deciding whether to approve engagements or transactions that require the Israeli Audit Committee approval under the Israeli Companies Law;
 

determining the approval procedure of non-extraordinary transactions, following classification as such by the Israeli Audit Committee, including whether such specific non-extraordinary transactions require the approval of the Israeli Audit Committee;
 

examining and approving the annual and periodical working plan of the internal auditor;
 

overseeing the company’s internal auditing and the performance of the internal auditor; confirm that the internal auditor has sufficient tools and resources at his disposal, taking into account, among other, the special requirements of the company and its size;
 

examining the scope of work of the independent auditor and its pay, and bringing such recommendations on these issue before the Board;
 

determining the procedure of addressing complaints of employees regarding shortcomings in the management of the company and ensure the protection of employees who have filed such complaints;
 
52


determining with respect to transactions with the controlling shareholder or in which such controlling shareholder has personal interest, whether such transactions are extraordinary or not, an obligation to conduct competitive process under supervisions of the audit committee or determination that prior to entering into such transactions the company shall conduct other process as the audit committee may deem fit, all taking into account the type of the company; and
 

determining the manner of approval of transactions with the controlling shareholder or in which it has personal interest which (i) are not negligible transactions (pursuant to the committee’s determination) and (ii) are not qualified by the Israeli Audit Committee as extraordinary transactions.
 
Our Israeli Audit Committee is currently composed of Ms. Steklov and Messrs. Bigger and Tsabari. Both Ms. Steklov and Mr. Tsabari satisfy the “independence” requirements of the Israeli Companies Law.  Our board of directors has determined that Ms. Steklov has the requisite accounting and financial expertise to serve as our audit committee financial expert. Ms. Steklov also serves as the chairperson of our Israeli Audit Committee. The Israeli Audit Committee meets at least once each quarter.
 
Audit Committee under U.S. Laws and Regulations
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market Rules require us to establish an audit committee consisting of at least three members, each of whom must be financially literate and satisfy the respective ‘‘independence’’ requirements of the SEC and NASDAQ and one of whom has accounting or related financial management expertise.  Such audit committee is established for the primary purpose of assisting the Board in overseeing the:
 

integrity of the Company’s financial statements;
 

independent auditor’s qualifications, independence and performance;
 

Company’s financial reporting processes and accounting policies; performance of the Company’s internal audit function; and
 

Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
 
Ms. Steklov and Messrs. Bigger and Tsabari satisfy the respective “independence” requirements of the SEC and NASDAQ.  Our board of directors has determined that Ms. Steklov has the requisite accounting and financial expertise to serve as our Audit Committee financial expert and that both Mr. Bigger and Mr. Tsabari are financially literate, having a basic understanding of financial controls and reporting.  The U.S. Audit Committee meets at least once each quarter. Mr. Bigger serves as chairperson of our U.S. Audit Committee for purposes of compliance with U.S. law and regulations.
 
Compensation Committee
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, each publicly traded company is required to establish a compensation committee which must be comprised of at least three directors, including all of the external directors. The additional members of the compensation committee must be directors that receive compensation in accordance with the provisions and limitations set forth in the regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law with respect to external directors. An external director shall serve as the chairman of the compensation committee. Under the Israeli Companies Law, the external directors shall constitute a majority of the compensation committee. Similar to the rules that apply to the audit committee, the compensation committee may not include the chairman of the board, or any director employed by us, by a controlling shareholder or by any entity controlled by a controlling shareholder, or any director providing services to us, to a controlling shareholder or to any entity controlled by a controlling shareholder on a regular basis, or any director whose primary income is dependent on a controlling shareholder, and may not include a controlling shareholder or any of its relatives.  Individuals who are not permitted to be compensation committee members may not participate in the committee’s meetings other than to present a particular issue; provided, however, that an employee that is not a controlling shareholder or relative may participate in the committee’s discussions but not in any vote, and the company’s legal counsel and corporate secretary may participate in the committee’s discussions and votes if requested by the committee.
 
53

The compensation committee is responsible for (i) recommending the compensation policy to the board of directors for its approval (and subsequent approval by shareholders) and (ii) duties related to the compensation policy and to the approval of the terms of engagement of office holders, including: recommending whether a compensation policy should continue in effect, if the then-current policy has a term of greater than three (3) years (approval of either a new compensation policy or the continuation of an existing compensation policy must in any case occur every three years), recommending to the board of directors periodic updates to the compensation policy, assessing implementation of the compensation policy; determining whether the compensation terms of a proposed new Chief Executive Officer of the company need not be brought to approval of the shareholders; and determining whether to approve transactions concerning the terms of engagement and employment of the company’s officers and directors that require compensation committee approval under the Israeli Companies Law or the company’s compensation plans and policies.
 
We have established a compensation committee that is currently composed of Ms. Steklov and Messrs. Bigger and Tsabari. Mr. Tsabari serves as the chairperson of our Compensation Committee. The composition and function of the Compensation Committee comply with the requirements of the Israeli Companies Law and NASDAQ Stock Market Rules.
 
Israeli Regulations
 
In March 2016, the Israeli Companies Law Regulations were amended to reduce certain duplicative regulatory burden to which Israeli companies publicly-traded on NASDAQ are subject to.
 
Generally, pursuant to the new regulations, an Israeli company traded on NASDAQ that does not have a “controlling shareholder” (as defined in the Israeli Companies Law) will be able to elect not to appoint External Directors to its Board of Directors and not to comply with the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee composition and chairman requirements of the Israeli Companies Law (as described above under); provided, the company complies with the applicable NASDAQ independent director requirements and the NASDAQ Audit Committee and Compensation Committee composition requirements.
 
Since our largest shareholder, the limited partnerships managed by FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd., are deemed to be a “controlling shareholder” under the Israeli Companies Law, we are not currently eligible to benefit from the relief provided by these new amended Israeli regulations.
 
Internal Auditor
 
Under the Israeli Companies Law, the board of directors of a publicly traded company must appoint an internal auditor nominated by the audit committee.  The role of the internal auditor is to examine whether the company’s actions comply with the law, integrity and orderly business practice.  Under the Israeli Companies Law, the internal auditor may not be an interested party, an office holder, or an affiliate, or a relative of an interested party, office holder or affiliate, nor may the internal auditor be the company’s independent accountant or its representative.  KPMG serves as our Internal Auditor.
 
Directors’ Service Contracts
 
There are no arrangements or understandings between us and any of our subsidiaries, on the one hand, and any of our directors, on the other hand, providing for benefits upon termination of their employment or service as directors of our company or any of our subsidiaries.
 
Chairman of the Board

Under the Israeli Companies Law, the general manager of a company (or a relative of the general manager) may not serve as the chairman of the board of directors, and the chairman of the board of directors (or a relative of the chairman of the board of directors) may not serve as the general manager, unless approved by the shareholders by a special majority vote prescribed by the Israeli Companies Law.  The shareholder vote cannot authorize the appointment for a period of longer than three years, which period may be extended from time to time by the shareholders with a similar special majority vote.  The chairman of the board of directors shall not hold any other position with the company (except as general manager if approved in accordance with the above procedure) or in any entity controlled by the company, other than as chairman of the board of directors of a controlled entity, and the company shall not delegate to the chairman duties that, directly or indirectly, make him or her subordinate to the general manager.

54

Approval of Related Party Transactions under Israeli Law
 
Fiduciary Duties of Office Holders
 
The Israeli Companies Law codifies the fiduciary duties that “office holders,” including directors and executive officers, owe to a company.  An “office holder” is defined in the Israeli Companies Law as a director, general manager, chief business manager, deputy general manager, vice general manager, other manager directly subordinate to the general manager or any other person assuming the responsibilities of any of the foregoing positions without regard to such person’s title.  An office holder’s fiduciary duties consist of a duty of care and a fiduciary duty. The duty of care requires an office holder to act at a level of care that a reasonable office holder in the same position would employ under the same circumstances. This includes the duty to utilize reasonable means to obtain (i) information regarding the appropriateness of a given action brought for his approval or performed by him by virtue of his position and (ii) all other information of importance pertaining to the foregoing actions. The fiduciary duty includes (i) avoiding any conflict of interest between the office holder’s position in the company and any other position he holds or his personal affairs, (ii) avoiding any competition with the company’s business, (iii) avoiding exploiting any business opportunity of the company in order to receive personal gain for the office holder or others, and (iv) disclosing to the company any information or documents relating to the company’s affairs that the office holder has received due to his position as an office holder.
 
Disclosure of Personal Interests of an Office Holder; Approval of Transactions with Office Holders
 
The Israeli Companies Law requires that an office holder promptly, and no later than the first board meeting at which such transaction is considered, disclose any personal interest that he or she may have and all related material information known to him or her and any documents in their position, in connection with any existing or proposed transaction by us. In addition, if the transaction is an extraordinary transaction, that is, a transaction other than in the ordinary course of business, other than on market terms, or likely to have a material impact on the company’s profitability, assets or liabilities, the office holder must also disclose any personal interest held by the office holder’s spouse, siblings, parents, grandparents, descendants, spouse’s descendants and the spouses of any of the foregoing, or by any corporation in which the office holder or a relative is a 5% or greater shareholder, director or general manager or in which he or she has the right to appoint at least one director or the general manager.
 
Some transactions, actions and arrangements involving an office holder (or a third party in which an office holder has an interest) must be approved by the board of directors or as otherwise provided for in a company’s articles of association, however, a transaction that is adverse to the company’s interest may not be approved. In some cases, such a transaction must be approved by the audit committee and by the board of directors itself, and under certain circumstances shareholder approval may also be required. A director who has a personal interest in a transaction that is considered at a meeting of the board of directors or the audit committee may not be present during the board of directors or audit committee discussions and may not vote on the transaction, unless the transaction is not an extraordinary transaction or the majority of the members of the board or the audit committee have a personal interest, as the case may be. In the event the majority of the members of the board of directors or the audit committee have a personal interest, then the approval of the general meeting of shareholders is also required.
 
Approval of a Compensation Policy for Office Holders
 
The Israeli Companies Law and the regulations adopted thereunder require the compensation committee to adopt a policy for director and office holders.  In adopting the compensation policy, the compensation committee must consider factors such as the office holder’s education, experience, past compensation arrangements with the company, and the proportional difference between the person’s cost of compensation and the average cost of compensation of the company’s employees.
 
The compensation policy must be approved at least once every three years at the company’s general meeting of shareholders, and is subject to the approval of a majority vote of the votes of the shareholders present and voting at a shareholders’ meeting, provided that either: (i) such majority includes at least a majority of the votes of  all shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and do not have a personal interest in the approval of the compensation policy, present and voting at such meeting (excluding abstentions); or (ii) the total number of ordinary shares of non-controlling shareholders and shareholders who do not have a personal interest in the approval of the compensation policy, voting against the resolution does not exceed 2% of the aggregate voting rights in the company.
 
55

The Board may approve the compensation policy even if such policy was not approved by the shareholders, provided that the compensation committee and the board of directors resolve, based on detailed consideration of the compensation policy that approval of the policy, is in the best interest of the company, despite the fact that it was not approved at the shareholders’ meeting.
 
The compensation policy serves as the basis for decisions concerning the financial terms of employment or engagement of officer holders, including exculpation, insurance, indemnification or any monetary payment or obligation of payment in respect of employment or engagement. The compensation policy must relate to certain factors, including advancement of the company’s objectives, the company’s business and its long-term strategy, and creation of appropriate incentives for executives. It must also consider, among other things, the company’s risk management, size and the nature of its operations. The compensation committee must also consider among others, the ratio between the cost of terms offered to the relevant director or office holder and the average  and median cost of compensation of the other employees of the company, including those employed through manpower companies, the effect of disparities in salary upon work relationships in the company, the possibility of reducing variable compensation at the discretion of the board of directors; the possibility of setting a limit on the exercise value of non-cash variable compensation; and as to severance compensation (in excess of those promulgated by applicable labor law), the period of service of the director or office holder, the terms of his or her compensation during such service period, the company’s performance during that period of service, the person’s contribution towards the company’s achievement of its goals and the maximization of its profits, and the circumstances under which the person is leaving the company.
 
The compensation policy must also include the link between variable compensation and long-term performance and measurable criteria, the relationship between variable and fixed compensation, and the upper limit for the value of variable compensation, the conditions under which a director or an office holder would be required to repay compensation paid to him or her if it was later shown that the data upon which such compensation was based was inaccurate and was required to be restated in the company’s financial statements, the minimum holding or vesting period for variable, equity-based compensation whilst referring to appropriate a long-term perspective based incentives; and maximum limits for severance compensation.
 
Once a compensation policy is properly adopted, the Israeli Companies Law requires the compensation policy to be approved by the company’s compensation committee, with subsequent approval of the board of directors. In addition, compensation of the directors and the chief executive officer is also subject to the approval of the shareholders at a general meeting. The approval of the compensation of the chief executive officer that complies with the compensation policy is subject to the same majority requirements as the approval of a transaction between a company and its controlling shareholder.  Where the director is also a controlling shareholder, the requirements for approval of transactions with controlling shareholders apply.  The terms of employment of the company’s directors and executive officers must satisfy the requirements of the compensation policy in respect of matters relating to compensation. Any deviations from the compensation policy in respect of the compensation of the office holders require the approval of the compensation committee, the board of directors and the shareholders. If the deviation is with respect to the compensation of the chief executive office then such approval must be made by the majority of the shareholders provided that such majority includes the majority of the votes of the non-controlling shareholder and other shareholders who have personal interest in the proposal (unless such personal interest is not related to the controlling shareholder) present and voting (excluding abstention). Such special majority is not required if the number of votes of the non-controlling shareholders and shareholder who do not have personal interest in the proposal as previously mentioned is lower than 2% of the aggregate voting rights in the company.
 
Under the Israeli Companies Law, all arrangements as to compensation of office holders who are not directors require the approval of the compensation committee prior, and in addition, to the approval of the board of directors.  However, if the Company duly adopts a compensation plan for its office holders, the approval of the board of directors is not required if the new arrangement only modifies an existing arrangement and the compensation committee determines that such modification is not material.  Generally, the compensation of the CEO must be approved by the compensation committee, the board of directors and by the majority of the shareholders provided that either: (i) such majority includes a majority of the total votes of shareholders who are not controlling shareholders and do not have a Personal Interest in the approval of the compensation policy and who participate in the voting, in person, by proxy or by written ballot, at the meeting (abstentions not taken into account); or (ii) the total number of votes of shareholders mentioned in (i) above that are voted against the approval of the compensation policy do not represent more than 2% of the total voting rights in the company.  The compensation of office holders who are directors must be approved by the compensation committee, board of directors and simple majority vote of the shareholders.
 
56

External directors of the company are prohibited from receiving, directly or indirectly, any compensation from the company, other than for their services as external directors pursuant to the provisions and limitations set forth in regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law, which compensation is determined prior to their appointment and may not be changed throughout the term of their service as external directors (except for certain exceptions set forth in such regulations).
 
Disclosure of Personal Interests of a Controlling Shareholder; Approval of Transactions with Controlling Shareholders
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, the disclosure requirements regarding personal interests that apply to directors and executive officers also apply to a controlling shareholder of a public company. A controlling shareholder is a shareholder who has the ability to direct the activities of a company, but excludes a shareholder whose power derives solely from its position on the board of directors or any other position at the company. A person is presumed to be a “controlling shareholder” if it holds or controls, by itself or together with others, one half or more of any one of the “Means of Control” of the company. “Means of Control” is defined as any one of the following: (i) the right to vote at a General Meeting of the company, or (ii) the right to appoint directors of the company or its chief executive officer. For the purpose of related party translations, under the Israeli Companies Law, a controlling shareholder is also a shareholder who holds 25% or more of the voting rights if no other shareholder who holds more than 50% of the voting rights. For this purpose, the holdings of all shareholders who have a personal interest in the same transaction will be aggregated. Certain shareholders also have a duty of fairness toward the company. These shareholders include any controlling shareholder, together with any shareholder who knows that it has the power to determine the outcome of a shareholder vote and any shareholder who has the power to appoint or to prevent the appointment of an office holder of the company or exercise any other rights available to it under the company’s articles of association with respect to the company. The Israeli Companies Law does not define the substance of this duty of fairness, except to state that the remedies generally available upon a breach of contract will also apply in the event of a breach of the duty of fairness.
 
An extraordinary transaction between a public company and a controlling shareholder, or in which a controlling shareholder has a personal interest, including a private placement in which the controlling shareholder has a personal interest, and the terms of engagement of the company, directly or indirectly, with a controlling shareholder or a controlling shareholder’s relative (including through a corporation controlled by a controlling shareholder), regarding the company’s receipt of services from the controlling shareholder, and if such controlling shareholder is also an office holder of the company, regarding his or her terms of employment, require the approval of a company’s audit committee (or compensation committee with respect to compensation arrangements), board of directors and shareholders, in that order. Such transaction must be elected by a majority vote of the Ordinary Shares present and voting at a shareholders’ meeting, provided that either: (i) such majority includes at least a majority of votes held by all shareholders who do not have a personal interest in such transaction, present and voting at such meeting (excluding abstentions); or (ii) the total number of votes of shareholders who do not have a personal interest in such transaction voting against the approval of the transaction, does not exceed 2% of the aggregate voting rights in the company.
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, the audit committee of the company should determine in connection with such transaction if it requires rendering pursuant to a competitive procedure or pursuant to other proceedings. See “Audit Committee” above.
 
To the extent that any such transaction with a controlling shareholder or his relative is for a period extending beyond three years, shareholder approval is required once every three years, unless, in respect to certain transactions, the audit committee determines that the longer duration of the transaction is reasonable under the circumstances.
 
Pursuant to regulations promulgated pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, a transaction with a controlling shareholder that would otherwise require approval of the shareholders is exempt from shareholders’ approval if each of the audit committee and the board of directors determine that the transaction meets certain criteria that are set out in specific regulations promulgated under the Israeli Companies Law. Under these regulations, a shareholder holding at least 1% of the issued share capital of the company may require, within 14 days of the publication of such determination, that despite such determination by the audit committee and the board of directors, such transaction will require shareholder approval under the same majority requirements that otherwise apply to such transactions.
 
57

The Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a 25% or greater shareholder of the company. This rule does not apply if there is already another 25% or greater shareholder of the company. Similarly, the Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would hold greater than a 45% interest in the company, unless there is another shareholder holding more than a 45% interest in the company. These requirements do not apply if, in general, (i) the acquisition was made in a private placement that received shareholder approval, (ii) was from a 25% or greater shareholder of the company which resulted in the acquirer becoming a 25% or greater shareholder of the company, if there is not already a 25% or greater shareholder of the company, or (iii) was from a shareholder holding a 45% interest in the company which resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of a 45% interest in the company if there is not already a 45% or greater shareholder of the company.

If, as a result of an acquisition of shares, the acquirer will hold more than 90% of a public company’s outstanding shares or a class of shares, the acquisition must be made by means of a tender offer for all of the outstanding shares or a class of shares. If less than 5% of the outstanding shares are not tendered in the tender offer, all the shares that the acquirer offered to purchase will be transferred to the acquirer.  If more than 5% of the outstanding shares are not tendered in the tender offer, then the acquirer may not acquire shares in the tender offer that will cause his shareholding to exceed 90% of the outstanding shares.  The Israeli Companies Law provides for appraisal rights if any shareholder files a request in court within six months following the consummation of a full tender offer.  However, in the event of a full tender offer, the offeror may determine that any shareholder who accepts the offer will not be entitled to appraisal rights.  Such determination will be effective only if the offeror or the company has timely published all the information that is required to be published in connection with such full tender offer pursuant to all applicable laws.

Exculpation, Indemnification and Insurance of Directors and Officers

Exculpation of Office Holders.  The Israeli Companies Law provides that an Israeli company cannot exculpate an office holder from liability with respect to a breach of his or her fiduciary duty.  If permitted by its articles of association, a company may exculpate in advance an office holder from his or her liability to the company, in whole or in part, with respect to a breach of his or her duty of care.  However, a company may not exculpate in advance a director from his or her liability to the company with respect to a breach of his duty of care in the event of distributions.
 
Office Holders’ Insurance.  Israeli law provides that a company may, if permitted by its articles of association, enter into a contract to insure its office holders for liabilities incurred by the office holder with a respect to an act performed in his or her capacity as an office holder, as a result of: (i) a breach of the office holder’s duty of care to the company or another person; (ii) a breach of the office holder’s fiduciary duty to the company, provided that the office holder acted in good faith and had reasonable cause to assume that the act would not prejudice the company’s interests; and (iii) a financial liability imposed upon the office holder in favor of another person.
 
Indemnification of Office Holders.  Under Israeli law a company may, if permitted by its articles of association, indemnify an office holder for acts performed by the office holder in such capacity for (i) a monetary liability imposed upon the office holder in favor of another person by any court judgment, including a settlement or an arbitration award approved by a court; (ii) reasonable litigation expenses, including attorney’s fees, actually incurred by the office holder as a result of an investigation or proceeding instituted against him by a competent authority, provided that such investigation or proceeding concluded without the filing of an indictment against the office holder or the imposition of any monetary liability in lieu of criminal proceedings, or concluded without the filing of an indictment against the office holder and a monetary liability was imposed on him or her in lieu of criminal proceedings with respect to a criminal offense that does not require proof of criminal intent; and (iii) reasonable litigation expenses, including attorneys’ fees, actually incurred by the office holder or imposed upon the office holder by a court: in an action, suit or proceeding brought against the office holder by or on behalf of the company or another person, or in connection with a criminal action in which the office holder was acquitted, or in connection with a criminal action in which the office holder was convicted of a criminal offence that does not require proof of criminal intent.
 
58

Israeli law provides that a company’s articles of association may permit the company to (a) indemnify an office holder retroactively, following a determination to this effect made by the company after the occurrence of the event in respect of which the office holder will be indemnified; and (b) undertake in advance to indemnify an office holder, except that with respect to a monetary liability imposed on the office holder by any judgment, settlement or court-approved arbitration award, the undertaking must be limited to types of occurrences, which, in the opinion of the company’s board of directors, are, at the time of the undertaking, foreseeable due to the company’s activities and to an amount or standard that the board of directors has determined is reasonable under the circumstances.
 
Limitations on Exculpation, Insurance and Indemnification.  The Israeli Companies Law provides that neither a provision of the articles of association permitting the company to enter into a contract to insure the liability of an office holder, nor a provision in the articles of association or a resolution of the board of directors permitting the indemnification of an office holder, nor a provision in the articles of association exculpating an office holder from duty to the company shall be valid, where such insurance, indemnification or exculpation relates to any of the following: (i) a breach by the office holder of his fiduciary duty unless, with respect to insurance coverage or indemnification, the office holder acted in good faith and had a reasonable basis to believe that the act would not prejudice the company; (ii) a breach by the office holder of his duty of care if such breach was committed intentionally or recklessly, unless the breach was committed only negligently; (iii) any act or omission done with the intent to unlawfully yield a personal benefit; or (iv) any fine or forfeiture imposed on the office holder.
 
Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, exculpation of, procurement of insurance coverage for, and an undertaking to indemnify or indemnification of, our office holders must be approved by our audit committee and board of directors and, if the office holder is a director, also by our shareholders.
 
Our articles of association allow us to insure, indemnify and exempt our office holders to the fullest extent permitted by Israeli law.  We maintain a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy with a per claim and aggregate coverage limit of $20 million, including legal costs incurred in Israel.  In addition, our audit committee, board of directors and shareholders resolved to indemnify our office holders, pursuant to a standard indemnification agreement that provides for indemnification of office holders up to an aggregate amount of 25% the company's equity, according to our latest consolidated financial statements prior to the date that the indemnity was given.  To date, we have provided letters of indemnification to all of our officers and directors.
 
D.          Employees
 
As of December 31, 2019, we employed we employed 421 full-time employees, of whom 59 were employed in general management and administration, 80 were employed in selling and marketing, 18 were employed in projects management, 195 were employed in production, installation and maintenance, and 69  were employed in engineering and research and development.  Of such full-time employees, 161 were located in Israel, 123 were in Canada, 25 were in the United States and 112 were in various other countries.
 
As of December 31, 2018, we employed 411 full-time employees, of whom 55 were employed in general management and administration, 79 were employed in selling and marketing, 18 were employed in projects management, 194 were employed in production, installation and maintenance, and 65 were employed in engineering and research and development.  Of such full-time employees, 158 were located in Israel, 29 were in the United States, 119 were in Canada and 105 were in various other countries.
 
As of December 31, 2017, we employed 360 full-time employees, of whom 45 were employed in general management and administration, 83 were employed in selling and marketing, 16 were employed in projects management, 158 were employed in production, installation and maintenance, and 58 were employed in engineering and research and development.  Of such full-time employees, 112 were located in Israel, 31 were in the United States, 110 were in Canada and 107 were in various other countries.
 
Our relationships with our employees in Israel are governed by Israeli labor legislation and regulations, extension orders of the Israeli Ministry of Labor and personal employment agreements.  We are subject to various Israeli labor laws, collective bargaining agreements entered into from time to time between the Manufacturers Association and the New General Federation of Workers (the Histadrut), as well as collective bargaining arrangement entered between the Company and the Histadrut on April 17, 2019.  Such laws, agreements and arrangements cover a wide range of areas, including minimum employment standards, such as working hours, minimum wages, vacation, procedures for dismissing employees, severance pay and pension plans and special issues, such as equal pay for equal work, equal opportunity in employment and employment of youth and army veterans. We are currently engaged in negotiations with the Histadrut in relation to a collective agreement which will apply to our employees in Israel. Israeli law requires severance pay upon certain circumstances, including upon the retirement or death of an employee or termination of employment without due cause.  Furthermore, Israeli employees and employers are required to pay predetermined sums to the National Insurance Institute, which is similar to the U.S. Social Security Administration, which amounts also include payments for national health insurance.  In addition, certain of our employees are parties to individual employment agreements.  We generally provide our employees with benefits and working conditions beyond the required minimums.  Each of our subsidiaries provides a benefits package and working conditions which we believe are competitive with other companies in their field of operations.
 
59

E.           Share Ownership.
 
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the ownership of our ordinary shares by our directors and executive officers as of April 20, 2020.
 
Name
 
Number of Ordinary Shares Owned (1)
   
Percentage of Outstanding Ordinary Shares (2)
 
Gillon Beck (3)          
   
-
     
-
 
Ron Ben-Haim (3)          
   
-
     
-
 
Jacob Berman          
   
13,750
     
*
 
Avraham Bigger          
   
-
     
-
 
Limor Steklov          
   
-
     
-
 
Moshe Tsabari          
   
-
     
-
 
Dror Sharon          
   
-
     
-
 
Yaacov Vinokur (4)          
   
16,000
     
*
 
Brian Rich (5)          
   
12,500
     
*
 
Doron Kerbel (6)          
   
21,166
     
*
 
Arnon Bram          
   
-
     
-
 
Fabien Haubert (7)          
   
8,000
     
*
 
All directors and executive officers as a group (12 persons)
   
71,416
     
*
 
_______________
* Less than 1%

(1)
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities.  Ordinary shares relating to options or convertible debenture notes currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the date of this table are deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of the person holding such securities but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person.  Except as indicated by footnote, the persons named in the table above have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by them.
 
(2)
The percentages shown are based on 23,153,985 ordinary shares issued and outstanding as of April 20, 2020.
 
(3)
Does not include any ordinary shares held by the FIMI Funds.
 
(4)
Includes 16,000 ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of currently exercisable options.
 
(5)
Includes 12,500 ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of currently exercisable options.
 
(6)
Includes 21,166 ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of currently exercisable options.
 
(7)
Includes 8,000 ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of currently exercisable options.
 
60

Share Option Plans
 
2010 Israeli Share Option Plan
 
In June 2010, we adopted our 2010 Israeli Share Option Plan, or the 2010 Plan.  Under the 2010 Plan, stock options to purchase 510,575 ordinary shares may be granted to our employees, officers, directors and consultants of our company and subsidiaries.  In addition, an aggregate 498,384 ordinary shares that remained available for future option grants under the 2003 Plan and any ordinary shares that become available in the future under the 2003 Plan as a result of expiration, cancellation or relinquishment of any option were rolled over to the 2010 Plan. In June 2013, our shareholders approved an increase to the number of ordinary shares available for issuance under the 2010 Plan by additional 500,000 shares. The 2010 Plan has a term of ten years.
 
The 2010 Plan is designed to allow the grantees to benefit from the tax benefits under Section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance [New Version], 1961.  Our Board of Directors has resolved that all options that will be granted to Israeli residents under the 2010 Plan will be taxable under the “capital gains route.”  Pursuant to this route, the profit realized by an employee is taxed as a capital gain (25%) if the options or underlying shares are held by a trustee for at least 24 months from their date of the grant or issuance.  Any difference between the exercise price of the options and the average price of the company’s shares during the 30 trading days before the date of grant of the options will be treated as ordinary income and will be taxed according to the employee’s marginal tax rates plus social contribution.  If the underlying shares are sold before the elapse of such period, the profit is re-characterized as ordinary income. As of December 31, 2019, options to purchase 860,546 ordinary shares were outstanding under the 2010 Plan, exercisable at an average exercise price of $4.794 per share. During 2019, 124,000 options were awarded under the 2010 Plan. Options to purchase 104,346 ordinary shares were exercised during 2019.
 
ITEM 7.
Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
 
A.          Major Shareholders
 
The following table sets forth certain information as of April 20, 2020 regarding the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares, by each person or entity known to us to own beneficially 5% or more of our ordinary shares.
 
Name
 
Number of
Ordinary Shares
Beneficially
Owned (1)
   
Percentage of
Outstanding
Ordinary Shares (2)
 
FIMI Opportunity Five (Delaware), Limited Partnership (3)
   
4,646,924
     
20.1
%
FIMI Israel Opportunity Five, Limited Partnership (3)
   
5,207,235
     
22.5
%
Grace & White, Inc. (4).          
   
1,426,582
     
6.2
%
____________________

(1)
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities.  Ordinary shares relating to options or convertible notes currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of the date of this table are deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of the person holding such securities but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person.  Except as indicated by footnote, the persons named in the table above have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by them.
 

(2)
The percentages shown are based on 23,153,985 ordinary shares issued and outstanding as of April 20, 2020.
 
61


(3)
Based on Schedule 13D/A filed with the SEC on October 11, 2016 and other information available to us.  The address of FIMI Opportunity Five (Delaware), Limited Partnership and FIMI Israel Opportunity Five, Limited Partnership is c/o FIMI FIVE 2012 Ltd., Electra Tower, 98 Yigal Alon St., Tel-Aviv 6789141, Israel.
 

(4)
Based upon a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 3, 2020 by Grace & White, Inc. The Schedule 13G/A indicates that Grace & White, Inc. is a registered investment adviser.  The address of Grace & White, Inc. is 515 Madison Avenue, Suite 1700, New York, NY 10022.
 
Significant Changes in the Ownership of Major Shareholders 
 
On February 7, 2017, Grace & White, Inc. filed an amendment to its Schedule 13G reflecting beneficial ownership of 1,569,833, or 6.8%, of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares. On February 1, 2018, Grace & White, Inc. filed an amendment to its Schedule 13G reflecting beneficial ownership of 1,415,703, or 6.15%, of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares. On January 29, 2019, Grace & White, Inc. filed an amendment to its Schedule 13G reflecting beneficial ownership of 1,409,399, or 6.12%, of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares. On February 3, 2020, Grace & White, Inc. filed an amendment to its Schedule 13G reflecting beneficial ownership of 1,426,582, or 6.2%, of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares.
 
Major Shareholders Voting Rights
 
The voting rights of our major shareholders do not differ from the voting rights of other holders of our ordinary shares.
 
Record Holders
 
Based on a review of the information provided to us by our transfer agent, as of April 21, 2020, there were 28 holders of record of our ordinary shares, of which 25 record holders holding approximately 91.2% of our ordinary shares had registered addresses in the United States. These numbers are not representative of the number of beneficial holders of our shares nor is it representative of where such beneficial holders reside since many of these ordinary shares were held of record by brokers or other nominees, including CEDE & Co., the nominee for the Depositary Trust Company (the central depositary for the U.S. brokerage community), which held approximately 91.2 % of our outstanding ordinary shares as of such date.

B.          Related Party Transactions.
 
In October 2017, we completed a rights offering in which we received gross proceeds of approximately $23.8 million from the sale of 6,170,386 ordinary shares. In the rights offering, we distributed to each of our shareholders one subscription right for each eight ordinary shares held by such holder. Our controlling shareholders, FIMI V Funds, purchased 3,392,870 ordinary shares including through an exercise of over-subscription rights for a total subscription price of $13,096,478.20. 
 
C.          Interests of Experts and Counsel.
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 8.
Financial Information
 
A.          Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information.
 
Consolidated Financial Statements
 
See the consolidated financial statements included under Item 18, “Financial Statements.”
 
62

Export Sales
 
In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, our operations based outside of Israel generated income to customers outside of Israel of approximately $45.2 million, $67.4 million and $51.4 million, respectively, or 70.2%, 72.8% and 59.2% of our total revenues, respectively.  In the years ended December 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019, the total amount of our export revenues generated by our Israeli facilities to countries outside of Israel was approximately $9.6 million, $11.7 million and $16.4 million, respectively, or 14.9%, 12.6% and 18.9%, of our total revenues, respectively.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
We are subject to legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business.  Based on the advice of our legal counsel, management believes that these proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.
 
Dividend Distribution Policy
 
We currently intend to retain future earnings for use in our business and do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future.  Future dividend distributions are subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on a number of factors, including our operating results, future capital resources available for distribution, capital requirements, financial condition, the tax implications of dividend distributions on our income, future prospects and any other factors our board of directors may deem relevant.
 
The distribution of dividends also may be limited by Israeli law, which permits the distribution of dividends only out of profits (as defined by the Israeli Companies Law) or otherwise upon the permission of the court, and only if the Board of Directors determines that such distribution will not jeopardize the ability of the company to repay its debts on the due date thereof.  “Profits’’ are defined in the Israeli Companies Law as the balance of surpluses, or the surpluses accumulated over the past two years, whichever is the greater, in accordance with the latest adjusted financial statements, audited or reviewed, prepared by the company, provided that the date in respect of which the statements were prepared is no earlier than six months prior to the date of distribution.  ‘‘Surplus’’ means sums included in a company’s shareholders’ equity originating from the net profit of the company, as determined according to generally accepted accounting principles, and sums other than share capital or premiums that are included in shareholders’ equity under generally accepted accounting principles and that the Minister of Justice has prescribed to be considered surplus.
 
B.          Significant Changes.
 
Since the date of the annual consolidated financial statements included in this annual report, no significant changes have occurred.
 
ITEM 9.
The Offer and Listing
 
A.          Offer and Listing Details.
 
Our ordinary shares are traded on the NASDAQ Global Market.  Our ticker symbol is “MAGS.”
 
B.          Plan of Distribution.
 
Not applicable.
 
C.          Markets.
 
Our ordinary shares have traded on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “MAGS” since our initial public offering in 1993.
 
D.          Selling Shareholders.
 
Not applicable.
 
63

E.          Dilution.
 
Not applicable.
 
F.          Expenses of the Issue.
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 10.
Additional Information
 
A.          Share Capital.
 
Not applicable.
 
B.          Memorandum and Articles of Association. 
 
Purposes and Objects of the Company
 
We are a public company registered with the Israeli Companies Registrar and have been assigned company number 52‑003892‑8.  Under our memorandum of association, we were established for the purposes of acquiring a plant from Israel Aircraft Industries known as the Magal Plant, which was engaged in the development, manufacture, sale and support of alarm devices and dealing in the development, manufacturing and support of security alarm devices and other similar products.  In addition, the purpose of our Company is to be eligible to perform and act in connection with any right or obligation of whatever kind or nature permissible under Israeli law.
 
Board of Directors
 
The strategic management of our business (as distinguished from the daily management of our business affairs) is vested in our board of directors, which may exercise all such powers and do all such acts as our company is authorized to exercise and do, and which are not required to be exercised by a resolution of the general meeting of our shareholders.  The board of directors may, subject to the provisions of the Israeli Companies Law, delegate some of its powers to committees, each consisting of one or more directors, provided that at least one member of such committee is an external director.
 
According to the Israeli Companies Law, we may stipulate in our articles of association that the general meeting of shareholders is authorized to assume the responsibilities of the board of directors.  In the event the board of directors is unable to act or exercise its powers, the general meeting of shareholders is authorized to exercise the powers of the board of directors, even if the articles of association do not stipulate so.  Our board of directors has the power to assume the responsibilities of our chief executive officer if he is unable to act or exercise his powers or if he fails to fulfill the instructions of the board of directors with respect to a specific matter.
 
Our articles of association do not impose any mandatory retirement or age limit requirements on our directors and our directors are not required to own shares in our company in order to qualify to serve as directors.
 
The authority of our directors to enter into borrowing arrangements on our behalf is not limited, except in the same manner as any other transaction by us.
 
For a discussion of Israeli law concerning a director’s fiduciary duties and the approval of transactions with office holders, see Item 6.C. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Board Practices – Approval of Related Party Transactions under Israeli Law.”
 
General Meetings of Shareholders
 
Under the Israeli Companies Law, a company must convene an annual meeting of shareholders at least once every calendar year and within 15 months of the last annual meeting.  Depending on the matter to be voted upon, notice of at least 21 days or 35 days prior to the date of the meeting is required.  Our board of directors may, in its discretion, convene additional meetings as “special general meetings.”  In addition, the board must convene a special general meeting upon the demand of two of the directors, 25% of the nominated directors, one or more shareholders having at least 5% of the outstanding share capital and at least 1% of the voting power in the company, or one or more shareholders having at least 5% of the voting power in the company.
 
64

A shareholder present, in person or by proxy, at the commencement of a general meeting of shareholders may not seek the cancellation of any proceedings or resolutions adopted at such general meeting of shareholders on account of any defect in the notice of such meeting relating to the time or the place thereof.  Shareholders who are registered in our register of shareholders at the record date may vote at the general meeting of shareholders.  The record date is set in the resolution to convene the general meeting of shareholders, provided, however, that such record date must be between 14 to 21 days or, in the event of a vote by ballots, between 28 to 40 days prior the date the general meeting of shareholders is held.
 
The quorum required for a general meeting of shareholders consists of at least two record shareholders, present in person or by proxy, who hold, in the aggregate, at least one third of the voting power of our outstanding shares.  A general meeting of shareholders will be adjourned for lack of a quorum after half an hour from the time appointed for such meeting to the same day in the following week at the same time and place or any other time and place as the board of directors designates in a notice to the shareholders.  At such reconvened meeting, if a quorum is not present within half an hour from the time appointed for such meeting, two or more shareholders, present in person or by proxy, will constitute a quorum.  The only business that may be considered at an adjourned general meeting of shareholders is the business that might have been lawfully considered at the general meeting of shareholders originally convened and the only resolutions that may be adopted are the resolutions that could have been adopted at the general meeting of shareholders originally convened.
 
Please refer to Exhibit 2.5 for Items 10.B.3, B.4, B.6, B.7, B.8, B.9 and B.10.
 
C.          Material Contracts. 
 
On April 2, 2018, we acquired ESC BAZ Ltd. ("BAZ"). BAZ is an Israeli-based company focused on the development and manufacturing of military-grade smart Security Video Observation and Surveillance systems. The BAZ product portfolio includes a wide range of modular and customizable medium and long range surveillance systems for distances from 500m up to 25km.
 
D.          Exchange Controls.
 
Israeli law and regulations do not impose any material foreign exchange restrictions on non‑Israeli holders of our ordinary shares.  Non-residents of Israel who purchase our ordinary shares will be able to convert dividends, if any, thereon, and any amounts payable upon our dissolution, liquidation or winding up, as well as the proceeds of any sale in Israel of our ordinary shares to an Israeli resident, into freely repatriable dollars, at the exchange rate prevailing at the time of conversion, provided that the Israeli income tax has been withheld (or paid) with respect to such amounts or an exemption has been obtained.
 
E.          Taxation.
 
The following is a discussion of Israeli and United States tax consequences material to us and to our shareholders.  To the extent that the discussion is based on new tax legislation which has not been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, the views expressed in the discussion might not be accepted by the tax authorities in question.  The discussion is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal or professional tax advice and does not exhaust all possible tax considerations.
 
Holders of our ordinary shares should consult their own tax advisors as to the United States, Israeli or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of ordinary shares, including, in particular, the effect of any foreign, state or local taxes.
 
65

Israeli Tax Considerations
 
The following is a summary of the material Israeli tax laws applicable to us, and some Israeli Government programs benefiting us.  This section also contains a discussion of material Israeli tax consequences concerning the ownership of and disposition of our ordinary shares.  This summary does not discuss all the acts of Israeli tax law that may be relevant to a particular investor in light of his or her personal investment circumstances or to some types of investors subject to special treatment under Israeli law. Examples of this kind of investor include residents of Israel or traders in securities who are subject to special tax regimes not covered in this discussion.  Since some parts of this discussion are based on new tax legislation that has not yet been subject to judicial or administrative interpretation, we cannot assure you that the appropriate tax authorities or the courts will accept the views expressed in this discussion.
 
The discussion below should not be construed as legal or professional tax advice and does not cover all possible tax considerations. Potential investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors as to the Israeli or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares, including in particular, the effect of any foreign, state or local taxes.
 
General Corporate Tax Structure 
 
Generally, Israeli companies are subject to corporate tax on their taxable income. Since January 2018, the corporate tax rate is 23%. However, the effective tax rate payable by a company that generates income from an Benefited Enterprise or a Preferred Enterprise, as further discussed below, may be considerably lower.  In addition, Israeli companies are currently subject to regular corporate tax rate on their capital gains.
 
Israeli Transfer Pricing Regulations
 
On November 29, 2006, Income Tax Regulations (Determination of Market Terms), 2006, promulgated under Section 85A of the Israeli Tax Ordinance, came into effect, or the TP Regs.  Section 85A of the Tax Ordinance and the TP Regs generally require that all cross-border transactions carried out between related parties be conducted on an arm’s length principle basis and will be taxed accordingly.  The TP Regs are not expected to have a material effect on us.
 
Tax Benefits for Research and Development
 
Israeli tax law allows, under specified conditions, a tax deduction for expenditures, including capital expenditures, in the year incurred relating to scientific research and development projects, if the expenditures are approved by the relevant Israeli Government ministry, determined by the field of research, and the research and development is for the promotion of the company and is carried out by or on behalf of the company seeking such deduction.  However, the amount of such deductible expenses shall be reduced by the sum of any funds received through government grants for the finance of such scientific research and development projects.  Expenditures that were not approved (as described above) are deductible over a three-year period.
 
Encouragement of Capital Investments Law, 1959
 
2005 Amendment to the Investments Law
 
An amendment to the Investments Law, which was published on April 1, 2005, or the Amendment, has changed certain provisions of the Investments Law.  As a result of the Amendment, a company is no longer obliged to acquire approved enterprise status in order to receive the tax benefits previously available under the alternative benefits provisions, and therefore generally there is no need to apply to the Investment Center for this purpose (approved enterprise status remains mandatory for companies seeking grants).  Rather, a company may claim the tax benefits offered by the Investments Law directly in its tax returns, provided that its facilities meet the criteria for tax benefits set out by the Amendment.  A company is also granted a right to approach the Israeli Tax Authority for a pre-ruling regarding their eligibility for benefits under the Amendment.
 
66

Tax benefits are available under the Amendment to production facilities (or other eligible facilities), which are generally required to derive more than 25% of their business income from export, referred to as a “Benefited Enterprise.”  In order to receive the tax benefits, the Amendment states that the company must make an investment in the Benefited Enterprise exceeding a certain percentage or a minimum amount specified in the Investments Law.  Such investment may be made over a period of no more than three years ending at the end of the year in which the company requested to have the tax benefits apply to the Benefited Enterprise, referred to as the Year of Election.  Where the company requests to have the tax benefits apply to an expansion of existing facilities, then only the expansion will be considered a Benefited Enterprise and the company’s effective tax rate will be the result of a weighted combination of the applicable rates.  In this case, the minimum investment required in order to qualify as a Benefited Enterprise is required to exceed a certain percentage or a minimum amount of the company’s production assets before the expansion.
 
The duration of tax benefits is subject to a limitation of the earlier of seven to ten years from the commencement year, or 12 years from the first day of the Year of Election.  The tax benefits granted to a Benefited Enterprise are determined, as applicable to its geographic location within Israel, according to one of the following new tax routes, which may be applicable to us:
 

Similar to the currently available alternative route, exemption from corporate tax on undistributed income for a period of two to ten years, depending on the geographic location of the Benefited Enterprise within Israel, and a reduced corporate tax rate of 10% to 25% for the remainder of the benefits period, depending on the level of foreign investment in each year.  Benefits may be granted for a term of seven to ten years, depending on the level of foreign investment in the company.  If the company pays a dividend out of income derived from the Benefited Enterprise during the tax exemption period, such income will be subject to corporate tax at the applicable rate (10%-25%) with respect to the gross amount of dividend distributed.  The company is required to withhold tax at the source at a rate of 15% from any dividends distributed from income derived from the Benefited Enterprise; and
 

A special tax route, which enables companies owning facilities in certain geographical locations in Israel to pay corporate tax at the rate of 11.5% on income of the Benefited Enterprise.  The benefits period is ten years.  Upon payment of dividends, the company is required to withhold tax at source at a rate of 15% for Israeli residents and at a rate of 4% for foreign residents.
 
Generally, a company that is “Abundant in Foreign Investment,” as defined in the Investments Law, is entitled to an extension of the benefits period by an additional five years, depending on the rate of its income that is derived in foreign currency.
 
The Amendment changes the definition of “foreign investment” in the Investments Law so that the definition now requires a minimal investment of NIS 5 million by foreign investors.  Furthermore, such definition now also includes the purchase of shares of a company from another shareholder, provided that the company’s outstanding and paid-up share capital exceeds NIS 5 million.  Such changes to the aforementioned definition are retroactive from 2003.
 
The Amendment applies to approved enterprise programs in which the year of election under the Investments Law is 2004 or later, unless such programs received “Approved Enterprise” approval from the Investment Center on or prior to December 31, 2004, in which case the Amendment provides that terms and benefits included in any certificate of approval already granted will remain subject to the provisions of the Investments Law as they were on the date of such approval.
 
Should we elect to utilize tax benefits under the Amendment to the Investments Law, any such tax exempt profits might be subject to future taxation on the corporate level upon distribution to shareholders by a way of dividend or liquidation. Accordingly, we may be required to recognize deferred tax liability with respect to such tax exempt profits.
 
In March 2007, we received a pre-ruling from the Israeli Tax Authority for our  request for a Beneficiary Enterprise for the elected tax year 2005 ("the 2005 program"), regarding eligibility for benefits under the Amendment. We have not obtained any tax benefits from this program. The benefit period of this program terminated on December 31, 2016.

67

Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 68):

An additional amendment to the Investment Law became effective in January 2011, or the 2011 Amendment. Under the 2011 Amendment, income derived by ‘Preferred Companies’ from ‘Preferred Enterprises’ (both as defined in the 2011 Amendment) would be subject to a uniform rate of corporate tax as opposed to the incentives prior to the 2011 Amendment that were limited to income from Approved or Benefiting Enterprises during their benefits period. According to the 2011 Amendment, the uniform tax rate on such income, referred to as ‘Preferred Income’, would be 10% in areas in Israel that are designated as Development Zone A and 15% elsewhere in Israel during 2011-2012, 7% and 12.5%, respectively, in 2013-2014, and 6% and 12%, respectively, thereafter. Income derived by a Preferred Company from a ‘Special Preferred Enterprise’ (as defined in the Investment Law) would enjoy further reduced tax rates for a period of ten years of 5% in Zone A and 8% elsewhere. As with dividends distributed from taxable income derived from an Approved Enterprise or Benefiting Enterprise during the applicable benefits period, dividends distributed from Preferred Income would be subject to a 15% tax (or lower, if so provided under an applicable tax treaty), which would generally be withheld by the distributing company, provided however that dividends distributed from ‘Preferred Income’ from one Israeli corporation to another, would not be subject to tax. While a company may incur additional tax liability in the event of distribution of dividends from tax exempt income generated from its Approved and Benefiting Enterprises, no additional tax liability will be incurred by in the event of distribution of dividends from income taxed in accordance with the 2011 Amendment. Under the transitional provisions of the 2011 Amendment, we could have elected whether to irrevocably implement the 2011 Amendment with respect to our existing Approved and Benefiting Enterprises while waiving benefits provided under the legislation prior to the 2011 Amendment or keep implementing the legislation prior to the 2011 Amendment during the next years. The 2011 Amendment had no material effect on the tax payable in respect of our operations and therefore, we did not elect to implement the 2011 Amendment.
 
In November 2012, the Knesset passed Amendment No. 69 to the Investment Law, or the Trapped Earnings Law, which provides a temporary, partial, relief from taxation on a distribution from exempt income for companies which elect the relief through November 2013. The Trapped Earnings Law allows companies to qualify a portion of its exempt income, or Elected Earnings, for a reduced tax rate ranging between 17.5% and 6%. While the reduced tax is payable within 30 days of election, an electing company is not required to actually distribute the Elected Earnings within a certain period of time. The applicable rate is based on a linear formula involving the portion of Elected Earnings to exempt income and the applicable tax rate prescribed in the Investment Law. A company electing to qualify its exempt income must undertake to make designated investments in productive fixed assets, research and development, or wages of new employees.  The amount of such designated investments is defined by a formula which considers the portion of Elected Earnings to the exempt income and the applicable tax rate prescribed by the Investment Law.
 
In addition to the reduced tax rate a distribution of Elected Earnings would be subject to a 15% withholding tax. The Trapped Earnings Law provides an exemption from the 15% withholding tax for a distribution to an Israeli resident company from companies which have elected the Privileged Enterprise status and waived their Approved Enterprise and privileged Enterprise Status through June 2015.
 
We are currently evaluating the implications that the Trapped Earnings Law will have on the tax payable in respect of our operations.
 
Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 71):
 
On August 5, 2013, the “Knesset” issued the Law for Changing National Priorities (Legislative Amendments for Achieving Budget Targets for 2013 and 2014), 2013 which consists of Amendment 71 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments (“the Amendment”). According to the Amendment, the tax rate on preferred income from a preferred enterprise in 2014 and thereafter is 16% (in development area A - 9%). As for changes in tax rates resulting from the enactment of Amendment 73 to the Law, see below.

The Amendment also prescribes that any dividends distributed to individuals or foreign residents from the preferred enterprise’s earnings as above will be subject to tax at a rate of 20%.

68

Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 73):

In December 2016, the Economic Efficiency Law (Legislative Amendments for Applying the Economic Policy for the 2017 and 2018 Budget Years), 2016 which includes Amendment 73 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments ("the Amendment") was published. According to the Amendment, a preferred enterprise located in development area A will be subject to a tax rate of 7.5% instead of 9% effective from January 1, 2017 and thereafter (the tax rate applicable to preferred enterprises located in other areas remains at 16%).

The Amendment also prescribes special tax tracks for technological enterprises, which are subject to rules that were issued by the Minister of Finance by March 31, 2017.

The new tax tracks under the Amendment are as follows:

Technological preferred enterprise - an enterprise for which total consolidated revenues of its parent company and all subsidiaries are less than NIS 10 billion. A technological preferred enterprise, as defined in the Law, which is located in the center of Israel will be subject to tax at a rate of 12% on profits deriving from intellectual property (in development area A - a tax rate of 7.5%).

Any dividends distributed to "foreign companies", as defined in the Law, deriving from income from the technological enterprises will be subject to tax at a rate of 4%.
 
Since definitive criteria to determine the tax benefits had not yet been established as of December 31, 2019, it cannot be concluded that the legislation in respect of technological enterprises had been enacted or substantively enacted as of that date. Accordingly, the above changes in the tax rates relating to technological enterprises were not taken into account in the computation of deferred taxes as of December 31, 2019.

Encouragement of Industry (Taxes) Law, 5729-1969 
 
Under the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes) Law, 5729-1969, or the Industry Encouragement Law, “Industrial Companies” are entitled to certain corporate tax benefits, including, among others:
 

Amortization, under certain conditions, of purchases of know‑how and patents and of rights to use a patent and know‑how which are used for the development or advancement of the company, over an eight‑year period for tax purposes;
 

Right to elect, under specified conditions, to file a consolidated tax return with additional related Israeli industrial companies; and
 

Accelerated depreciation rates on equipment and buildings; and
 

Deductions over a three-year period of expenses in connection with the issuance and listing of shares on a recognized stock market.
 
Eligibility for benefits under the Industry Encouragement Law is not subject to the prior approval of any governmental authority.  Under the Industry Encouragement Law, an “Industrial Company” is a company resident in Israel, at least 90% of the income of which, in any tax year, determined in Israeli currency, exclusive of income from government loans, capital gains, interest and dividends, is derived from an “Industrial Enterprise” owned by it.  An “Industrial Enterprise” is an enterprise owned by an Industrial Company, whose major activity in a given tax year is industrial production activity.
 
We believe that we currently qualify as an industrial company as defined by the Industry Encouragement Law.  We cannot assure you that we will continue to qualify as an industrial company or that the benefits described above will be available to us in the future.
 
Encouragement of Industrial Research and Development Law, 5744-1984 
 
Under the Encouragement of Industrial Research and Development Law, 5744-1984, or the Research Law, research and development programs that meet specified criteria and are approved by a governmental committee of the Innovation Authority (formerly the Office of the Chief Scientist), are eligible for grants between 20%-50% of certain of the project’s expenditures, as determined by the research committee of the Innovation Authority.  In exchange, the recipient of such grants is required to pay the Innovation Authority royalties from the revenues derived from products incorporating technology developed within the framework of the approved research and development program or derived from such program (including ancillary services in connection with such program), usually up to 100% of the U.S. dollar-linked value of the total grants received in respect of such program, plus LIBOR interest.
 
69

The terms of the Israeli government participation also require a declaration regarding the location of manufacturing of supported products by the recipients of the grants.  Under regulations promulgated under the Research Law, upon the approval of the Innovation Authority, some of the manufacturing volume may be transferred outside of Israel, beyond the aforementioned declared rate of production abroad, provided that the grant recipient pays royalties at an increased rate and in addition may incur an increased payment cap of up to 300% of the received grant, depending on the percentage of manufacturing being transferred abroad.  The Research Law also provides that know-how developed under an approved research and development program and any derivatives of this know-how may not be transferred to third parties in Israel without the prior approval of the research committee of the Innovation Authority.  The Research Law further provides that the know-how developed under an approved research and development program may not be transferred to any third parties outside Israel.  No approval is required for the sale or export of any products resulting from such research and development.
 
In June 2005, an amendment to the Research Law became effective, which amendment was intended to make the Research Law more compatible with the global business environment by, among other things, relaxing restrictions on the transfer of manufacturing rights outside Israel and on the transfer of Innovation Authority funded know-how outside of Israel.  The amendment permits the Innovation Authority, among other things, to approve the transfer of manufacturing rights outside Israel in exchange for an import of different manufacturing into Israel as a substitute, in lieu of demanding the recipient to pay increased royalties as described above.  The amendment further permits, under certain circumstances and subject to the Innovation Authority’s prior approval, the transfer outside Israel of know-how that has been funded by Innovation Authority, generally in the following cases: (a) the grant recipient pays to the Innovation Authority a portion of the consideration paid for such funded know-how (according to certain formulas), (b) the grant recipient receives know-how from a third party in exchange for its funded know-how, or (c) such transfer of funded know-how arises in connection with certain types of cooperation in research and development activities under agreements of cooperation programs between Israel and an additional country.
 
The Research Law imposes reporting requirements with respect to certain changes in the ownership of a grant recipient.  The law requires the grant recipient and its controlling shareholders and interested parties to notify the Innovation Authority on any change in control of the recipient or a change in the holdings of the means of control of the recipient and obtaining the approval of the Innovation Authority in case such a change results in a foreign resident becoming an interested party directly in the recipient and requires the new interested party to undertake to the Innovation Authority to comply with the Research Law.  In addition, the rules of the Innovation Authority may require prior approval of the Innovation Authority or additional information or representations in respect of certain of such events. For this purpose, “control” is defined as the ability to direct the activities of a company other than any ability arising solely from serving as an officer or director of the company.  A person is presumed to have control if such person holds 50% or more of the means of control of a company.  “Means of control” refers to voting rights or the right to appoint directors or the chief executive officer.  An “interested party” of a company includes a holder of 5% or more of its outstanding share capital or voting rights, its chief executive officer and directors, someone who has the right to appoint its chief executive officer or at least one director, and a company with respect to which any of the foregoing interested parties owns 25% or more of the outstanding share capital or voting rights or has the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors.  Accordingly, any foreign resident who acquires 5% or more of our ordinary shares will be required to notify the Innovation Authority that it has become an interested party and to sign an undertaking to comply with the Research Law.
 
The Israeli authorities have indicated that the government may reduce or abolish grants from the Innovation Authority in the future.  Even if these grants are maintained, we cannot assure you that we will receive Innovation Authority grants in the future.  In addition, each application to the Innovation Authority is reviewed separately, and grants are based on the program approved by the research committee.  Generally, expenditures supported under other incentive programs of the State of Israel are not eligible for grants from the Innovation Authority.
 
Taxation under Inflationary Conditions
 
In February 2008, the “Knesset” (Israeli parliament) passed an amendment to the Income Tax (Inflationary Adjustments) Law, 1985, which limits the scope of the law starting 2008 and thereafter. Since 2008, the results for tax purposes are measured in nominal values, excluding certain adjustments for changes in the Israeli CPI carried out in the period up to December 31, 2007. Adjustments relating to capital gains such as for sale of property (betterment) and securities continue to apply until disposal. Since 2008, the amendment to the law includes, among others, the cancellation of the inflationary additions and deductions and the additional deduction for depreciation (in respect of depreciable assets purchased after the 2007 tax year).
 
70

Capital Gains Tax on Sales of Our Ordinary Shares by Foreign Holders
 
Israeli law generally imposes a capital gains tax on the sale of any capital assets by residents of Israel, as defined for Israeli tax purposes, and on the sale of assets located in Israel, including shares in Israeli companies, by non-residents of Israel, unless a specific exemption is available or unless a tax treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence provides otherwise.  The law distinguishes between real gain and inflationary surplus.  The inflationary surplus is a portion of the total capital gain which is equivalent to the increase of the relevant asset’s purchase price which is attributable to the increase in the CPI or, in certain circumstances, a foreign currency exchange rate, between the date of purchase and the date of sale. The real gain is the excess of the total capital gain over the inflationary surplus.
 
Generally, as of January 1, 2012, the tax rate applicable to capital gains derived from the sale of shares, whether listed on a stock market or not, is 25% for Israeli individuals, unless such shareholder claims a deduction for financing expenses in connection with such shares, in which case the gain will generally be taxed at a rate of 30%. Additionally, if such shareholder is considered a “significant shareholder” at any time during the 12-month period preceding such sale, i.e., such shareholder holds directly or indirectly, including with others, at least 10% of any means of control in the company, the tax rate shall be 30%. However, the foregoing tax rates do not apply to: (i) dealers in securities; and (ii) shareholders who acquired their shares prior to an initial public offering (that may be subject to a different tax arrangement). Israeli companies are subject to the Corporate Tax rate on capital gains derived from the sale of listed shares.
 
The tax basis of our ordinary shares acquired prior to January 1, 2003 will generally be determined in accordance with the average closing share price in the three trading days preceding January 1, 2003. However, a request may be made to the tax authorities to consider the actual adjusted cost of the shares as the tax basis if it is higher than such average price.
 
Non-Israeli residents are exempt from Israeli capital gains tax on any gains derived from the sale of shares of Israeli companies publicly traded on a recognized stock exchange or regulated market outside of Israel, provided however that such capital gains are not derived from a permanent establishment in Israel and such shareholders did not acquire their shares prior to an initial public offering. However, non-Israeli corporations will not be entitled to such exemption if Israeli residents (i) have a controlling interest of 25% or more in such non-Israeli corporation, or (ii) are the beneficiaries or are entitled to 25% or more of the revenues or profits of such non-Israeli corporation, whether directly or indirectly.
 
In some instances, where our shareholders may be liable to Israeli tax on the sale of their ordinary shares, the payment of the consideration may be subject to the withholding of Israeli tax at the source.
 
Pursuant to the Convention Between the government of the United States of America and the government of Israel with Respect to Taxes on Income, as amended, or the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, the sale, exchange or disposition of ordinary shares by a person who (i) holds the ordinary shares as a capital asset, (ii) qualifies as a resident of the United States within the meaning of the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, or a Treaty U.S. Resident, and (iii) is entitled to claim the benefits afforded to such person by the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, generally, will not be subject to the Israeli capital gains tax. Such exemption will not apply if (i) such Treaty U.S. Resident holds, directly or indirectly, shares representing 10% or more of our voting power during any part of the 12-month period preceding such sale, exchange or disposition, subject to certain conditions, or (ii) the capital gains from such sale, exchange or disposition can be allocated to a permanent establishment in Israel.  In such case, the sale, exchange or disposition of ordinary shares would be subject to Israeli tax, to the extent applicable; however, under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, such Treaty U.S. Resident would be permitted to claim a credit for such taxes against the U.S. federal income tax imposed with respect to such sale, exchange or disposition, subject to the limitations in U.S. laws applicable to foreign tax credits. The U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty does not relate to U.S. state or local taxes.
 
71

Taxation of Dividends paid to Non-Resident Holders of Shares  
 
Non-residents of Israel are subject to income tax on income accrued or derived from sources in Israel.  Such sources of income include passive income such as dividends.  On distributions of dividends other than bonus shares or stock dividends, income tax is applicable at the rate of 25%, or 30% for a shareholder that is considered a “significant shareholder” at any time during the 12-month period preceding such distribution, unless a different rate is provided in a treaty between Israel and the shareholder’s country of residence.  However, under the Investments Law, dividends generated by an Approved Enterprise (or Benefited Enterprise) are taxed at the rate of 15%.
 
Under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, the maximum tax on dividends paid to a holder of ordinary shares who is a Treaty U.S. Resident is 25%. However, if the income out of which the dividend is paid is not generated by an Approved Enterprise (or Benefited Enterprise), and not more than 25% of our gross income consists of interest or dividends, dividends paid to a U.S. corporation holding at least 10% of our issued voting power during the part of the tax year which precedes the date of payment of the dividend and during the whole of its prior tax year, are generally taxed at a rate of 12.5%. Dividends generated by an Approved Enterprise (or Benefited Enterprise) are taxed at the rate of 15% under the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty.
 
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations

The following is a description of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. This description addresses only the U.S. federal income tax considerations that are relevant to U.S. Holders (as defined below) who hold our ordinary shares as capital assets. This summary is based on the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, and the U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty, or the Treaty, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change either prospectively or retroactively.

There can be no assurance that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, will not take a different position concerning the tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares or that such a position would not be sustained. This description does not address all tax considerations that may be relevant with respect to an investment in our ordinary shares. In addition, this description does not account for the specific circumstances of any particular investor, such as:


broker-dealers;

financial institutions;

certain insurance companies;

investors liable for alternative minimum tax;

regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, or grantor trusts;

dealers or traders in securities, commodities or currencies;

tax-exempt organizations;

non-resident aliens of the United States or taxpayers whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar;

persons who hold the ordinary shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities;

persons who acquire their ordinary shares through the exercise or cancellation of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation for services;

persons (or their direct, indirect or constructive owners) that actually or constructively own 10% or more of our shares by vote or value; or

investors holding ordinary shares as part of a straddle, appreciated financial position, a hedging transaction or conversion transaction.

If a partnership or an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes owns our ordinary shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in such a partnership will generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partnership that owns our ordinary shares and the partners in such partnership should consult their tax advisors about the U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding and disposing of ordinary shares.

This summary does not address the effect of any U.S. federal taxation (such as estate and gift tax) other than U.S. federal income taxation. In addition, this summary does not include any discussion of state, local or non-U.S. taxation. You are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the non-U.S. and U.S. federal, state and local tax consequences of an investment in ordinary shares.
 
72

For purposes of this summary, as used herein, the term “U.S. Holder” means a person that is eligible for the benefits of the Treaty and is a beneficial owner of an ordinary share who is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:


an individual who is a citizen or, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, a resident of the United States;


a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof;


an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or


a trust if such trust has validly elected to be treated as a U.S. person for U.S. federal income tax purposes or if (1) a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and (2) one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust.

Unless otherwise indicated, this discussion assumes that the Company is not, and will not become, a “passive foreign investment company,” or a PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. See “—Passive Foreign Investment Companies” below.

Taxation of Distributions

Subject to the discussion below under the heading “—Passive Foreign Investment Companies,” the gross amount of any distributions received with respect to our ordinary shares, including the amount of any Israeli taxes withheld therefrom, will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes.  Because we do not expect to maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles, it is expected that the entire amount of any distribution will generally be reported as dividend income to you. Dividends are included in gross income as ordinary income. Distributions in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits would be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your tax basis in our ordinary shares and any amount in excess of your tax basis will be treated as gain from the sale of ordinary shares. See “—Disposition of Ordinary Shares” below for a discussion of the taxation of capital gains. Our dividends would not qualify for the dividends-received deduction generally available to corporations under section 243 of the Code.
 
Dividends that we pay in NIS, including the amount of any Israeli taxes withheld therefrom, will be included in your income in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the day such dividends are received, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars. A U.S. Holder who receives payment in NIS and converts NIS into U.S. dollars at an exchange rate other than the rate in effect on such day may have a foreign currency exchange gain or loss that would be treated as U.S.-source ordinary income or loss. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of NIS.
 
Subject to complex limitations, some of which vary depending upon the U.S. Holder’s circumstances, any Israeli withholding tax imposed on dividends paid with respect to our ordinary shares, at a rate not exceeding the applicable rate provided by the Treaty, will be a foreign income tax eligible for credit against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability (or, alternatively, for deduction against income in determining such tax liability). Israeli taxes withheld in excess of the applicable rate allowed by the Treaty (if any) will not be eligible for credit against a U.S. Holder’s federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign income taxes eligible for credit is calculated separately with respect to specific classes of income.  Dividends generally will be treated as foreign-source passive category income or, in the case of certain U.S. Holders, general category income for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Further, there are special rules for computing the foreign tax credit limitation of a taxpayer who receives dividends subject to a reduced tax rate (see discussion below). A U.S. Holder may be denied a foreign tax credit with respect to Israeli income tax withheld from dividends received on our ordinary shares if such U.S. Holder fails to satisfy certain minimum holding period requirements or to the extent such U.S. Holder’s position in ordinary shares is hedged. An election to deduct foreign taxes instead of claiming foreign tax credit applies to all foreign taxes paid or accrued in the taxable year. The rules relating to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex, and you should consult with your own tax advisors to determine whether and to what extent you would be entitled to this credit.

73

Subject to certain limitations (including the PFIC rules discussed below), “qualified dividend income” received by a non-corporate U.S. Holder will be subject to tax at the lower long-term capital gain rates (currently a maximum of 20%). Distributions taxable as dividends paid on our ordinary shares should qualify for a reduced rate provided that either: (i) we are entitled to benefits under the Treaty, or (ii) our ordinary shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States and certain other requirements are met. We believe that we are entitled to benefits under the Treaty and that our ordinary shares currently are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (see discussion below). However, no assurance can be given that our ordinary shares will remain readily tradable. The rate reduction does not apply unless certain holding period requirements are satisfied, nor does it apply to dividends received from a PFIC (see discussion below), in respect of certain risk-reduction transactions, or in certain other situations. The legislation enacting the reduced tax rate on qualified dividend income contains special rules for computing the foreign tax credit limitation of a taxpayer who receives dividends subject to the reduced tax rate. U.S. Holders of our ordinary shares should consult their own tax advisors regarding the effect of these rules in their particular circumstances.
 
Sale or Disposition of Ordinary Shares
 
Subject to the discussion of PFIC rules below, if you sell or otherwise dispose of our ordinary shares, you will generally recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale or other disposition and your adjusted tax basis in our ordinary shares, in each case determined in U.S. dollars. Such gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if you have held the ordinary shares for more than one year at the time of the sale or other disposition. Long-term capital gain realized by a non-corporate U.S. Holder is generally eligible for a preferential tax rate (currently a maximum of 20%). In general, any gain that you recognize on the sale or other disposition of ordinary shares will be U.S.-source for purposes of the foreign tax credit limitation; losses will generally be allocated against U.S. source income. Deduction of capital losses is subject to certain limitations under the Code.
 
In the case of a cash basis U.S. Holder who receives NIS in connection with the sale or disposition of our ordinary shares, the amount realized will be based on the U.S. dollar value of the NIS received with respect to the ordinary shares as determined on the settlement date of such exchange. A cash basis U.S. Holder who receives payment in NIS and converts NIS into U.S. dollars at a conversion rate other than the rate in effect on the settlement date may have a foreign currency exchange gain or loss, which would be treated as ordinary income or loss.
 
An accrual basis U.S. Holder may elect the same treatment required of cash basis taxpayers with respect to a sale or disposition of our ordinary shares that are traded on an established securities market, provided that the election is applied consistently from year to year. Such election may not be changed without the consent of the IRS. In the event that an accrual basis U.S. Holder does not elect to be treated as a cash basis taxpayer (pursuant to the Treasury regulations applicable to foreign currency transactions), such U.S. Holder may have a foreign currency gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes because of differences between the U.S. dollar values of the currency received prevailing on the trade date and the settlement date. Any such currency gain or loss would be treated as U.S.- source ordinary income or loss and would be in addition to the gain or loss, if any, recognized by such U.S. Holder on the sale or disposition of such ordinary shares.

Passive Foreign Investment Companies
 
We believe that we were not a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the taxable year of 2019. However, since PFIC status depends upon the composition of our income and assets and the market value of our assets from time to time, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for any future taxable year. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder owned an ordinary share, certain adverse consequences could apply to the U.S. Holder. Specifically, gain recognized by a U.S. Holder on a sale or other disposition of such ordinary share would be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the ordinary share. The amounts allocated to the taxable year of the sale or other disposition and to any year before we became a PFIC would be taxed as ordinary income. The amount allocated to each other taxable year would be subject to tax at the highest rate in effect for individuals or corporations, as appropriate, for that taxable year, and an interest charge would be imposed on the resulting tax liability. Further, any distribution in excess of 125% of the average of the annual distributions received by the U.S. Holder on our ordinary shares during the preceding three years or the U.S. Holder’s holding period, whichever is shorter, would be subject to taxation as described immediately above. Certain elections (such as a mark-to-market election) may be available to U.S. Holders and may result in alternative tax treatment. In addition, if we were a PFIC for a taxable year in which we pay a dividend or the prior taxable year, the favorable dividend rates discussed above with respect to dividends paid to certain non-corporate U.S. Holders would not apply. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year in which a U.S. Holder owned our shares, the U.S. Holder would generally be required to file annual returns with the IRS on IRS Form 8621.

74

Additional Tax on Investment Income
 
In addition to the income taxes described above, U.S. Holders that are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds will be subject to a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax on net investment income, which includes dividends and capital gains from the sale or exchange of our ordinary shares.
 
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
 
Payments in respect of our ordinary shares may be subject to information reporting to the IRS and to U.S. backup withholding tax at the rate (currently) of 24%. Backup withholding will not apply, however, if you (i) are a corporation, or fall within certain exempt categories, and demonstrate the fact when so required, or (ii) furnish a correct taxpayer identification number and make any other required certification.
 
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be credited against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. tax liability. A U.S. Holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS.
 
U.S. citizens and individuals taxable as resident aliens of the United States that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in a taxable year in excess of certain thresholds (as determined under rules in Treasury regulations) and that are required to file a U.S. federal income tax return generally will be required to file an information report with respect to those assets with their tax returns. IRS Form 8938 has been issued for that purpose. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts maintained by foreign financial institutions, foreign stocks held directly, and interests in foreign estates, foreign pension plans or foreign deferred compensation plans. Under those rules, our ordinary shares, whether owned directly or through a financial institution, estate or pension or deferred compensation plan, would be “specified foreign financial assets.” Under Treasury regulations, the reporting obligation applies to certain U.S. entities that hold, directly or indirectly, specified foreign financial assets. Penalties can apply if there is a failure to satisfy this reporting obligation. A U.S. Holder is urged to consult the U.S. Holder’s tax advisor regarding the reporting obligation.

Any U.S. Holder who acquires more than $100,000 of our ordinary shares or holds 10% or more in vote or value of our ordinary shares may be subject to certain additional U.S. information reporting requirements. 

The above description is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares. You should consult your tax advisor concerning the tax consequences of your particular situation.

F.          Dividends and Paying Agents.
 
Not applicable.
 
G.          Statements by Experts.
 
Not applicable.
 
75

H.          Documents on Display.
 
We are subject to certain of the reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, as applicable to “foreign private issuers” as defined in Rule 3b-4 under the Exchange Act.  As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from certain provisions of the Exchange Act.  Accordingly, our proxy solicitations are not subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act, and transactions in our equity securities by our officers and directors are exempt from reporting and the “short-swing” profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act.  In addition, we are not required to file quarterly reports including financial statements.  We file with the SEC an annual report on Form 20-F containing financial statements audited by an independent accounting firm.  We also submit to the SEC reports on Form 6-K containing, among other things, press releases and unaudited financial information.  We post our annual report on Form 20-F on our website (www.magalsecurity.com) promptly following the filing of our annual report with the SEC.  The information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report.
 
The SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports and other information about issuers, like us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that website is www.sec.gov. We make our reports available on our internet website, free of charge, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with the SEC. The documents concerning our company that are referred to in this annual report may also be inspected at our executive offices in Israel.
 
I.          Subsidiary Information.
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 11.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
We are exposed to a variety of risks, including changes in interest rates and foreign currency fluctuations.
 
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
 
We sell most of our products in North America, Europe, Africa, Latin America and Israel.  Our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, Mexican pesos, Euros and NIS, while a portion of our expenses, primarily labor expenses, is incurred in NIS and Canadian Dollars.  Additionally, certain assets, especially trade receivables, as well as part of our liabilities are denominated in NIS and CAD.  As a result, fluctuations in rates of exchange between the U.S. dollar and non-U.S. dollar currencies may affect our operating results and financial condition.  The dollar cost of our operations in Israel may be adversely affected by the appreciation of the NIS against the U.S. dollar. The U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Canada may be adversely affected by the appreciation of the Canadian dollars against the U.S. dollar. The U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Mexico may be adversely affected by the appreciation of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar. In addition, the value of our non-U.S. dollar revenues could be adversely affected by the depreciation of the U.S. dollar against such currencies.
 
The U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Canada is influenced by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the CAD.  In 2017 and 2019 the CAD appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 7% and 4.4%, respectively. In 2018 the CAD depreciated against the U.S. dollar by 8.6%. In addition, the U.S. dollar cost of our operations in Mexico is influenced by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Mexican Peso.  In 2017, 2018 and 2019 the Mexican Peso appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 4.5%, 0.4% and 4%, respectively.
 
During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2019, foreign currency fluctuations had a negative impact on our results of operations and we recorded a foreign exchange loss, net of $4 million and $2 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2018, foreign currency fluctuations had a positive impact on our results of operations and we recorded a foreign exchange gain, net of $1.1 million. We cannot assure you that in the future our results of operations may not be materially affected by currency fluctuations.

ITEM 12.
Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities
 
Not applicable.
 
76

PART II
 
ITEM 13.
Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 14.
Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
 
Not applicable.
 
ITEM 15.
Controls and Procedures
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in its Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our chief executive officer and chief financial officer to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  Our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined under Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 20-F.  Based upon that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
Our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined under Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f).  Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.  Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets, (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with appropriate authorizations; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019.  In conducting its assessment of internal control over financial reporting, management based its evaluation on the framework in “Internal Control – Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations, or the COSO, of the Treadway Commission.  Based on that assessment, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2019.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
During the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 20-F, no changes in our internal control over financial reporting have occurred that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
ITEM 16. [Reserved]

ITEM 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

Our board of directors has determined that Ms. Limor Steklov, an external and independent director, meets the definition of an audit committee financial expert, as defined by rules of the SEC.  For a brief description of Ms. Steklov’s relevant experience, see Item 6.A. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Directors and Senior Management.”
 
77


ITEM 16B. Code of Ethics
         
Our amended and restated code of ethics, which was adopted in April 2010, applies to our chief executive officer and all senior financial officers of our company, including our chief financial officer, chief accounting officer or controller, and persons performing similar functions.  The amended and restated code of ethics reflects our growing emphasis on international operations and better addresses issues related with such activities by providing clear instructions in connection with commercial international activities.  The code of ethics is publicly available on our website at www.magalsecurity.com.  Written copies are available upon request.  If we make any substantive amendment to the code of ethics or grant any waivers, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on our website.
 
ITEM 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
Independent Public Accountant Fees and Services
 
The following table sets forth, for each of the years indicated, the fees billed by our principal independent registered public accounting firm, Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young global.  All of such fees were pre-approved by our Audit Committee.
 
   
Year Ended December 31,
 
Services Rendered
 
2018
   
2019
 
Audit (1)          
   
243,000
     
265,000
 
Tax (2)          
   
99,000
     
40,000
 
Other (3)          
   
12,000
     
4,000
 
Total          
   
354,000
     
299,000
 
______________

(1)
Audit fees are for audit services for each of the years shown in the table, including fees associated with the annual audit (including audit of our internal control over financial reporting), consultations on various accounting issues and audit services provided in connection with other statutory or regulatory filings.

(2)
Tax fees are for professional services rendered by our auditors for tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice on actual or contemplated transactions, tax consulting associated to international taxation, tax assessment deliberation, transfer pricing and withholding tax assessments.

(3)
Other fees primarily relate to out of pocket reimbursement of expenses and primarily traveling expenses of our auditors. These fees also relate to fees associated with the conflict Minerals work plan and the Risk Assessment Service.
 
Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
 
Our audit committee has adopted a policy and procedures for the pre-approval of audit and non-audit services rendered by our independent public accounting firm, Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer and their affiliates.  Pre-approval of an audit or non-audit service may be given as a general pre-approval, as part of the audit committee’s approval of the scope of the engagement of our independent auditor, or on an individual basis.  Any proposed services exceeding general pre-approved levels also require specific pre-approval by our audit committee.  The policy prohibits retention of the independent public accountants to perform the prohibited non-audit functions defined in Section 201 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or the rules of the SEC, and also requires the audit committee to consider whether proposed services are compatible with the independence of the public accountants.
 
ITEM 16D.
Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
 
Not applicable.
 
78


ITEM 16E. Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
 
In connection with our acquisition of CyberSeal, we issued warrants to purchase 898,203 of our ordinary shares at an exercise price of $4.16 per share to CyberSeal's former owners.  Of such warrants, 60,000 warrants were exercised in 2017. In October 2018, we agreed to purchase the remaining 838,203 warrants from the warrant holders for an aggregate consideration of $375,000. Under Israeli law, the consummation of such transaction was subject to court approval, which was granted on January 16, 2019. The closing of the purchase of the warrants occurred in March 2019.

Except as noted in the previous sentence, we did not purchase any ordinary shares of our company nor did an affiliated purchaser purchase any shares of our company on our behalf during 2019. 

ITEM 16F.
Changes in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

None.
 
ITEM 16G. Corporate Governance

Under NASDAQ Stock Market Rule 5615(a)(3), foreign private issuers, such as our company, are permitted to follow certain home country corporate governance practices instead of certain provisions of NASDAQ Stock Market Rules.  A foreign private issuer that elects to follow a home country practice instead of any of such NASDAQ requirements must submit to NASDAQ in advance a written statement from an independent counsel in such issuer’s home country certifying that the issuer’s practices are not prohibited by the home country’s laws.
 
We have notified NASDAQ that we do not comply with the following NASDAQ requirements, and instead follow Israeli law and practice in respect of such requirements:
 

the requirement regarding the process of nominating directors.  Instead, we follow Israeli law and practice in accordance with which our directors are recommended by our board of directors for election by our shareholders.  See Item 6.C. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Board Practices – Election of Directors.”
 

the requirement regarding the compensation of our chief executive officer and all other executive officers.  Instead, we follow Israeli law and practice in accordance with which our board of directors must approve all compensation arrangements for our chief executive officer and all compensation arrangements for officers are subject to the chief executive officer’s approval.  See Item 6.C. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Compensation.”
 

the requirement that our independent directors have regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present.  Under Israeli law, independent directors are not required to hold executive sessions.
 

the requirement that we maintain a majority of independent directors, as defined under NASDAQ Stock Market Rules.  Under Israeli law and practice we are required to appoint at least two external directors, within the meaning of the Israeli Companies Law, to our board of directors.
 
ITEM 16H.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
 
Not applicable.
 
PART III
 
ITEM 17.
Financial Statements

We have elected to furnish financial statements and related information specified in Item 18.
 
79


ITEM 18.
Financial Statements

The financial statements required by this item are found at the end of this annual report, beginning on page F-1.

80


ITEM 19. Exhibits

Exhibit
No.
 
Description
     
1.1
 
Memorandum of Association of the Registrant (1)
     
1.2

     
2.1

     
2.2

     
2.4

     
2.5

     
4.1

     
4.2

     
8.1

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document.
     
101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
     
101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document.
     
101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document.
     
101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document.
     
101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
_______________

(1)
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 33‑57438), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 26, 1993, as amended, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
81

(2)
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (No. 33‑57438), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 26, 1993, as amended, and incorporated herein by reference, as amended by an amendment filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-6246), filed with the Commission on January 7, 1997 and incorporated herein by reference, as further amended by an amendment filed as an exhibit to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2001 and incorporated herein by reference, as further amended by the company’s shareholders on July 17, 2002, as described under Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on June 19, 2002, as further amended by the company’s shareholders on August 20, 2008, as described under Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on July 17, 2008, and as further amended by the company’s shareholders on August 31, 2011, as described under Form 6-K furnished to the SEC on July 27, 2011.
 
(3)
Filed as Exhibit 2.3 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
(4)
Filed as Exhibit 2.4 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2013, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
(5)
Filed as Exhibit A to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement on Form 6-K furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 15, 2019 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
(6)
Filed as Exhibit B to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement on Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 15, 2019 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
82

 
MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019

IN U.S. DOLLARS

INDEX

 
Page
   
F-2 - F-3
   
F-4 – F-5
   
F-6
   
F-7
   
F-8 – F-9
   
F-10 – F-12
   
F-13 - F-54

F - 1

Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
144 Menachem Begin Road, Building A,
Tel-Aviv 6492102, Israel
Tel: +972-3-6232525
Fax: +972-3-5622555
ey.com

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Magal Security Systems Ltd. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of other auditors, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We did not audit the financial statements of Senstar Latin America SA DE CV., a wholly-owned subsidiary, which reflect total assets constituting 6% and 11% at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively and total revenues constituting 9% and 27% in 2019 and 2018, respectively, of the related consolidated totals. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Senstar Latin America SA DE CV., is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits and the report of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
A Member of Ernst & Young Global

We have served as the Company's auditor since 1984.

Tel-Aviv, Israel
April 23, 2020

F - 2


Salles, Sainz – Grant Thornton, S.C.
Periférico Sur 4348
Col. Jardines del Pedregal
04500, México, D.F.
 
T +52 55 5424 6500
F +52 55 5424 6501
www.ssgt.com.mx

To the shareholders of
Senstar Latin America, S. A. de C.V.:

Opinion on Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Senstar Latin America, S. A. de C.V. (the Company) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related statements of comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements") not presented herein. In our opinion, based on our audits, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.


Salles, Sainz – Grant Thornton, S.C.

/s/ Salles, Sainz – Grant Thornton, S.C.

C.P.C. Guillermo Segura Herrera
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2017.
Mexico City, Mexico
April 23, 2020

Contadores y Consultores de Negocios
Miembro de Grant Thornton International Ltd
F - 3


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
ASSETS
           
             
CURRENT ASSETS:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
34,531
   
$
38,665
 
Short-term bank deposits
   
16,749
     
13,150
 
Restricted cash and deposits
   
324
     
3,135
 
Trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts
    of $ 2,119 and $ 2,751 at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively)
   
18,697
     
14,176
 
Unbilled accounts receivable
   
8,897
     
6,050
 
Other accounts receivable and prepaid expenses (Note 3)
   
4,510
     
4,126
 
Inventories (Note 4)
   
12,605
     
13,863
 
                 
Total current assets
   
96,313
     
93,165
 
                 
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS AND RECEIVABLES:
               
Long-term deposits and restricted deposits and long-term other accounts receivables
   
134
     
146
 
Severance pay fund
   
1,363
     
1,289
 
Deferred tax assets (Note 13)
   
4,215
     
3,459
 
Operating lease right-of-use assets (Note 5)
   
3,492
     
-
 
                 
Total long-term investments and receivables
   
9,204
     
4,894
 
                 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Note 6)
   
6,256
     
6,347
 
                 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET (Note 7)
   
3,772
     
3,645
 
                 
GOODWILL (Note 8)
   
11,504
     
11,120
 
                 
Total assets
 
$
127,049
   
$
119,171
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 4


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
           
             
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
           
Trade payables
 
$
5,438
   
$
6,359
 
Customer advances
   
5,587
     
10,170
 
Deferred revenues
   
2,558
     
2,387
 
Other accounts payable and accrued expenses (Note 9)
   
14,609
     
13,226
 
Short-term operating lease liabilities (Note 5)
   
919
     
-
 
                 
Total current liabilities
   
29,111
     
32,142
 
                 
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
               
Deferred revenues
   
1,769
     
1,344
 
Deferred tax liabilities
   
178
     
182
 
Accrued severance pay
   
2,251
     
2,181
 
Long-term operating lease liabilities (Note 5)
   
2,515
     
-
 
Other long-term liabilities
   
371
     
351
 
                 
Total long-term liabilities
   
7,084
     
4,058
 
                 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Note 10)
               
                 
REDEEMABLE NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST
   
3,048
     
1,755
 
                 
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Share capital -
               
Ordinary shares of NIS 1 par value -
               
Authorized: 39,748,000 shares at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018; Issued and outstanding:
   23,153,985 shares at December 31, 2019 and 23,049,639 shares at December 31, 2018
   
6,750
     
6,721
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
94,696
     
94,205
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(627
)
   
(1,827
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments (Company's standalone financial statements)
   
5,924
     
2,795
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(18,961
)
   
(20,678
)
                 
Total Magal shareholders' equity
   
87,782
     
81,216
 
Non-controlling interest
   
24
     
-
 
                 
Total shareholders' equity (Note 11)
   
87,806
     
81,216
 
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
127,049
   
$
119,171
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 5


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except per share data)

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Revenues
 
$
86,831
   
$
92,602
   
$
64,292
 
Cost of revenues
   
48,070
     
52,299
     
32,967
 
                         
Gross profit
   
38,761
     
40,303
     
31,325
 
                         
Operating expenses:
                       
Research and development, net
   
6,373
     
6,852
     
6,558
 
Selling and marketing
   
16,902
     
18,557
     
18,158
 
General and administrative
   
9,447
     
11,139
     
7,853
 
                         
Total operating expenses
   
32,722
     
36,548
     
32,569
 
                         
Operating income (loss)
   
6,039
     
3,755
     
(1,244
)
Financial income (expenses), net (Note 16)
   
(1,667
)
   
1,361
     
(3,961
)
                         
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
4,372
     
5,116
     
(5,205
)
Taxes on income (Note 13)
   
1,553
     
2,072
     
1,695
 
                         
Net income (loss)
   
2,819
     
3,044
     
(6,900
)
                         
Less – net income attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests and non-controlling interests
   
(526
)
   
(95
)
   
(14
)
                         
Net income (loss) attributable to Magal shareholders
 
$
2,293
   
$
2,949
   
$
(6,914
)
                         
Basic income (loss) per share
 
$
0.07
   
$
0.12
   
$
(0.30
)
                         
Diluted income (loss) per share
 
$
0.07
   
$
0.12
   
$
(0.30
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 6


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

U.S. dollars in thousands

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,819
   
$
3,044
   
$
(6,900
)
Realized foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
64
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
1,200
     
(1,740
)
   
1,772
 
                         
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
4,019
   
$
1,304
   
$
(5,064
)
                         
Net income (loss) attributable to:
                       
Non-controlling interests
 
$
(26
)
 
$
-
   
$
14
 
Redeemable non-controlling interests
   
552
     
95
     
-
 
Magal shareholders
   
2,293
     
2,949
     
(6,914
)
                         
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,819
   
$
3,044
   
$
(6,900
)
                         
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to:
                       
Non-controlling interests
 
$
(26
)
 
$
-
   
$
14
 
Redeemable non-controlling interests
   
717
     
(5
)
   
-
 
Magal shareholders
   
3,328
     
1,309
     
(5,078
)
                         
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
4,019
   
$
1,304
   
$
(5,064
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 7

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)

   
Number of shares
   
Ordinary shares
   
Additional paid-in
capital
   
Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss)
   
Foreign currency translation
adjustment - the Company
   
Retained earnings
(accumulated deficit)
   
Non-
controlling interests
   
Total shareholders' equity
 
                                                 
Balance as of January 1, 2017
   
22,894,348
   
$
6,679
   
$
93,441
   
$
(1,923
)
 
$
412
   
$
(16,600
)
 
$
(91
)
 
$
81,918
 
                                                                 
Issuance of shares upon exercise of warrants
   
60,000
     
16
     
238
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
254
 
Issuance of shares upon exercise of employee stock options
   
78,100
     
21
     
306
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
327
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
144
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
144
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments- the Company
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
5,447
     
-
     
-
     
5,447
 
Purchase of non-controlling interests
   
-
     
-
     
(154
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
77
     
(77
)
Comprehensive income (loss):
                                                               
Net income (loss)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(6,914
)
   
14
     
(6,900
)
Realized foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
64
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
64
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,772
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,772
 
                                                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2017
   
23,032,448
     
6,716
     
93,975
     
(87
)
   
5,859
     
(23,514
)
   
-
     
82,949
 
                                                                 
Cumulative effect adjustment resulting from adoption of ASC606
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
114
     
-
     
114
 
Issuance of shares upon exercise of employee stock options
   
17,191
     
5
     
72
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
77
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
158
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
158
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments- the Company
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(3,064
)
   
-
     
-
     
(3,064
)
Comprehensive income (loss):
                                                               
Net income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,949
     
-
     
2,949
 
Adjustment to the redemption value of redeemable non-controlling interests
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(227
)
   
-
     
(227
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(1,740
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(1,740
)
                                                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2018
   
23,049,639
   
$
6,721
   
$
94,205
   
$
(1,827
)
 
$
2,795
   
$
(20,678
)
 
$
-
   
$
81,216
 

F - 8


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share data)

   
Number of shares
   
Ordinary shares
   
Additional paid-in
capital
   
Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss)
   
Foreign currency translation
adjustment - the Company
   
Retained earnings
(accumulated deficit)
   
Non-
controlling interests
   
Total shareholders' equity
 
                                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2018
   
23,049,639
   
$
6,721
   
$
94,205
   
$
(1,827
)
 
$
2,795
   
$
(20,678
)
 
$
-
   
$
81,216
 
                                                                 
Issuance of shares upon exercise of employee stock options
   
104,346
     
29
     
474
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
503
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
-
     
392
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
392
 
Repurchase of warrants previously issued by the Company
   
-
     
-
     
(375
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(375
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments- the Company
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
3,129
     
-
     
-
     
3,129
 
Issue of shares to non-controlling interests
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
50
     
50
 
Comprehensive income (loss):
                                                               
Net income (loss)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,293
     
(26
)
   
2,267
 
Adjustment to the redemption value of redeemable non-controlling interests
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(576
)
   
-
     
(576
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,200
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,200
 
                                                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2019
   
23,153,985
   
$
6,750
   
$
94,696
   
$
(627
)
 
$
5,924
   
$
(18,961
)
 
$
24
   
$
87,806
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 9

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
                   
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,819
   
$
3,044
   
$
(6,900
)
Adjustments required to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
                       
Depreciation and amortization
   
2,100
     
2,245
     
1,876
 
Impairment of goodwill
   
-
     
979
     
-
 
Loss (gain) on sale of property and equipment
   
11
     
(47
)
   
(4
)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest and exchange differences on short-term and other long-term liabilities
   
693
     
(520
)
   
2,996
 
Stock based compensation
   
392
     
158
     
144
 
Decrease (increase) in trade receivables, net
   
(3,962
)
   
555
     
153
 
Increase in unbilled accounts receivable
   
(2,325
)
   
(227
)
   
(1,593
)
Decrease (increase) in other accounts receivable and prepaid expenses
   
(190
)
   
(1,333
)
   
119
 
Decrease (increase) in inventories
   
2,068
     
(3,981
)
   
(2,079
)
Decrease in long-term trade receivables
   
(52
)
   
-
     
329
 
Increase in deferred income taxes
   
(631
)
   
(968
)
   
(467
)
Decrease in operating lease right-of-use assets
   
957
     
-
     
-
 
Decrease in operating lease liabilities
   
(963
)
   
-
     
-
 
Increase (decrease) in trade payables
   
(1,312
)
   
1,071
     
787
 
Increase in other accounts payable and accrued expenses and deferred revenues
   
1,016
     
3,114
     
1,521
 
Increase (decrease) in customer advances
   
(5,071
)
   
3,214
     
1,207
 
Accrued severance pay, net
   
(73
)
   
22
     
(41
)
                         
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
(4,523
)
   
7,326
     
(1,952
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 10


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
                 
                   
Investment in short-term deposits
   
(3,092
)
   
-
     
-
 
Investment in restricted deposits
   
(90
)
   
-
     
-
 
Release of short-term bank deposits
   
-
     
12,873
     
4,103
 
Investment in long-term bank deposits
   
-
     
-
     
(15
)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
   
70
     
57
     
35
 
Purchase of property and equipment
   
(770
)
   
(2,128
)
   
(934
)
Investment in technology, know-how and patents
   
(897
)
   
(296
)
   
(13
)
Payments for acquisition of ESC BAZ, net of cash acquired (1)
   
-
     
(385
)
   
-
 
                         
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
(4,779
)
   
10,121
     
3,176
 
                         
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
                         
Proceeds from issuance of shares upon exercise of options to employees
   
503
     
77
     
327
 
Issue of shares to non-controlling interests
   
50
     
-
     
-
 
Repurchase of warrants previously issued by the Company
   
(375
)
   
-
     
-
 
Proceeds from issuance of shares upon exercise of warrants
   
-
     
-
     
254
 
Purchase of shares from non-controlling interests, net
   
-
     
-
     
(77
)
                         
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
178
     
77
     
504
 
                         
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
   
2,089
     
(1,029
)
   
2,076
 
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
   
(7,035
)
   
16,495
     
3,804
 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the year
   
41,800
     
25,305
     
21,501
 
                         
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the year
 
$
34,765
   
$
41,800
   
$
25,305
 
                         
Supplemental disclosures of cash flows activities:
                       
                         
       Cash and cash equivalents
   
34,531
     
38,665
     
22,463
 
       Restricted cash
   
234
     
3,135
     
2,842
 
                         
       Total Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
 
$
34,765
   
$
41,800
   
$
25,305
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

F - 11


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
U.S. dollars in thousands

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Supplemental disclosures of cash flows activities:
                 
                   
       Cash paid during the year for:
                 
                   
       Interest
 
$
15
   
$
20
   
$
148
 
                         
       Income taxes
 
$
660
   
$
2,926
   
$
1,855
 
                         
Significant non-cash transactions:
                       
                         
       Right-of-use asset recognized with corresponding lease liability
 
$
620
   
$
-
   
$
-
 

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
(1)  Payments for acquisition of ESC BAZ, net of cash acquired:
                 
                   
Net fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed of
   ESC BAZ at the date of acquisition (see also Note 1c):
                 
 
                 
Net assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents)
 
$
-
   
$
1,222
   
$
-
 
Technology
   
-
     
190
     
-
 
Customer relationship
   
-
     
164
     
-
 
Backlog
   
-
     
147
     
-
 
Adjustment to deferred revenue
   
-
     
20
     
-
 
Deferred tax liability, net
   
-
     
(80
)
   
-
 
Goodwill
           
255
         
Redeemable non-controlling interest
   
-
     
(1,533
)
   
-
 
 
                       
Total payments for acquisition of ESC BAZ, net of cash acquired
 
$
-
   
$
385
   
$
-
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

F - 12

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:-
GENERAL


a.
General:

Magal Security Systems Ltd. ("the Parent Company" or "Magal") and its subsidiaries (together - "the Company") is a leading international provider of solutions and products for physical and video security solutions, as well as site management. The Company offers comprehensive integrated solutions for critical sites, which leverage its broad portfolio of homegrown PIDS (Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems), advanced VMS (Video Management Software) with native IVA (Intelligent Video Analytics) security solutions, as well as a proprietary command and control platform.

Through December 31, 2018, the Company’s business was managed and reported in three business segments: Perimeter Products segment (Products), Turnkey Projects segment (Projects) and Video and Cyber security segment. Commencing January 1, 2019, the Company re-organized its structure into two divisions: Magal Integrated Solutions (“Projects” segment) and Senstar Product division (“Products” segment). Each division is reported as a separate business segment. See Note 15 for additional information.


b.
The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic that first surfaced in China and is spreading throughout the world has had an adverse effect on the Company's industry and the markets in which it operates (see Note 17 "Subsequent events" for additional information).


c.
2018 Acquisition:

On April 2, 2018 (the "Closing Date"), the Company completed the acquisition of a 55% controlling interest in ESC BAZ Ltd. ("ESC BAZ" or "BAZ") by means of a capital investment in ESC BAZ against the issuance of shares. As a part of the transaction, the Company invested $ 2,846 in ESC BAZ and granted a put option to the non-controlling interest for the remaining 45% of the shares of ESC BAZ, exercisable starting 2021. Starting 2019, the Company has an exercisable call option, which enables it to acquire the non-controlling interest in ESC BAZ. The exercise price of the put and call options is based on a formula calculation, driven by an adjusted multiple on the average operating income of ESC BAZ.

ESC BAZ is an Israeli-based company, focused on the development and manufacture of military-grade smart security video observation and surveillance systems. The acquisition broadens the Company’s offerings, adding a wide range of modular and customizable medium and long range surveillance systems for distances from 500m up to 25km. ESC BAZ systems, which have been used successfully for over twenty years, are operational and field proven with customers including the Israeli Defense Forces, police and security services, as well as numerous other government and civilian customers worldwide.

F - 13

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)

NOTE 1:-
GENERAL (Cont.)

The acquisition was accounted for by the acquisition method and accordingly, the purchase price has been allocated according to the estimated fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The entire goodwill was assigned to the BAZ reporting unit within the Company’s Project segment. The results of ESC BAZ's operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements since April 2, 2018.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed:

Net assets (including cash of $ 2,461)
 
$
3,683
 
Intangible assets
   
501
 
Adjustment to deferred revenue
   
20
 
Deferred tax liabilities
   
(80
)
Goodwill
   
255
 
Redeemable non-controlling interests
   
(1,533
)
         
Total purchase price
 
$
2,846
 

In performing the purchase price allocation, management considered, among other factors, analyses of historical financial performance, highest and best use of the acquired assets and estimates of future performance of the acquired company's business.

The fair value of intangible assets was based on the market participant approach using an income approach. Intangible assets that are subject to amortization are amortized over their estimated useful lives. For technology, Magal is using the straight-line method and for customer relationships and backlog, Magal is using the acceleration method.

The following table sets forth the components of intangible assets associated with the acquisition:

   
Fair value
 
       
Technology
 
$
190
 
Customer relationships
   
164
 
Backlog
   
147
 
         
Total intangible assets
 
$
501
 

Redeemable non-controlling interests in the amount of $ 1,533 were recorded at acquisition date and classified as temporary equity (mezzanine account), separate from permanent equity, on the consolidated balance sheets. The redeemable non-controlling interests are measured at each reporting period at the higher of their redemption amount or the non-controlling interest book value, in accordance with the requirements of ASC 810 “Consolidation” and ASC 480-10-S99-3A, “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity” (See Note 2c).

F - 14

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 1:-
GENERAL (Cont.)

Acquisition related costs for the year ended December 31, 2018 amounted to approximately $ 67 and were included in general and administrative expenses in the statement of operations.

The amounts of revenue and net earnings of ESC BAZ since the acquisition date were included in the consolidated income statement for the reporting period in which the acquisition was made are:

   
Year ended December 31, 2018
 
       
Revenues
 
$
3,969
 
         
Net income
 
$
210
 

Unaudited pro forma condensed results of operations:

The following represents the unaudited pro forma condensed results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, assuming that the acquisition of ESC BAZ occurred on January 1, 2017. The pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have actually occurred had the acquisitions been consummated on those dates, nor does it purport to represent the results of operations for future periods.

   
Year ended
December 31,
 
   
2018
   
2017
 
   
Unaudited
 
             
Revenues
 
$
94,216
   
$
69,851
 
                 
Net income (loss) attributable to Magal shareholders'
 
$
3,198
   
$
(6,802
)
                 
Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share
 
$
0.14
   
$
(0.30
)

F - 15

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-      SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"), followed on a consistent basis, unless otherwise stated.


a.
Use of estimates:

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant assumptions are employed in estimates used in determining values of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets, revenue recognition, allowances for doubtful debts, inventory write-offs, warranty provision, tax assets and tax positions, legal contingencies, and stock-based compensation costs. Actual results could differ from those estimates.


b.
Financial statements in U.S. dollars:

The Company's revenues are generated mainly in NIS, U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, Mexican Pesos and Euros. In addition, most of the Parent Company's costs are incurred in NIS. The Company's management believes that the NIS is the primary currency of the economic environment in which the Parent Company operates.

In accordance with ASC 830, the Company has determined its reporting currency to be the U. S. dollar.

The functional currency of the Parent Company is the NIS. The functional currency of the Parent Company's foreign subsidiaries is the local currency in which each subsidiary operates.

ASC 830, "Foreign Currency Matters" sets the standards for translating foreign currency financial statements of consolidated subsidiaries. The first step in the translation process is to identify the functional currency for each entity included in the financial statements. The accounts of each entity are then measured in its functional currency. All transaction gains and losses from the measurement of monetary balance sheet items are reflected in the statement of operations as financial income or expenses, as appropriate.

After the measurement process is complete the financial statements are translated into the reporting currency, which is the U.S. dollar, using the current rate method. Equity accounts are translated using historical exchange rates. All other balance sheet accounts are translated using the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Statement of operations amounts have been translated using the average exchange rate for the year. The resulting translation adjustments are reported as a component of shareholders' equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

F - 16

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-      SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


c.
Principles of consolidation:

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Parent Company and its subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances including profits from intercompany sales not yet realized outside the Company, have been eliminated upon consolidation.

Changes in the Parent Company's ownership interest with no change of control are treated as equity transactions. When the purchase price of a non-controlling interest exceeds the book value at the time of purchase, any excess or shortfall is recognized as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital.

Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries represent the equity in subsidiaries not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. Non-controlling interests are presented in equity separately from the equity attributable to the equity holders of the Company. Profit or loss and components of other comprehensive income are attributed to the Company and to non-controlling interests. Losses are attributed to non-controlling interests even if they result in a negative balance of non-controlling interests in the consolidated statement of financial position.

Redeemable non-controlling interests are classified as temporary equity, separate from permanent equity, on the consolidated balance sheets and measured at each reporting period at the higher of their redemption amount or the non-controlling interest book value, in accordance with the requirements of ASC 810 “Consolidation” and ASC 480-10-S99-3A, “Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity”.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of the redeemable non-controlling interests for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Balance at the beginning of the year
 
$
1,755
   
$
-
 
Redeemable non-controlling interests at the acquisition of ESC BAZ
   
-
     
1,533
 
Adjustment to the redemption value of redeemable non-controlling interests
   
576
     
227
 
Net income attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests
   
552
     
95
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
165
     
(100
)
                 
   
$
3,048
   
$
1,755
 

F - 17

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-      SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


d.
Cash equivalents:

Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible into cash with original maturities of three months or less at the date acquired.


e.
Short-term and long-term restricted cash and deposits:

Short-term restricted cash and deposits is primarily invested in certificates of deposit that are restricted to withdrawals or use up to one year. Such certificates of deposit are used primarily as collateral for performance and advance payment guarantees to customers.

Long-term restricted cash and deposits is primarily invested in certificates of deposit that are restricted to withdrawals or use for a period for more than one year. Such certificates of deposit are used primarily as collateral for performance guarantees to customers.


f.
Short-term and long-term bank deposits:

Short-term bank deposits are deposits with maturities of more than three months and less than one year and are presented at their cost.

A bank deposit with a maturity of more than one year is included in long-term bank deposits and presented at cost.


g.
Inventories:

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. The Company periodically evaluates the inventory quantities on hand relative to historical and projected sales volumes, current and historical selling prices and contractual obligations to maintain certain levels of parts. Based on these evaluations, inventory write-offs are provided to cover risks arising from slow-moving items, discontinued products, excess inventories, market prices lower than cost and adjusted revenue forecasts.

Cost is determined as follows:

Raw materials, parts and supplies: using the "first-in, first-out" method.

Work in progress and finished products: on the basis of direct manufacturing costs with the addition of allocable indirect cost, representing allocable operating overhead expenses and manufacturing costs.

During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded inventory write-offs in the amounts of $ 258, $ 118 and $ 128, respectively. Such write-offs were included in cost of revenues.

F - 18

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-      SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


h.
Long-term other accounts receivables:

Long-term other accounts receivables with long term payment terms are recorded at their estimated present values.


i.
Property and equipment:

Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets at the following annual rates:

 
%
   
Buildings
3 - 4
Machinery and equipment
10 - 33 (mainly 10%)
Motor vehicles
15
Promotional displays
15 - 50
Office furniture and equipment
6 - 33
Leasehold improvements
By the shorter of the term of the
lease or the useful life of the assets


j.
Intangible assets:

Intangible assets are comprised of patents, capitalized and acquired technology, customer relations and backlog.

Intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives using a method of amortization that reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible assets are consumed or otherwise used up, in accordance with ASC 350, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other." Intangible assets were amortized based on the straight-line method or acceleration method, at the following weighted average annual rates:

 
%
   
Patents
10
Technology
12.5 - 26.7
Customer relationships
10.3 - 36.4
Backlog
50 - 100

During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not record any impairment charges relating to its intangible assets.

F - 19

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-      SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


k.
Impairment of long-lived assets:

The Company's long-lived assets (assets group) to be held or used, including right of use assets and intangible assets that are subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment in accordance with ASC 360, "Property, Plant, and Equipment" whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a group of assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of a group of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the group to the future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the group. If such group of assets is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds their fair value. During the years ended December 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not record any impairment charges attributable to long-lived assets.


l.
Goodwill:

The Company follows ASC 350, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other."

ASC 350 requires goodwill to be tested for impairment, at the reporting unit level.

ASC 350 allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If the qualitative assessment does not result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, no further impairment testing is required. If it does result in a more likely than not indication of impairment, the quantitative impairment test is performed. Alternatively, ASC 350 permits an entity to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit and proceed directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test. The Company elects to perform an annual impairment test of goodwill as of December 31 of each year, or more frequently if impairment indicators are present.

In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2017-04, “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): - Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment”, which eliminates the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill (i.e., Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test) for the purpose of measuring a goodwill impairment charge. Instead, an impairment charge will be recognized based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value. The standard will be applied prospectively and is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed in periods beginning after December 15, 2019, for public entities. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim goodwill impairment testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company early adopted the new guidance on January 1, 2018 (refer also to Note 8).

F - 20

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


m.
Business combinations:

The Company accounts for business combinations in accordance with ASC No. 805, "Business Combinations". ASC No. 805 requires recognition of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest at the acquisition date, measured at their fair values as of that date. Any excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over purchase price and any subsequent changes in estimated contingencies are to be recorded in consolidated statements of operations.

Acquisition related costs are expensed in the statement of operations in the period incurred.


n.
Revenue recognition:

The Company generates its revenues mainly from: (1) installation of comprehensive security systems for which revenues are generated from long-term fixed price contracts; (2) sales of security products; (3) services and maintenance, which are performed either on a fixed-price basis or as time-and-materials based contracts; and (4) software license fees and related services.

Revenues from the Company's contracts are recognized using the five-step model in ASC 606 - "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" ("ASC 606"). At first, the Company determines if an agreement with a customer is considered to be a contract to the extent it has a commercial substance, it is approved in writing by both parties, all rights and obligations including payment terms are identifiable, the agreement between the parties creates enforceable rights and obligations, and collectability in exchange for goods and services that will be transferred to the customer is considered as probable. The Company then assesses the transaction price for a contract in order to determine the consideration the Company expects to receive for satisfying the performance obligations called for in the contract.

To the extent, the transaction price includes variable consideration (e.g., contract penalties, unpriced change orders or like measures), the Company usually estimates the most likely amount that should be included in the transaction price subject to constraints based on the specific facts and circumstances.

At the inception of a contract, the Company also evaluates and determines if a contract should be separated into more than one performance obligation. The Company's installation of comprehensive security systems contracts usually includes one-performance obligations due to a significant customization for each customer's specific needs and integrated system or solution.

F - 21

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

For most of the Company's comprehensive security systems installation contracts, where the Company's performance does not create an asset with an alternative use, the Company recognizes revenue over performance time because of continuous transfer of control to the customer. For these performance obligations that are satisfied over time, the Company generally recognizes revenue using an input method with revenue amounts being recognized proportionately as costs are incurred relative to the total expected costs to satisfy the performance obligation. The Company believes that costs incurred as a portion of total estimated costs is an appropriate measure of progress towards satisfaction of the performance obligation since this measure reasonably depicts the progress of the work effort and the Company has the ability to make reasonably dependable estimates of the extent of progress towards completion, contract revenues and contract costs. In addition, contracts executed include provisions that clearly specify the enforceable rights regarding services to be provided and received by the parties to the contracts, the consideration to be exchanged, the manner, and the terms of settlement, including in cases of termination for convenience. Project costs include materials purchased to produce the system, related labor, overhead expenses and subcontractor's costs. The performance costs are measured by monitoring costs and efforts devoted using records of actual costs incurred to date in the project compared to the total estimated project requirements, which corresponds to the costs related to earned revenues. The Company estimates the profit on a contract as the difference between the total estimated transaction price and the total expected performance costs of the contract and recognizes revenue and costs over the life of the contract. Estimated gross profit or loss from long-term contracts may change due to changes in estimates resulting from differences between actual performance and original forecasts. Such changes in estimated gross profit are recorded in results of operations when they are reasonably determinable by management, on a cumulative catch-up basis.

For contracts that are deemed to be loss contracts, the Company establishes forward loss reserves for total estimated costs that are in excess of total estimated consideration under a contract in the period in which they become probable.

Fees are payable upon completion of agreed upon milestones and subject to customer acceptance. Amounts of revenues recognized in advance of contractual billing are recorded as unbilled accounts receivable. In most instances, the period between the advanced recognition of revenues and the customers' billing generally ranges between one to six months.

F - 22

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Revenues for performance obligations that are not recognized over time are recognized at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer (which is generally upon delivery) and include mainly revenues from the sales of security products and software license fees without significant installation work. The Company generally does not provide a right of return to its customers. For performance obligations that are satisfied at a point in time, the Company evaluates the point in time when the customer can direct the use of, and obtain the benefits from, the products. Shipping and handling costs are not considered performance obligations and are included in cost of sales as incurred.

Services and maintenance are performed under either fixed-price or time-and-materials based contracts. Under fixed-price contracts, the Company agrees to perform certain work for a fixed price. Under time-and-materials contracts, the Company is reimbursed for labor hours at negotiated hourly billing rates and for materials. The Company's service contracts include contracts in which the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided as the performance obligations are satisfied, accordingly, related revenues are recognized, as those services are performed or over the term of the related agreements.

Maintenance and support agreements provide customers with rights to unspecified software product updates, if and when available. These services grant the customers on line and telephone access to technical support personnel during the term of the service. The Company recognizes maintenance and support services revenues ratably over the term of the agreement, usually one year.

The Company generates revenues from the sales of its software products user licenses as well as from maintenance, support, consulting and training services.

As required by ASC 606, following the determination of the performance obligations in the contract, the Company allocates the total transaction price to each performance obligation in an amount based on the estimated relative standalone selling prices of the promised license fees or services underlying each performance obligation. Standalone selling price is the price at which the Company would sell a promised license or service separately to a customer.

The Company capitalizes sales commission as costs of obtaining a contract when they are incremental and if they are expected to be recovered. Amortization of sales commission expense is included in selling and marketing expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. For costs that the Company would have capitalized and amortized over one year or less, the Company has elected to apply the practical expedient and expense these contract costs as incurred.

F - 23

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Remaining performance obligations:

Remaining performance obligations represents the future revenues expected to be recognized on firm orders received by the Company and is equivalent to the Company’s remaining performance obligations at the end of each period for a remaining period of more than a year. The Company's remaining performance obligations as of December 31, 2019 was $ 29.1 million, out of which the Company expects to recognize approximately 43% as revenue in 2020, with the remainder to be recognized thereafter.

Unbilled accounts receivables:

Unbilled accounts receivables increased by $2.8 million compared to the beginning balance of $6.1 million as of January 1, 2019. The increase was primarily due to $8.9 million of recognized revenues in advance of contractual billing during the year and $0.5 million of exchange rate impact. This was offset by a decrease of $6.6 million as a result of billings. The above resulted in an ending balance of $8.9 million as of December 31, 2019.

Customer advances and deferred revenues:

Customer advances and deferred revenues decreased by $4 million compared to the beginning balance of $13.9 million as of January 1, 2019. The decrease was primarily as a result of $12.8 million of recognized revenues from customer advances and deferred revenues. This was offset by $8.2 million of new unearned amounts under project contracts, as well as $0.6 million of exchange rate impact. The above resulted in an ending balance of $9.9 million as of December 31, 2019.


o.
Accounting for stock-based compensation:

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, "Compensation-Stock Compensation".

ASC 718 requires companies to estimate the fair value of equity-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option-pricing model. The value awards that ultimately vests is recognized as an expense over the requisite service periods in the Company's consolidated income statement.

The Company recognizes compensation expenses for the value of its awards, which have graded vesting, based on the accelerated attribution method over the vesting period.

F - 24

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting ("ASU 2016-09"). ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, an accounting policy election for forfeitures and classification on the statement of cash flows. For public companies, ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company adopted ASU 2016-09 during the first quarter of 2017, at which time it changed its accounting policy to account for forfeitures as they occur. There was no material impact of the adoption of this standard on the Company's financial statements.

During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized stock-based compensation expenses related to employee stock options in the amounts of $ 392, $ 158 and $ 144, respectively.

The Company estimates the fair value of stock options granted under ASC 718 using the Binomial model. The Binomial model for option pricing requires a number of assumptions, of which the most significant are the suboptimal exercise factor and expected stock price volatility. The suboptimal exercise factor is estimated using historical option exercise information. The suboptimal exercise factor is the ratio by which the stock price must increase over the exercise price before employees are expected to exercise their stock options. Expected volatility is based upon actual historical stock price movements and was calculated as of the grant dates for different periods, since the Binomial model can be used for different expected volatilities for different periods. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield from U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bonds with an equivalent term to the contractual term of the options. The expected term of options granted is derived from the output of the option valuation model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding.

The following assumptions were used in the Binomial option pricing model for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 (no options were granted in 2017):

   
2019
 
2018
         
Dividend yield
 
0%
 
0%
Expected volatility
 
33.76%-38.31%
 
37.11%-43.98%
Risk-free interest
 
1.42%-2.68%
 
2.5%-2.86%
Contractual term
 
5-7 years
 
5-7 years
Forfeiture rate
 
10%-12%
 
10%
Suboptimal exercise multiple
 
1.32
 
1.32-1.33

F - 25

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


p.
Research and development costs:

Research and development costs incurred in the process of developing product improvements or new products, are charged to expenses as incurred. ASC 985, "Software", requires capitalization of certain software development costs subsequent to the establishment of technological feasibility. Based on the Company's product development process, technological feasibility is established upon completion of a working model. Costs incurred by the Company between completion of the working models and the point at which the products are ready for general release are capitalized. Capitalized technology is included in intangible assets on the balance sheet and is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life, which is generally five years. Amortization expenses are recognized under cost of revenues. Management evaluates the useful lives of these assets on an annual basis and tests for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances occur that could impact the recoverability of these assets.


q.
Warranty costs:

The Company provides various warranty periods up to 24 months at no extra charge. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranty and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time product revenue is recognized in accordance with ASC 450, "Contingencies." Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the number of units, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary.

The following table provides the detail of the change in the Company's warranty accrual, which is a component of other accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Warranty provision, beginning of year
 
$
1,360
   
$
1,281
 
Charged to costs and expenses relating to new sales
   
374
     
569
 
Costs of warranties granted
   
(278
)
   
(365
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
115
     
(125
)
                 
Warranty provision, end of year
 
$
1,571
   
$
1,360
 


r.
Net earnings per share:

Basic net earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during each year, plus dilutive potential ordinary shares considered outstanding during the year, in accordance with ASC 260, "Earnings Per Share."

F - 26

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Certain of the Company's outstanding stock options have been excluded from the calculation of the diluted earnings per share because such options are anti-dilutive. The total weighted average number of the Company's ordinary shares related to the outstanding options excluded from the calculations of diluted earnings per share was 684,887 shares, 400,000 shares and 137,988 shares for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


s.
Concentrations of credit risk:

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term bank deposits, trade receivables, unbilled accounts receivable, long-term trade receivables and long-term loans.

Of the Company's cash and cash equivalents and short-term and restricted bank deposits at December 31, 2019, $ 40,607 was invested in major Israeli and U.S. banks, and approximately $ 10,997 was invested in other banks, mainly with the Royal Bank of Canada, BBVA Bancomer, Natwest Bank and Deutsche Bank. Cash and cash equivalents in the U.S. may be in excess of insured limits and are not insured in other jurisdictions. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and therefore, bear low risk.

The short-term and long-term trade receivables of the Company, as well as the unbilled accounts receivable, are primarily derived from sales to large and solid organizations and governmental authorities located mainly in Israel, the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe.

The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers. An allowance for doubtful accounts is determined with respect to those amounts that the Company has determined to be doubtful of collection and in accordance with an aging policy. In certain circumstances, the Company may require letters of credit, other collateral or additional guarantees.

Changes in the Company's allowance for doubtful accounts during the three years period ended December 31, 2019 are as follows:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Balance at the beginning of the year
 
$
2,751
   
$
1,557
   
$
2,064
 
Doubtful debt expenses during the year
   
141
     
1,453
     
299
 
Customers write-offs/collection during the year, net
   
(790
)
   
(204
)
   
(957
)
Exchange rate
   
17
     
(55
)
   
151
 
                         
   
$
2,119
   
$
2,751
   
$
1,557
 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company has no significant off-balance sheet concentrations of credit risk, such as foreign exchange contracts or foreign hedging arrangements.

F - 27

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


t.
Income taxes:

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes." This ASC prescribes the use of the liability method whereby deferred tax assets and liability account balances are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The Company provides a valuation allowance, if necessary, to reduce deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value.

The Company establishes reserves for uncertain tax positions based on an evaluation of whether the tax position is “more likely than not” to be sustained upon examination. The Company records interest and penalties pertaining to its uncertain tax positions in the financial statements as income tax expense.

In the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company recorded tax expenses in connection to uncertainties in income taxes of $ 664, $ 717 and $ 245, respectively.


u.
Severance pay:

The Company's liability for its Israeli employees severance pay is calculated pursuant to Israel's Severance Pay Law based on the most recent salary of the employees multiplied by the number of years of employment, as of the balance sheet date (the "Shut Down Method"). Employees are entitled to one month's salary for each year of employment or a portion thereof. The Company's liability for its employees in Israel is fully provided by monthly deposits with insurance policies and by an accrual. The value of these policies is recorded as an asset in the Company's balance sheet.

The deposited funds include profits accumulated up to balance sheet date. The deposited funds may be withdrawn only upon the fulfillment of the obligation pursuant to Israel's Severance Pay Law or labor agreements. The value of the deposited funds is based on the cash surrender value of these policies and includes immaterial profits.

On December 31, 2007, the then Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors, retired from his position. Pursuant to his retirement agreement, the retired Chairman is entitled to receive certain perquisites from the Company for the rest of his life. As of December 31, 2019, the actuarial value of these perquisites is estimated at approximately $ 616. This provision was included as part of accrued severance pay.

Severance expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 amounted to approximately $846, $ 804 and $ 1,095, respectively.

F - 28

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

The Company has entered into an agreement with some of its employees implementing Section 14 of the Severance Pay Law and the General Approval of the Labor Minister dated June 30, 1998, issued in accordance with the said Section 14, mandating that upon termination of such employees' employment, all the amounts accrued in their insurance policies will be released to them. The severance pay liabilities and deposits covered by these plans are not reflected in the balance sheet as the severance pay risks have been irrevocably transferred to the severance funds.


v.
Fair value of financial instruments:

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments:


(i)
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, short-term bank deposits, long-term bank deposits, trade receivables, unbilled accounts receivable, short-term bank credit and trade payables approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturity of such instruments.


(ii)
The carrying amount of the Company's long-term trade receivables approximate their fair value. The fair value was estimated using discounted cash flows analysis, based on the Company's investment rates for similar type of investment arrangements.


(iii)
The carrying amounts of the Company's long-term debt are estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current interest rates for loans of similar terms and maturities. As of December 31, 2019, there was no material difference in the fair value of the Company's long-term borrowing compared to their carrying amount.


w.
Advertising expenses:

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were $ 224, $ 151 and $ 194, respectively.

F - 29

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


x.
Fair value measurements:

ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure" clarifies that fair value is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, ASC 820 establishes a three tier value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in the valuation methodologies in measuring fair value:


Level 1 -           Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.


Level 2 -           Significant other observable inputs based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity.


Level 3 -           Unobservable inputs which are supported by little or no market activity.

As of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not have any derivative instruments, measured at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis.


y.
Comprehensive income (loss):

The Company accounts for comprehensive income (loss) in accordance with ASC 220, "Comprehensive Income".  ASC 220 establishes standards for the reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components in a full set of general purpose financial statements. Comprehensive income generally represents all changes in shareholders' equity (deficiency) during the period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, shareholders.

The Company has determined that its items of comprehensive income (loss) relate to unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency translation adjustments.

The total accumulated other comprehensive loss, net was comprised as follows:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
$
(627
)
 
$
(1,827
)
 
$
(87
)
                         
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
$
(627
)
 
$
(1,827
)
 
$
(87
)

F - 30

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


z.
Non-controlling interest:

The Company established a subsidiary in India, which at the outset was 51% owned by the Company and 49% owned by a local partner.  The non-controlling interest relating to the India subsidiary was not material in 2017. During 2017, the Company entered to a share purchase agreement with the local partner, according to which, the Company acquired the 49% interest from the local partner for total consideration of approximately $ 100. The Company owns 100% of the India subsidiary.

The Company established a Company in Kenya, which is 51% owned by the Company and 49% owned by a local partner. The non-controlling interest relating to the subsidiary was not material in 2019.


aa.
Leases:

In accordance with ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842) the Company determines if an arrangement is a lease and the classification of that lease at inception based on: (1) whether the contract involves the use of a distinct identified asset, (2) whether the Company obtains the right to substantially all the economic benefits from the use of the asset throughout the period, and (3) whether the Company has a right to direct the use of the asset. The Company elected to not recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset for leases with a term of twelve months or less.

ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of remaining lease payments over the lease term. ROU assets are initially measured at amounts, which represents the discounted present value of the lease payments over the lease, plus any initial direct costs incurred. The lease liability is initially measured based on the discounted present value of remaining lease payments over the lease term. For this purpose, the Company considers only payments that are fixed and determinable at the time of commencement. The implicit rate within the operating leases is generally not determinable, therefore the Company uses the Incremental Borrowing Rate (“IBR”) based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. The Company’s IBR is estimated to approximate the interest rate for collateralized borrowing with similar terms and payments and in economic environments where the leased asset is located.

Certain leases include options to extend or terminate the lease. An option to extend the lease is considered in connection with determining the ROU asset and lease liability when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. An option to terminate is considered unless it is reasonably certain that the Company will not exercise the option.

F - 31

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 2:-
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)


bb.
Reclassification:

Certain amounts in the notes to prior years consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation. The reclassification had no effect on previously reported consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and consolidated statements of cash flows.


cc.
Impact of recently issued and adopted accounting standards:

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842). The standard requires the recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for all leases. The standard requires a modified retrospective transition approach to recognize and measure leases at the initial application.

The Company adopted the standard as of January 1, 2019, using a modified retrospective transition approach and elected to use the effective date as the date of initial application. The Company adopted the ”package of practical expedients”, which permits it not to reassess under the new standard its prior conclusions about lease identification, lease classification and initial direct costs. As a result, the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2018 were not restated, continue to be reported under ASC 840, which did not require recognition of operating lease assets and liabilities on the balance sheets, and are not comparative.

As a result of the adoption of Topic 842 on January 1, 2019, the Company recorded operating lease right of use (“ROU”) assets of $3.6 million and operating lease liabilities of $3.5 million. The ROU assets include adjustments for prepayments and accrued lease payments. The adoption did not impact the Company’s beginning retained earnings, or its prior year consolidated statements of income and statements of cash flows.


dd.
New accounting pronouncements not yet effective:

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326)". ASU 2016-13 requires that financial assets measured at amortized cost be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis. The measurement of expected credit losses is based upon historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU 2016-13 will become effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company does not expect this standard to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
 
F - 32

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 3:-
OTHER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND PREPAID EXPENSES

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Prepaid expenses
 
$
1,717
   
$
2,188
 
Government authorities
   
1,914
     
1,222
 
Advances to suppliers
   
454
     
445
 
Employees
   
36
     
62
 
Others
   
389
     
209
 
                 
   
$
4,510
   
$
4,126
 

NOTE 4:-
INVENTORIES

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Raw materials
 
$
5,232
   
$
4,762
 
Work in progress
   
1,271
     
1,952
 
Finished products
   
6,102
     
7,149
 
                 
   
$
12,605
   
$
13,863
 

F - 33

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 5:-
LEASES

The Company entered into operating leases primarily for offices and cars. The leases have remaining lease terms of up to 8.1 years, some of which may include options to extend the leases for up to an additional 9 years.

The Company also elected the practical expedient (by class of underlying asset) to not separate lease and non-lease components and instead to account for each separate lease component and the non-lease components associated with that lease component as a single lease component for its leased cars.


a.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to operating leases is as follows:


   
As of December 31, 2019
 
Operating lease ROU assets
 
$
3,492
 
Operating lease liabilities, current
 
$
919
 
Operating lease liabilities, long-term
 
$
2,515
 
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years)
   
2.92
 
Weighted average discount rate
   
3.64
%



b.
Future lease payments under operating leases as of December 31, 2019, are as follows:

December 31,
     
2020
 
$
1,052
 
2021
   
709
 
2022
   
467
 
2023
   
337
 
2024
   
307
 
2025 and thereafter
   
1,073
 
         
Total future lease payments
 
$
3,945
 
Less: imputed interest
   
(511
)
         
Total lease liability balance
 
$
3,434
 


c.
Operating lease expenses amounted to $ 1,095 for the year ended December 31, 2019. Operating lease expenses with a term of twelve months or less amounted to $ 201 for the year ended December 31, 2019.

F - 34

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 6:-
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET


a. Composition:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
Cost:
           
             
Land and buildings
 
$
7,839
   
$
7,559
 
Machinery and equipment
   
3,606
     
3,392
 
Motor vehicles
   
2,620
     
2,440
 
Promotional displays
   
815
     
644
 
Office furniture and equipment
   
4,543
     
4,198
 
Leasehold improvements
   
790
     
739
 
                 
     
20,213
     
18,972
 
Accumulated depreciation:
               
                 
Buildings
   
4,641
     
4,375
 
Machinery and equipment
   
2,982
     
2,689
 
Motor vehicles
   
1,513
     
1,244
 
Promotional displays
   
571
     
477
 
Office furniture and equipment
   
3,749
     
3,426
 
Leasehold improvements
   
501
     
414
 
                 
     
13,957
     
12,625
 
                 
Property and equipment, net
 
$
6,256
   
$
6,347
 


b.
Depreciation expenses amounted to $ 1,179, $ 1,070 and $ 960 for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

F - 35


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 7:-
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET


a.
Composition:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
Cost:
           
             
Know-how and patents
 
$
4,780
   
$
4,194
 
Technology
   
7,017
     
5,873
 
Customer relationships
   
1,661
     
1,582
 
Backlog
   
898
     
858
 
                 
     
14,356
     
12,507
 
Accumulated amortization:
               
                 
Know-how and patents
   
4,755
     
4,162
 
Technology
   
3,632
     
2,774
 
Customer relationships
   
1,300
     
1,093
 
Backlog
   
897
     
833
 
                 
     
10,584
     
8,862
 
                 
Intangible assets, net
 
$
3,772
   
$
3,645
 


b.
Amortization expenses related to intangible assets amounted to $ 921, $ 1,175 and $ 916 for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


c.
Estimated amortization of intangible assets for the years ended:

December 31,
     
       
2020
 
$
866
 
2021
   
1,068
 
2022
   
884
 
2023
   
416
 
2024
   
274
 
2025 and thereafter
   
264
 
         
   
$
3,772
 

F - 36

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 8:-
GOODWILL

With effect from January 1, 2019, as a result of the reorganization of the Company’s reporting structure into two business segments, the Company identifies two reporting units to which goodwill relates:


1.
Products reporting unit which comprises the Products segment and;

2.
BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment.


a.
Goodwill annual impairment test for the year ended December 31, 2019:

During the year ended December 31, 2019 the Company did not record any goodwill impairment charges.

Goodwill annual impairment test for the Products segment:

The material assumptions used for the goodwill annual impairment test for the Products segment, according to the income approach for 2019 were five years of projected net cash flows, a weighted average cost of capital rate of 13% and a long-term growth rate of 3%. The Company considered historical rates and current market conditions when determining the discount and growth rates to use in its analyses. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record impairment charges for its goodwill. As required by ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures," the Company applies assumptions that marketplace participants would consider in determining the fair value of its reporting unit.

Goodwill annual impairment test for the BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment:

The material assumptions used for the goodwill annual impairment test for the BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment, according to the income approach for 2019 were five years of projected net cash flows, a weighted average cost of capital rate of 15% and a long-term growth rate of 1.5%. The Company considered historical rates and current market conditions when determining the discount and growth rates to use in its analyses. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record impairment charges for its goodwill.


b.
Goodwill annual impairment test for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

In 2018 and 2017, for the purposes of impairment testing of goodwill, the Company identified four reporting units: (1) PIDS reporting unit within the Products segment, (2) BAZ reporting unit within the Project segment, (3) Cyber security and (4) Video reporting units, both the Cyber security and the Video reporting units were included within the former Video and Cyber security segment.

F - 37


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 8:-
GOODWILL (Cont.)

In 2018, the excess of the reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value, for the Cyber security reporting unit within the former Video and Cyber security segment (currently included whiting the products segment), represented an impairment loss of goodwill in the amount of $979 which was recorded as part of the general and administrative expenses in the statements of operations.

During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company did not record any goodwill impairment charges.


c.
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 are as follows:

   
Products
   
Projects
   
Total
 
                   
As of January 1, 2018
 
$
12,692
   
$
-
   
$
12,692
 
                         
Acquisition of ESC BAZ
   
-
     
255
     
255
 
Impairment of goodwill
   
(979
)
   
-
     
(979
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(832
)
   
(16
)
   
(848
)
                         
As of December 31, 2018
   
10,881
     
239
     
11,120
 
                         
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
363
     
21
     
384
 
                         
As of December 31, 2019
   
11,244
     
260
     
11,504
 

NOTE 9:-
OTHER ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Employees and payroll accruals
 
$
4,658
   
$
4,250
 
Accrued expenses
   
6,181
     
7,190
 
Government authorities
   
917
     
156
 
Income tax payable and tax provision
   
2,286
     
1,457
 
Others
   
567
     
173
 
                 
   
$
14,609
   
$
13,226
 

F - 38

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 10:-
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES


a.
Royalty commitments to the Innovation Authority (formerly the Office of the Chief Scientist) of the Israeli Ministry of Economy, or Innovation Authority:

Under the research and development agreements between the Parent Company and the Innovation Authority and the Company's Israeli subsidiary and the Innovation Authority and pursuant to applicable laws, the Parent Company and its Israeli subsidiary are required to pay royalties at the rate of 3.5% of revenues derived from sales of products developed with funds provided by the Innovation Authority and ancillary services, up to an amount equal to 100% of the Innovation Authority research and development grants received, linked to the U.S. dollars plus interest on the unpaid amount received based on the 12-month LIBOR rate applicable to U.S. dollar deposits. The obligation to pay these royalties is contingent on actual sales of the products and in the absence of such sales no payment is required. During 2014 and 2015, the Company's Israeli subsidiary received grants amounting to $ 118 and $ 134, respectively, from the Innovation Authority. Following the cancelation of the 2015 project, the Company's Israeli subsidiary returned the $ 134 advance grant received in 2015. The Company did not receive any grants from the Innovation Authority in 2018 and 2017. During 2019, the Company was notified of the approval of a grant of $ 113, which was received in 2020.

Royalties paid to the Innovation Authority amounted to $ 23, $ 6 and $ 33 for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which were recorded in cost of revenues. As of December 31, 2019, the Company and its Israeli subsidiary had remaining contingent obligations to pay royalties in the amount of approximately $ 1,702.


b.
Royalty commitments to a third party:

During 2002, the Parent Company entered into a development agreement for planning, developing and manufacturing a security system with a third party. Under the agreement, the Parent Company agreed to pay the third party royalty fees based on a defined formula. As of December 31, 2019, royalty commitments under the agreement amounted to $ 55.


c.
Guarantees:

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had credit lines of approximately $ 16,152 and $ 16,468, out of which $ 9,098 and $ 9,345 were utilized for bank performance guarantees, advance payment guarantees and bid bond guarantees from several banks, mainly in Israel and Canada.


d.
Restricted cash and deposits:

As of December 31, 2019 the Company's restricted cash and deposits relate mainly to ongoing operation.


e.
Legal proceedings:

The Company is subject to legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. Based on the advice of legal counsel, management believes that these proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

On February 2019, The Parent Company’s Mexican subsidiary initiated a dispute procedure with the Mexican tax authorities requesting the recognition of deduction of certain expenses as claimed by the Mexican subsidiary in its annual tax filings. On July 2019, the tax authorities denied the Mexican subsidiary position. On September 2019, the Mexican subsidiary filed an annulment claim before the Mexican tax court appealing the tax authority denial. The case is currently being reviewed by the court and pending of resolution. According to the Company’s out-side legal counsel the possibility of the Mexican tax court or Judiciary ruling against the Mexican subsidiary is remote.

F - 39

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 11:-    SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


a.
Pertinent rights and privileges conferred by Ordinary shares:

The Ordinary shares of the Company are listed on the NASDAQ Global Market. The Ordinary shares confer upon their holders the right to receive notice to participate and vote in the general meetings of the Company and the right to receive dividends, if declared.


b.
Issued and outstanding share capital: 23,153,985 Ordinary shares at December 31, 2019 and 23,049,639 Ordinary shares at December 31, 2018.


c.
Stock Option Plan:

On October 27, 2003, the Company's Board of Directors approved the Company's 2003 Israeli Share Option Plan ("the 2003 Plan"). Under the 2003 Plan, stock options may be periodically granted to employees, directors, officers and consultants of the Company or its subsidiaries in accordance with the decision of the Board of Directors of the Company (or a committee appointed by it). The Board of Directors also has the authority to determine the vesting schedule and exercise price of options granted under the 2003 Plan.

In May 2008, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the 2003 Plan, which was approved by the shareholders in August 2008, which increased the number of Ordinary shares available for issuance under the 2003 Plan by an additional 1,000,000 shares and the termination of the 2003 Plan was extended from October 2013 to October 2018. Any options that are cancelled or forfeited before expiration become available for future grant.

On June 23, 2010, the Company's Annual General Meeting approved the Company's 2010 Israeli Share Option Plan, or the 2010 Plan, which authorizes the grant of options to employees, officers, directors and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries.  The ordinary shares that remained available for future option grants under the 2003 Plan as of the date of the adoption of the 2010 Plan and any ordinary shares that became available in the future under the 2003 Plan as a result of expiration, cancellation or relinquishment of any option outstanding under the 2003 Plan were rolled over to the 2010 Plan.  No additional options will be granted under the 2003 Plan. In June 2013, the Company's shareholders approved an increase to the number of ordinary shares available for issuance under the 2010 Plan by an additional 500,000 shares. The 2010 Plan has a term of ten years.

As of December 31, 2019, 154,252 Ordinary shares were available for future option grants.

F - 40

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 11:-
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Cont.)

A summary of employee option activity under the Company's stock option plans as of December 31, 2019 and changes during the year ended December 31, 2019 are as follows:

   
Number of options
   
Weighted-average exercise
price
   
Weighted- average remaining contractual life
(in months)
   
Aggregate intrinsic
value
(in thousands)
 
                         
Outstanding at January 1, 2019
   
889,118
     
4.865
     
51.25
     
-
 
Granted
   
124,000
     
4.400
                 
Exercised
   
(104,346
)
   
4.841
                 
Forfeited
   
(48,226
)
   
4.984
                 
                                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2019
   
860,546
     
4.794
     
49.43
     
-
 
                                 
Exercisable at December 31, 2019
   
168,547
     
4.295
     
21.3
     
-
 

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 were $ 1.33 and $ 1.73, respectively. No options were granted in 2017. The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (the difference between the Company's closing stock price on the last trading day of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2019 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options). This amount changes, based on the fair market value of the Company's stock. The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 were approximately $37, $17 and $ 174. As of December 31, 2019, there was approximately $ 616 of unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company's stock option plan. This cost is expected to be recognized over a period of up to 4 years.

The options outstanding as of December 31, 2019 are follows:

Number of options outstanding as
of December 31, 2019
   
Exercise
price
   
Weighted average remaining
contractual life
   
Number of options exercisable as
of December 31, 2019
 
           
(In months)
       
                     
 
118,546
     
4.15
     
19.79
     
118,546
 
 
24,000
     
4.40
     
17.23
     
24,000
 
 
39,000
     
4.86
     
31.95
     
26,001
 
 
74,000
     
4.18
     
69.09
     
0
 
 
91,000
     
4.31
     
59.92
     
0
 
 
30,000
     
4.51
     
60.12
     
0
 
 
20,000
     
5.05
     
66.05
     
0
 
 
440,000
     
5.15
     
53.78
     
0
 
 
24,000
     
5.61
     
49.23
     
0
 
                             
 
860,546
             
49.43
     
168,547
 

F - 41

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 11:-
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Cont.)


d.
Warrants:

On January 2013, as part of the acquisition of CyberSeal, the Company issued to CyberSeal's former owners warrants to purchase 898,203 of the Company's Ordinary shares at an exercise price of $ 4.16 per share. 50% of the warrants became exercisable on December 31, 2013 and expired on December 30, 2018. The remaining 50% became exercisable on December 31, 2014 and were scheduled to expire on December 30, 2019. The $ 1,500 fair value of the warrants was calculated using the Binominal model. The Company recognized the $ 1,500 as part of its additional paid-in capital. The Company granted registration rights to the recipients of the warrants. During 2017, 60,000 warrants were exercised. No warrants were exercised during 2018.

In October 2018, the Company agreed to purchase the remaining 838,203 warrants from the warrant holders for an aggregate consideration of $ 375. Under Israeli law, the consummation of such transaction was subject to court approval, which was granted on January 16, 2019. The closing of the purchase of the warrants occurred in the first quarter of 2019.


e.
Dividends:

Dividends, if any, will be declared and paid in U.S. dollars. Dividends paid to shareholders in Israel will be converted into NIS on the basis of the exchange rate prevailing at the date of payment. The Company has determined that it will not distribute dividends out of tax-exempt profits.

NOTE 12:-
BASIC AND DILUTED NET EARNINGS PER SHARE

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
Numerator:
                 
                   
Income (loss) attributable to Magal shareholders'
 
$
1,717
   
$
2,722
   
$
(6,914
)
                         
Denominator:
                       
                         
Denominator for basic net earnings (loss) per share weighted-average number of shares outstanding
   
23,129,394
     
23,040,436
     
22,989,009
 
Effect of diluting securities:
                       
Employee stock options
   
15,346
     
247,315
     
-
 
                         
Denominator for diluted net earnings (loss) per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed exercises
   
23,144,740
     
23,287,751
     
22,989,009
 

F - 42

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME


a.
Tax laws applicable to the Group companies:

Income Tax (Inflationary Adjustments) Law, 1985:

According to the law, until 2007, the results for tax purposes were adjusted for the changes in the Israeli CPI.

In February 2008, the "Knesset" (Israeli parliament) passed an amendment to the Income Tax (Inflationary Adjustments) Law, 1985, which limits the scope of the law starting 2008 and thereafter. Since 2008, the results for tax purposes are measured in nominal values, excluding certain adjustments for changes in the Israeli CPI carried out in the period up to December 31, 2007. Adjustments relating to capital gains such as for sale of property (betterment) and securities continue to apply until disposal. Since 2008, the amendment to the law includes, among others, the cancellation of the inflationary additions and deductions and the additional deduction for depreciation (in respect of depreciable assets purchased after the 2007 tax year).

The Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959:

According to the Law, companies are entitled to various tax benefits by virtue of the "preferred enterprise" status granted to part of their enterprises, as implied by this Law. The principal benefits by virtue of the Law are:

Tax benefits and reduced tax rates:

Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 68):

In December 2010, the "Knesset" (Israeli Parliament) passed the Law for Economic Policy for 2011 and 2012 (Amended Legislation), 2011 ("the Amendment"), which prescribes, among others, amendments in the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 ("the Law"). The Amendment became effective as of January 1, 2011. According to the Amendment, the benefit tracks in the Law were modified and a flat tax rate applies to the Company's entire preferred income under its status as a privileged company with a preferred enterprise. Commencing from the 2011 tax year, the Company can elect (without possibility of reversal) to apply the Amendment in a certain tax year and from that year and thereafter, it will be subject to the amended tax rates. The tax rates under the Amendment are: 2011 and 2012 - 15% (in development area A - 10%) and in 2013 - 12.5% (in development area A - 7%).

F - 43

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

The Company has applied the Amendment effective from the 2017 tax year.

The Company's Israeli subsidiaries applied the Amendment effective from the 2011 tax year.

Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 71):

On August 5, 2013, the "Knesset" issued the Law for Changing National Priorities (Legislative Amendments for Achieving Budget Targets for 2013 and 2014), 2013 which consists of Amendment 71 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments ("the Amendment"). According to the Amendment, the tax rate on preferred income form a preferred enterprise in 2014 and thereafter will be 16% (in development area A - 9%). As for changes in tax rates resulting from the enactment of Amendment 73 to the Law, see below.

The Amendment also prescribes that any dividends distributed to individuals or foreign residents from the preferred enterprise's earnings as above will be subject to tax at a rate of 20%.

Amendment to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (Amendment 73):

In December 2016, the Economic Efficiency Law (Legislative Amendments for Applying the Economic Policy for the 2017 and 2018 Budget Years), 2016 which includes Amendment 73 to the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments ("the Amendment") was published. According to the Amendment, a preferred enterprise located in development area A will be subject to a tax rate of 7.5% instead of 9% effective from January 1, 2017 and thereafter (the tax rate applicable to preferred enterprises located in other areas remains at 16%).

F - 44

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

Accelerated depreciation:

By virtue of the Law, the Company is eligible for deduction of accelerated depreciation on equipment used by the approved enterprise / beneficiary enterprise from the first year of the asset's operation.

The Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxation), 1969:

The Company has the status of an "industrial company", as defined by this law. According to this status and by virtue of regulations published thereunder, the Company is entitled to claim a deduction of accelerated depreciation on equipment used in industrial activities, as determined in the regulations issued under the Inflationary Law. The Company is also entitled to amortize a patent or rights to use a patent or intellectual property that are used in the enterprise's development or advancement, to deduct issuance expenses for shares listed for trading, and to file consolidated financial statements under certain conditions.


b.
Tax rates applicable to the Group:


1.
The Israeli regular corporate tax rate for Israeli companies was 23% in 2019 and 2018 and 24% in 2017.

In December 2016, the Israeli Parliament approved the Economic Efficiency Law (Legislative Amendments for Applying the Economic Policy for the 2017 and 2018 Budget Years), 2016 which reduces the corporate income tax rate to 24% (instead of 25%) effective from January 1, 2017 and to 23% effective from January 1, 2018.

In August 2013, the Law for Changing National Priorities (Legislative Amendments for Achieving Budget Targets for 2013 and 2014), 2013 ("the Budget Law") was enacted. The Law includes, among others, provisions for the taxation of revaluation gains effective from August 1, 2013. The provisions regarding revaluation gains will become effective only after the publication of regulations defining what should be considered as "retained earnings not subject to corporate tax" and regulations that set forth provisions for avoiding double taxation of foreign assets. As of the date of approval of these financial statements, these regulations have not been published.

These changes include, among others, increasing the corporate tax rate from 25% to 26.5%, cancelling the reduction in the tax rates applicable to privileged enterprises (9% in development area A and 16% elsewhere) and, in certain cases, increasing the rate of dividend withholding tax within the scope of the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments to 20% effective from January 1, 2014.


2.
The tax rates of the Company's non-Israeli subsidiaries range between 16%-30%.

F - 45

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)

3.        Tax Reform in U.S.:

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Act"), which among other provisions, reduced the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective January 1, 2018. 

At December 31, 2017, the Company made reasonable estimates of the effects on the existing deferred tax balances for which provisional amounts were recorded in 2017 and finalized in 2018. The Company re-measured certain of its U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities, based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future. The estimated tax expense recorded related to the re-measurement of the deferred tax balance was $ 377, mainly due to reduction in the U.S. corporate tax rate.


c.
Income taxes on non-Israeli subsidiaries:

Non-Israeli subsidiaries are taxed according to the tax laws in their respective country of domicile.

Israeli income taxes and foreign withholding taxes were not provided for undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries. The Company's board of directors has determined that the Company will not distribute any amounts of its undistributed earnings as dividends. The Company intends to reinvest these earnings indefinitely in its foreign subsidiaries. Accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided. If these earnings were distributed to Israel in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to additional Israeli income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and foreign withholding taxes.


d.
Tax assessments:

Final tax assessments:

The Parent Company received final tax assessments through the 2014 tax year. The Company's Israeli subsidiary received final tax assessments through the 2012 tax year. The subsidiary in Latin America received final tax assessments for the 2010 and 2011 tax years.

The remaining subsidiaries have not received final tax assessments since their incorporation, however, the assessments of these subsidiaries are deemed final through the range between 2008-2012 tax years.

F - 46

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)


e.
Reconciliation between the theoretical tax expense, assuming all income is taxed at the Israeli statutory rate, and the actual tax expense, is as follows:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Income (loss) before taxes as reported in the statements of operations
 
$
4,372
   
$
5,116
   
$
(5,205
)
                         
Tax rate
   
23
%
   
23
%
   
24
%
                         
Theoretical tax
 
$
1,006
   
$
1,177
   
$
(1,249
)
                         
Increase (decrease) in taxes:
                       
                         
Non-deductible items
   
264
     
32
     
185
 
Losses and other items for which a valuation allowance was provided
   
369
     
972
     
1,769
 
Realization of carryforward tax losses for which valuation allowance was provided
   
(386
)
   
(1,293
)
   
(28
)
Changes in valuation allowance
   
(862
)
   
(377
)
   
-
 
Tax rate differences in subsidiaries and benefit from reduced tax rates
   
(26
)
   
223
     
(71
)
Adjustment of deferred tax balances following changes in tax rate for "preferred enterprise"
   
-
     
-
     
410
 
Provision for uncertain tax positions
   
654
     
717
     
245
 
Taxes in respect of prior years
   
(1
)
   
(2
)
   
21
 
Tax withheld against which valuation allowance was provided this year
   
694
     
755
     
638
 
Investment tax credit
   
(163
)
   
(180
)
   
(178
)
Other
   
4
     
48
     
(47
)
                         
Taxes on income (tax benefit) in the statements of operations
 
$
1,553
   
$
2,072
   
$
1,695
 

F - 47

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)


f.
Taxes on income (tax benefit) included in the statements of operations:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Current
 
$
2,184
   
$
3,003
   
$
2,162
 
Deferred
   
(631
)
   
(931
)
   
(467
)
                         
   
$
1,553
   
$
2,072
   
$
1,695
 
                         
Domestic
 
$
820
   
$
1,460
   
$
893
 
Foreign
   
733
     
612
     
802
 
                         
   
$
1,553
   
$
2,072
   
$
1,695
 


g.
Deferred income taxes:

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets are as follows:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
Deferred tax assets:
           
             
Operating losses carry forwards
 
$
4,730
   
$
3,313
 
Reserves, tax allowances, capital losses carry forwards, operating lease and others
   
6,128
     
7,207
 
                 
Total deferred taxes before valuation allowance
   
10,858
     
10,520
 
Valuation allowance
   
(4,460
)
   
(5,207
)
                 
Deferred tax assets, net:
   
6,398
     
5,313
 
                 
Deferred tax liabilities:
               
                 
Property and equipment, intangible assets, operating lease and others
   
(2,361
)
   
(2,036
)
                 
Deferred tax liabilities:
   
(2,361
)
   
(2,036
)
                 
Net deferred tax assets
 
$
4,037
   
$
3,277
 
                 
Domestic
 
$
886
   
$
-
 
                 
Foreign
 
$
3,151
   
$
3,277
 

F - 48

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 13:-
TAXES ON INCOME (Cont.)


h.
The domestic and foreign components of income (loss) before taxes are as follows:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Domestic
 
$
1,730
   
$
1,705
   
$
(1,605
)
Foreign
   
2,642
     
3,411
     
(3,600
)
                         
   
$
4,372
   
$
5,116
   
$
(5,205
)

i.        Net operating carry forward tax losses:

The Parent Company has estimated total available carry forward operating tax losses of $ 3,419 to offset against future taxable income. As of December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset with respect to those carry forward tax losses in the amount of $ 547. There is no time limitation for the realization of such tax losses. The Parent Company's subsidiaries have estimated total available carry forward operating tax losses of $ 21,199, which may be used to offset against future taxable income, for periods ranging between 1 to 20 years. As of December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a net deferred tax asset after valuation allowance in the amount of $ 2,434 for its subsidiaries' carry forward tax losses.

Utilization of U.S. net operating losses (federal and state net operating losses) may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to the "change in ownership" provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and similar state provisions. The annual limitation may result in the expiration of net operating losses before utilization.


j.
Uncertain tax positions:

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, balances in respect to ASC 740, "Income Taxes" amounted to $ 2,286 and $ 1,611, respectively.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax positions is as follows:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Balance at the beginning of the year
 
$
1,611
   
$
908
 
                 
Additions based on tax positions taken related to the current year
   
654
     
717
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
21
     
(14
)
                 
Balance at the end of the year
 
$
2,286
   
$
1,611
 

Substantially all the balance of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would reduce the Company's annual effective tax rate.

F - 49

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 14:-
BALANCES AND TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

The Company compensates its Executive Chairman of the Board for services provided to the Company commencing October 1, 2014.

The Company pays for his services in addition to the directors' fees paid by the Company to all of its directors: (i) a monthly payment of approximately $4 for time devoted to such position; and (ii) an annual cash bonus of $30 that will be paid only if the Company's net profit pursuant to its annual audited and consolidated financial statement exceeds $5,000.  The annual cash bonus is payable commencing as of the fiscal year 2015 and will be paid, if earned, as set forth in the Compensation Policy.

NOTE 15:-
SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company applies ASC 280, "Segment Reporting".

Through December 31, 2018, the Company’s business was managed and reported in three business segments: Perimeter Products segment (Products), Turnkey Projects segment (Projects) and Video and Cyber security segment.

Commencing on January 1, 2019, in order to more accurately reflect management’s focus, organizational alignment, the Company’s customer base and end markets, the Company reorganized its structure into two divisions: Magal Integrated Solutions (“Projects” segment) and Senstar Product division (“Products” segment). Each division represents a separate business segment.


1.
Perimeter Products segment (Products) - sales of perimeter products, including services and maintenance that are performed either on a fixed-price basis or pursuant to time-and-materials based contracts, software and hardware products, in the field of Video management, for monitoring, securing, and the active management of network video systems, video analytics, as well as wired, wireless, and fiber optic communication networks and


2.
Integrated Solutions (“Projects”) - installation of comprehensive turnkey solutions for which revenues are generated from long-term fixed price contracts and modular and customizable medium and long range surveillance systems.

The Company restated its financial results to reflect the new segments for the years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

The measurement of the reportable operating segments is based on the same accounting principles applied in these financial statements which includes certain corporate overhead allocations.

F - 50


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 15:-    SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)


a.
The following data present the revenues, expenditures, assets and other operating data of the Company's operating segments:

   
Year ended December 31, 2019
 
   
Products
   
Projects
   
Eliminations
   
Total
 
                         
Revenues
 
$
36,633
   
$
52,426
   
$
(2,228
)
 
$
86,831
 
                                 
Depreciation and amortization
 
$
1,260
   
$
840
   
$
-
   
$
2,100
 
                                 
Operating income (loss), before financial expenses and taxes on income
 
$
3,880
   
$
3,536
   
$
(1,377
)
 
$
6,039
 
Financial expenses, net
                           
(1,667
)
Taxes on income
                           
(1,553
)
                                 
Net income
                         
$
2,819
 

   
Year ended December 31, 2018
 
   
Products
   
Projects
   
Eliminations
   
Total
 
                         
Revenues
 
$
35,169
   
$
61,119
   
$
(3,686
)
 
$
92,602
 
                                 
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of goodwill
 
$
2,273
   
$
951
   
$
-
   
$
3,224
 
                                 
Operating income (loss), before financial expenses and taxes on income
 
$
1,425
   
$
4,356
   
$
(2,026
)
 
$
3,755
 
Financial income, net
                           
1,361
 
Taxes on income
                           
(2,072
)
                                 
Net income
                         
$
3,044
 

   
Year ended December 31, 2017
 
   
Products
   
Projects
   
Eliminations
   
Total
 
                         
Revenues
 
$
28,471
   
$
38,247
   
$
(2,426
)
 
$
64,292
 
                                 
Depreciation, amortization
 
$
1,369
   
$
507
   
$
-
   
$
1,876
 
                                 
Operating income (loss), before financial expenses and taxes on income
 
$
(2,483
)
 
$
2,576
   
$
(1,337
)
 
$
(1,244
)
Financial expenses, net
                           
(3,961
)
Taxes on income
                           
(1,695
)
                                 
Loss
                         
$
(6,900
)

F - 51

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 15:-    SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)

   
Year ended December 31, 2019
 
   
Products
   
Projects
   
Total
 
                   
Total long-lived assets
 
$
16,925
   
$
4,607
   
$
21,532
 

   
Year ended December 31, 2018
 
   
Products
   
Projects
   
Total
 
                   
Total long-lived assets
 
$
16,845
   
$
4,267
   
$
21,112
 

Long-lived assets include property and equipment, net, intangible assets, net and goodwill.

b.        Major customer data (percentage of total revenues):

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Customer A
   
5.4
%
   
25.3
%
   
14.6
%
Customer B
   
17.2
%
   
10.9
%
   
10.2
%

c.        Geographical information:

The following is a summary of revenues within geographic areas based on end customers’ location and long-lived assets:

1.        Revenues:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
                   
Israel
 
$
18,975
   
$
13,577
   
$
9,599
 
Europe
   
18,896
     
14,021
     
11,232
 
North America
   
19,713
     
24,324
     
15,547
 
South and Latin America
   
8,077
     
25,471
     
13,152
 
Africa
   
11,144
     
7,126
     
9,370
 
Others
   
10,026
     
8,083
     
5,392
 
                         
   
$
86,831
   
$
92,602
   
$
64,292
 

F - 52

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 15:-
SEGMENT INFORMATION (Cont.)

2.        Long-lived assets:

   
December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
 
             
Israel
 
$
3,641
   
$
3,720
 
Europe
   
914
     
970
 
USA
   
2,177
     
2,377
 
Canada
   
13,999
     
13,337
 
Others
   
801
     
708
 
                 
   
$
21,532
   
$
21,112
 

Long-lived assets include property and equipment, net, intangible assets, net and goodwill.

NOTE 16:-
SELECTED STATEMENTS OF INCOME DATA

Financial expenses:

   
Year ended December 31,
 
   
2019
   
2018
   
2017
 
Financial expenses:
                 
                   
Interest on short-term and long-term bank credit and bank charges and long-term debt
 
$
(360
)
 
$
(412
)
 
$
(349
)
Realization of foreign currency translation adjustments
   
-
     
-
     
(64
)
Foreign exchange loss, net
   
(1,971
)
   
-
     
(4,010
)
                         
     
(2,331
)
   
(412
)
   
(4,423
)
Financial income:
                       
                         
Interest on short-term and long-term bank deposits
   
664
     
670
     
462
 
Foreign exchange gains, net
   
-
     
1,103
     
-
 
                         
     
664
     
1,773
     
462
 
                         
Financial income (expenses), net
 
$
(1,667
)
 
$
1,361
   
$
(3,961
)

F - 53

MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
U.S. dollars in thousands (except share and per share data)
 
NOTE 17:-
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic that first surfaced in China and is spreading throughout the world has had an adverse effect on the Company's industry and the markets in which it operates. The Coronavirus outbreak has impacted the verticals in which the Company’s customers operate and has resulted in a slowdown of the Company's business with some of its customers. The Company has experienced postponed orders and suspended decision making in other markets that are likely to be negatively affected by the Coronavirus. Further, the guidance of social distancing and the requirements to work from home in key territories such as Israel, USA, Canada, Germany, Spain, Mexico and other countries, in addition to greatly reduced travel globally, has resulted in a substantial curtailment of business activities, which has affected and is likely to continue to affect the Company's ability to conduct fieldwork as well as deliver products and services. The Company is unable at this time to estimate the extent of the effect of the Coronavirus on its business.  However, in order to mitigate the impact on the business, the Company adopted a plan to reduce expenses and enacted cost savings measures.

Because the outbreak may also result in uncertainties in relation to the assumptions and estimations associated with the measurement of various assets and liabilities in the financial statements that the Company may not have previously recognized or considered, the occurrence of the outbreak may add additional risks that the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities may require certain adjustments within the next financial year which financial effect cannot be reasonably estimated at this stage.
 
F - 54

SIGNATURE
 
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this amendment to annual report on its behalf.
 
 
MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
 
       

By:
/s/ Dror Sharon  
  Name: Dror Sharon  
  Title: Chief Executive Officer  
       
Date: April 23, 2020

83


Exhibit 2.1

NUMBER, MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD, SHARES
 
INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL
 
CINS M6786D 10 4
 
SEE REVERSE FOR CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
 
THIS CETIFIES that SPECIMEN is the Registered Holder of FULLY PAID AND NON-ASSESSABLE ORDINARY SHARES OF NIS 1.0 EACH of Magal Security Systems Ltd. transferable on the books of the Corporation by the holder hereof in person or by duly authorized attorney upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed. This Certificate and the shares represented hereby are issued and shall be held subject to all the provisions of the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association of the Corporation and all amendments thereto, to all of which the holder by acceptance hereof assents. This Certificate is not valid unless countersigned and registered by the Transfer Agent and Registrar. IN WITNESS WHE9EOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate to be issued.
 
Dated: CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
 
AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY

countersigned and registere: American Stock Transfer & trust company, llc (new york, ny) transfer agent and registrar

BY

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
 


MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.
 
The Corporation will furnish without charge to each shareholder who so requests a complete statement of the powers, designations, preferences and relative participating optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Any such request should be addressed to the Secretary of the Corporation.
 
The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this certificate, shall be construed as though they were written out in full according to applicable laws or regulations:
 
TEN COM
- as tenants in common
UNTF GIFT MIN ACT -
____________________     Custodian    __________________
     
(Cust)
(Minor)

TEN ENT
- as tenants by the entireties
 
Under Uniform Gifts to Minor
Act ________________
JT TEN
- as joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common
 
        (State)
   
 
Additional abbreviations may also be used though not in the above list.
 
For value received, ________________ hereby sell, assign and transfer unto
 
PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY OR OTHER
IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE
 
 


  
Please print or typewritename and address including postal zip code of assignee
  
 
 
Shares represe nt ed by the within Certificate, and do here by irrevocably constitute  and appoint
  
 
Attorney to transfer the said  shares on the books of  the within-named Corporation with full power of substitution in the premises.
 
Dated,
 
 

   

NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the face of the Certificate, in every particular, without alteration or enlargement, or any change whatever.

SIGNATURE(S) GUARANTEED:
 

 
THE SIGNATURE($) MUST BE GUARANTEED BY AN ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR INSTITUTION (BANKS, STOCKBROKERS, SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS AND CREDIT UNIONS WITH MEMBERSHIP IN AN APPROVED SIGNATURE GUARANTEE MEDALLION PROGRAM). PURSUANT TO S.E.C. AULE 17Ad-15.
 




Exhibit 2.5
Rights Attached to Shares
 
Our authorized share capital consists of NIS 39,748,000 ordinary shares, par value NIS 1.00 each.  All our ordinary shares have the same rights, preferences and restrictions, some of which are detailed below.  At the general meeting of shareholders, our shareholders may, subject to certain provisions detailed below, create different classes of shares, each class bearing different rights, preferences and restrictions.
 
The rights attached to the ordinary shares are as follows:
 
Dividend Rights.  Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to participate in the payment of dividends in accordance with the amounts paid‑up or credited as paid up on the nominal value of such ordinary shares at the time of payment (without taking into account any premium paid thereon).  However, under Article 13 of our articles of association no shareholder will be entitled to receive any dividends until the shareholder has paid all calls then currently due and payable on each ordinary share held by such shareholder.
 
The board of directors may declare interim dividends and propose the final dividend with respect to any fiscal year only out of the retained earnings, in accordance with the provisions of the Israeli Companies Law.  Declaration of a final dividend requires the approval by ordinary resolution of our shareholders at a general meeting of shareholders.  Such resolution may reduce but not increase the dividend amount recommended by the board of directors.  Dividends may be paid, in whole or in part, by way of distribution of dividends in kind.  See “Item 8A. Financial Information – Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information – Dividend Distributions Policy.”
 
Voting Rights.  Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders.  Such voting rights may be affected by the grant of any special voting rights to the holders of a class of shares with preferential rights that may be authorized in the future.
 
Generally, resolutions are adopted at the general meeting of shareholders by an ordinary resolution, unless the Israeli Companies Law or our articles of association require an extraordinary resolution.  An ordinary resolution, such as a resolution approving the declaration of dividends or the appointment of auditors, requires approval by the holders of a simple majority of the shares represented at the meeting, in person or by proxy, and voting on the matter.  An extraordinary resolution requires approval by the holders of at least 75% of the shares represented at the meeting, in person or by proxy, and voting on the matter.  The primary resolutions required to be adopted by an extraordinary resolution of the general meeting of shareholders are resolutions to:
 

amend the memorandum of association or articles of association;
 

change the share capital, for example by increasing or canceling the authorized share capital or modifying the rights attached to shares; and
 

approve mergers, consolidations or winding up of our company.
 
Our articles of association do not contain any provisions regarding a classified board of directors or cumulative voting for the election of directors.  Pursuant to our articles of association, our directors (except the external directors) are elected at our annual general meeting of shareholders by a vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power represented and voting at such meeting and hold office until the next annual general meeting of shareholders and until their successors have been elected.  All the members of our board of directors (except the external directors) may be reelected upon completion of their term of office.  For information regarding the election of external directors, see “Item 6C. Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Directors and Senior Management – Board Practices – External and Independent Directors – External Directors.”
 
Rights to Share in the Company’s Profits.  Our shareholders have the right to share in our profits distributed as a dividend or any other permitted distributions.
 
Liquidation Rights.  Article 111 of our articles of association provides that upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of our company, our remaining assets shall be distributed pro-rata to our ordinary shareholders.
 

Redemption.  Under Article 38 of our articles of association, we may issue redeemable stock and redeem the same.
 
Capital Calls.  Under our memorandum of association and the Israeli Companies Law, the liability of our shareholders is limited to the par value of the shares held by them.
 
Substantial limitations on shareholders.  See Item 6.C. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees‑Board Practices–Approval of Related Party Transactions.”
 
Modifications of Share Rights
 
The rights attached to a class of shares may be altered by an extraordinary resolution of the general meeting of shareholders, provided the holders of 75% of the issued shares of that class approve such change by the adoption of an extraordinary resolution at a separate meeting of such class, subject to the terms of such class.  The provisions of the articles of association pertaining to general meetings of shareholders also apply to a separate meeting of a class of shareholders.  Shares which confer preferential or subordinate rights relating to, among other things, dividends, voting, and payment of capital may be created only by an extraordinary resolution of the general meeting of shareholders.
 
Limitations on the Right to Own Our Securities
 
Neither our memorandum or articles of association nor the laws of the State of Israel restrict in any way the ownership or voting of our ordinary shares by non-residents, except that the laws of the State of Israel may restrict the ownership of ordinary shares by residents of countries that are in a state of war with Israel.
 
Provisions Restricting a Change in Control of Our Company
 
Merger
 
The Israeli Companies Law requires that mergers between Israeli companies be approved by the board of directors and general meeting of shareholders of both parties to the transaction.  The approval of the board of directors of both companies is subject to such boards’ confirmation that there is no reasonable doubt that after the merger the surviving company will be able to fulfill its obligations towards its creditors.  Each company must notify its creditors about the contemplated merger.  Under our articles of association, such merger must be approved by a resolution of the shareholders, as explained above.  The approval of the merger by the general meetings of shareholders of the companies is also subject to additional approval requirements as specified in the Israeli Companies Law and regulations promulgated thereunder.  For purposes of the shareholders’ approval, the merger shall not be deemed as granted unless the court determines otherwise, if it is not supported by the 75% of the shares represented and voting at the general meeting, provided that such majority includes a simple majority of the non-interested shareholders.  See also Item 6C. “Directors, Senior Management and Employees – Board Practices – Approval of Related Party Transactions under Israeli Law.”
 
Full Tender Offer
 
A person wishing to acquire shares of a public Israeli company and who could as a result hold over 90% of the target company’s voting rights or the target company’s issued and outstanding share capital (or of a class thereof), is required by the Israeli Companies Law to make a tender offer to all of the company’s shareholders for the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of the company (or the applicable class).  If (a) the shareholders who do not accept the offer hold less than 5% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the company (or the applicable class) and the shareholders who accept the offer constitute a majority of the offerees that do not have a personal interest in the acceptance of the tender offer or (b) the shareholders who did not accept the tender offer hold less than 2% of the issued and outstanding share capital of the company (or of the applicable class), all of the shares that the acquirer offered to purchase will be transferred to the acquirer by operation of law.  A shareholder who had its shares so transferred may petition the court within six months from the date of acceptance of the full tender offer, regardless of whether such shareholder agreed to the offer, to determine whether the tender offer was for less than fair value and whether the fair value should be paid as determined by the court.  However, an offeror may provide in the offer that a shareholder who accepted the offer will not be entitled to appraisal rights as described in the preceding sentence, as long as the offeror and the company disclosed the information required by law in connection with the tender offer.  If the full tender offer was not accepted in accordance with any of the above alternatives, the acquirer may not acquire shares of the company that will increase its holdings to more than 90% of the company’s issued and outstanding share capital (or of the applicable class) from shareholders who accepted the tender offer.
 

Special Tender Offer
 
The Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares of an Israeli public company must be made by means of a special tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a holder of 25% or more of the voting rights in the company.  This rule does not apply if there is already another holder of 25% or more of the voting rights in the company.  Similarly, the Israeli Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares in a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a holder of more than 45% of the voting rights in the company, if there is no other shareholder of the company who holds more than 45% of the voting rights in the company.  These requirements do not apply if the acquisition (i) occurs in the context of a private placement by the company that received shareholder approval, (ii) was from a shareholder holding 25% or more of the voting rights in the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of 25% or more of the voting rights in the company, or (iii) was from a holder of more than 45% of the voting rights in the company and resulted in the acquirer becoming a holder of more than 45% of the voting rights in the company.  A special tender offer may be consummated only if (i) at least 5% of the voting power attached to the company’s outstanding shares will be acquired by the offeror and (ii) the number of shares tendered in the offer exceeds the number of shares whose holders objected to the offer (excluding controlling shareholders, holders of 25% or more of the voting rights in the company and any person having a personal interest in the acceptance of the tender offer).
 
In the event that a special tender offer is made, a company’s board of directors is required to express its opinion on the advisability of the offer, or shall abstain from expressing any opinion if it is unable to do so, provided that it gives the reasons for its abstention.  An office holder in a target company who, in his or her capacity as an office holder, performs an action the purpose of which is to cause the failure of an existing or foreseeable special tender offer or is to impair the chances of its acceptance, is liable to the potential purchaser and shareholders for damages, unless such office holder acted in good faith and had reasonable grounds to believe he or she was acting for the benefit of the company.  However, office holders of the target company may negotiate with the potential purchaser in order to improve the terms of the special tender offer, and may further negotiate with third parties in order to obtain a competing offer.
 
If a special tender offer is accepted, then shareholders who did not respond to or that had objected the offer may accept the offer within four days of the last day set for the acceptance of the offer.
 
In the event that a special tender offer is accepted, then the purchaser or any person or entity controlling it or under common control with the purchaser or such controlling person or entity may not make a subsequent tender offer for the purchase of shares of the target company and may not enter into a merger with the target company for a period of one year from the date of the offer, unless the purchaser or such person or entity undertook to effect such an offer or merger in the initial special tender offer.
 
In addition, the purchase of 25% or more of the outstanding share capital of a company or the purchase of substantial assets of a company requires, under certain conditions, the approval of the Restrictive Practices Authority.  Furthermore, if the target company has received tax incentives of grants from the Office of the Chief Scientist, changes in ownership may require also the approval of the tax authorities or the Office of the Chief Scientist, as applicable.
 
Finally, in general, Israeli tax law treats stock-for-stock acquisitions less favorably than does U.S. tax law.  Israeli tax law has been amended to provide for tax deferral in specified acquisitions, including transactions where the consideration for the sale of shares is the receipt of shares of the acquiring company.  Nevertheless, Israeli tax law may subject a shareholder who exchanges his ordinary shares for shares in a foreign corporation to immediate taxation or to taxation before its investment in the foreign corporation becomes liquid, although in the case of shares of a foreign corporation that are traded on a stock exchange, the tax may be postponed subject to certain conditions.
 



Exhibit 8.1

SUBSIDIARIES OF MAGAL SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.

Below is a listing of Magal Security Systems Ltd.’s wholly-owned and majority-owned significant subsidiaries:
 
Subsidiary Name
 
Country/State of
Incorporation/Organization/Ownership Percentage
Senstar Inc.
 
United States (Delaware) (100%)
Senstar Latin America, S.A. de C.V
 
Mexico (100%)
Senstar Corporation
 
Canada (100%)
Senstar GmbH
 
Germany (100%)
Magal-S3 Canada Inc.
 
Canada (100%)
ESC BAZ Ltd.
 
Israel (55%)


 



Exhibit 12.1
 
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
 
I, Dror Sharon, certify that:
 
1.          I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Magal Security Systems Ltd.; 
 
2.          Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.          Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 
 
4.          The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:
 

(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting;
 
5.          The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
 

(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:  April 23, 2020

/s/ Dror Sharon *
Dror Sharon
Chief Executive Officer

*          The originally executed copy of this Certification will be maintained at the Company’s offices and will be made available for inspection upon request.




Exhibit 12.2
 
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
 
I, Yaacov Vinokur, certify that:
 
1.          I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Magal Security Systems Ltd.; 
 
2.          Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.          Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
 
4.          The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:
 

(a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting;
 
5.          The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
 

(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date    April 23, 2020

/s/Yaacov Vinokur*
Yaacov Vinokur, Chief Financial Officer

*          The originally executed copy of this Certification will be maintained at the Company’s offices and will be made available for inspection upon request.




Exhibit 13.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Magal Security Systems Ltd. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the period ending December 31, 2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Dror Sharon, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)  The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

/s/ Dror Sharon *
Dror Sharon
Chief Executive Officer

Date:  April 23, 2020

*          The originally executed copy of this Certification will be maintained at the Company’s offices and will be made available for inspection upon request.

This certification accompanies this Annual Report on Form 20-F pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not be deemed filed by the Company for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates it by reference




Exhibit 13.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Magal Security Systems Ltd. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the period ending December 31, 2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Yaacov Vinokur, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)  The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

/s/Yaacov Vinokur*
Yaacov Vinokur
Chief Financial Officer

Date:  April 23, 2020

*          The originally executed copy of this Certification will be maintained at the Company’s offices and will be made available for inspection upon request.

This certification accompanies this Annual Report on Form 20-F pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not be deemed filed by the Company for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates it by reference




Exhibit 15.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-127340, 333-164696, 333-174127 and 333-190469) of our report dated April 23, 2020 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Magal Security Systems Ltd. included in this Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 
Tel-Aviv, Israel
/s/Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer
KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER
April 23, 2020
A Member of Ernst & Young Global




Exhibit 15.2
 
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
We have issued our report dated April 23, 2020, with respect to the financial statements of Senstar Latin America, S.A. de C.V. included in the Annual report of Magal Security Systems Ltd. on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019. We consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-127340, 333-164696, 333-174127 and 333-190469).

 
/s/Sallas, Sainz – Grant Thornton, S.C.
Mexico City, Mexico
SALLAS, SAINZ – GRANT THORNTON, S.C.
April 23, 2020
A Member of Grant Thornton International Ltd.