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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2019.

Registration Statement No. 333-            

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

 

AVEDRO, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   3841   13-4223265

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(Primary Standard Industrial

Classification Code Number)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

201 Jones Road

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

Tel: (781) 768-3400

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant’s principal executive offices)

 

 

Reza Zadno, Ph.D.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Avedro, Inc.

201 Jones Road

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

Tel: (781) 768-3400

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 

 

Copies to:

Marc A. Recht

Nicole C. Brookshire

Courtney T. Thorne

Cooley LLP

500 Boylston Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02116

(617) 937-2300

 

Paul S. Bavier

General Counsel and Secretary

Avedro, Inc.

201 Jones Road

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

(781) 768-3400

 

B. Shayne Kennedy

Nathan Ajiashvili

Latham & Watkins LLP

885 Third Avenue

New York, New York 10022

(212) 906-2916

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.

 

 

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, check the following box.  ☐

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large Accelerated Filer      Accelerated Filer  
Non-Accelerated Filer      Smaller Reporting Company  
     Emerging Growth Company  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act.  ☐

 

 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

 

Title of Securities Being Registered   Proposed
Maximum Aggregate
Offering Price (1)(2)
  Amount of
Registration Fee

Common Stock, $0.00001 par value per share

  $86,250,000   $10,454

 

 

(1)

Calculated pursuant to Rule 457(o) based on an estimate of the proposed maximum aggregate offering price.

(2)

Estimated solely for purposes of computing the amount of the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Includes the offering price of additional shares that the underwriters have the option to purchase.

 

 

The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment that specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 


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The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

Subject to Completion

Preliminary Prospectus dated January 18, 2019

PROSPECTUS

Shares

 

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

This is Avedro, Inc.’s initial public offering. We are selling                    shares of our common stock.

We expect the public offering price to be between $                    and $                    per share. Currently, no public market exists for the shares. We have applied to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “AVDR”.

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined under the U.S. federal securities laws and, as such, may elect to comply with certain reduced public company reporting requirements for this and future filings.

Investing in the common stock involves risks that are described in the “Risk Factors ” section beginning on page 15 of this prospectus.

 

 

 

    

Per Share

      

Total

 

Public offering price

   $          $    

Underwriting discount (1)

   $          $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $          $    

 

  (1)

We refer you to “ Underwriting ” beginning on page 210 for additional information regarding underwriting compensation.

The underwriters may also exercise their option to purchase up to an additional                     shares from us, at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, for 30 days after the date of this prospectus.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

The shares will be ready for delivery on or about                    , 2019.

 

 

 

BofA Merrill Lynch   J.P. Morgan

 

 

 

Cowen   Guggenheim Securities     SVB Leerink  

 

 

The date of this prospectus is                    , 2019.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    

Page

 

Prospectus Summary

     1  

Risk Factors

     15  

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

     74  

Industry and Market Data

     76  

Use of Proceeds

     77  

Dividend Policy

     78  

Capitalization

     79  

Dilution

     82  

Selected Financial Data

     85  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     87  

Business

     102  

Management

     164  

Executive Compensation

     173  

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

     189  

Principal Stockholders

     193  

Description of Capital Stock

     197  

Shares Eligible for Future Sale

     203  

Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Non-U.S. Holders

     206  

Underwriting

     210  

Legal Matters

     218  

Experts

     218  

Where You Can Find Additional Information

     218  

Index To Financial Statements

     F-1  

We have not, and the underwriters have not, authorized anyone to provide any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectuses prepared by or on behalf of us or to which we have referred you. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. This prospectus is an offer to sell only the shares of common stock offered hereby, but only under circumstances and in jurisdictions where it is lawful to do so. The information contained in this prospectus or in any applicable free writing prospectus is current only as of its date, regardless of its time of delivery or any sale of shares of our common stock. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

For investors outside the United States: We have not, and the underwriters have not, done anything that would permit this offering or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than in the United States. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of the shares of common stock and the distribution of this prospectus outside the United States.


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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

This summary highlights information contained in other parts of this prospectus. Because it is only a summary, it does not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in our common stock and it is qualified in its entirety by, and should be read in conjunction with, the more detailed information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. You should read the entire prospectus carefully, especially “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our financial statements before deciding to buy shares of our common stock. Unless the context requires otherwise, references in this prospectus to “Avedro,” “the company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Avedro, Inc.

Overview

We are a leading commercial-stage ophthalmic medical technology company focused on treating corneal ectatic disorders and improving vision to reduce dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Our proprietary Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is designed to strengthen, stabilize and reshape the cornea utilizing corneal cross-linking in minimally invasive and non-invasive outpatient procedures to treat corneal ectatic disorders and correct refractive conditions, which are caused by changes in the shape of the eye that prevent light from focusing on the retina, causing blurred vision. Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is comprised of our KXL and Mosaic systems, each of which delivers ultraviolet A, or UVA, light, and a suite of proprietary single-use riboflavin drug formulations, which, when applied together to the cornea, induce a biochemical reaction called corneal collagen cross-linking, or corneal cross-linking. Our KXL system in combination with our Photrexa drug formulations, which we launched in the United States in September 2016, is the first and only minimally invasive product offering approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, indicated for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Additionally, the FDA granted us orphan drug designations and we have orphan drug exclusivity until 2023 that covers our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system for our approved indications. We have obtained a Conformité Européene, or CE, mark for our Mosaic system, which allows it to be marketed throughout the European Union. The Mosaic system is capable of performing vision correction procedures and treating corneal ectatic disorders, and we began a targeted international launch in late 2017. We plan to seek FDA approval for our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia as an initial targeted indication. We have invested significantly to establish the safety and broad clinical utility of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform and to drive its commercial adoption. We are the only company to have conducted randomized, sham-controlled clinical trials to receive marketing approval of a corneal cross-linking solution. We have conducted and supported more than 15 clinical trials and more than 130 peer-reviewed publications have been published, which provides support for what we believe are the benefits of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform. To date, over 400,000 cross-linking procedures have been performed globally with our products, including more than 18,000 procedures performed in the United States alone.

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform technology uses corneal cross-linking to strengthen the cornea and modify its shape, a process we refer to as corneal remodeling. Because the cornea functions as the eye’s outermost lens, responsible for 65% to 75% of the eye’s total focusing power, we believe corneal remodeling represents a powerful approach to treating corneal ectatic disorders and correcting vision. We believe corneal remodeling is a particularly effective treatment for progressive keratoconus, a disease in which the cornea progressively thins and weakens, as corneal remodeling strengthens and stabilizes the cornea to slow or arrest the progression of the disease. Corneal remodeling can also potentially be used to correct vision for otherwise healthy individuals by reshaping the cornea through a non-invasive procedure without the need for corneal surgical procedures.

Our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations were approved by the FDA, based on three pivotal randomized and sham-controlled Phase 3 U.S. clinical trials involving 205 patients with progressive keratoconus and 179 patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The results showed a clinically significant difference in corneal steepening, which is a defining indicator of disease progression in keratoconic

patients, in the treatment group in comparison to the control group. We are currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial pursuant to a Special Protocol Assessment, or SPA, for a new indication for our latest-



 

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generation KXL system and its associated investigational drug formulations and our Boost Goggles in a shorter and non-invasive procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus that leaves the corneal epithelium in place, which we refer to as Epi-On. If approved, we believe this combination and our Boost Goggles will be the first corneal cross-linking product offering approved in the United States for an Epi-On procedure and may result in the grant of a three-year period of market exclusivity. Our CE mark for the KXL system, which we received in 2011, covers a broader indication and technical range of use than currently approved in the United States. For example, outside the United States, our KXL system is marketed to perform other corneal cross-linking procedures such as Lasik Xtra, a procedure performed in conjunction with refractive procedures such as laser in-situ keratomilcusis, or LASIK, to strengthen the cornea and stabilize procedure results.

Our Mosaic system, which we believe offers the world’s most advanced and versatile cross-linking technology, is available outside of the United States for performing vision correction procedures in addition to treating keratoconus. Unlike the KXL system, which delivers UVA light across a large portion of the cornea in a fixed pattern, our Mosaic system uses a digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking to deliver metered UVA light to the cornea in a controllable pattern and to induce cross-linking in a targeted zone. This zonal corneal cross-linking induces a change in the shape of the cornea and enables refractive correction using a procedure we refer to as photorefractive intrastromal cross-linking, or PiXL. We are generating additional clinical data to potentially expand applications of the Mosaic system and to increase physician and patient awareness and adoption. We plan to initiate a Phase 2a clinical trial in the first half of 2019 to evaluate the use of PiXL as a solution for vision improvement for patients with presbyopia. We also plan to leverage our platform to broaden our development programs into additional vision correction uses, such as the treatment of refractive error for low myopia and post-cataract procedures.

We have successfully established broad private payor coverage and are continuing to work on pursuing favorable payment policies for use of our KXL system to treat keratoconus, with 63 private payors covering a total of up to 170 million covered lives in the United States, or approximately 95% of our estimated total U.S. addressable market for keratoconus. Corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus was granted a Category III Current Procedural Terminology code, and in November 2018, we received a product-specific J code for our Photrexa formulations. The J code became effective on January 1, 2019. We expect these changes will help stabilize payment policies. Vision correction procedures are generally not covered by insurance and are paid for out-of-pocket by the patient. We would expect providers to establish a price per procedure that is self-paid and competitive with current self-paid vision correction procedures, such as LASIK.

Since our U.S. commercial launch of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in September 2016, we have sold over 300 KXL systems in the United States, and since our KXL system was CE marked in 2011, we have sold over 700 KXL systems outside the United States. Since our launch outside the United States, we have sold 20 Mosaic systems outside the United States. We generated revenue of $20.2 million, with a gross margin of 51.1% and a net loss of $21.3 million, for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to revenue of $14.9 million, with a gross margin of 52.1% and a net loss of $16.4 million, for the year ended December 31, 2016. We generated revenue of $19.5 million, with a gross margin of 57.8% and a net loss of $18.7 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to revenue of $15.6 million, with a gross margin of 54.3% and a net loss of $14.6 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.



 

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The Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform consists of the following UVA light delivery devices and associated drug formulations:

 

LOGO

Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform Overview Device Formulations Procedures Application U.S. Status International Status Device Formulation KXL System Mosaic Device Photrexa Viscous & Photrexa ParaCel Part 1 & 2 VibeX Xtra ParaCel Part 1 & 2 (Epi-On) VibeX Rapid (Epi-Off) Vibex Xtra KXL (Epi-Off) KXL (Epi-On) Lasik Xtra Customized Remodeled Vision (CuRV) Photorefractive Intrastromal Cross-Linking (PiXL) Lasik Xtra Progressive Keratoconus and Corneal Ectasia Following Refractive Surgery Progressive Keratoconus Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression Keratoconus and Vision Improvement Presbyopia Low Myopia Post-Cataract Refractive Errors Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression FDA Approved (2016) Phase 3 Trial Ongoing+ - - Phase 2a Trial Planned for 1H2019 - CE Mark (2011)** CE Mark (2015)*# - CE mark (2011)*# CE mark (2011)*# CE Mark (2015)*# + In conjunction with our Boost Goggles. * Also commercially available in the Middle East and Japan. ** Also commercially available in the Middle East, Japan and China. # Exclusively licensed to us from Medio-Haus Medizinprodukte GmbH.



 

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Market Overview

Our target markets include corneal ectatic disorders, such as progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, and vision improvement applications for presbyopia, low myopia and post-cataract refraction error procedures. We believe the broad utility of our platform has the potential to enable us to target a population that we estimate to be approximately 64 million people in the United States, which represents an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $26 billion. Further, we believe that there is a substantial additional market opportunity in the rest of the world.

Our initial commercial focus within the United States is the keratoconus market, which, according to a 2018 Market Scope study, we believe represents a total addressable market of approximately 600,000 people and an opportunity of approximately $3 billion. Keratoconus typically manifests at an early age and is the leading cause of full thickness corneal transplants in the United States, a procedure that costs an average of $20,000 per transplant and may require one or more repeat procedures in the same eye later in life. Non-surgical solutions, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, do not treat the underlying cause of keratoconus or slow disease progression, but temporarily attempt to address its symptoms, such as poor vision. Corneal cross-linking with our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations is the only treatment approved by the FDA to slow or arrest disease progression of keratoconus.

We estimate the vision correction market for our products in the United States to be approximately 63 million people, or an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $23 billion. Our initial clinical focus in vision correction is the treatment of patients with presbyopia, which we estimate affects more than 50 million people in the United States, representing an estimated total addressable market opportunity of approximately $15 billion. Vision correction procedures traditionally include refractive surgery or implants, the most common of which is LASIK. While LASIK is the most common vision correction procedure, we believe that it has not achieved greater market penetration due to patients’ fears of an ablative laser procedure and the associated side effects. In addition to presbyopia, we are exploring the use of our Mosaic system as a treatment option for other large markets in the United States, including correcting refractive error for low myopia, which we estimate affects 13.5 million people, representing a total addressable market opportunity of approximately $8 billion, and post-cataract procedures, which we estimate affects 600,000 eyes annually, representing a total annual addressable market opportunity of approximately $180 million.

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is comprised of our KXL system and our Mosaic system, each of which delivers UVA light, and a suite of proprietary single-use riboflavin drug formulations, which, when applied to the cornea together, induce a biochemical reaction called corneal collagen cross-linking, or corneal cross-linking. Our platform is designed to strengthen, stabilize and reshape the cornea utilizing corneal cross-linking in minimally invasive and non-invasive outpatient procedures to treat certain corneal ectatic disorders and, in certain jurisdictions outside of the United States, correct refractive conditions. Ectatic corneas have a distorted arrangement of collagen fibrils with reduced thickness and strength, which results in vision impairment as the corneal loses structural shape and begins to bulge. Corneal cross-linking is a bioengineering technique that adds special bonds between the collagen fibers in the eye to increase the mechanical stability of the cornea. We developed our platform to improve the corneal cross-linking procedure.

We believe our industry-leading Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform has a number of highly attractive benefits:

 

   

Corneal cross-linking using the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations offers safe, minimally invasive outpatient procedures, including the only FDA-approved alternative to surgical intervention for the treatment of keratoconus.



 

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High corneal cross-linking procedure success rate with demonstrated long-lasting effects.

 

   

Enhances quality of vision.

 

   

Easy-to-use with a minimal learning curve .

 

   

Regulatory approvals and marketing authorizations supported by strong clinical data.

Our Success Factors

We attribute our success to the following and believe these factors will drive our future growth:

 

   

Multiple large addressable and underserved market opportunities. We believe the broad utility of our platform has the potential to enable us to target a total addressable market of 64 million people in the United States who are looking for a non-invasive solution, which represents an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $26 billion. Based on estimates from a 2018 Market Scope study, we are initially targeting a market of approximately 600,000 individuals in the United States with progressive keratoconus, and we intend to expand into refractive conditions if our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations are approved. In the United States, there are currently no other minimally invasive therapeutic treatments for the corneal ectatic disorders our products are used to treat and no non-invasive solutions for vision correction available except for eyeglasses and contact lenses.

 

   

Leverageable and intuitive corneal remodeling platform. Our platform is easy to use and requires a minimal learning curve as physicians are already familiar with the procedures to be performed using our devices. We believe the ease of use, reliability of our devices and broad potential uses of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform are key factors in increasing ophthalmologist adoption and enabling our platform to become an integral part of ophthalmology practices.

 

   

Significant body of supporting clinical data. Our platform is supported by a significant body of clinical data, consisting of more than 15 clinical trials and more than 130 peer-reviewed publications, evaluating its safety, efficacy and durability for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and improvement in vision. We believe this body of data provides us with a significant competitive advantage and will continue to support increased adoption of our platform.

 

   

U.S. market exclusivity and first-mover advantage. Our KXL system in combination with our Photrexa formulations is the first and only corneal cross-linking product offering approved by the FDA for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Our orphan drug designations provide us with market exclusivity that covers our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system until 2023. We are currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate our Epi-On procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. If approved, we believe our latest-generation KXL system, its associated drug formulations and our Boost Goggles will be the first corneal cross-linking product offering approved in the United States for an Epi-On procedure, and may result in the grant of a three-year period of market exclusivity.

 

   

Broad private payor coverage for keratoconus. In the past two years, we have rapidly established broad private payor coverage in the United States, with 63 private payors covering a total of up to 170 million covered lives, which we estimate includes approximately 95% of our estimated total U.S. addressable market for keratoconus.

 

   

Established leadership position outside the United States for corneal ectatic disorders, facilitating rapid U.S. commercial adoption. We believe that the broad adoption and established



 

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market leadership position of our platform outside the United States for corneal ectatic disorders will help facilitate its commercial adoption in the United States. Since the U.S. commercial launch of our KXL system in September 2016, we have sold over 300 KXL systems and more than 18,000 procedures have been performed. We expect to continue to expand our sales force to drive patient and physician adoption.

 

   

Robust research and development capabilities and comprehensive intellectual property portfolio. We have established strong research and development capabilities in drug discovery, biomedical optics, machine vision and computational modeling, which we believe will allow us to continue to innovate and maintain our competitive position. We have a comprehensive intellectual property portfolio, including 42 issued patents and 49 pending patent applications, a number of which are in-licensed patents.

 

   

Proven leadership with sector expertise . We have assembled a highly-specialized management team with an average of 25 years of experience across the fields of ophthalmology, drug products and medical devices. Our board of directors is comprised of industry-leading executives who have deep medical device public company experience and established track records in growing commercial-stage companies.

Our Growth Strategy

Our goal is to maintain and further extend our position as a global leader in corneal remodeling and to drive global adoption of our products. We believe the following strategies will play a critical role in achieving this goal in our future growth:

 

   

Drive customer adoption by pursuing consistent and favorable payment policies. We plan to continue our active discussions with private payors to establish positive national and regional coverage policies and facilitate claims processing. As we continue to establish favorable coverage and payment policies, we believe we can substantially expand patient access by reducing these hurdles to adoption.

 

   

Deepen existing and cultivate new ophthalmologist customer relationships. We plan to significantly grow our commercial sales and marketing organization as we achieve additional success in establishing consistent and favorable private payor coverage and payment policies for our treatment of corneal ectatic disorders in the United States. If we obtain FDA approval for additional indications, we plan to leverage our call points in order to cross-sell these additional uses of our products. We believe investing in a scalable, efficient direct sales force will help us broaden adoption of our products and drive revenue growth.

 

   

Increase awareness among the broader eye care community, namely optometrists, in the United States. In addition to making ophthalmologists aware of the benefits of corneal cross-linking and our products through participating in eye care industry conferences, we are focusing our outreach on increasing awareness to referring optometrists of corneal cross-linking as a therapeutic treatment for corneal ectatic disorders. We also plan to continue building patient awareness through our direct-to-consumer marketing initiatives, which include paid search, radio, social media and online videos.

 

   

Secure additional FDA approvals and expand indications of our platform. We believe our market-leading platform can improve upon current applications and, contingent upon receiving FDA approval, be leveraged broadly across novel applications. We intend to continue to invest in research and development and clinical trials to improve patient experience and maximize the value of our platform to unlock additional addressable markets.



 

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Expand global reach of our platform. Outside the United States, we plan to expand upon our substantial relationships and to invest in growing our sales and marketing organization in markets we deem attractive. We believe that there is a significant market opportunity for corneal cross-linking in the European Union, the Middle East, China, South Korea, Japan and other countries, and we have sold our products into more than 80 countries.

Risks Associated with Our Business

Our business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including those highlighted in the section titled “Risk Factors” immediately following this prospectus summary. These risks include, among others, the following:

 

   

We have incurred significant operating losses since our inception and anticipate that we will continue to incur significant operating losses for the foreseeable future, and we may never be profitable.

 

   

We rely on the sale of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations to generate the majority of our revenue.

 

   

Our revenue from sales of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations is dependent upon the pricing and reimbursement guidelines adopted in the United States.

 

   

We have limited experience marketing and selling the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in the United States.

 

   

Our products, as well as products that we may be able to commercialize in the future under applicable regulatory regimes, may fail to achieve the degree of market acceptance necessary for commercial success.

 

   

We rely on contract manufacturers, some of which are single-source suppliers.

 

   

Our long-term growth depends in part on our ability to develop and commercialize additional products.

 

   

We operate in a very competitive industry.

 

   

Available cash resources may be insufficient to fund our operations for the next twelve months. In the event such cash resources are insufficient to provide for our working capital requirements, we will need to raise additional capital to continue as a going concern. The opinion of our independent registered public accounting firm included an emphasis of matter paragraph regarding substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of twelve months from the December 31, 2017 balance sheet date.

 

   

Clinical development is a lengthy and uncertain process, and delays or failures can occur at any stage.

 

   

Our products and operations are subject to extensive government regulation and oversight both in the United States and abroad.

 

   

If we are unable to adequately protect our intellectual property rights, or if we are accused of infringing on the intellectual property rights of others, our competitive position could be harmed or we could be required to incur significant expenses to enforce or defend our rights.

Corporate Information

Avedro, Inc. was originally incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware under the name ThermalVision, Inc. in November 2002. We changed our name to Avedro, Inc. in October 2005.



 

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Our principal executive office is located at 201 Jones Road, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451. Our telephone number is (781) 768-3400. Our website address is www.avedro.com. The information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus, and you should not consider any information contained on, or that can be accessed through, our website as part of this prospectus or in deciding whether to purchase our common stock.

The Avedro logo and the names Avedro ® , KXL ® , KXL II ® , PiXL , Lasik Xtra ® , Vibex , Vibex Xtra , Vibex Rapid , Photrexa , ParaCel ® , See Strong , The World Leader In Corneal Cross-Linking Science ® , The World Leader in Corneal Remodeling , CuRV , Boost Goggles™, Mosaic ® , ZXL , AK Xtra and KeraFlex ® and other registered or common law trademarks or service marks of Avedro, Inc. appearing in this prospectus are the property of Avedro, Inc. Solely for your convenience, trade names, trademarks and service marks contained in this prospectus may appear without the “ ® ” or “™” symbols. Such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we will not assert, to the fullest extent possible under applicable law, our rights or the rights of the applicable licensor to those trade names, trademarks and service marks.

Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company

We qualify as an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, or the JOBS Act. As an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of specified reduced disclosure and other requirements that are otherwise applicable generally to public companies. These provisions include:

 

   

being permitted to present in this prospectus only two years of audited financial statements, with correspondingly reduced disclosure in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations;”

 

   

reduced disclosure about the compensation paid to our executive officers;

 

   

not being required to submit to our stockholders advisory votes on executive compensation or golden parachute arrangements;

 

   

an exemption from the auditor attestation requirement in the assessment of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; and

 

   

an exemption from new or revised financial accounting standards until they would apply to private companies and from compliance with any new requirements adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board requiring mandatory audit firm rotation.

We may take advantage of these exemptions until we are no longer an emerging growth company. We would cease to be an emerging growth company on the date that is the earliest of (1) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenues of $1.07 billion or more; (2) the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the completion of this offering; (3) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during the previous three years; or (4) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC.

We have elected to take advantage of the extended transition period to comply with new or revised accounting standards and to adopt certain of the reduced disclosure requirements available to emerging growth companies. As a result of this election, we will not be subject to the same timing for implementing new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, which may make comparison of our financials to those of other public companies more difficult. We have also elected to



 

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adopt certain of the reduced disclosure requirements available to emerging growth companies. As a result of these elections, the information that we provide in this prospectus may be different than the information you may receive from other public companies in which you hold equity interests. In addition, it is possible that some investors will find our common stock less attractive as a result of these elections, which may result in a less active trading market for our common stock and higher volatility in our stock price.



 

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The Offering

 

Common stock offered by us

             shares.

 

Common stock to be outstanding after this offering

             shares (or              shares if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares).

 

Option to purchase additional shares

We have granted the underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to an additional              shares from us.

 

Use of proceeds

We estimate that we will receive net proceeds of approximately $             million (or approximately $             million if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares), after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We intend to use a portion of the net proceeds from this offering to fund the ongoing U.S. commercialization activities of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations and fund the ongoing development, regulatory and international commercialization activities of the latest-generation KXL system, the Mosaic system and their respective associated drug formulations. We intend to use the remainder of the net proceeds for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes. See “Use of Proceeds” for additional information.

 

Reserved share program

At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to five percent of the shares offered by this prospectus for sale to some of our directors, officers, employees, business associates and related persons. If these persons purchase reserved shares, this will reduce the number of shares available for sale to the general public. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares offered by this prospectus.

 

Risk factors

Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully read “Risk Factors” beginning on page 15 in this prospectus for a discussion of factors that you should consider before deciding to invest in our common stock.

 

Proposed Nasdaq Global Market symbol

“AVDR”


 

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The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after the closing of this offering is based on 53,651,366 shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and excludes:

 

   

11,153,162 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at a weighted-average exercise price of $0.64 per share;

 

   

2,844,500 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted subsequent to September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $2.86 per share, 2,498,000 of which were granted to our directors and executive officers and are exercisable subject to the completion of this offering;

 

   

774,446 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, which warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock upon completion of the offering;

 

   

128,868 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $0.01 per share;

 

   

30,910 shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2018, that will settle upon satisfaction of a time-based service condition that had not been satisfied as of September 30, 2018;

 

   

412,898 shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, or 2012 Plan, as of September 30, 2018, which reflects an amendment effected in January 2019 to increase the number of authorized shares under the 2012 Plan by 2,844,500 shares, all of which will cease to be available for future issuance immediately prior to the time that our 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, or 2019 Plan, becomes effective in connection with this offering;

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2019 Plan, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in our 2019 Plan that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2019 Plan; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or ESPP, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in the ESPP that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the ESPP.

Unless otherwise indicated, this prospectus reflects and assumes the following:

 

   

a one-for-             reverse stock split of our common stock to be effected prior to the closing of this offering;

 

   

the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering;

 

   

the issuance of 51,518 shares of our common stock upon the settlement of outstanding restricted stock units for which we expect the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of September 30, 2018;



 

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the automatic conversion of all warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock outstanding into warrants to purchase 774,446 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering;

 

   

the filing and effectiveness of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation in Delaware and the adoption of our amended and restated bylaws, each of which will occur immediately prior to the closing of this offering;

 

   

no exercise of the outstanding options and warrants or settlement of the outstanding restricted stock units referred to in the bullets above after September 30, 2018; and

 

   

no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares of our common stock.



 

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Summary Financial Data

The following tables set forth our summary financial data. We derived the summary statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017 from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. We derived the summary statement of operations data for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018 and the summary balance sheet data as of September 30, 2018 from our unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. We have prepared the unaudited financial statements on the same basis as the audited financial statements, and the unaudited financial data include, in our opinion, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, that we consider necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations for these periods. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future and results for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year or any other period.

When you read this summary financial data, it is important that you read it together with the historical financial statements and related notes to those statements, as well as the sections of this prospectus titled “Selected Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2016     2017     2017     2018  
     (in thousands, except share and per share data)  

Statement of Operations Data:

      

Revenue

   $ 14,910     $ 20,154     $ 15,645     $ 19,467  

Cost of goods sold

     7,144       9,850       7,157       8,223  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     7,766       10,304       8,488       11,244  

Operating expenses:

        

Selling, general and administrative

     12,640       18,991       14,009       18,995  

Research and development

     10,047       10,286       7,525       8,826  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     22,687       29,277       21,534       27,821  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (14,921     (18,973     (13,046     (16,577

Other (expense) income:

        

Interest income

     13       26       19       144  

Interest expense

     (1,365     (2,144     (1,525     (1,975

Other (expense) income, net

     (104     (186     (48     (302
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income, net

     (1,456     (2,304     (1,554     (2,133
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (16,377   $ (21,277   $ (14,600   $ (18,710
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per common share, basic and diluted (1)

   $ (3.26   $ (3.62   $ (2.50   $ (3.02
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted (1)

     5,025,155       5,872,202       5,828,582       6,203,348  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share, basic and diluted (1)

     $ (0.51)       $ (0.39)  
    

 

 

     

 

 

 

Pro forma weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted (1)

       41,933,984         48,142,064  
    

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

(1)

See Note 2 and Note 16 to our audited financial statements and Note 2 and Note 10 to our unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for an explanation of the method used to calculate our historical and pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share.



 

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     As of September 30, 2018  
     Actual     Pro Forma (1)      Pro Forma
As
Adjusted (2)(3)
 
     (in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

       

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 16,932     $         16,932      $                    

Working capital (4)

     19,843       19,843     

Total assets

     31,162       31,162     

Convertible preferred stock warrant liability

     636       —       

Total liabilities

     30,144       29,508     

Convertible preferred stock

     68,423       —       

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

     (67,405     1,654     

 

(1)

The pro forma balance sheet data give effect to (i) the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering; (ii) the settlement of 51,518 restricted stock units for which we expect the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of September 30, 2018 and (iii) the conversion of all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock into warrants to purchase 774,446 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering.

(2)

The pro forma as adjusted balance sheet data reflects (i) the pro forma items described immediately above and (ii) our sale of              shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

(3)

The pro forma as adjusted balance sheet data is illustrative only and will change based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, working capital, total assets and total stockholders’ deficit by $             million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Each increase or decrease of 1,000,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, working capital, total assets and total stockholders’ deficit by $             million, assuming no change in the assumed initial public offering price per share and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

(4)

We define working capital as current assets less current liabilities.



 

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RISK FACTORS

Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. Before deciding to invest in our common stock, you should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below, together with general economic and business risks and all of the other information contained in this prospectus, including our financial statements and the related notes and the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be harmed. In that event, the price of our common stock could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment. This prospectus also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of specific factors, including the risks described below. See “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry

We have incurred significant operating losses since our inception and anticipate that we will continue to incur significant operating losses for the foreseeable future and may never be profitable.

We have incurred net losses since our inception. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we had net losses of $16.4 million, $21.3 million and $18.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2018, we had an accumulated deficit of $175.7 million. To date, we have financed our operations primarily through sales of our preferred stock, debt financings and, more recently, sales of our proprietary Photrexa formulations and our KXL system. Historically, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to the research, development and engineering of our products and product candidates, seeking regulatory approval of our products and product candidates and the commercial launch of our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in the United States.

Following this offering, we expect that our operating expenses will increase substantially as we expand our research and development activities, product portfolio commercial infrastructure and incur additional operational costs associated with being a public company. As a result of the foregoing, we expect to continue to incur significant operating losses in the future and may never achieve profitability. We will need to generate significant additional net sales to achieve and maintain profitability, and even if we achieve profitability, we cannot be sure that we will remain profitable for any substantial period of time. Our failure to achieve or sustain profitability could have an adverse effect on the value of our common stock.

We rely on the sale of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations to generate revenue, and we are therefore highly dependent on a limited number of products.

At present, we primarily rely on the sale of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations to generate revenue, and we expect to generate substantially all of our revenue in the foreseeable future from sales of these and any related products. We expect that sales of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations will continue to account for the substantial majority of our revenue going forward. Therefore, our ability to execute our growth strategy and become profitable will depend upon continued increased adoption of corneal cross-linking for the treatment of corneal ectatic disorders, especially in the United States, and specifically on the adoption of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations. If our products fail to achieve wide market acceptance for any reason, our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects would be materially and adversely affected.

Our revenue from sales of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations is dependent upon the pricing and reimbursement guidelines adopted in the United States.

In the U.S. market, our ability to commercialize our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations successfully depends in significant part on the availability of insurance coverage and adequate

 

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reimbursement from private health insurers. Private payors decide which drugs can be reimbursed and establish reimbursement and co-pay levels and conditions for reimbursement. Private payors are increasingly challenging the prices charged for medical products and services and examining their cost effectiveness, in addition to their safety and efficacy.

If reimbursement for our products is unavailable, limited in scope or amount, or if pricing is set at unsatisfactory levels, our business will be materially harmed. Our financial success depends on our ability to price our products in a manner acceptable to relevant third party payors. Numerous factors that may be beyond our control may ultimately impact the pricing of our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations and determine whether healthcare providers are able to obtain reimbursement at adequate levels from third-party private payors. If there is no coverage or our products are not adequately reimbursed, we will experience reduced or stagnant sales, our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects would be materially and adversely affected, and we may not become profitable.

Healthcare providers and private payors use coding systems to identify diagnoses, procedures, services, products, pharmaceutical devices, equipment and other health-related items and services. Proper coding is an integral component to receiving appropriate reimbursement for our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations. The majority of third-party payors use nationally recognized code sets to report medical conditions, services and products. We were granted a Category III Current Procedural Terminology, or CPT, code for corneal cross-linking for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and received a product-specific J code from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, for our Photrexa formulations in November 2018. The J code became effective on January 1, 2019. Nevertheless, we cannot predict at this time how much physicians will be reimbursed for cross-linking treatments using our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations, and whether those physicians will consider such reimbursement adequate to utilize our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations more frequently. We have not signed a Medicaid Drug Rebate Agreement for our Photrexa formulations, and therefore, payment for the Photrexa formulations is not available under Medicare, and may not be available under some or all state Medicaid plans.

Further, increasing consolidation among third-party payors has led to fewer and larger third-party payors with increased negotiating power. We expect to continue to experience increasing pressure from third-party payors to agree to discounts, rebates or other restrictive pricing terms. If we are unsuccessful at ensuring reimbursement for our products in a timely manner and at acceptable levels, or if third party payors limit the indications for which our products will be reimbursed or refuse to provide reimbursement, demand for our products may be negatively impacted, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Additionally, there is no uniform policy of coverage and reimbursement for our products or procedures using our products among third-party payors in the United States, and coverage and reimbursement for our products and procedures using our products can differ significantly from payor to payor. Further, these payors regularly review new and existing technologies for possible coverage and can, without notice, deny or reverse coverage for new or existing products and treatments. Third-party payors may not consider our products to be medically necessary or cost-effective for certain indications or for all uses, and as a result, may not provide coverage for the products.

Our business also could be adversely affected if healthcare providers, including ophthalmologists, hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, are not adequately reimbursed for the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations on a basis satisfactory to these providers.

In addition, we may decide to participate in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Federal Supply Schedule, or FSS, pricing program, which would subject us to complex laws and regulations regarding price reporting and contracting obligations. Participation in the FSS pricing program would permit us to sell our Photrexa formulations to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, Public Health Service and Coast Guard, but those sales would be capped by a statutory ceiling price.

 

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We have a limited history marketing and selling the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in the United States.

We began marketing the KXL system in combination with its associated Photrexa formulations in the United States in September 2016, and we have a limited history marketing and selling the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in the United States.

In order to generate increased sales, we will need to expand the size and geographic scope of our direct field support team. As a result, our future success will depend largely on our ability to continue to hire, train, retain and motivate skilled local sales managers, direct sales representatives with technical knowledge of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations and field reimbursement specialists. Because of the competition for their services, we cannot assure you we will be able to hire and retain additional direct sales representatives or field reimbursement specialists on favorable or commercially reasonable terms, if at all. Failure to hire or retain qualified sales representatives and field reimbursement specialists would prevent us from expanding our business and generating sales. Additionally, new hires require training and take time before they achieve full productivity. If we fail to train new hires adequately, new hires may not become as productive as may be necessary to maintain or increase our sales.

The further expansion of our sales force will require significant additional investment and time. If we are unable to expand our sales and marketing capabilities, we may not be able to commercialize our products effectively in the United States, which would adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. Additionally, if we overestimate the size and growth of our user base, or their expected utilization of our product post-training, we could overspend on sales and marketing programs and infrastructure or suffer material diminishing returns on these investments. Because the KXL system in combination with its associated Photrexa formulations is the first and only corneal cross-linking product offering approved by the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, for progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, there are no specific commercial models of other companies that we can utilize to project our resource and investment needs. If we fail to forecast our commercial infrastructure needs correctly, over- or under-investing in market reach, acceptance and penetration, it could materially and adversely impact our financial operating results as we may not see sufficient net sales growth to become profitable.

While certain of our products are commercially available, these products, as well as products that we may be able to commercialize in the future under applicable regulatory regimes, may fail to achieve the degree of market acceptance necessary for commercial success.

We have received FDA approval for our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, and the KXL system, Mosaic system and their associated drug formulations are CE marked in the European Union and are approved in certain other countries outside of the United States. Outside of the United States, our systems are not regulated as a combination drug/device, and as such the KXL system and its associated drug formulations, as well as the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations, are separately CE marked. Although we have marketing authorizations for these products in these territories, these products, as well as products that we may be able to commercialize in the future under applicable regulatory regimes, may fail to achieve the degree of market acceptance by ophthalmologists and other eye care professionals necessary for commercial success. Additionally, market acceptance of our products and any product that we are able to commercialize in the future depends on a number of factors, including:

 

   

the timing of market introduction of the product as well as competitive products;

 

   

the clinical indications or intended use for which the product is approved, cleared or CE marked in each applicable jurisdiction;

 

   

the efficacy and safety of the product;

 

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the convenience and ease of administration to patients of the product;

 

   

the potential and perceived advantages of such product over alternative treatments;

 

   

the cost of treatment borne by individuals directly in relation to alternative treatments;

 

   

changes in the standard of care for the targeted indications for the product;

 

   

the willingness of patients to pay out-of-pocket in the absence of coverage and/or adequate reimbursement by third-party payors;

 

   

the prevalence and severity of adverse side effects, including limitations or warnings contained in a product’s approved labeling; and

 

   

the effectiveness of sales and marketing efforts by us and our distributors.

Ophthalmologists and referring optometrists play a significant role in determining the course of treatment and, ultimately, the type of products that will be used to treat a patient. As a result, it will be important for us to market our products to them effectively. Acceptance of our products depends on educating ophthalmologists as to the distinctive characteristics, perceived clinical benefits, safety and cost-effectiveness of our products as compared to existing vision correction applications and procedures, such as eyeglasses, rigid contact lenses, surgically implanted intracorneal ring segments, laser vision correction, such as laser in situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, and corneal transplants. It also depends on increasing awareness to referring optometrists of corneal cross-linking as a therapeutic treatment for corneal ectatic disorders, and training ophthalmologists in the proper application of our products. If we are not successful in increasing awareness to referring optometrists, convincing ophthalmologists of the merits of our products or educating them on the use of our products, they may not use our products and we will be unable to fully commercialize our products or our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects would be materially and adversely affected. Ophthalmologists may be hesitant to change their medical treatment practices for the following reasons, among others:

 

   

lack of experience with our products;

 

   

existing relationships with competitors and distributors that sell their products;

 

   

lack or perceived lack of evidence supporting additional patient benefits; and

 

   

perceived liability risks generally associated with the use of new products and procedures.

Even if a product displays a favorable safety profile and efficacy in preclinical studies and clinical trials and is approved by the relevant regulatory authorities on that basis, market acceptance of the product will not be known until after it is launched. In addition, we believe recommendations and support of our products by influential ophthalmologists are important for market acceptance and adoption. If we do not receive support from such ophthalmologists or long-term data does not show the benefits of using our products, ophthalmologists may not use our products, and our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects would be materially and adversely affected. In such circumstances, we may not be able to grow our revenue or achieve profitability.

We rely on contract manufacturing organizations, or CMOs, to manufacture and supply certain components of our technology platform and to supply our formulations of riboflavin, some of which are single-source suppliers.

We currently manufacture the KXL and Mosaic systems at our manufacturing headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts. We also rely upon third-party CMOs to manufacture our drug formulations and other

 

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third parties to supply off-the-shelf and custom components for our devices, such as molded plastic components, machine parts and circuit boards. In addition, we currently have an exclusive supply agreement with Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH, or Medio-Haus, to manufacture our drug formulations that are available outside of the United States for use with our KXL and Mosaic systems. We have also entered into manufacturing, supply or quality agreements with single-source suppliers pursuant to which they supply to us the active pharmaceutical ingredient, or API, we use for our Photrexa formulations. We currently rely on Albany Molecular Research Inc., or AMRI, to manufacture and provide us with clinical supply of our API. The API is exclusively manufactured for us by AMRI and then the API is transferred to Ajinomoto Althea for production of our Photrexa formulations.

If we and any of our suppliers cannot agree in the future to the terms and conditions for provision of the products necessary for our clinical and commercial supply needs, or if any of our suppliers terminate their agreements in response to a breach by us or otherwise become unable to fulfill their supply obligations, our ability to market and sell products and to conduct clinical trials could be delayed until a qualified alternative supplier is identified, the manufacturing process is qualified and validated and we have agreed on the terms and conditions for such alternative supplier to supply product for us, which would delay the development and impair the commercialization of our products. New suppliers of any products would be required to qualify under applicable regulatory requirements. Obtaining the necessary FDA, EU or other regulatory approvals or other qualifications required for changes in manufacturing sites, methods or processes under applicable regulatory requirements could result in a significant interruption of supply and could require the new manufacturer to bear significant additional costs which may be passed on to us.

Our proprietary Photrexa formulations are regulated by the FDA as the drug component of a combination drug/device product. We are required to manufacture both our proprietary drug formulations, Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous, and their API in accordance with the FDA’s current good manufacturing practice regulations guidance and standards, or collectively, cGMPs, as well as in accordance with the drug product specifications approved by the FDA in the United States. The manufacture of pharmaceutical products in compliance with cGMP requires significant expertise and capital investment, including the development of advanced manufacturing techniques and process controls. Our Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous API is not available in pharmaceutical quality as a catalog product. Manufacturers of our current or future products may be unable to comply with these cGMP requirements and with other FDA, state and foreign regulatory requirements. The FDA or similar foreign regulatory agencies may also implement new regulations, guidance or standards at any time, or change their interpretation and enforcement of existing standards for manufacture, packaging, or testing of products. A failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines and civil penalties, suspension of production, suspension, or delay in product approval, product seizure, or recall or withdrawal of product approval. If the safety of any product supplied is compromised due to our manufacturers’ failure to adhere to applicable laws, regulations, guidance or standards or for other reasons, we may not be able to obtain regulatory approval for or successfully commercialize our products and we may be held liable for any injuries sustained as a result.

Manufacturers of pharmaceutical products often encounter difficulties in production, including difficulties with production costs and yields, quality control, including stability of the product and quality assurance testing, shortages of qualified personnel, as well as compliance with strictly enforced cGMP requirements, other federal, state and foreign regulatory requirements. If our manufacturers were to encounter any of these difficulties or otherwise fail to comply with their obligations to us or under applicable regulations, guidance or standards, our ability to provide commercial product or study drugs in our clinical trials would be jeopardized. Any delay or interruption in the supply of clinical trial materials could delay the completion of our clinical trials, increase the costs associated with maintaining our clinical trial programs, and, depending upon the period of delay, require us to commence new trials at significant additional expense or terminate the trials completely.

 

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If we or our suppliers fail to comply with the FDA’s Quality System Regulation, or QSR, cGMPs, ISO Quality Management Systems, or equivalent standards, manufacturing of our products could be negatively impacted and sales of our products could suffer.

The methods used by, and the facilities of, our CMOs, and our manufacturing practices in the United States, to the extent we continue to manufacture our products in the future, must be in compliance with the FDA’s applicable QSR and cGMPs. We and our CMOs are also subject to similar state and foreign requirements and licenses in third countries, including the Medical Devices Directive, the ISO 13485 Quality Management Systems, or QMS, standard or equivalent standards applicable to medical devices. In addition, we and our CMOs must engage in regulatory reporting in the case of potential patient safety risks and are subject to market surveillance activities and periodic unannounced inspections and/or audits of our facilities, procedures, and records by governmental agencies, including the FDA, state authorities, comparable foreign agencies and notified bodies. If we or our CMOs fail to comply with the applicable cGMPs, the QSR, QMS or other applicable regulations and standards, our operations could be disrupted and our manufacturing interrupted, and we may be subject to enforcement actions if our corrective and preventive actions are not adequate to ensure compliance. Further, if our current CMOs fail to comply with the applicable cGMPs, the QSR, QMS or other applicable regulations and standards, we may be required to contract with alternate CMOs, which may result in substantial delays in our manufacturing processes and increases in our manufacturing costs, and which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Failure to take adequate corrective action in response to inspectional observations or any notice of deficiencies from a regulatory inspection or audit could result in partial or total shut-down of our or our CMO’s manufacturing operations unless and until adequate corrections are implemented, voluntary or FDA-ordered recall, or equivalent third country authority recall, FDA or equivalent third country authority seizure of affected devices, court-ordered injunction or consent decree that could impose additional regulatory oversight and significant requirements and limitations on our manufacturing operations, significant fines, suspension or withdrawal of marketing clearances and approvals, suspension, variation or withdrawal of EC Certificates of Conformity, and criminal prosecutions, any of which would cause our business to suffer. Furthermore, our key component suppliers may not currently be or may not continue to be in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, which may result in manufacturing delays for our products and cause our revenue to decline.

The FDA and other foreign regulatory authorities also may, at any time following approval of a product for sale, audit our manufacturing facilities or those of our CMOs. If any such inspection or audit identifies a failure to comply with applicable regulations or if a violation of our product specifications or applicable regulations occurs independent of such an inspection or audit, we or the relevant regulatory authority may require remedial measures that may be costly and/or time-consuming for us or a third party to implement and that may include the temporary or permanent suspension of a clinical study or commercial sales or the temporary or permanent closure of a facility. Any such remedial measures imposed upon us or third parties with whom we contract could materially harm our business. If we or any of our third-party manufacturers fail to maintain regulatory compliance, the FDA can impose regulatory sanctions including, among other things, refusal to approve a pending application for a new drug product, or revocation of a pre-existing approval. As a result, our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected. Additionally, if supply from one approved manufacturer is interrupted, there could be a significant disruption in commercial supply.

We rely, and in the future expect to rely, on a network of third-party distributors to market and distribute our products internationally, and if we are unable to maintain and expand this network, we may be unable to generate anticipated sales.

We rely on distributors for all of our sales outside the United States and do not have direct control over foreign sales activities. Our revenue outside the United States represented 42.6%, 46.2% and 32.9% of our revenues in the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017 and the nine months ended September 30, 2018,

 

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respectively, and we intend to continue our efforts to increase our sales in the European Union, the Middle East, China, South Korea and Japan and other markets outside of the United States. The agreements with our existing distributors typically have a term of 24 months and require the distributor to sell a minimum quantity of products during the course of the contract. However, if our existing international distributors fail to sell our products or sell at lower levels than we anticipate, we could experience a decline in revenue or fail to meet our forecasts.

We may also face significant challenges and risks in managing a geographically dispersed distribution network. We have limited ability to control any third-party distributors. Our distributors may be unable to successfully market and sell our products and may not devote sufficient time and resources to support the marketing, sales, education and training efforts that we believe enable the products to develop, achieve or sustain market acceptance. Additionally, in some international jurisdictions, we rely on our distributors to manage the regulatory process, while complying with all applicable rules and regulations, and we are dependent on their ability to do so effectively. If a dispute arises with a distributor or if a distributor is terminated by us or goes out of business, it may take time to locate an alternative distributor, to seek appropriate regulatory approvals and to train new personnel to market our products, and our ability to sell those systems in the region formerly serviced by such terminated distributor could be harmed. Any of these factors could reduce our revenue from affected markets, increase our costs in those markets or damage our reputation. In addition, if an independent distributor were to depart and be retained by one of our competitors, we may be unable to prevent that distributor from helping competitors solicit business from our existing customers, which could further adversely affect our sales. As a result of our reliance on third-party distributors outside the United States, we may be subject to disruptions and increased costs due to factors beyond our control, including labor strikes, third-party error and other issues. If the services of any of these third-party distributors become unsatisfactory, we may experience delays in meeting our customers’ demands and we may be unable to find a suitable replacement on a timely basis or on commercially reasonable terms. Any failure to deliver products in a timely manner may damage our reputation and could cause us to lose potential customers.

Our long-term growth depends in part on our ability to develop and commercialize additional products.

It is important to our business that we continue to enhance our product offerings and commercialize new products. Developing products is expensive and time-consuming and could divert management’s attention away from our current commercial products. Even if we are successful in developing additional products, the success of any new product offering or enhancements to existing products will depend on several factors, including our ability to:

 

   

properly identify and anticipate physician and patient needs;

 

   

develop and introduce new products or product enhancements in a timely manner;

 

   

avoid infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties;

 

   

demonstrate, if required, the safety and efficacy of new products with data from preclinical studies and clinical trials;

 

   

obtain the necessary regulatory clearances or approvals for new products or product enhancements;

 

   

for products to be marketed in the United States, be fully FDA-compliant with marketing of new drugs, devices, drug/device combination products or modified versions of such products;

 

   

provide adequate training to potential users of our products;

 

   

receive adequate coverage and reimbursement for procedures performed with our products; and

 

   

develop an effective and dedicated sales and marketing team.

 

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If we are unsuccessful in developing and commercializing new products, our ability to increase our revenue may be impaired.

We operate in a very competitive industry and we may fail to compete successfully against our existing or potential competitors, many of whom have greater resources than we have.

Our industry is highly competitive and subject to rapid and significant change. For the treatment of progressive keratoconus, we currently compete with available disease management options, including eyeglasses, rigid contact lenses and corneal transplants, which is an invasive, end-stage definitive-care solution. We face potential competition from pharmaceutical, medical device and biotechnology companies, including academic institutions, government agencies and research institutions. For example, in the U.S. corneal ectatic disorders market, we are aware that some providers who are not currently our customers are promoting corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus and we believe these providers are primarily using products from CXLUSA or PeschkeTrade GmBH, a Swiss corporation. In addition, iVeena Delivery Systems is currently in preclinical development for a twice-daily eye drop for the treatment of keratoconus, and for which iVeena has received orphan drug designation. Outside the United States, our primary competitors in the corneal ectatic disorder market offer for sale devices and drug product for corneal cross-linking procedures, including PeschkeTrade, EMAGine, IROS, LIGHTMED Corporation, NVILaser, SERVImed, SOOFT italia S.p.A. and Appasamy Associates. Several of these companies offer lower-cost solutions for corneal cross-linking.

Our initial clinical focus in the vision correction market is on the treatment of patients with presbyopia. Our primary competitors in this market are mainly competitors that are developing corneal inlay surgical solutions for presbyopia, such as Presbia, LLC, which is in the process of obtaining FDA approval for a proprietary optical lens implant for treating presbyopia, Allotex Inc., which is developing shaped human corneal grafts for inlay, Gebauer Medizintechnik GmbH, which offers an inlay procedure outside of the United States using human donor tissue, and Novartis International AG, which is developing a drug to permanently soften the lens for presbyopia. For other vision correction applications, we currently compete with available options for disease management, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, surgically implanted intracorneal ring segments and laser vision correction, such as LASIK, as well as corneal transplants. Other competitors developing non-surgical treatment options for presbyopia include Allergan plc, Presbyopia Therapies, LLC, Clerio Vision, Inc. and TECLens, LLC. We expect that any such treatment options that are successfully developed could eventually be available both within and outside the United States. Consolidations and mergers and acquisitions in the pharmaceutical, medical device and biotechnology industries may result in even more resources being concentrated among a smaller number of our competitors. Our commercial opportunity could be reduced or eliminated if our competitors develop or market products or other novel therapies that are more effective, safer or less costly than our current or future products, or obtain regulatory approval for their products more rapidly than we may obtain approval for our products. Our success will also be based in part on our ability to identify, develop and manage a portfolio of products that are safer and more effective than competing therapies for corneal ectasia and refractive conditions.

These competitors may also enjoy several competitive advantages over us, including:

 

   

greater financial and human resources for sales and marketing, managed care and reimbursement, medical affairs and product development;

 

   

established relationships with healthcare providers;

 

   

established reputation and name recognition among healthcare providers and other key opinion leaders in our industry;

 

   

in some cases, an established base of long-time customers;

 

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products supported by a large volume of short-term and long-term clinical data;

 

   

products that are more cost-effective for clinicians and patients;

 

   

larger and more established distribution networks;

 

   

greater ability to cross-sell products or provide incentives to healthcare providers to use their products; and

 

   

more experience in conducting research, development and engineering activities, manufacturing, clinical trials, and obtaining regulatory approval.

For these and other reasons, we may not be able to compete successfully against our current or potential future competitors. As a result, we may fail to meet our strategic objectives and forecasted budget and our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

The FDA granted us orphan drug designations for the use of riboflavin and ultraviolet A, or UVA, irradiation for the treatment of keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. After FDA approval, Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous were also granted seven years of orphan exclusivity from the date of approval based on this orphan drug designation, during which period the FDA generally may not approve any other application to market the same drug for the same indication. However, the FDA is not blocked from approving applications for the same drug for a different indication, or a different drug for the same indication. The FDA may also approve an application for the same drug for the same indication upon a showing of the new product’s clinical superiority over our Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous products.

We may encounter difficulties in managing our growth, which could disrupt our operations.

As of September 30, 2018, we had 122 employees. Over the next several years, we expect to increase significantly the number of our employees and the scope of our operations, particularly in the areas of drug development, regulatory affairs, sales, marketing and reimbursement and other functional areas, including finance, accounting, quality and legal. To manage our anticipated future growth, we must continue to implement and improve our managerial, operational quality and financial systems, expand our facilities and continue to recruit and train additional qualified personnel. Due to our limited financial resources and the limited experience of our management team in managing a company with such anticipated growth, we may not be able to manage the expansion of our operations or recruit and train additional qualified personnel in an effective manner. The physical expansion of our operations may lead to significant costs and may divert our management and business development resources. Any inability to manage growth could delay the execution of our business plans or disrupt our operations.

There may be significant disruptions in our information technology systems, and confidential information, including non-public personal information that we maintain, could be improperly disclosed.

The efficient operation of our business depends on our information technology systems. We are required by EU data privacy rules to ensure that we have established appropriate systems and procedures to ensure that personal data that we hold is appropriately protected. We rely on our information technology systems to effectively manage sales and marketing data, accounting and financial functions, quality functions, inventory management, product development tasks, research, development and engineering data, and technical support functions. Our information technology systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from earthquakes, fires, floods and other natural disasters, terrorist attacks, cyberattacks by computer viruses or hackers, power losses, and computer system or data network failures.

The U.S. federal and various state and foreign governments have adopted or proposed requirements regarding the collection, distribution, use, security and storage of personally identifiable information and other

 

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data relating to individuals, and federal and state consumer protection laws are being applied to enforce regulations related to the collection, use, and dissemination of data. Some of these federal, state and foreign government requirements include obligations of companies to notify individuals of security breaches involving particular personally identifiable information, which could result from breaches experienced by us or by our vendors, contractors, or organizations with which we have formed strategic relationships. In particular, under EU data privacy rules, we are required to enter into appropriate data processing agreements with our third-party service providers to ensure that personal data that we hold is appropriately protected. The failure of our, or our service providers’, information technology systems to perform as we anticipate or our failure to effectively implement new information technology systems, could disrupt our operations and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects. Our failure or the failure of our service providers to comply with applicable cybersecurity or privacy law may subject us to significant fines, penalties or liabilities for any noncompliance to certain privacy and security laws.

Product liability lawsuits against us could cause us to incur substantial liabilities and to limit commercialization of any products that we may develop.

We face an inherent risk of product liability exposure related to the testing of our products in human clinical trials and the sale of our current and any future products that we may develop. If we cannot successfully defend ourselves against claims that our current or future products caused injuries, we will incur substantial liabilities. Regardless of merit or eventual outcome, liability claims may result in:

 

   

decreased demand for any product or products that we may develop;

 

   

injury to our reputation and significant negative media attention;

 

   

withdrawal of patients from clinical trials or cancellation of trials;

 

   

significant costs to defend the related litigation;

 

   

loss of revenues or failure to increase revenue; and

 

   

the inability to successfully commercialize any products that we may develop.

Physicians may also misuse our products or use improper techniques if they are not adequately trained, potentially leading to injury and an increased risk of product liability. If our products are misused or used with improper technique, we may become subject to costly litigation by our customers or their patients. Product liability claims could divert management’s attention from our core business, be expensive to defend and result in sizable damage awards against us that may not be covered by insurance. Any of these events could materially and adversely harm our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects and cause our stock price to decline.

We currently have $10.0 million in product liability insurance coverage for our clinical trials and marketed products, which may not be adequate to cover all liabilities that we may incur. Insurance coverage is increasingly expensive. We may not be able to maintain insurance coverage at a reasonable cost or in an amount adequate to satisfy any liability that may arise.

Software and hardware defects may be discovered in our current or future products, which could harm our reputation and reduce our revenue.

Software and hardware incorporated into our current or future products may contain errors or defects, especially when first introduced. For example, our KXL and Mosaic systems incorporate our proprietary computer software. While we have made efforts to test this software and hardware extensively, we cannot assure you that this software and hardware, or software and hardware developed in the future, will not experience errors or performance problems. Because our current and future products may be designed to be used to perform

 

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complex medical procedures, we expect that our customers will have an increased sensitivity to such defects. If we experience software or hardware errors or performance problems in our approved products, we may also experience:

 

   

loss of revenue or failure to increase revenue;

 

   

delay in market acceptance of our approved products and reduced demand for any future products;

 

   

damage to our reputation;

 

   

additional regulatory filings;

 

   

product recalls;

 

   

suspension, variation, or withdrawal of EC Certificates of Conformity or delay in obtaining new EC Certificates of Conformity;

 

   

increased service costs; and

 

   

product liability claims.

We operate primarily at facilities in three locations, and any disruption at any of these facilities could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Our principal offices are located in Waltham, Massachusetts, and our manufacturing operations are located in Burlington, Massachusetts. We distribute and perform limited manufacturing outside of the United States at our site in Dublin, Ireland. Substantially all of our operations are conducted at these locations, including our manufacturing processes, research, development and engineering activities, customer and technical support and management and administrative functions. In addition, substantially all of our inventory of component supplies and finished goods is held at these locations. Vandalism, terrorism or a natural or other disaster, such as an earthquake, fire or flood, at these or any of our other facilities could damage or destroy our manufacturing equipment or our inventory of component supplies or finished goods, cause substantial delays in our operations, result in the loss of key information and cause us to incur additional expenses.

We take precautions to safeguard these facilities, as well as all of our other facilities, including acquiring insurance, adopting health and safety protocols, and utilizing off-site storage of computer data. However, such measures may not prove to be adequate or our insurance may not cover our losses in any particular case. In addition, regardless of the level of insurance coverage, damage to our facilities may have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

The size of the market for products developed using our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform has not been established with precision, and may be smaller than we estimate.

Our estimate of the potential annual total addressable market for products developed using our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform, assuming we obtain approvals for the additional products and indications that are currently under development, is based on a number of internal and third-party estimates, including, without limitation, keratoconus peer-reviewed disease prevalence and incidence publications, the number of LASIK procedures performed in the United States as compared to the total number of low myopes, the number of presbyopia-correcting surgeries performed globally, and our internal estimates based on our commercialization experience in regions like the United Kingdom. While we believe these factors have historically provided and may continue to provide us with effective tools in estimating the potential total market for corneal cross-linking procedures and our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform, these estimates may not be correct and the conditions supporting our estimates may change at any time, thereby reducing the predictive accuracy of these underlying

 

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factors. As a result, our estimates of the total addressable market for our products may prove to be incorrect. If the actual number of patients who would benefit from our products and the total addressable market for our products is smaller than we have estimated, it may impair our sales growth and may have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our international operations expose us to risks associated with doing business outside of the United States.

The sale and shipment of our products and services across international borders, as well as the purchase of components from international sources, subject us to extensive foreign governmental trade regulations. Compliance with such regulations is costly. Any failure to comply with applicable legal and regulatory obligations, including obligations related to EU data privacy, could impact us in a variety of ways that include, but are not limited to, significant criminal, civil and administrative penalties, including imprisonment of individuals, fines and penalties, denial of export privileges, seizure of shipments and restrictions on certain business activities. Failure to comply with applicable legal and regulatory obligations could result in the disruption of our shipping and sales activities. In addition, if our third-party distributors fail to comply with these laws and regulations in their dealings, we could face potential liability or penalties for violations.

Our international business operations may expose us and our representatives, agents, distributors, and strategic collaborators to risks inherent in operating in foreign jurisdictions, including:

 

   

our ability, and the ability of our distributors, to obtain, and the costs associated with obtaining, export licenses, and other required export or import licenses or approvals;

 

   

operating under government-run healthcare systems and differing and multiple third-party reimbursement policies;

 

   

duties and tariffs, taxes, trade restrictions, license obligations, and other non-tariff barriers to trade;

 

   

changes in currency exchange rates;

 

   

burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws and regulations related to healthcare products;

 

   

costs of localizing product and service offerings for foreign markets;

 

   

laws or business practices favoring local companies;

 

   

longer payment cycles and difficulties collecting receivables through foreign legal systems;

 

   

difficulties in enforcing or defending agreements and intellectual property rights; and

 

   

changes in foreign political or economic conditions.

We cannot ensure that one or more of these factors will not harm our business. Any material decrease in our international revenues or inability to expand our international operations would adversely our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

If we fail to comply with U.S. export control and economic sanctions, our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

We are subject to U.S. export control and economic sanctions laws relating to the sale of our products, the violation of which could result in substantial penalties being imposed against us. We do not conduct business in Cuba, North Korea, Syria or Crimea, which are subject to U.S. comprehensive sanctions, or Sudan, which is

 

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subject to heightened U.S. export controls. We rely on general licenses issued by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control to sell our products to Tavana Abzar Parto in Iran and receive payment. The use of the general licenses requires us to observe strict conditions with respect to products sold, end-user limitations and payment requirements. Although we believe we have maintained compliance with general license requirements and U.S. trade economic sanctions and export control regulations generally, there can be no assurance that the license will not be revoked or be renewed in the future, or that a compliance exception will not occur. More broadly, these laws and requirements are subject to change and if we fail to comply with current or future applicable export control or economic sanctions laws and requirements, the U.S. government could impose penalties, our sales could fail to grow or could decline, and our ability to grow our business could be adversely affected.

We depend on the knowledge and skills of our senior management and other key employees and if we are unable to retain and motivate them or recruit additional qualified personnel, our business may suffer.

We are highly dependent on members of our management team, including Reza Zadno, our Chief Executive Officer, the loss of whose services may adversely impact the achievement of our objectives. Our success will depend on our ability to retain our management team and other key employees, and to attract and retain qualified personnel in the future. Competition for senior management and key employees in our industry is intense and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to retain our current personnel or attract new, qualified personnel. The loss of the services of certain members of our senior management or key employees could prevent or delay the implementation and completion of our strategic objectives, or divert management’s attention to seeking qualified replacements. We do not maintain key man life insurance on any of our senior management or key employees. Each of our executive officers may terminate employment without notice and without cause or good reason.

We may enter into strategic collaborations, in-licensing arrangements or alliances with third parties that may not result in the development of commercially viable products or the generation of significant future revenues.

In the ordinary course of our business, we may enter into strategic collaborations, in-licensing arrangements or alliances to develop products and to pursue new markets. Proposing, negotiating and implementing strategic collaborations, in-licensing arrangements or alliances may be a lengthy and complex process. Other companies, including those with substantially greater financial, marketing, sales, technology or other business resources, may compete with us for these opportunities or arrangements. We may not identify, secure or complete any such transactions or arrangements in a timely manner, on a cost-effective basis, on acceptable terms, or at all. We have limited institutional knowledge and experience with respect to these business development activities, and we may also not realize the anticipated benefits of any such transaction or arrangement. In particular, these collaborations may not result in the development of products that achieve commercial success or result in significant revenues and could be terminated prior to developing any products.

Additionally, we may not be in a position to exercise sole decision-making authority regarding the transaction or arrangement, which could create the potential risk of creating impasses on decisions, and our collaborators may have economic or business interests or goals that are, or that may become, inconsistent with our business interests or goals. We have limited control over the amount and timing of resources that our current collaborators or any future collaborators devote to our collaborators’ or our future products. Disputes between us and our collaborators may result in litigation or arbitration which would increase our expenses and divert the attention of our management. Further, these transactions and arrangements would be contractual in nature and it is possible they could be terminated or dissolved under the terms of the applicable agreements.

We may seek to grow our business through strategic acquisitions and the failure to manage acquisitions, or the failure to integrate them with our existing business, could prevent us from realizing their anticipated benefits or otherwise have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

We have acquired products and technologies and, from time to time, we may consider opportunities to acquire other products, product candidates or technologies that may enhance our product platform or technology,

 

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expand the breadth of our markets or customer base or advance our business strategies. For example, in August 2014, we acquired the assets of IROC InnoCross, the first company to commercialize corneal cross-linking. We may not realize the anticipated benefits, or any benefits, from future acquisitions. In addition, if we finance acquisitions by issuing equity or convertible or other debt securities, our existing stockholders may be diluted or we could face constraints related to the repayment of indebtedness, which could adversely affect the market value of our common stock. Any debt financing that we secure in the future could involve restrictive covenants, which may make it more difficult for us to pursue business opportunities or otherwise operate our business in the ordinary course. Further, if we fail to evaluate and execute acquisitions or investments properly, our business and prospects may be seriously harmed and the value of your investment may decline. For us to realize the benefits of past and future acquisitions, we must successfully integrate the acquired businesses, products, or technologies with ours, which may take time. Some of the challenges to successful integration of acquisitions may include:

 

   

problems assimilating the acquired products or technologies;

 

   

issues maintaining uniform standards, procedures, controls, and policies;

 

   

unanticipated costs associated with acquisitions;

 

   

diversion of management’s attention from our existing business;

 

   

delays by our CMOs to produce and deliver sufficient supply; and

 

   

increased legal and accounting costs relating to the acquisitions or compliance with regulatory matters.

We have no current commitments with respect to any acquisition. We do not know if we will be able to identify acquisitions we deem suitable, whether we will be able to successfully complete any such acquisitions on favorable terms or at all, or whether we will be able to successfully integrate any acquired products or technologies. Our potential inability to integrate any acquired products or technologies effectively may have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Risks Related to Our Capital Requirements and Finances

Our independent registered public accounting firm has expressed substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

Our report from our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2017 includes an explanatory paragraph stating that our accumulated deficit and negative cash flows from operating activities raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. If we are unable to obtain sufficient funding, our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected, and we may be unable to continue as a going concern. If we are unable to continue as a going concern, we may have to liquidate our assets and may receive less than the value at which those assets are carried on our audited financial statements, and it is likely that investors will lose all or a part of their investment. After this offering, future reports from our independent registered public accounting firm may also contain statements expressing substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. If we seek additional financing to fund our business activities in the future and there remains substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, investors or other financing sources may be unwilling to provide additional funding on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

Our future capital needs are uncertain and we may need to raise additional funds in the future, and these funds may not be available on acceptable terms or at all.

At September 30, 2018, we had $16.9 million in cash and cash equivalents. We believe that our available cash and cash equivalents and anticipated net proceeds from this offering will be sufficient to satisfy

 

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our liquidity requirements for at least the next twelve months. However, the continued investment in and growth of our business, including the expansion of our sales and marketing infrastructure, research, development and engineering activities and manufacturing capabilities, will significantly increase our expenses, and we could spend our available financial resources faster than we currently expect. Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including:

 

   

the revenue generated by sales of our KXL system, Mosaic system and all of our proprietary drug formulations and any other future products that we may develop and commercialize;

 

   

the costs associated with expanding our sales and marketing infrastructure;

 

   

the expenses we incur in maintaining our manufacturing facility and adding further manufacturing equipment and capacity;

 

   

the costs associated with developing and commercializing our proposed products or technologies;

 

   

the costs of obtaining and maintaining regulatory clearance or approval for our current or future products;

 

   

the costs of ongoing compliance and regulatory requirements;

 

   

expenses we incur in connection with potential litigation or governmental investigations;

 

   

anticipated or unanticipated capital expenditures;

 

   

the costs of operating as a public company; and

 

   

unanticipated general and administrative expenses.

As a result of these and other factors, we do not know whether and the extent to which we may be required to raise additional capital. We may in the future seek additional capital from public or private offerings of our equity or debt securities, borrowings under credit lines or other sources. If we issue equity or debt securities to raise additional funds, our existing stockholders may experience dilution, and the new equity or debt securities may have rights, preferences, and privileges senior to those of our existing stockholders. In addition, if we raise additional funds through collaborations, licensing, joint ventures, strategic alliances, partnership arrangements or other similar arrangements, it may be necessary to relinquish valuable rights to our potential future products or proprietary technologies, or grant licenses on terms that are not favorable to us.

If we are unable to raise additional capital, we may not be able to expand our sales and marketing infrastructure, enhance our current products or develop new products, take advantage of future opportunities or respond to competitive pressures, changes in supplier relationships or unanticipated changes in customer demand. Any of these events could adversely affect our ability to achieve our strategic objectives, which could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our operating results may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter.

Although we have a limited operating history, there has been and there may continue to be meaningful variability in our operating results among quarters, as well as within each quarter. Our operating results, and the variability of these operating results, may be affected by numerous factors, including:

 

   

our ability to increase sales of our products and to commercialize and sell our future products, if any, and the number of our products sold in each quarter;

 

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the pricing of our products and competitive products;

 

   

our ability to maintain and grow an effective sales and marketing infrastructure;

 

   

the amount of, and the timing of the payment for, insurance deductibles required to be paid by patients and potential patients under their existing insurance plans, if and when applicable to our products;

 

   

the expiration of our drug formulation supply, or interruption in the manufacturing or distribution of our products;

 

   

factors affecting the timing of purchases of our products;

 

   

the buying patterns of our distributors;

 

   

timing of new product offerings, acquisitions, licenses or other significant events by us or our competitors;

 

   

results of clinical research and trials on our existing and future products;

 

   

the ability of our suppliers to timely provide us with an adequate supply of components that meet our requirements;

 

   

regulatory clearance or approvals affecting our products or those of our competitors;

 

   

changes in healthcare rules, coverage, and reimbursement by third party payors; and

 

   

the timing of revenue recognition associated with our product sales pursuant to applicable accounting standards.

As a result of our limited operating history, and due to the complexities of the industry in which we operate, it will be difficult for us to forecast demand for our current or future products with any degree of certainty, which means it will be difficult for us to forecast our sales. In addition, we will be significantly increasing our operating expenses as we expand our business. Accordingly, we may experience substantial variability in our operating results from quarter to quarter, including unanticipated or greater than expected quarterly losses. If our quarterly or annual operating results fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts, the price of our common stock could decline substantially. Further, any quarterly or annual fluctuations in our operating results may, in turn, cause the price of our common stock to fluctuate substantially. We believe that quarterly comparisons of our financial results are not necessarily meaningful and should not be relied upon as an indication of our future performance.

The terms of our credit agreement require us to meet certain operating covenants and place restrictions on our operating and financial flexibility. If we raise additional capital through debt financing, the terms of any new debt could further restrict our ability to operate our business.

We have a credit agreement with OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP, or OrbiMed, that is secured by a lien covering all of our assets, including our intellectual property. As of September 30, 2018, the outstanding principal balance of the loan was $20.0 million. The credit agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. Affirmative covenants include, among others, covenants requiring us to deliver certain financial reports and provide access to our books and records. Negative covenants include, among others, restrictions on change in control transactions, transferring any part of our business or property outside of the ordinary course of business, changing our business, incurring additional indebtedness, engaging in mergers or

 

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acquisitions, paying dividends or making other distributions, making investments, entering into certain transactions with affiliates and creating other liens on our assets and other financial covenants, in each case subject to customary exceptions. If we default under the terms of the credit agreement, including failure to satisfy our operating covenants, OrbiMed may accelerate all of our repayment obligations and take control of our pledged assets, including our intellectual property, potentially requiring us to renegotiate our agreement on terms less favorable to us or to immediately cease operations. Further, if we are liquidated, the lender’s right to repayment would be senior to the rights of the holders of our common stock. OrbiMed could declare a default upon the occurrence of any event that they interpret as a material adverse effect as defined under the credit agreement. Any declaration by OrbiMed of an event of default could significantly harm our business and prospects and could cause the price of our common stock to decline. If we raise any additional debt financing, the terms of such additional debt could further restrict our operating and financial flexibility.

Prolonged negative economic conditions could adversely affect us, our customers and suppliers, which could harm our financial condition.

We are subject to the risks arising from adverse changes in general economic and market conditions. The global economy continues to experience market volatility and the uncertainty about future economic conditions could negatively impact our existing and potential customers and patients’ ability or willingness to pay out-of-pocket costs for the treatment and adversely impact our expenses and ability to obtain financing for our operations, and cause delays or other problems with key suppliers.

Healthcare spending in the United States has been, and is expected to continue to be, negatively affected by the continuing economic uncertainty. For example, patients who have lost their jobs and patients reducing their overall spending may eliminate healthcare-related purchases. A decline in economic conditions could result in a decline in the number of procedures performed with our products and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, and results of operations.

We may be prohibited from fully using our net operating loss carryforwards and research and development carryforwards, which could affect our financial performance.

As of December 31, 2017, we had U.S. federal and state net operating loss, or NOL, carryforwards of approximately $125.3 million and $75.7 million, respectively. Our U.S. federal NOL carryforwards begin to expire in 2037, and the state NOL carryforwards begin to expire in 2037. In addition, we have federal and state research and development, or R&D, tax credits of $15.9 million and $2.2 million as of December 31, 2017, respectively, available to offset future federal and state income taxes, which begin to expire in 2037 and 2032, respectively. Our ability to use these NOL and R&D credit carryforwards is subject to restrictions, including those contained in the Internal Revenue Code, which provide for limitations on our utilization of our NOL carryforwards and R&D credit carryforwards following a cumulative ownership change greater than 50% during the prescribed testing period. We believe that we have experienced such ownership changes and may experience another such ownership change in connection with this offering. As a result, our NOL carryforwards and R&D credit carryforwards that relate to periods prior to any such ownership changes are limited in utilization. The annual limitation may result in the expiration of these carryforwards prior to utilization. In addition, in order to realize the future tax benefits of our NOL carryforwards and R&D credit carryforwards, we must generate taxable income, of which there is no assurance. Accordingly, we have provided a full valuation allowance for deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2017.

The recently passed comprehensive tax reform law could adversely affect our business and financial condition.

On December 22, 2017, new legislation was enacted that significantly revised the Internal Revenue Code. The recently enacted federal income tax law, among other things, contained significant changes to corporate taxation, including reduction of the corporate tax rate from a top marginal rate of 35% to a flat rate of

 

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21%, limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense to 30% of adjusted earnings (except for certain small businesses), limitation of the deduction for net operating losses to 80% of current year taxable income and elimination of NOL carrybacks (in each case applicable to NOLs arising after 2017), one-time taxation of offshore earnings at reduced rates regardless of whether they are repatriated, elimination of U.S. tax on foreign earnings (subject to certain important exceptions), immediate deductions for certain new investments instead of deductions for depreciation expense over time, and modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits. Notwithstanding the reduction in the corporate income tax rate, the overall impact of the new federal tax law is uncertain and our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In addition, it is uncertain if and to what extent various states will conform to the newly enacted federal tax law. The impact of this tax reform on holders of our common stock is also uncertain and could be adverse. We urge our stockholders to consult with their legal and tax advisors with respect to this legislation and the potential tax consequences of investing in or holding our common stock.

Risks Related to Intellectual Property

Our intellectual property rights may not provide adequate protection, which may permit third parties to compete against us more effectively.

Our success depends in large part on our ability to maintain and protect our proprietary rights to the technologies and inventions used in or embodied by our products, and our ability to defend our intellectual property rights against third-party challenges and successfully enforce our intellectual property rights to prevent third-party infringement. To protect our proprietary technology, we rely on patent protection and a combination of trade secret and trademark laws, as well as nondisclosure, confidentiality, and other contractual restrictions in our consulting and employment agreements. These legal means afford only limited protection, however, and may not adequately protect our rights or permit us to gain or keep any competitive advantage.

In addition, the degree of future protection afforded by our intellectual property rights is uncertain because even granted intellectual property rights have limitations, and may not adequately protect our business, provide a barrier to entry against our competitors or potential competitors or permit us to maintain our competitive advantage. Moreover, if a third party has intellectual property rights that cover the practice of our technology, we may not be able to fully exercise or extract value from our intellectual property. The following examples are illustrative:

 

   

others may be able to develop and/or practice technology that is similar to our technology or aspects of our technology, but that are not covered by the claims of the patents that we own or control, assuming such patents have issued or do issue;

 

   

we or our licensors or any future strategic partners might not have been the first to conceive or reduce to practice the inventions covered by the issued patents or pending patent applications that we own or have exclusively licensed;

 

   

we or our licensors or any future strategic partners might not have been the first to file patent applications covering certain of our inventions;

 

   

others may independently develop similar or alternative technologies or duplicate any of our technologies without infringing our intellectual property rights;

 

   

it is possible that our pending patent applications will not lead to issued patents;

 

   

issued patents that we own or have exclusively licensed may not provide us with any competitive advantage, or may be held invalid or unenforceable, as a result of legal challenges by our competitors;

 

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our competitors might conduct research and development activities in countries where we do not have patent rights and then use the information learned from such activities to develop competitive products for sale in our major commercial markets;

 

   

third parties performing manufacturing or testing for us using our products or technologies could use the intellectual property of others without obtaining a proper license;

 

   

parties may assert an ownership interest in our intellectual property and, if successful, such disputes may preclude us from exercising exclusive rights over that intellectual property;

 

   

we may not develop or in-license additional proprietary technologies that are patentable;

 

   

we may not be able to obtain and maintain necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, or at all; and

 

   

the patents of others may have an adverse effect on our business.

Should any of these events occur, they could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

If we are unable to secure sufficient patent protection for our proprietary rights in our products and processes, and to adequately maintain and protect those rights, competitors will be able to compete against us more effectively, and our business will suffer.

The process of applying for patent protection itself is time consuming and expensive, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to prepare, file and prosecute all necessary or desirable patent applications at a reasonable cost or in a timely manner. It is also possible that we will fail to identify patentable aspects of inventions made in the course of development and commercialization activities before it is too late to obtain patent protection on them. We may also choose not to seek patent protection for certain innovations or products and may choose not to pursue patent protection in certain jurisdictions, and under the laws of certain jurisdictions, patents may be unavailable or limited in scope and, in any event, any patent protection we obtain may be limited. As a result, some of our products are not, and in the future may not be, protected by patents. We generally apply for patents in those countries where we intend to make, have made, use, offer for sale, or sell products and where we assess the risk of infringement to justify the cost of seeking patent protection. However, we do not seek protection in all countries where we sell products and we may not accurately predict all the countries where patent protection would ultimately be desirable. In addition, our patents and applications may not be prosecuted and enforced in a manner consistent with the best interests of our business. It is possible that defects of form in the preparation or filing of our patents or patent applications may exist, or may arise in the future, for example, with respect to proper priority claims, inventorship, claim scope or patent term adjustments. Competitors may use our technologies in jurisdictions where we have not obtained patent protection to develop their own products and, further, may export otherwise infringing products to territories in which we have patent protection that may not be sufficient to terminate infringing activities.

The patent positions of medical device and pharmaceutical companies can be highly uncertain and involve complex legal, scientific and factual questions for which important legal principles remain unresolved. The standards that the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, and its foreign counterparts use to grant patents are not always applied predictably or uniformly. Changes in either the patent laws, implementing regulations or the interpretation of patent laws may diminish the value of our rights. The legal systems of certain countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States, and many companies have encountered significant problems in protecting and defending such rights in foreign jurisdictions.

Moreover, we cannot assure you that all of our pending patent applications will issue as patents or that, if issued, they will issue in a form that will be advantageous to us. Even if issued, existing or future patents may

 

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be challenged, including with respect to ownership, narrowed, invalidated, held unenforceable or circumvented, any of which could limit our ability to prevent competitors and other third parties from developing and marketing similar products or limit the length of terms of patent protection we may have for our products and technologies. The strength of the claims in any issued patent depends greatly on the quality of the examination conducted by the respective patent office. During a poor examination, the examiner may fail to identify and consider the most relevant prior art and may allow claims that are overly broad in scope and easily invalidated. In the United States and other jurisdictions, patent applicants and their attorneys have a duty to disclose any known prior art and/or facts that may be material to the examination of their patent applications. A failure to disclose known material information during examination of a patent application may invalidate the issued patent as well as other patents in the patent family. We can give no assurance that all of the potentially relevant art relating to our patents and patent applications has been found; overlooked prior art could be used by a third party to challenge the validity, enforceability and scope of our patents or prevent a patent from issuing from a pending patent application. As a result, we may not be able to obtain or maintain protection for certain inventions. Therefore, the validity, enforceability and scope of our patents in the United States, Europe and in other countries cannot be predicted with certainty and, as a result, any patents that we own or license may not provide sufficient protection against our competitors.

We own and license from others numerous issued patents and pending patent applications that relate to corneal cross-linking treatments. However, the rights granted to us under these patents, including prospective rights sought in the pending patent applications, may not be of sufficient scope or strength to provide us with any meaningful protection or commercial advantage. Competitors may be able to design around the patents or develop products that provide outcomes comparable to ours without infringing on our intellectual property rights. In addition, the issuance of a patent does not give us the right to practice the patented invention. Third parties may have blocking patents that could prevent us from marketing our products or practicing our own patented technology.

We cannot guarantee that any of our or our licensors’ patent searches or analyses, including the identification of relevant patents or pending applications, the scope of patent claims or the expiration of relevant patents, are complete or thorough, nor can we be certain that we have identified each and every third-party patent and pending application in the United States and abroad that is relevant to or necessary for the commercialization of our products in any jurisdiction. For example, U.S. patent applications filed before November 29, 2000 and certain U.S. patent applications filed after that date that will not be filed outside the United States remain confidential until patents issue. Patent applications in the United States, Europe and elsewhere are published approximately 18 months after the earliest filing for which priority is claimed, with such earliest filing date being commonly referred to as the priority date, or in some cases are not published at all. In addition, publications of discoveries in scientific literature lag behind actual discoveries. Therefore, we cannot be certain that we were the first to conceive or reduce to practice the inventions claimed in our issued patents or pending patent applications, as patent applications covering our products could have been filed by others without our knowledge. Additionally, pending patent applications that have been published can, subject to certain limitations, be later amended in a manner that could cover our products or the use of our products. The scope of a patent claim is determined by an interpretation of the law, the written disclosure in a patent and the patent’s prosecution history. Our interpretation of the relevance or the scope of a patent or a pending application may be incorrect, which may negatively impact our ability to market our products. We may incorrectly determine that our products are not covered by a third-party patent or may incorrectly predict whether a third party’s pending patent application will issue with claims of relevant scope. Our determination of the expiration date of any patent in the United States or abroad that we consider relevant may be incorrect, which may negatively impact our ability to develop and market our products and services. Our failure to identify and correctly interpret relevant patents may negatively impact our ability to develop and market our products and services.

If we fail to identify and correctly interpret relevant patents, we may be subject to infringement claims. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to successfully settle or otherwise resolve such infringement claims. If we fail in any such dispute, in addition to being forced to pay damages, we may be temporarily or permanently

 

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prohibited from commercializing any of our products that are held to be infringing. We might, if possible, also be forced to redesign products or services so that we no longer infringe the third-party intellectual property rights. Any of these events, even if we were ultimately to prevail, could require us to divert substantial financial and management resources that we would otherwise be able to devote to our business.

Once granted, patents may remain open to invalidity challenges including opposition, interference, re-examination, post-grant review, inter partes review, nullification or derivation action in court or before patent offices or similar proceedings for a given period after allowance or grant, during which time third parties can raise objections against such grant. In the course of such proceedings, which may continue for a protracted period of time, the patent owner may be compelled to limit the scope of the allowed or granted claims thus attacked, or may lose the allowed or granted claims altogether.

In addition, we may in the future be subject to claims by our former employees or consultants asserting an ownership right in our patents or patent applications as a result of the work they performed on our behalf. If any of our patents are challenged, invalidated or legally circumvented by third parties, and if we do not own other enforceable patents protecting our products, competitors could market products and use processes that are substantially similar to, or superior to, ours, and our business will suffer.

The degree of patent protection we require may be unavailable or severely limited in some cases and may not adequately protect our rights or permit us to gain or keep our competitive advantage. For example:

 

   

we might not have been the first to invent or the first to file patent applications on the inventions covered by each of our pending patent applications and issued patents;

 

   

others may independently develop similar or alternative technologies or duplicate any of our technologies;

 

   

the patents of others may have an adverse effect on our business;

 

   

any patents we obtain or license from others in the future may not encompass commercially viable products, may not provide us with any competitive advantages or may be challenged by third parties;

 

   

any patents we obtain or license from others in the future may not be valid or enforceable; and

 

   

we may not develop additional proprietary technologies that are patentable.

Patents have a limited lifespan. In the United States, the natural expiration of a patent is generally 20 years from its filing date. Various extensions may be available; however, the life of a patent, and the protection it affords, is limited. Without patent protection for our products and devices, we may be open to competition from generic versions of products and devices.

Changes in patent law could diminish the value of patents in general, thereby impairing our ability to protect our products.

Our success is heavily dependent on intellectual property, particularly patents. The process of obtaining and enforcing patents involves both technological and legal complexity, and therefore is costly, time-consuming and inherently uncertain. In addition, on September 16, 2011, the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, or the AIA, was signed into law by the United States. The AIA includes a number of significant changes to U.S. patent law, including provisions that affect the way patent applications will be prosecuted, redefine prior art and may also affect patent litigation.

 

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An important change introduced by the AIA is that, as of March 16, 2013, the United States transitioned to a “first-to-file” system for deciding which party should be granted a patent when two or more patent applications are filed by different parties claiming the same invention. A third party that files a patent application in the USPTO after that date, but before us, could therefore be awarded a patent covering an invention of ours even if we had conceived the invention before it was conceived by the third party. This will require us to be cognizant, going forward, of the time from invention to filing of a patent application.

Among some of the other changes introduced by the AIA are changes that limit where a patentee may file a patent infringement suit and that provide opportunities for third parties to challenge any issued patent in the USPTO. This applies to all of our U.S. patents, even those issued before March 16, 2013. Because of a lower evidentiary standard necessary to invalidate a patent claim in USPTO proceedings compared to the evidentiary standard in United States federal court, a third party could potentially provide evidence in a USPTO proceeding sufficient for the USPTO to hold a claim invalid even though the same evidence would be insufficient to invalidate the claim if first presented in a district court action. Accordingly, a third party may attempt to use the USPTO procedures to invalidate our patent claims that would not have been invalidated if first challenged by the third party as a defendant in a district court action.

Depending on decisions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts, the USPTO, or similar authorities in foreign jurisdictions, the laws and regulations governing patents could change in unpredictable ways that would weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to enforce our existing patents and patents that we might obtain in the future. We cannot predict future changes in the interpretation of patent laws or changes to patent laws that might be enacted into law. Those changes may materially affect our patents or patent applications and our ability to obtain additional patent protection in the future.

The United States federal government retains certain rights in inventions produced with its financial assistance under the Bayh-Dole Act. The federal government retains a “nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license” for its own benefit. The Bayh-Dole Act also provides federal agencies with “march-in rights.” March-in rights allow the government, in specified circumstances, to require the contractor or successors in title to the patent to grant a “nonexclusive, partially exclusive, or exclusive license” to a “responsible applicant or applicants.” If the patent owner refuses to do so, the government may grant the license itself.

Obtaining and maintaining our patent protection depends on compliance with various procedural, document submission, fee payment, and other requirements imposed by governmental patent agencies, and our patent protection could be reduced or eliminated for non-compliance with these requirements.

The USPTO and various foreign governmental patent agencies require compliance with a number of procedural, documentary, fee payment and other similar provisions during the patent application process. In addition, periodic maintenance fees on issued patents and some pending patent applications must be paid to the USPTO and foreign patent agencies. While an unintentional lapse can in many cases be cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with the applicable rules, there are situations in which noncompliance can result in abandonment or lapse of the patent or patent application, resulting in partial or complete loss of patent rights in the relevant jurisdiction. Non-compliance events that could result in abandonment or lapse of a patent or patent application include, but are not limited to, failure to respond to official actions within prescribed time limits, non-payment of fees, and failure to properly legalize and submit formal documents. If we fail to maintain the patents and patent applications covering our products or procedures, we may not be able to stop a competitor from marketing products that are the same as or similar to our products, which would have an adverse effect on our business.

We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property rights throughout the world.

Filing, prosecuting and defending patents on our products in all countries throughout the world would be prohibitively expensive. The requirements for patentability may differ in certain countries, particularly

 

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developing countries, and the breadth of patent claims allowed can be inconsistent. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as laws in the United States. For example, novel formulations of existing drugs and manufacturing processes may not be patentable in certain jurisdictions, and the requirements for patentability may differ in certain countries, particularly developing countries. Also, some foreign countries, including European Union countries, India, Japan and China, have compulsory licensing laws under which a patent owner may be compelled under certain circumstances to grant licenses to third parties. Consequently, we may have limited remedies if patents are infringed or if we are compelled to grant a license to a third party, and we may not be able to prevent third parties from practicing our inventions in all countries outside the United States, or from selling or importing products made using our inventions into or within the United States or other jurisdictions. This could limit our potential revenue opportunities. Competitors may use our technologies in jurisdictions where we have not obtained patent protection to develop their own products and, further, may export otherwise infringing products to territories where we have patent protection, but where enforcement is not as strong as that in the United States. These products may compete with our products in jurisdictions where we do not have any issued patents or where our patent claims or other intellectual property rights may not be effective or sufficient to prevent them from competing with us in these jurisdictions.

We are pursuing a global patent strategy and are seeking protection in the United States and Europe, and in some cases Japan, China and South Korea. However, we do not have patent rights in certain foreign countries in which a market may exist in the future. Moreover, in foreign jurisdictions where we do have patent rights, proceedings to enforce such rights could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts and attention from other aspects of our business, could put our patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly and our patent applications at risk of not issuing, and could provoke third parties to assert claims against us. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate and the damages or other remedies awarded, if any, may not be commercially meaningful. Further, in some countries, we may be subject to compulsory or statutory licensing laws that allow others to copy our products in exchange for less than reasonable royalties. Thus, we may not be able to stop a competitor from marketing and selling in foreign countries products that are the same as or similar to our products.

We may in the future become involved in lawsuits to protect, defend or enforce our intellectual property, which could be expensive, time consuming, and unsuccessful and have an adverse effect on the success of our business.

Competitors may infringe our patents. To counter infringement or unauthorized use, we may be required to file one or more lawsuits and assert infringement claims, which can be expensive and time-consuming. In addition, in an infringement proceeding, a court may decide that a patent of ours is invalid or unenforceable, or may refuse to enjoin the other party from using the technology at issue on the grounds that our patents do not cover the technology in question. The standards that courts use to interpret patents are not always applied predictably or uniformly and can change, particularly as new technologies develop. As a result, we cannot predict with certainty how much protection, if any, will be given to our patents if we attempt to enforce them and they are challenged in court. Further, even if we prevail against an infringer in U.S. district court, there is always the risk that the infringer will file an appeal and the district court judgment will be overturned at the appeals court and/or that an adverse decision will be issued by the appeals court relating to the validity or enforceability of our patents. An adverse result in any litigation proceeding could put one or more of our patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted in a manner insufficient to achieve our business objectives.

We do not know whether our competitors or potential competitors have applied for, will apply for, or will obtain patents that will prevent, limit, or interfere with our ability to make, use, sell, import, or export our products. Competitors may misappropriate our intellectual property, infringe our patents or otherwise violate our intellectual property rights. To stop any such infringement or unauthorized use, litigation may be necessary. Our intellectual property has not been tested in litigation. A court may declare our patents invalid or unenforceable, may refuse to stop the other party from using the technology at issue on the grounds that our patents do not cover

 

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the technology in question, or may interpret the claims of our patents narrowly, thereby substantially narrowing the scope of patent protection they afford.

Third parties may challenge any existing or future patents we own or license through adversarial proceedings in the issuing offices or in court proceedings, including as a response to any assertion of our patents against them. In addition, third parties may allege an ownership right in our patents, as a result of their past employment or consultancy with us. We may be subject to a third-party pre-issuance submission of prior art to the USPTO, or reexamination by the USPTO if a third party asserts a substantial question of patentability against any claim of a U.S. patent we own or license. The adoption of the AIA established additional opportunities for third parties to invalidate U.S. patent claims, including inter partes review and post-grant review proceedings. Outside of the United States, patents we own or license may become subject to patent opposition or similar proceedings, which may result in loss of scope of some claims or the entire patent. In addition, such proceedings are very complex and expensive, and may divert our management’s attention from our core business. Many of our current and potential competitors have the ability to dedicate substantially greater resources to defend their intellectual property rights than we can. Accordingly, despite our efforts, we may not be able to prevent third parties from infringing upon or misappropriating our intellectual property. Competing products may also be sold in other countries in which our patent coverage might not exist or be sufficiently strong. If any of our patents are challenged, invalidated, circumvented by third parties or otherwise limited or expire prior to the commercialization of our products, and if we do not own or have exclusive rights to other enforceable patents protecting our products or other technologies, competitors and other third parties could market products and use processes that are substantially similar to, or superior to, ours and our business would suffer.

Litigation related to infringement and other intellectual property claims, with or without merit, is unpredictable, can be expensive and time-consuming, and can divert management’s attention from our core business. If we lose this kind of litigation, a court could require us to pay substantial damages, treble damages, and attorneys’ fees, and could prohibit us from using technologies essential to our products, any of which would have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition. If relevant patents are upheld as valid and enforceable and we are found to infringe, we could be prevented from selling our products unless we can obtain licenses to use technology or ideas covered by such patents. We do not know whether any necessary licenses would be available to us on satisfactory terms, if at all. If we cannot obtain these licenses, we could be forced to design around those patents at additional cost or abandon the product altogether. Further, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in connection with intellectual property litigation, there is a risk that some of our confidential information could be compromised by disclosure during this type of litigation. There could also be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions, or other interim proceedings or developments. If securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have an adverse effect on the price of shares of our common stock. As a result, our ability to grow our business and compete in the market may be harmed.

Our commercial success depends significantly on our ability to operate without infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties.

The medical device and pharmaceutical industries are subject to rapid technological change and substantial litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights. Our competitors in both the United States and abroad, many of which have substantially greater resources and have made substantial investments in patent portfolios and competing technologies, may have applied for or obtained or may in the future apply for or obtain, patents that will prevent, limit or otherwise interfere with our ability to make, use and sell our products and services. Numerous third-party patents exist in the fields relating to our products and services, and it is difficult for industry participants, including us, to identify all third-party patent rights relevant to their products, services and technologies. Moreover, because some patent applications are maintained as confidential for a certain period of time, we cannot be certain that third parties have not filed patent applications that cover our products, services and technologies.

 

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Patents could be issued to third parties that we may ultimately be found to infringe. As a result of any patent infringement claims, or in order to avoid any potential infringement claims, we may choose to seek, or be required to seek, a license from a third party, which may require payment of substantial royalties or fees, or require us to grant a cross-license under our intellectual property rights, as part of our patent litigation settlement. These licenses may not be available on reasonable terms or at all. Even if a license can be obtained on reasonable terms, the rights may be nonexclusive, which would give our competitors access to the same intellectual property rights. If we are unable to enter into a license on acceptable terms, we could be prevented from commercializing one or more products, or forced to modify such products, or to cease some aspect of our business operations, which could harm our business significantly. We might also be forced to redesign or modify our technology or products so that we no longer infringe the third-party intellectual property rights, which may result in significant cost or delay to us, or which redesign or modification could be impossible or technically infeasible. Even if we were ultimately to prevail, any of these events could require us to divert substantial financial and management resources that we would otherwise be able to devote to our business.

From time to time, we may be party to, or threatened with, litigation or other proceedings with third parties, including non-practicing entities, who allege that our products, components of our products, services, and/or proprietary technologies infringe, misappropriate or otherwise violate their intellectual property rights. The types of situations in which we may become a party to such litigation or proceedings include:

 

   

we or our collaborators may initiate litigation or other proceedings against third parties seeking to invalidate the patents held by those third parties or to obtain a judgment that our products or processes do not infringe those third parties’ patents;

 

   

we or our collaborators may participate at substantial cost in International Trade Commission proceedings to abate importation of products that would compete unfairly with our products;

 

   

if our competitors file patent applications that claim technology also claimed by us or our licensors, we or our licensors may be required to participate in interference, derivation or opposition proceedings to determine the priority of invention, which could jeopardize our patent rights and potentially provide a third party with a dominant patent position;

 

   

if third parties initiate litigation claiming that our processes or products infringe their patent or other intellectual property rights, we and our collaborators will need to defend against such proceedings;

 

   

if third parties initiate litigation or other proceedings seeking to invalidate patents owned by or licensed to us or to obtain a declaratory judgment that their products, services, or technologies do not infringe our patents or patents licensed to us, we will need to defend against such proceedings;

 

   

we may be subject to ownership disputes relating to intellectual property, including disputes arising from conflicting obligations of consultants or others who are involved in developing our products; and

 

   

if a license to necessary technology is terminated, the licensor may initiate litigation claiming that our processes or products infringe or misappropriate its patent or other intellectual property rights and/or that we breached our obligations under the license agreement, and

 

   

we and our collaborators would need to defend against such proceedings.

These lawsuits and proceedings, regardless of merit, are time-consuming and expensive to initiate, maintain, defend or settle, and could divert the time and attention of managerial and technical personnel, which

 

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could materially adversely affect our business. Any such claim could also force us to do one or more of the following:

 

   

incur substantial monetary liability for infringement or other violations of intellectual property rights, which we may have to pay if a court decides that the product, service, or technology at issue infringes or violates the third party’s rights, and if the court finds that the infringement was willful, we could be ordered to pay treble damages and the third party’s attorneys’ fees;

 

   

pay substantial damages to our customers or end users to discontinue use or replace infringing technology with non-infringing technology;

 

   

stop manufacturing, offering for sale, selling, using, importing, exporting or licensing the product or technology incorporating the allegedly infringing technology or stop incorporating the allegedly infringing technology into such product, service, or technology;

 

   

obtain from the owner of the infringed intellectual property right a license, which may require us to pay substantial upfront fees or royalties to sell or use the relevant technology and which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all;

 

   

redesign our products, services, and technology so they do not infringe or violate the third party’s intellectual property rights, which may not be possible or may require substantial monetary expenditures and time;

 

   

enter into cross-licenses with our competitors, which could weaken our overall intellectual property position;

 

   

lose the opportunity to license our technology to others or to collect royalty payments based upon successful protection and assertion of our intellectual property against others;

 

   

find alternative suppliers for non-infringing products and technologies, which could be costly and create significant delay; or

 

   

relinquish rights associated with one or more of our patent claims, if our claims are held invalid or otherwise unenforceable.

Some of our competitors may be able to sustain the costs of complex intellectual property litigation more effectively than we can because they have substantially greater resources. In addition, intellectual property litigation, regardless of its outcome, may cause negative publicity, adversely impact prospective customers, cause product shipment delays, or prohibit us from manufacturing, marketing or otherwise commercializing our products, services and technology. Any uncertainties resulting from the initiation and continuation of any litigation could have a material adverse effect on our ability to raise additional funds or otherwise have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

In addition, we may indemnify our customers and distributors against claims relating to the infringement of intellectual property rights of third parties related to our products. Third parties may assert infringement claims against our customers or distributors. These claims may require us to initiate or defend protracted and costly litigation on behalf of our customers or distributors, regardless of the merits of these claims. If any of these claims succeed, we may be forced to pay damages on behalf of our customers, suppliers or distributors, or may be required to obtain licenses for the products or services they use. If we cannot obtain all necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, our customers may be forced to stop using our products or services.

 

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Further, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in connection with intellectual property litigation, there is a risk that some of our confidential information could be compromised by disclosure during this type of litigation. There could also be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or developments, which could have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock. If securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock. The occurrence of any of these events may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operation, financial condition or cash flows.

We may be subject to claims challenging the inventorship or ownership of our patents and other intellectual property.

We or our licensors may be subject to claims that former employees, collaborators or other third parties have an interest in our owned or in-licensed patents, trade secrets, or other intellectual property as an inventor or co-inventor. For example, we or our licensors may have inventorship disputes arise from conflicting obligations of employees, consultants or others who are involved in developing our products. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these and other claims challenging inventorship or our or our licensors’ ownership of our owned or in-licensed patents, trade secrets or other intellectual property. If we or our licensors fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights, such as exclusive ownership of, or right to use, intellectual property that is important to our products. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management and other employees. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

In addition, while it is our policy to require our employees and contractors who may be involved in the development of intellectual property to execute agreements assigning such intellectual property to us, we may be unsuccessful in executing such an agreement with each party who in fact develops intellectual property that we regard as our own. Our and their assignment agreements may not be self-executing or may be breached, and we may be forced to bring claims against third parties, or defend claims they may bring against us, to determine the ownership of what we regard as our intellectual property. We are still in the process of obtaining certain assignments for some of our owned, acquired and licensed patents and patent applications.

If we or our licensors fail in prosecuting or defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights or personnel. Even if we and our licensors are successful in prosecuting or defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management.

We may be subject to damages resulting from claims that we or our employees have wrongfully used or disclosed alleged trade secrets of our competitors or are in breach of non-competition or non-solicitation agreements with our competitors.

We do and may employ individuals who were previously employed at universities or other pharmaceutical or medical device companies, including our licensors, competitors or potential competitors. We could in the future be subject to claims that we or our employees have inadvertently or otherwise used or disclosed alleged trade secrets or other proprietary information of former employers or competitors. Although we try to ensure that our employees and consultants do not use the intellectual property, proprietary information, know-how or trade secrets of others in their work for us, we may in the future be subject to claims that we caused an employee to breach the terms of his or her non-competition or non-solicitation agreement, or that we or these individuals have, inadvertently or otherwise, used or disclosed the alleged trade secrets or other proprietary information of a former employer or competitor. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these claims. Even if we are successful in defending against these claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and could be a distraction to management. If our defense to those claims fails, in addition to paying monetary damages, a court could prohibit us from using technologies or features that are essential to our products, if such technologies

 

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or features are found to incorporate or be derived from the trade secrets or other proprietary information of the former employers. An inability to incorporate technologies or features that are important or essential to our products would have an adverse effect on our business, and may prevent us from selling our products. In addition, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights or personnel. Moreover, any such litigation or the threat thereof may adversely affect our ability to hire employees or contract with independent sales representatives. A loss of key personnel or their work product could hamper or prevent our ability to commercialize our products, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our intellectual property agreements with third parties may be subject to disagreements over contract interpretation, which could narrow the scope of our rights to the relevant intellectual property or technology.

Certain provisions in our intellectual property agreements may be susceptible to multiple interpretations. The resolution of any contract interpretation disagreement that may arise could affect the scope of our rights to the relevant intellectual property or technology, or affect financial or other obligations under the relevant agreement, either of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

We may not be successful in obtaining necessary intellectual property rights to future products through acquisitions and in-licenses.

Although we intend to develop products and technology through our own internal research, we may also seek to acquire or in-license technologies to grow our product offerings and technology portfolio. However, we may be unable to acquire or in-license intellectual property rights relating to, or necessary for, any such products or technology from third parties on commercially reasonable terms or at all. In that event, we may be unable to develop or commercialize such products or technology. We may also be unable to identify products or technology that we believe are an appropriate strategic fit for our company and protect intellectual property relating to, or necessary for, such products and technology.

The in-licensing and acquisition of third-party intellectual property rights for products is a competitive area, and a number of more established companies are also pursuing strategies to in-license or acquire third-party intellectual property rights for products that we may consider attractive or necessary. These established companies may have a competitive advantage over us due to their size, cash resources and greater clinical development and commercialization capabilities. Further, companies that perceive us to be a competitor may be unwilling to assign or license rights to us. If we are unable to successfully obtain rights to additional technologies or products, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects for growth could suffer.

In addition, we expect that competition for the in-licensing or acquisition of third-party intellectual property rights for products and technologies that are attractive to us may increase in the future, which may mean fewer suitable opportunities for us as well as higher acquisition or licensing costs. We may be unable to in-license or acquire the third-party intellectual property rights for products or technology on terms that would allow us to make an appropriate return on our investment.

If our trademarks are not adequately protected, then we may not be able to build name recognition in our markets of interest and our business may be adversely affected.

We rely on our trademarks as one means to distinguish our products from the products of our competitors, and have registered or applied to register many of these trademarks. The USPTO or foreign trademark offices may deny our trademark applications or determine our trademarks to be infringing on other marks. In addition, even if published or registered, these trademarks may be ineffective in protecting our brand and goodwill and may be successfully opposed or challenged. Third parties may oppose our trademark applications, or otherwise challenge, infringe, circumvent, or declare generic our use of our trademarks. We may

 

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not be able to protect our rights to these trademarks and trade names, or may be forced to stop using these names, which we need for name recognition by potential partners or customers in our markets of interest. If we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks, we may not be able to compete effectively.

Actions by a trademark office or a third party, e.g., during oppositions, may require the scope of goods and services covered by one of our trademarks to be narrowed. In addition, third parties may use marks that are identical or confusingly similar to our own, which could result in confusion among our customers, thereby weakening the strength of our brand or allowing such third parties to capitalize on our goodwill. Third parties may also have similar or identical trademarks in foreign jurisdictions, and have filed or may in the future file for registration of such trademarks in the jurisdictions in which we operate. If such a third party succeeds in registering or developing common law rights in such trademarks, and if we are not successful in challenging such third-party rights, we may not be able to use these trademarks to market our products in those countries. In such an event, or if our trademarks are successfully challenged, we could be forced to rebrand our products, which could result in loss of brand recognition and could require us to devote resources to advertising and marketing new brands. Our competitors may infringe our trademarks and we may not have adequate resources to enforce our trademark rights in the face of any such infringement. In any case, if we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks and trade names, then we may not be able to compete effectively and our business may be adversely affected.

If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets, our business and competitive position may be harmed.

In addition to patent and trademark protection, we also rely on trade secrets, including unpatented know-how, technology and other proprietary information, to maintain our competitive position. We seek to protect our trade secrets, in part, by entering into non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements with parties who have access to them, such as our consultants and vendors, and our former or current employees. We also enter into invention or assignment agreements with our employees. Despite these efforts, any of these parties may breach the agreements and disclose our trade secrets and other unpatented or unregistered proprietary information. Monitoring unauthorized uses and disclosures of our intellectual property is difficult, and we do not know whether the steps we have taken to protect our intellectual property will be effective. In addition, we may not be able to obtain adequate remedies for any such breaches. Enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated a trade secret is difficult, expensive and time-consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable. In addition, some courts within and outside the United States may be less willing or unwilling to protect trade secrets. Moreover, our competitors may independently develop equivalent knowledge, methods and know-how. Competitors could purchase our products and attempt to replicate some or all of the competitive advantages we derive from our development efforts, willfully infringe our intellectual property rights, design around our protected technology or develop their own competitive technologies that fall outside of our intellectual property rights. If any of our trade secrets were to be lawfully obtained or independently developed by a competitor, we would have no right to prevent them, or those to whom they communicate it, from using that technology or information to compete with us. If our intellectual property is not adequately protected so as to protect our market against competitors’ products and methods, our competitive position could be adversely affected, as could our business.

Risks Related to Government Regulation

Competitors may market unapproved versions of our products in the United States, and regulatory authorities may not act immediately to block the sale of such unapproved products, which may harm our sales and impact public perception of our products.

Although the KXL system in combination with its associated Photrexa formulations is the only approved corneal cross-linking treatment in the United States for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, competitors may unlawfully market unapproved drug-device

 

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combinations for performing corneal cross-linking. For example, in the U.S. corneal ectatic disorders market, we are aware that some providers who are not currently our customers are promoting corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus and we believe these providers are primarily using products from CXLUSA or PeschkeTrade GmBH.

The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act generally requires FDA approval of new drugs before they may be introduced into interstate commerce, but provides an exemption for the compounding of certain drugs that are often required to meet patient needs that are otherwise unmet by FDA approved drug products. However, in general terms, the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act does not allow compounding of drugs that are essentially a copy of a commercially available drug product, such as Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous. While we believe the compounding and marketing of compounded versions of Photrexa or Photrexa Viscous for use in corneal cross-linking is illegal, we are aware that some pharmacies and physicians in the United States have been, and may still be, compounding riboflavin drugs for such use. It is uncertain if the FDA or other government agencies will be able to effectively prevent such compounding and marketing activities, and such continued activities may negatively impact the sales of Photrexa and Photrexa Viscous.

Clinical development, including the conduct of clinical trials necessary to support a new drug application, or NDA, or an application for an EC Certificate of Conformity, is a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier preclinical studies and clinical trials may not be predictive of future trial results. Delays or failure can occur at any stage of clinical development and may adversely affect our business, operating results, and prospects.

Initiating and completing clinical trials necessary to support clearance or approval of our current products, as well as other possible future products, will be time consuming and expensive and the outcome uncertain.

Clinical testing is expensive and can take many years to complete and its outcome is inherently uncertain. We cannot guarantee that any clinical studies will be conducted as planned or completed on schedule, if at all. Failure can occur at any time and for any number of reasons during the clinical trial process. The results of preclinical studies and early clinical trials and evaluations of our products may not be predictive of the results of later stage clinical trials. Similarly, the final results from a clinical trial may not be as favorable as interim results reported earlier in the same clinical trial. Products in later stages of clinical trials may fail to show the desired safety and efficacy traits despite having progressed through preclinical studies and initial clinical trials. A number of companies in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries have suffered significant setbacks in advanced clinical trials due to lack of efficacy or adverse safety profiles, notwithstanding promising results in earlier trials.

Our products are in various stages of development. Clinical trial failures may occur at any stage and may result from a multitude of factors both within and outside our control, including flaws in formulation or manufacturing, medical device design, adverse safety or efficacy profile and flaws in trial design, among others. If the trials result in negative or inconclusive results, we or our collaborators may decide, or regulators may require us, to discontinue trials of the products or conduct additional clinical trials or preclinical studies. In addition, data obtained from trials and studies are susceptible to varying interpretations, we cannot guarantee that the FDA or foreign regulatory authorities will interpret our data the same way that we do, which may delay, limit or prevent regulatory approval or clearance. FDA may also disagree with the design of our clinical trials. To the extent that the results of the trials are not satisfactory to the FDA or foreign regulatory authorities for support of a marketing application, we may be required to expend significant resources, which may not be available to us, to conduct additional trials in support of potential approval of our products. Other potential reasons for clinical trial failures include, but are not limited to, inability to enroll sufficient patients, inability to engage sufficient clinical sites, inability to obtain or maintain institutional review board, or IRB, approval of the trial, or cessation of a trial for futility or safety concerns by us, FDA, or an independent committee such as an independent data monitoring committee. As a result of any number of potential reasons, our current and future clinical trials may not be successful.

 

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Conducting successful clinical studies may require the enrollment of large numbers of patients, and suitable patients may be difficult to identify and recruit. Patient enrollment in clinical trials and completion of patient participation and follow-up depends on many factors, including the size of the patient population, the nature of the trial protocol, the attractiveness of, or the discomforts and risks associated with, the treatments received by enrolled subjects, the availability of other treatments, the availability of appropriate clinical trial investigators, support staff, and proximity of patients to clinical sites and ability to comply with the eligibility and exclusion criteria for participation in the clinical trial and patient compliance. For example, although we began the enrollment process a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for Lasik Xtra in the United States in 2013, we decided to terminate the trial because our trial sites were unable to enroll a sufficient number of patients. Patients may also not participate in our clinical trials if they choose to participate in contemporaneous clinical trials of competitive products. In addition, patients participating in clinical trials may die before completion of the trial or suffer adverse medical events unrelated to investigational products.

Development of sufficient and appropriate clinical protocols to demonstrate safety and efficacy are required and we may not adequately develop such protocols to support clearance and approval or the results from such studies may not sufficiently demonstrate safety and efficacy. Further, the FDA may, among other things, require us to submit data on a greater number of patients than we originally anticipated and/or for a longer follow-up period or change the data collection requirements or data analysis applicable to our clinical trials. Delays in patient enrollment or failure of patients to continue to participate in a clinical trial may cause an increase in costs and delays in the approval and attempted commercialization of our products or result in the failure of the clinical trial. In addition, despite considerable time and expense invested in our clinical trials, the FDA or a notified body may not consider our data adequate to demonstrate safety and efficacy. Such increased costs and delays or failures could adversely affect our business, operating results and prospects. In addition, many of the factors that cause or lead to a delay in the commencement or completion of clinical trials may also ultimately lead to the denial of regulatory approval of our products.

A special protocol assessment, or SPA, agreement from the FDA does not guarantee approval of any of our products or any other particular outcome from regulatory review.

We have obtained agreement from the FDA on the design and size of our Phase 3 trial of our latest-generation KXL system in combination with our investigational Boost Goggles and new riboflavin formulations for use in Epi-On procedures in the form of an SPA agreement. The FDA’s SPA process is designed to facilitate the FDA’s review and approval of drugs by allowing the FDA to evaluate the proposed design and size of certain clinical or animal trials, including clinical trials that are intended to form the primary basis for determining a drug product’s efficacy. Upon specific request by a clinical trial sponsor, the FDA will evaluate the protocol and respond to a sponsor’s questions regarding protocol design and scientific and regulatory requirements. The FDA aims to complete SPA reviews within 45 days of receipt of the request. The FDA ultimately assesses whether specific elements of the protocol design of the trial, such as entry criteria, dose selection, endpoints and/or planned analyses, are acceptable to support regulatory approval of the product with respect to the effectiveness of the indication studied. All agreements and disagreements between the FDA and the sponsor regarding an SPA must be clearly documented in an SPA letter or the minutes of a meeting between the sponsor and the FDA.

Even if the FDA agrees to the SPA, an SPA agreement does not guarantee approval of a product. Even if the FDA agrees to the design, execution, and analysis proposed in protocols reviewed under the SPA process, the FDA may revoke or alter its agreement in certain circumstances. In particular, an SPA agreement is not binding on the FDA if public health concerns emerge that were unrecognized at the time of the SPA agreement, other new scientific concerns regarding product safety or efficacy arise, the sponsor company fails to comply with the agreed upon trial protocols, or the relevant data, assumptions or information provided by the sponsor in a request for the SPA change or are found to be false or omit relevant facts. While we have obtained an SPA agreement for our Phase 3 trial, we have subsequently made minor amendments to the protocol and have not obtained an SPA amendment in connection with the amended protocol. Nevertheless, based on our informal communications with the FDA, we believe our SPA agreement remains intact.

 

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In addition, even after an SPA agreement is finalized, the SPA agreement may be modified, and such modification will be deemed binding on the FDA review division, except under the circumstances described above, if the FDA and the sponsor agree in writing to modify the protocol. Generally, such modification is intended to improve the study. The FDA retains significant latitude and discretion in interpreting the terms of the SPA agreement and the data and results from any study that is the subject of the SPA agreement.

Moreover, if the FDA revokes or alters its agreement under the SPA, or interprets the data collected from the clinical trial differently than we do, the FDA may not deem the data sufficient to support an application for regulatory approval.

Our products may cause adverse effects or have other properties that could delay or prevent their regulatory approval or clearance or limit the scope of any approved label or market acceptance, or result in significant negative consequences following marketing approval or clearance, if any.

Treatment with our products may produce unacceptable side effects or adverse reactions or events. Further, clinical trials and evaluations of our products may not uncover all possible adverse effects that patients may experience, and any side effects could be attributed to our unique treatment formulations or methods. Such adverse events or side effects could cause us, our IRBs, Ethics Committees, clinical trial sites, the FDA, the competent authorities of EU member states or other regulatory authorities or notified bodies to interrupt, delay or halt clinical trials and could result in a more restrictive label, indications for use, or intended purposes or the delay, denial or withdrawal of regulatory approval or clearance, suspension, variation, or withdrawal of EC Certificates of Conformity or delay in obtaining new EC Certificates of Conformity, any of which may harm our business, financial condition and prospects significantly.

Further, if any of our products cause or are believed to cause serious or unexpected side effects after receiving marketing approval or clearance, a number of potentially significant negative consequences could result, including:

 

   

regulatory authorities may withdraw their approval or clearance of the product or impose restrictions on its distribution;

 

   

notified bodies may suspend, vary or withdraw of EC Certificates of Conformity or postpone issuance of new EC Certificates of Conformity;

 

   

the FDA and/or foreign equivalents may require implementation of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, Field Safety Corrective Actions or equivalent, which may include safety surveillance, restricted distribution and use, patient education, enhanced labeling, special packaging or labeling, expedited reporting of certain adverse events, preapproval of promotional materials and restrictions on direct-to-consumer advertising;

 

   

regulatory authorities or notified bodies may require the addition of labeling statements, such as warnings or contraindications;

 

   

additional restrictions may be imposed on the marketing of our products or the manufacturing processes for our products;

 

   

regulatory authorities may require us to conduct additional clinical trials on our products;

 

   

we may be required to change the way the product is administered or conduct additional clinical studies;

 

   

we may be ordered to conduct product recalls or product withdrawals;

 

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the product could become less competitive;

 

   

we could be sued and held liable for harm caused to patients; and

 

   

our reputation may suffer.

In light of widely publicized events concerning the safety risk of certain drug products, regulatory authorities, members of Congress, the Governmental Accounting Office, medical professionals and the general public have raised concerns about potential drug safety issues. These events have resulted in the recall and withdrawal of drug products, revisions to drug labeling that further limit use of the drug products and establishment of risk management programs that may, for instance, restrict distribution of drug products or require safety surveillance and/or patient education. The increased attention to drug safety issues may result in a more cautious approach by the FDA to clinical trials and the drug approval process. Data from clinical trials may receive greater scrutiny with respect to safety, which may make the FDA or other regulatory authorities more likely to terminate or suspend clinical trials before completion, or require longer or additional clinical trials that may result in substantial additional expense and a delay or failure in obtaining approval or approval for a more limited indication than originally sought.

We do not know whether any trials we are currently conducting or future clinical trials we may conduct will demonstrate consistent or adequate efficacy and safety to obtain regulatory approval, clearance or CE marking to market our products where required. If any product for which we are conducting clinical trials is found to be unsafe or lack efficacy, we will not be able to obtain regulatory approval or clearance, if necessary, for it. In addition, if any product for which we are conducting clinical trials is found to be unsafe, we could be required to cease marketing such product in markets where such product is already commercially available. If we are inhibited in our ability to continue marketing our commercially available products or are unable to bring any of our future products to market, our business would be harmed and our ability to create long-term stockholder value will be limited.

Any of these events could prevent us from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of the affected product and could substantially increase the costs of commercializing our products.

We may incur significant liability if it is determined that we are promoting off-label use of our products in violation of federal and state regulations in the United States or elsewhere.

The FDA and other regulatory authorities strictly regulate the promotional claims that may be made about drugs, medical devices and combination products. In particular, the FDA requires that drugs, medical devices, and combination products be labeled, advertised and promoted only in accordance with their approved or cleared indications for use. Equivalent limitations are imposed by national and international rules outside of the United States. In April 2016, we received FDA approval of our KXL system and our Photrexa formulations for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and in July 2016, we received FDA approval of our KXL system and our Photrexa formulations for the treatment of corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Outside the United States, our KXL system and Mosaic system are approved and used not only to treat keratoconus and post-refractive surgery ectasia, but are also used by clinicians to improve outcomes of laser vision correction, or LVC, procedures, such as LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy, by performing corneal cross-linking in association with LVC surgery. We market the KXL system for this corneal cross-linking procedure outside of the United States as Lasik Xtra. We are not currently seeking FDA approval of our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations for corneal cross-linking during LVC surgery.

Regulatory authorities in the United States generally do not regulate the behavior of physicians in their choice of treatments. While physicians may choose to prescribe drugs, medical devices, and combination products for uses that are not described in the product’s labeling and for uses that differ from those tested in clinical studies and approved by regulatory authorities, our promotional materials, promotional activities, and

 

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training methods must comply with applicable FDA regulations and other applicable federal, state and foreign laws and regulations, including the prohibition on the promotion of off-label uses of our products. Our policy is to avoid off-label promotion of our products, and we train our marketing and sales force against promoting our products for uses outside of the approved indications for use. We have also implemented compliance and monitoring policies and procedures, including a process for internal review of promotional materials, to deter the promotion of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations for off-label uses. We cannot guarantee that these policies and procedures will always prevent or timely detect off-label promotion by sales representatives or other personnel in their communications with physicians, patients and others, particularly if these activities are concealed from us.

If the FDA or equivalent foreign authorities determines that our labeling, promotional materials or other communications (including communications by our employees or other agents) constitute promotion of an off- label use, they could request or require that we modify our promotional materials or subject us to regulatory or enforcement actions, including the issuance of a warning letter or untitled letter, suspension or withdrawal of an approved product from the market, or requiring a recall or institution of fines, which could result in the disgorgement of money, operating restrictions, injunctions, civil fines and criminal penalties. It is also possible that other federal, state or foreign enforcement authorities might take action if they consider our promotional or training materials to constitute promotion of an off-label use, which could result in significant fines or penalties under other statutes, such as laws prohibiting false or fraudulent claims for payment of government funds, such as the U.S. federal civil False Claims Act. In that event, our reputation could be damaged and adoption of our products could be impaired.

Notwithstanding the regulatory restrictions on off-label promotion, the FDA and other regulatory authorities allow pharmaceutical and medical device companies to engage in truthful, non-misleading and non-promotional scientific exchange concerning their products. We engage in medical education activities and communicate with investigators and potential investigators regarding our clinical trials. If the FDA or other regulatory or enforcement authorities determine that our communications regarding our marketed product are not in compliance with the relevant regulatory requirements and that we have improperly promoted off-label uses, or that our communications regarding our investigational products are not in compliance with the relevant regulatory requirements and that we have improperly engaged in pre-approval promotion, we may be subject to significant liability, including civil, criminal and administrative penalties.

Delays in clinical trials are common and have many causes, and any delay could result in increased costs to us and could jeopardize or delay our ability to obtain regulatory approval or clearance and commence product sales.

We may experience delays in clinical trials of our products. Our planned clinical trials may not begin on time, have an effective design or be completed on schedule, if at all. Our clinical trials may be delayed for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to the following:

 

   

inability to raise or delays in raising funding necessary to initiate or continue a trial;

 

   

delays in obtaining regulatory approval to commence a trial;

 

   

delays in reaching agreement with the FDA, other federal, state, or foreign regulatory authority or notified body on final trial design;

 

   

imposition of a clinical hold for a number of reasons, including after review of an investigational drug application, or IND, application or amendment, or equivalent application or amendment; as a result of a new safety finding that presents unreasonable risk to clinical trial participants; a negative finding from an inspection of our clinical trial operations or trial sites by the FDA or other regulatory authorities or notified bodies; developments on trials conducted by competitors for

 

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related products that raise concerns about risk to patients of the products broadly; or if the FDA finds that the investigational plan or protocol(s) is clearly deficient to meet our stated objectives;

 

   

delays in reaching agreement on acceptable terms with contract research organizations, or CROs, medical monitors or clinical trial sites, or failure by such third parties to carry out the clinical trial at each site in accordance with the terms of our agreements with them;

 

   

delays in obtaining required IRB or Ethics Committee approval for each site;

 

   

delays in enrollment of suitable patients to participate in a trial;

 

   

difficulties or delays in having patients complete participation in a trial or return for post-treatment follow-up;

 

   

investigators or clinical sites electing to terminate their participation in one of our clinical trials, which would likely have a detrimental effect on subject enrollment;

 

   

occurrence of adverse events associated with our products that are viewed to outweigh its potential benefits;

 

   

time required to add new clinical sites;

 

   

the cost of clinical trials of our products being greater than we anticipate;

 

   

clinical trials of our products producing negative or inconclusive results, which may result in our deciding, or regulators requiring us, to conduct additional clinical trials or abandon product development programs; or

 

   

delays by our contract manufacturers to produce and deliver sufficient supply of clinical trial materials.

Further, changes in regulatory requirements and guidance may occur and we may need to amend clinical study protocols to reflect these changes. Amendments may require us to resubmit our clinical study protocols to IRBs or Ethics Committees for reexamination, which may impact the costs, timing or successful completion of a clinical study.

Moreover, principal investigators for our clinical trials may serve as scientific advisors or consultants to us from time to time and receive compensation in connection with such services. Under certain circumstances, we may be required to report some of these relationships to the FDA or other regulatory authority. The FDA or other regulatory authority may conclude that a financial relationship between us and a principal investigator has created a conflict of interest or otherwise affected interpretation of the study. The FDA or other regulatory authority may therefore question the integrity of the data generated at the applicable clinical trial site and the utility of the clinical trial itself may be jeopardized. This could result in a delay in approval, or rejection, of our marketing applications by the FDA or other regulatory authority, as the case may be, and may ultimately lead to the denial of marketing approval of one or more of our products.

If initiation or completion of our planned clinical trials is delayed for any of the above reasons or other reasons, our development costs may increase, regulatory approval or CE marking process for future products could be delayed and our ability to commercialize our products could be materially harmed, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

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We rely on third parties to conduct and support our clinical trials, and those third parties may not perform satisfactorily, including failing to meet deadlines for the completion of such trials.

We rely on third parties, such as CROs, consultants, medical monitors, medical institutions and clinical investigators, to perform and support our clinical trials. Our reliance on these third parties for clinical activities reduces our control over these activities but does not relieve us of our responsibilities, including responsibilities set forth in FDA regulations and guidance. We remain responsible for ensuring that each of our clinical trials is conducted in accordance with such regulations and guidance, as well as with the general investigational plan and protocols for the study and investigator initiated trials. Moreover, the FDA and equivalent foreign authorities require us to comply with standards, commonly referred to as good clinical practices, or GCP, for conducting, recording, and reporting the results of clinical trials to assure that data and reported results are credible and accurate and that the rights, safety, integrity, and confidentiality of patients in clinical trials are protected. Further, these third parties may also have relationships with other entities, including our competitors for whom they also conduct clinical trials. If these third parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or regulatory obligations or meet expected deadlines, if these third parties need to be replaced, or if the quality or accuracy of the data they obtain is compromised due to the failure to adhere to our clinical protocols or regulatory requirements, or for other reasons, our pre-clinical development activities or clinical trials may be extended, delayed, suspended, or terminated, and we may not be able to obtain regulatory approval for or successfully commercialize our products on a timely basis, if at all, and our business, operating results, and prospects may be adversely affected. Further, our third-party clinical trial investigators and sites may be delayed in conducting our clinical trials for reasons outside of their control. We also rely on third parties to store and distribute supplies, including our products, for our clinical trials, which may require storage and shipment under specific temperature and other environmental conditions. Any performance failure on the part of our existing or future third party contractors could delay clinical development or regulatory approval of our products or commercialization of our products, producing additional losses and depriving us of potential product revenues.

Our products and operations are subject to extensive governmental regulation in the United States and other countries, and our failure to comply with applicable requirements could cause our business to suffer.

The medical device and pharmaceutical industry is regulated extensively by governmental authorities, principally the FDA in the United States and corresponding state and foreign regulatory agencies, authorities and notified bodies. The FDA and other U.S. and foreign governmental agencies and authorities regulate and oversee, among other things, with respect to medical devices and pharmaceuticals:

 

   

design, development, and manufacturing;

 

   

testing, labeling, content and language of instructions for use, and storage;

 

   

clinical trials and clinical evaluation;

 

   

product safety;

 

   

quality control and assurance;

 

   

marketing, sales, and distribution;

 

   

pre-market clearance and approval;

 

   

conformity assessment procedures;

 

   

record-keeping procedures;

 

   

advertising and promotion;

 

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recalls and other field safety corrective actions;

 

   

post-market surveillance, including adverse event reporting;

 

   

post-market studies;

 

   

implementation of a REMS, Field Safety Corrective Actions or equivalent; and

 

   

product import and export.

The regulations to which we are subject are complex and have tended to become more stringent over time. Regulatory changes could result in restrictions on our ability to carry on or expand our operations, higher than anticipated costs or lower than anticipated sales.

Our failure, or our distributors’ failure, to comply with U.S. federal and state regulations and equivalent foreign rules could lead to the issuance of warning letters or untitled letters, the imposition of injunctions, suspensions or loss of regulatory clearance or approvals, product recalls, termination of distribution, product seizures, or civil penalties. In the most extreme cases, criminal sanctions or closure of our manufacturing facilities are possible.

The regulatory approval processes of the FDA and comparable foreign authorities and notifying conformity assessment by notified bodies are lengthy, time consuming and inherently unpredictable, and if we are ultimately unable to obtain regulatory approval for our products, our business will be substantially harmed.

Our products are subject to rigorous regulation by the FDA and numerous other federal, state, and foreign governmental authorities and notified bodies. The process of obtaining regulatory clearances or approvals from the FDA and comparable foreign authorities and notified bodies can be costly, and we may not be able to obtain these clearances or approvals on a timely basis, if at all. The time required to obtain approval or clearance from the FDA, comparable foreign authorities or to conduct a conformity assessment procedure and obtain a related EC Certificate of Conformity from the notified bodies is unpredictable but typically takes many years following the commencement of clinical trials and depends upon numerous factors, including the substantial discretion of the regulatory authorities. In addition, approval policies, regulations or the type and amount of clinical data necessary to gain approval may change during the course of a product’s clinical development and may vary among jurisdictions. We have received FDA approval for our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, and these products are CE marked in the European Union as stand-alone medical devices and are approved in certain other countries. However, it is possible that none of our products we may seek to develop in the future will ever obtain regulatory approval in the United States or other jurisdictions, or notified bodies may refuse to grant a related EC Certificate of Conformity in the European Union. Failure to obtain marketing approval for a product will prevent us from commercializing the product.

Our products could fail to receive regulatory approval, clearance or EC Certificates of Conformity for many reasons, including, but not limited to, the following:

 

   

regulatory authorities have substantial discretion in the approval process and may refuse to accept any application;

 

   

the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities or notified bodies may require us to pursue more burdensome regulatory pathways than we currently anticipate;

 

   

the results of any pre-clinical or clinical trials that we conduct may not meet the level of statistical significance or other standards required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities or notified bodies, or otherwise may be deemed insufficient for approval or grant of an EC Certificate of Conformity by our notified body;

 

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we may be unable to demonstrate that a product’s clinical and other benefits outweigh its safety risks;

 

   

the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities or notified bodies may observe deficiencies in the manufacturing processes or facilities of third-party manufacturers with which we contract for clinical and commercial supplies; and

 

   

the approval policies or regulations of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may change significantly in a manner rendering our existing approvals ineffective or our clinical data insufficient for approval or clearance.

This lengthy approval process as well as the unpredictability of future clinical trial results may result in our failing to obtain regulatory approval or EC Certificates of Conformity from notified bodies permitting us to market and/or distribute our products, which would harm our business, results of operations and prospects significantly.

Foreign governmental authorities that regulate the manufacture and sale of medical devices and drugs have become increasingly stringent, and to the extent we continue to market and sell our products in foreign countries, we will be subject to rigorous regulation in the future. In such circumstances, where we utilize distributors in foreign countries to market and sell our products, we would rely significantly on our distributors to comply with the varying regulations, and any failures on their part could result in restrictions on the sale of our products in foreign countries.

In addition, regulatory authorities may approve any of our products for fewer or more limited indications and notified bodies may issue EC Certificates of Conformity for fewer intended uses than we request. Moreover, competent authorities may not approve the price we intend to charge for our products, may grant approval or clearance contingent on the performance of costly post-marketing clinical trials or may approve a product with a label that does not include the labeling claims necessary or desirable for the successful commercialization of that product. Any of the foregoing scenarios could harm the commercial prospects for our products.

The type of marketing application required for our new or modified products is subject to discussion with and review by applicable regulatory authorities, and different types of marketing applications may involve different content, review timelines, and level of cost and effort in preparing the application. This could cause increased cost and delay in bringing new or modified products to market.

Even though we have obtained regulatory approval and marketing authorizations for certain of our products, we still face extensive regulatory requirements and may face future regulatory hurdles.

Even though we have obtained regulatory approval in the United States for our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations, the FDA and state regulatory authorities may still impose significant restrictions on the indicated uses or marketing of our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations, or impose ongoing requirements for potentially costly post-approval studies or post-marketing surveillance. Any future products which are approved or cleared by the FDA will also be subject to extensive post-approval obligations.

We are subject to ongoing post-approval FDA and other regulatory agency requirements, including those governing the labeling, packaging, storage, distribution, safety surveillance, advertising, promotion, record-keeping and reporting of safety and other post-approval information. The holder of an approved NDA is obligated to monitor and report adverse effects and any failure of a product to meet the specifications in the NDA. Under the FDA medical device reporting regulations, companies with FDA approved or cleared medical devices, including device constituents of a drug-device combination product, are required to report to the FDA

 

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information that a device has or may have caused or contributed to a death or serious injury or has malfunctioned in a way that would likely cause or contribute to death or serious injury if the malfunction of the device or one of our similar devices were to recur.

We rely on our distributors, which are the registration holders in certain markets, to meet their obligations outlined in our distribution agreements with them, including obligations relating to regulatory requirements and timelines for adverse event reporting and for providing compliance documentation such as installation and training records. If any of our distributors fails to comply with these obligations, it may result in delays or errors in our post-market surveillance reporting, which will negatively impact our business.

The holder of an approved NDA must also submit new or supplemental applications and obtain FDA approval for certain changes to the approved product, product labeling or manufacturing process. Advertising and promotional materials must comply with FDA regulations and may be subject to other potentially applicable federal and state laws. The applicable regulations in countries outside the United States grant similar powers to the competent authorities and impose similar obligations on companies.

In addition, manufacturers of drug products and their facilities are subject to payment of substantial user fees and continual review and periodic inspections by the FDA and other regulatory authorities for compliance with cGMP regulations and adherence to commitments made in the NDA. Since our approved product in the United States is regulated as a drug/device combination product, we will also need to comply with some of the FDA’s manufacturing regulations for devices. In addition to drug cGMP, the FDA requires that our drug-device combination products comply with the QSR, which sets forth the FDA’s manufacturing quality standards for medical devices, and other applicable government regulations and corresponding foreign standards. Compliance with applicable regulatory requirements is subject to continual review and is monitored rigorously through periodic inspections by the FDA, the notified body or other regulatory authority. If we, or a regulatory authority, discover previously unknown problems with our products, such as adverse effects, of unanticipated severity or frequency, stability issues relating to our drug formulations, or problems with a facility where the product is manufactured, a regulatory authority may impose restrictions relative to our products or our manufacturing facilities, including requiring recall or withdrawal of the product from the market, suspension of manufacturing, or other FDA action or other action by foreign regulatory authorities.

If we fail to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, a regulatory authority may take certain actions against us, including, but not limited to, the following:

 

   

issue a warning letter asserting that we are in violation of the law;

 

   

seek an injunction or impose civil or criminal penalties or monetary fines;

 

   

suspend, modify or withdraw regulatory approval;

 

   

suspend any ongoing clinical trials;

 

   

refuse to approve a pending NDA or a pending application for marketing authorization or supplements to an NDA or to an application for marketing authorization submitted by us;

 

   

seize or recall our product; and/or

 

   

refuse to allow us to enter into supply contracts, including government contracts.

FDA’s policies may change and additional government regulations may be enacted that could prevent, limit or delay regulatory approval of our products or modifications to our existing products. For example, in December 2016, the 21st Century Cures Act, or Cures Act, was signed into law. The Cures Act, among other

 

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things, is intended to modernize the regulation of drugs and devices and spur innovation, but its ultimate implementation is unclear. If we are slow or unable to adapt to changes in existing requirements or the adoption of new requirements or policies, or if we are not able to maintain regulatory compliance, we may lose any marketing approval that we may have obtained, which would adversely affect our business, prospects and ability to achieve or sustain profitability. Additionally, we cannot predict the likelihood, nature or extent of government regulation that may arise from future legislation or administrative action, either in the United States or abroad. For example, certain policies of the Trump administration may impact our business and industry. Namely, the Trump administration has taken several executive actions, including the issuance of a number of Executive Orders, that could impose significant burdens on, or otherwise materially delay, FDA’s ability to engage in routine regulatory and oversight activities such as implementing statutes through rulemaking, issuance of guidance, and review and approval of marketing applications. It is difficult to predict how these executive actions will be implemented, and the extent to which they will impact FDA’s ability to exercise its regulatory authority. If these executive actions impose constraints on FDA’s ability to engage in oversight and implementation activities in the normal course, our business may be negatively impacted.

Any government investigation of alleged violations of law could also require us to expend significant time and resources in response and could generate negative publicity. If we are not able to maintain regulatory compliance or if we are slow or unable to adapt to changes in existing requirements or the adoption of new requirements or policies, regulatory sanctions may be applied or we may lose any marketing approval or clearance that we may have obtained, and we may not achieve or sustain profitability, which would adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

Modifications to our products may require new regulatory clearances or approvals or may require us to recall or cease marketing our products until clearances or approvals are obtained.

Modifications to our products may require new regulatory approvals or clearances or new or modified EC Certificates of Conformity, or require us to recall or cease marketing the modified products until these clearances, approvals or modified EC Certificates of Conformity are obtained. For example, the FDA requires device manufacturers to initially make and document a determination of whether or not a modification requires a new approval, supplement or clearance. A manufacturer may determine that a modification could not significantly affect safety or efficacy and does not represent a major change in its intended use, so that no new 510(k) clearance is necessary. However, the FDA can review a manufacturer’s decision and may disagree. The FDA may also on its own initiative determine that a new clearance or approval is required.

We may not be able to obtain those additional clearances, approvals or modified EC Certificates of Conformity for the modifications or additional indications in a timely manner, or at all. Obtaining clearances and approvals can be a time consuming process, and delays in obtaining required future clearances or approvals would adversely affect our ability to introduce new or enhanced products in a timely manner, which in turn would harm our future growth.

We may in the future conduct clinical trials for our products outside the United States, and the FDA and applicable foreign regulatory authorities may not accept data from such trials.

We may in the future choose to conduct one or more of our clinical trials outside the United States, including in the European Union. The acceptance of study data from clinical trials conducted outside the United States or another jurisdiction by the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority may be subject to certain conditions. In all cases, the clinical trials must be conducted in accordance with GCP and the applicable regulatory requirements and ethical principles that have their origin in the Declaration of Helsinki. In cases where data from foreign clinical trials are intended to support an application for marketing approval or clearance in the United States, the FDA may not accept the foreign data as supportive unless that data is applicable to the United States population and United States medical practice; the studies were performed by clinical investigators of recognized competence; the FDA’s clinical trial design requirements, including sufficient size of patient

 

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populations and statistical powering, are met; the clinical trial is either conducted under an IND application and in compliance with IND regulations or is conducted outside of an IND but in compliance with GCP and accompanied by a sufficient description of actions taken to ensure that the trial conformed to GCP, and the data are considered valid without the need for an on-site inspection by the FDA or, if the FDA considers such an inspection to be necessary, the FDA is able to validate the data through an on-site inspection or other appropriate means. Many foreign regulatory bodies have similar requirements requiring demonstration of ethnic equivalence. In addition, such foreign studies would be subject to the applicable local laws of the foreign jurisdictions where the studies are conducted. There can be no assurance the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority will accept data from trials conducted outside of the United States or the applicable jurisdiction. If the FDA or any applicable foreign regulatory authority does not accept such data, it would result in the need for additional trials, which would be costly and time-consuming and delay aspects of our business plan, and/or which may result in our products not receiving approval or clearance for commercialization in the applicable jurisdiction.

We may not be able to obtain orphan drug designation or orphan drug exclusivity for our future products.

Regulatory authorities in some jurisdictions, including the United States and Europe, may designate drugs for relatively small patient populations as orphan drugs. Under the Orphan Drug Act, the FDA may designate a product as an orphan drug if it is a drug intended to treat a rare disease or condition, defined as one occurring in a patient population of fewer than 200,000 individuals annually in the United States, or a patient population greater than 200,000 in the United States where there is no reasonable expectation that the cost of developing the drug will be recovered from sales in the United States. In the European Union, the EMA’s Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products grants orphan drug designation to promote the development of products that are intended for the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of a life-threatening or chronically debilitating condition affecting not more than five in 10,000 persons in the European Union. Additionally, designation is granted for products intended for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a life-threatening, seriously debilitating, or serious and chronic condition when, without incentives, it is unlikely that sales of the drug in the European Union would be sufficient to justify the necessary investment in developing the drug or biological product or where there is no satisfactory method of diagnosis, prevention, or treatment, or, if such a method exists, the medicine must be of significant benefit to those affected by the condition.

In the United States, orphan drug designation entitles a party to financial incentives such as opportunities for grant funding towards clinical trial costs, tax credits for qualified clinical testing, and user-fee waivers. In addition, if a product receives the first FDA approval of that drug for the indication for which it has orphan designation, the product is entitled to orphan drug exclusivity, which means the FDA may not approve any other application to market the same drug for the same indication for a period of seven years, except in limited circumstances, such as a showing of clinical superiority over the product with orphan exclusivity or where the manufacturer is unable to assure the availability of sufficient quantities of the orphan drug to meet the needs of patients with the rare disease or condition. In the European Union, orphan drug designation entitles a party to financial incentives such as reduction of fees or fee waivers and ten years of market exclusivity following approval for the approved therapeutic indication. This period may be reduced to six years if, at the end of the fifth year, the orphan drug designation criteria are no longer met, including where it is shown that the drug is sufficiently profitable not to justify maintenance of market exclusivity. In the European Union, a marketing authorization for an orphan designated product will not be granted if a similar drug has been approved in the European Union for the same therapeutic indication, unless the applicant can establish that its product is safer, more effective or otherwise clinically superior. A similar drug is a product containing a similar active substance or substances as those contained in an already authorized product. Similar active substance is defined as an identical active substance, or an active substance with the same principal molecular structural features, but not necessarily all of the same molecular features, and which acts via the same mechanism.

While we have received orphan drug designations and were afforded orphan exclusivity from the FDA that cover our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery upon approval, we may seek orphan drug designations for other

 

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products or in other jurisdictions and may be unable to obtain such designations. If our competitors obtain orphan drug designation and approval of a product and the FDA or other regulatory authority determines that the product is the same drug and treats the same indication as one of our unapproved products, the competitor’s orphan drug exclusivity may prevent us from obtaining approval of our product for seven years after the competitor’s receipt of approval.

Even if we obtain orphan drug designation for a product, we may not be able to obtain orphan drug exclusivity for that product or we may be unable to maintain such designation even if granted upon approval. Generally, a product with orphan drug designation only becomes entitled to orphan drug exclusivity if it receives the first marketing approval for the indication for which it has such designation, or if it is shown to be clinically superior to any previously approved version of the same drug for the same indication. If orphan exclusivity is awarded, the FDA will be precluded from approving another marketing application for the same drug for that indication for the applicable exclusivity period, except in limited circumstances. In addition, exclusive marketing rights in the United States may be unavailable if we seek approval for an indication broader than the orphan-designated indication.

Even if we obtain orphan drug exclusivity for a product, that exclusivity may not effectively protect the product from competition because different drugs can be approved for the same condition and the same drug can be approved for a different condition. Even after an orphan drug is approved, the FDA can subsequently approve the same drug for the same condition if the FDA concludes that the later drug is clinically superior in that it is shown to be safer, more effective or makes a major contribution to patient care. Orphan exclusivity may also be lost in the United States if the FDA later determines that the request for designation was materially defective or if we are unable to assure sufficient quantities of the drug to meet the needs of patients with the rare disease or condition following approval. Orphan drug designation neither shortens the development time or regulatory review time of a drug nor gives the drug any advantage in the regulatory review or approval process. In addition, while we may seek orphan drug designation for other existing and future products, we may never receive such designations.

Our products are currently regulated in some territories outside the United States as medical devices, and our future products could be considered to be medical devices and subject to extensive regulation by the FDA, including the requirement to obtain premarket approval and the requirement to report adverse events and violations of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act that could present significant risk of injury to patients.

If any of our products are determined to be regulated in accordance with the FDA’s medical device requirements as opposed to regulation as a drug/device combination product subject to the FDA’s drug regulatory authority, they will be subject to rigorous medical device regulation by the FDA and numerous other federal, state and foreign governmental authorities. The process of obtaining regulatory clearances or approvals to market a medical device can be costly and time consuming, and we may not be able to obtain these clearances or approvals on a timely basis, if at all. In particular, the FDA permits commercial distribution of a new medical device, or new use of, new claim for or significant modification to an existing medical device only after the device has received clearance under Section 510(k) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, or is the subject of an approved premarket approval application, or PMA, unless the device is specifically exempt from those requirements. In the 510(k) clearance process, before a device may be marketed, the FDA must determine that a proposed device is “substantially equivalent” to a legally-marketed “predicate” device, which includes a device that has been previously cleared through the 510(k) process, a device that was legally marketed prior to May 28, 1976 (preamendments device), a device that was originally on the U.S. market pursuant to an approved premarket approval, or PMA, application and later downclassified, or a 510(k)-exempt device. To be “substantially equivalent,” the proposed device must have the same intended use as the predicate device, and either have the same technological characteristics as the predicate device or have different technological characteristics and not raise different questions of safety or effectiveness than the predicate device. Clinical data are sometimes required to support substantial equivalence. The FDA will also grant de novo applications for low risk devices that are not substantially equivalent to other 510(k)-cleared products where the benefits of those devices are demonstrated to outweigh the risks. High-risk devices deemed to pose the greatest risk, such as life-

 

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sustaining, life-supporting, or implantable devices, or devices not deemed substantially equivalent to a previously cleared device, require the approval of a PMA. The PMA process is more costly, lengthy and uncertain than the 510(k) clearance process. A PMA application must be supported by extensive data, including, but not limited to, technical, preclinical, clinical trial, manufacturing and labeling data, to demonstrate to the FDA’s satisfaction the safety and efficacy of the device for its intended use. The FDA may not approve or clear our future products for the indications that are necessary or desirable for successful commercialization. Indeed, the FDA may refuse our requests for 510(k) clearance or premarket approval of new products. Failure to receive clearance or approval for our new products would have an adverse effect on our ability to expand our business.

In the European Union, the riboflavin drug formulations manufactured by Medio-Haus and intended for use with our KXL system and Mosaic system are compliant with the Essential Requirements set out in Annex I to the EU Medical Devices Directive and are CE marked and commercialized as medical devices. These devices were subject to assessment by a Notified Body. By issuing related EC Certificates of Conformity, and later renewing them, the Notified Body confirmed its opinion that the riboflavin formulations are appropriately classified as medical devices in the European Union. Version 1.19 (published in April 2018) of the European Commission’s Classification and Borderline Expert Group’s Manual on Borderline and Classification in the Community Regulatory Framework for Medical Devices, or the Borderline Classification Manual, discusses the regulatory classification of a riboflavin drug formulation for treatment of keratoconus (a similar discussion was included in earlier versions of the Borderline Classification Manual since July 2014). The riboflavin drug formulation is administered into the eye and is activated via illumination with UVA light for approximately 30 minutes. The intended purpose of the product is to increase the collagen cross linking by using riboflavin in treatment of keratoconus by causing the collagen fibrils to thicken, stiffen and cross link and reattach to each other making the cornea stronger, more stable and in turn halting the disease progression. The riboflavin causes new bonds to form across adjacent collagen strands in the stromal layer of the cornea which increases the tensile strength of the cornea. The Borderline Classification Manual concludes that available information indicates that, in these circumstances, the riboflavin has a dual function, firstly on the production of oxygen free radicals, and secondly by absorbing the UVA radiation and preventing damage to deeper ocular structures, such as corneal endothelium, the lens and the retina. The application of riboflavin in these circumstances results in an alteration of the normal chemical process of cross-linking of collagen as a result the riboflavin solution for treatment of keratoconus that was the subject of the opinion should not be classified as a medical device. The above position expressed in the Borderline Classification Manual as early as July 2014 is not legally binding and the competent authorities of the EU member states are not legally required to classify riboflavin solutions for treatment of keratoconus as medicinal products. It rather serves as one out of many elements supporting the competent authorities of the EU member states in their case-by-case decision on individual products. The Borderline Classification Manual does however reflect the views of the European Commission’s working party on borderline and classification comprised of the European Commission services, EU Member State experts and other stakeholders. While riboflavin solutions manufactured by Medio-Haus and intended for use with our KXL system and Mosaic system were placed on the market in the European Union as medical devices and were subject to continuous oversight by Notified Bodies, we cannot, therefore, rule out that one or more of the competent authorities of the EU member states could follow the views expressed in 2014 in the Borderline Classification Manual and conclude that the riboflavin formulations intended for use with our KXL and Mosaic systems should be classified as a medicinal product and not as a medical devices. In such case, these riboflavin formulations would need to undergo an EU or EU member states medicinal product marketing authorization process before they can be commercialized in the European Union.

If we fail to comply with U.S. federal, state and foreign governmental regulations, such failure could lead to the issuance of warning letters or untitled letters, the imposition of injunctions, suspensions or loss of regulatory clearance or approvals, product recalls, termination of distribution, product seizures or civil penalties. In the most extreme cases, criminal sanctions or closure of our manufacturing facility are possible.

 

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If we fail to comply with healthcare and other regulations, we could face substantial penalties and our business operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

Healthcare providers and third party payors play a primary role in the recommendation, prescription, treatment and coverage of procedures and FDA-approved prescription drugs and devices. Our arrangements and interactions with healthcare professionals, third-party payors, patients and others will expose us to broadly applicable fraud and abuse, anti-kickback, false claims and other healthcare laws and regulations that may constrain the business or financial arrangements and relationships through which we market, sell, and distribute our products. The U.S. federal and state laws and regulations that may affect our ability to operate include, without limitation:

 

   

The federal healthcare program Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, any person or entity from knowingly and willfully offering, paying, soliciting, or receiving any remuneration, directly or indirectly, to induce or in return for purchasing, leasing, ordering or arranging for or recommending the purchase, lease or order of any good or service for which payment may be made, in whole or in part, under federal healthcare programs, such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs. This statute has been interpreted to apply to arrangements between pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers on one hand and prescribers, purchasers and formulary managers on the other. Liability under the Anti-Kickback Statute may be established without proving actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it. In addition, the government may assert that a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the federal civil False Claims Act. Although there are a number of statutory exceptions and regulatory safe harbors to the federal Anti-Kickback Statute protecting certain common business arrangements and activities from prosecution or regulatory sanctions, the exceptions and safe harbors are drawn narrowly. Practices that involve remuneration to those who prescribe, purchase, or recommend pharmaceutical and medical device products, including discounts, or engaging such individuals as consultants, advisors, or speakers, may be subject to scrutiny if they do not fit squarely within an exception or safe harbor. Our practices may not in all cases meet all of the criteria for safe harbor protection from anti-kickback liability. Moreover, there are no safe harbors for many common practices, such as reimbursement support programs, patient assistance programs, educational and research grants, or charitable donations.

 

   

The federal civil False Claims Act, prohibits, among other things, any person or entity from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment of government funds, including the Medicare and Medicaid programs, knowingly making, using, or causing to be made or used a false record or statement material to a false or fraudulent claim or to an obligation to pay money to the government, or knowingly and improperly avoiding, decreasing, or concealing an obligation to pay money to the federal government. Actions under the False Claims Act may be brought by the U.S. Attorney General or as a qui tam action by a private individual in the name of the government. The government may assert that a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim under the civil False Claims Act. Many pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers have been investigated and have reached substantial financial settlements with the federal government under the civil False Claims Act for a variety of alleged improper activities, including causing false claims to be submitted as a result of the marketing of their products for unapproved and thus non-reimbursable uses and interactions with prescribers and other customers including those that may have affected their billing or coding practices and submission of claims to the federal government. False Claims Act liability is potentially significant in the healthcare industry because the statute provides for treble damages and mandatory penalties of $11,181 to $22,363 per false or fraudulent claim or statement. Because of the potential for large monetary exposure, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies often resolve allegations without admissions of liability for significant and material amounts to avoid the uncertainty of treble damages and per

 

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claim penalties that may be awarded in litigation proceedings. There are also criminal penalties, including imprisonment and criminal fines, for making or presenting a false or fictitious or fraudulent claim to the federal government.

 

   

The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, which imposes criminal and civil liability for knowingly and willfully executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, including private third-party payors, knowingly and willfully embezzling or stealing from a healthcare benefit program, willfully obstructing a criminal investigation of a healthcare offense, and knowingly and willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement in connection with the delivery of or payment for healthcare benefits, items or services.

 

   

The federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act requires certain manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or the State Children’s Health Insurance Program to report annually to CMS information related to payments and other transfers of value that they make to physicians and teaching hospitals and ownership and investment interests in the company held by physicians and their immediate families. Beginning in 2022, applicable manufacturers also will be required to report information regarding payments and transfers of value provided to physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse anesthetists, and certified nurse-midwives.

 

   

HIPAA, as amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, or HITECH, and its implementing regulations, which governs the conduct of certain electronic healthcare transactions and protects the security and privacy of protected health information, and state health information privacy and breach notification laws protecting personal information.

 

   

Federal and state consumer protection and unfair competition laws, which broadly regulate marketplace activities and activities that potentially harm consumers.

 

   

Analogous state, local and foreign laws, such as, anti-kickback and false claims laws that may apply to items or services reimbursed by any third party payor, including commercial insurers; state laws that restrict payments that may be made to healthcare providers and other potential referral sources; state, local and foreign laws that require manufacturers to report information related to payments and other transfers of value to physicians and other healthcare providers or marketing expenditures; state and local laws that require manufacturers to implement compliance programs or marketing codes; state and local laws that require the registration of pharmaceutical sales representatives; and state laws governing the privacy and security of health information in certain circumstances, many of which differ from each other in significant ways, thus complicating compliance efforts.

 

   

Similar healthcare laws and regulations in the European Union and other jurisdictions, including reporting requirements detailing interactions with and payments to healthcare providers and laws governing the privacy and security of certain protected information, such as GDPR, which imposes obligations and restrictions on the collection and use of personal data relating to individuals located in the European Union (including health data).

State and federal regulatory and enforcement agencies continue to actively investigate violations of healthcare laws and regulations, and the U.S. Congress continues to strengthen the arsenal of enforcement tools. Most recently, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 increased the criminal and civil penalties that can be imposed for violating certain federal healthcare laws, including the federal healthcare Anti-Kickback Statute. Enforcement agencies also continue to pursue novel theories of liability under these laws. In particular, government agencies recently have increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement activity with respect to manufacturer reimbursement support activities and patient support programs, including bringing criminal charges or civil enforcement actions

 

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under the federal healthcare Anti-Kickback statute, civil False Claims Act and violations of healthcare fraud statute and HIPAA privacy provisions.

To support patient access to treatment, we created the Avedro Reimbursement Customer Hub, or ARCH, program. The ARCH program educates on and assists with coverage and reimbursement questions related to the KXL procedure and Photrexa formulations, provides no-charge drug to uninsured or government-insured patients who meet financial eligibility criteria and, for a limited time, offers healthcare providers a discount on future purchases of Photrexa formulations in certain qualifying circumstances. We have worked to structure the ARCH program in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, HIPAA fraud and privacy requirements, and other regulatory guidance available. Ensuring compliance with these laws and regulations requires substantial resources. We monitor implementation of the ARCH program, enhance safeguards as appropriate, and respond to instances of noncompliance. However, the government could challenge the design of the ARCH program under one or more of these laws, particularly if some if our vendors or personnel do not follow the established safeguards.

Because of the breadth of these laws and the narrowness of the statutory exceptions and safe harbors available under such laws, it is possible that some of our business activities, including the ARCH program, certain sales and marketing practices and financial arrangements with physicians and other healthcare providers, some of whom recommend, use, prescribe or purchase our products, and other customers, could be subject to challenge under one or more such laws. If our operations are found to be in violation of any of these laws or regulations, we may be subject to penalties, including potentially significant civil and criminal penalties, damages, fines, disgorgement, imprisonment, exclusion from participation in government healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid in the United States and similar programs outside the United States, contractual damages, reputational harm, administrative burdens, diminished profits and future earnings, and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our financial results. Companies settling federal false claims, kickback or Civil Monetary Penalty cases also may be required to enter into a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General in order to avoid exclusion from participation (i.e., loss of coverage for their products) in federal healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Corporate Integrity Agreements typically impose substantial costs on companies to ensure compliance. Any action against us for violation of these laws, even if we successfully defend against it, could cause us to incur significant legal expenses and divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business. Defending against any such actions can be costly, time-consuming and may require significant personnel resources. Therefore, even if we are successful in defending against any such actions that may be brought against us, our business may be impaired. Moreover, achieving and sustaining compliance with applicable federal and state privacy, security and fraud laws may prove costly.

We may be subject to, or may in the future become subject to, U.S. federal and state, and foreign laws and regulations imposing obligations on how we collect, use, disclose, store and process personal information. Our actual or perceived failure to comply with such obligations could result in liability or reputational harm and could harm our business. Ensuring compliance with such laws could also impair our efforts to maintain and expand our customer base, and thereby decrease our revenue.

In many activities, including the conduct of clinical trials, we are subject to laws and regulations governing data privacy and the protection of health-related and other personal information. These laws and regulations govern our processing of personal data, including the collection, access, use, analysis, modification, storage, transfer, security breach notification, destruction and disposal of personal data. We must comply with laws and regulations associated with the international transfer of personal data based on the location in which the personal data originates and the location in which it is processed. Although there are legal mechanisms to facilitate the transfer of personal data from the European Economic Area, or EEA, and Switzerland to the United States, the decision of the European Court of Justice that invalidated the safe harbor framework has increased uncertainty around compliance with EU privacy law requirements. As a result of the decision, it was no longer

 

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possible to rely on safe harbor certification as a legal basis for the transfer of personal data from the European Union to entities in the United States. In February 2016, the European Commission announced an agreement with the Department of Commerce, or DOC, to replace the invalidated safe harbor framework with a new EU-U.S. “Privacy Shield.” On July 12, 2016, the European Commission adopted a decision on the adequacy of the protection provided by the Privacy Shield. The Privacy Shield is intended to address the requirements set out by the European Court of Justice in its recent ruling by imposing more stringent obligations on companies, providing stronger monitoring and enforcement by the DOC and Federal Trade Commission and making commitments on the part of public authorities regarding access to information.

The privacy and security of personally identifiable information stored, maintained, received or transmitted, including electronically, subject to significant regulation in the United States and abroad. While we strive to comply with all applicable privacy and security laws and regulations, legal standards for privacy continue to evolve and any failure or perceived failure to comply may result in proceedings or actions against us by government entities or others, or could cause reputational harm, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Numerous foreign, federal and state laws and regulations govern collection, dissemination, use and confidentiality of personally identifiable health information, including state privacy and confidentiality laws (including state laws requiring disclosure of breaches); federal and state consumer protection and employment laws; HIPAA; and European and other foreign data protection laws. These laws and regulations are increasing in complexity and number, may change frequently and sometimes conflict.

HIPAA establishes a set of national privacy and security standards for the protection of individually identifiable health information, including protected health information, or PHI, by health plans, certain healthcare clearinghouses and healthcare providers that submit certain covered transactions electronically, or covered entities, and their ‘‘business associates,’’ which are persons or entities that perform certain services for, or on behalf of, a covered entity that involve creating, receiving, maintaining or transmitting PHI. While we are not currently a covered entity or business associate under HIPAA, we may receive identifiable information from these entities. Failure to receive this information properly could subject us to HIPAA’s criminal penalties, which may include fines up to $250,000 per violation and/or imprisonment. In addition, responding to government investigations regarding alleged violations of these and other laws and regulations, even if ultimately concluded with no findings of violations or no penalties imposed, can consume company resources and impact our business and, if public, harm our reputation.

In addition, various states, such as California and Massachusetts, have implemented similar privacy laws and regulations, such as the California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act, that impose restrictive requirements regulating the use and disclosure of health information and other personally identifiable information. In addition to fines and penalties imposed upon violators, some of these state laws also afford private rights of action to individuals who believe their personal information has been misused. California’s patient privacy laws, for example, provide for penalties of up to $250,000 and permit injured parties to sue for damages. The interplay of federal and state laws may be subject to varying interpretations by courts and government agencies, creating complex compliance issues for us and our clients and potentially exposing us to additional expense, adverse publicity and liability. Further, as regulatory focus on privacy issues continues to increase and laws and regulations concerning the protection of personal information expand and become more complex, these potential risks to our business could intensify.

In addition, the interpretation and application of consumer, health-related, and data protection laws are often uncertain, contradictory, and in flux.

U.S.-based companies may certify compliance with the privacy principles of the Privacy Shield. Certification to the Privacy Shield, however, is not mandatory. If a U.S.-based company does not certify compliance with the Privacy Shield, it may rely on other authorized mechanisms to transfer personal data.

 

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The privacy and data security landscape is still in flux. In October 2016, an action for annulment of the European Commission decision on the adequacy of Privacy Shield was brought before the European Court of Justice by three French digital rights advocacy groups, La Quadrature du Net, French Data Network and the Fédération FDN. This case, Case T-738/16, is currently pending before the European Court of Justice. Should the European Court of Justice invalidate the Privacy Shield, it will no longer be possible to transfer data from the European Union to entities in the United States under a Privacy Shield certification, in which case other legal mechanisms would need to be put in place.

The legislative and regulatory landscape for privacy and data security continues to evolve, and there has been an increasing focus on privacy and data security issues which may affect our business. Failure to comply with current and future laws and regulations could result in government enforcement actions (including the imposition of significant penalties), criminal and civil liability for us and our officers and directors, private litigation and/or adverse publicity that negatively affects our business.

If we or our vendors fail to comply with applicable data privacy laws, or if the legal mechanisms we or our vendors rely upon to allow for the transfer of personal data from the EEA or Switzerland to the United States (or other countries not considered by the European Commission to provide an adequate level of data protection) are not considered adequate, we could be subject to government enforcement actions and significant penalties against us, and our business could be adversely impacted if our ability to transfer personal data outside of the EEA or Switzerland is restricted, which could adversely impact our operating results. The EU General Data Protection Regulation, which was effective as of May 25, 2018, introduced new data protection requirements in the European Union relating to the consent of the individuals to whom the personal data relates, the information provided to the individuals, the documentation we must retain, the security and confidentiality of the personal data, data breach notification and the use of third party processors in connection with the processing of personal data. The EU General Data Protection Regulation has increased our responsibility and potential liability in relation to personal data that we process, and we may be required to put in place additional mechanisms to ensure compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation. However, our ongoing efforts related to compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation may not be successful and could increase our cost of doing business. In addition, data protection authorities of the different EU member states may interpret the EU General Data Protection Regulation differently, and guidance on implementation and compliance practices are often updated or otherwise revised, which adds to the complexity of processing personal data in the European Union.

In the United States, California recently adopted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, or CCPA, which will come into effect beginning in January 2020. The CCPA has been characterized as the first “GDPR-like” privacy statute to be enacted in the United States because it mirrors a number of the key provisions of the EU General Data Protection Regulation. The CCPA establishes a new privacy framework for covered businesses by creating an expanded definition of personal information, establishing new data privacy rights for consumers in the State of California, imposing special rules on the collection of consumer data from minors, and creating a new and potentially severe statutory damages framework for violations of the CCPA and for businesses that fail to implement reasonable security procedures and practices to prevent data breaches.

Guidelines, regulations and recommendations published by government agencies can reduce the use of our products.

Government agencies promulgate regulations and guidelines applicable to our current products and the products that we are developing. Recommendations of government agencies may relate to such matters as usage, dosage, route of administration, categorization and use of combination therapies. Regulations or guidelines suggesting the reduced use of our current products and the products that we are developing or the use of competitive or alternative products as the standard of care to be followed by patients and healthcare providers could result in decreased use of our products and products or negatively impact our ability to gain market acceptance and market share.

 

 

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Healthcare reform measures could hinder or prevent our products’ commercial success.

The Healthcare Reform Act, is a sweeping measure in the United States which has substantially changed the way healthcare is financed by both governmental and private insurers and significantly impacts the pharmaceutical industry. Among the ways in which it may impact our business, particularly if in the future Medicare or Medicaid covers or reimburses our drug formulations, the Healthcare Reform Act:

 

   

imposes an annual excise tax of 2.3% on any entity that manufactures or imports medical devices offered for sale in the United States, with limited exceptions, although the effective rate paid may be lower. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016, the excise tax was suspended through December 31, 2017, and under the continuing resolution on appropriations for fiscal year 2018, or 2018 Appropriations Resolution, signed by President Trump on January 22, 2018, was further suspended through December 31, 2019;

 

   

establishes an annual, nondeductible fee on any entity that manufactures or imports certain specified branded prescription drugs and biologic agents apportioned among these entities according to their market share in some government healthcare programs;

 

   

expands eligibility criteria for Medicaid programs by, among other things, allowing states to offer Medicaid coverage to additional individuals and by adding new mandatory eligibility categories for individuals with income at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, thereby potentially increasing manufacturers’ Medicaid rebate liability;

 

   

expands the entities eligible for discounts under the Public Health program; and

 

   

creates a new Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to oversee, identify priorities in, and conduct comparative clinical effectiveness research.

Some of the provisions of the Healthcare Reform Act have yet to be implemented, and there have been judicial and Congressional challenges to certain aspects of the Healthcare Reform Act, as well as recent efforts by the Trump administration to repeal or replace certain aspects of the Healthcare Reform Act. Since January 2017, President Trump has signed two Executive Orders and other directives designed to delay the implementation of certain provisions of the Healthcare Reform Act or otherwise circumvent some of the requirements for health insurance mandated by the Healthcare Reform Act. Concurrently, Congress has considered legislation that would repeal or repeal and replace all or part of the Healthcare Reform Act. While Congress has not passed comprehensive repeal legislation, two bills affecting the implementation of certain taxes under the Healthcare Reform Act have been signed into law. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 includes a provision repealing, effective January 1, 2019, the tax-based shared responsibility payment imposed by the Healthcare Reform Act on certain individuals who fail to maintain qualifying health coverage for all or part of a year that is commonly referred to as the “individual mandate.” Additionally, the 2018 Appropriations Resolution delayed the implementation of certain Healthcare Reform Act-mandated fees, including, without limitation, the medical device excise tax. More recently, in July 2018, CMS published a final rule permitting further collections and payments to and from certain Healthcare Reform Act qualified health plans and health insurance issuers under the Healthcare Reform Act risk adjustment program in response to the outcome of federal district court litigation regarding the method CMS uses to determine this risk adjustment. We continue to evaluate the potential impact of the Healthcare Reform Act and its possible repeal or replacement on our business.

In addition, other legislative changes have been proposed and adopted since the Healthcare Reform Act was enacted. On August 2, 2011, the Budget Control Act of 2011 was signed into law, which, among other things, created the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to recommend to Congress proposals for spending reductions. The Joint Select Committee did not achieve a targeted deficit reduction of at least $1.2 trillion for the years 2013 through 2021, triggering the legislation’s automatic reduction to several government

 

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programs. This includes reductions to Medicare payments to providers of 2% per fiscal year, which went into effect on April 1, 2013 and, due to subsequent legislative amendments to the statute, will remain in effect through 2027 unless additional Congressional action is taken. On January 2, 2013, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law, which, among other things, reduced Medicare payments to several providers and increased the statute of limitations period for the government to recover overpayments to providers from three to five years.

In addition, drug pricing by pharmaceutical companies is currently, and is expected to continue to be, under close scrutiny, including with respect to companies that have increased the price of products after acquiring those products from other companies. Such scrutiny has resulted in several recent congressional inquiries and proposed and enacted federal and state legislation designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to product pricing, review the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient support programs, and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for products. At the federal level, the Trump administration released a “Blueprint” to lower drug prices and reduce out of pocket costs of drugs that contains additional proposals to increase manufacturer competition, increase the negotiating power of certain federal healthcare programs, incentivize manufacturers to lower the list price of their products and reduce the out of pocket costs of drug products paid by consumers. The United States Health and Human Services has already started the process of soliciting feedback on some of these measures and, at the same time, is immediately implementing others under its existing authority. Although a number of these, and other proposed measures will require authorization through additional legislation to become effective, Congress and the Trump administration have each indicated that it will continue to seek new legislative and/or administrative measures to control drug costs. At the state level, legislatures have increasingly passed legislation and implemented regulations designed to control pharmaceutical and biological product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement constraints, discounts, restrictions on certain product access and marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from other countries and bulk purchasing.

We expect there will continue to be a number of legislative and regulatory changes to the United States healthcare system in ways that could affect our future revenue and profitability and the future revenue and profitability of our potential customers. We anticipate that Congress, state legislatures and the private sector will continue to consider and may adopt healthcare policies and reforms intended to curb healthcare costs, particularly given the current atmosphere of mounting criticism of prescription drug costs in the U.S.

We could be adversely affected by violations of the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or FCPA, and other worldwide anti-bribery laws.

We are subject to the FCPA, which prohibits companies and their intermediaries from making payments in violation of law to non-United States government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing any other improper advantage. The FCPA and similar third country anti-bribery laws to which we may be subject are complex and far-reaching in nature and generally prohibit improper offering, promising, giving, or authorizing others to offer, promise, or give anything of value, either directly or indirectly, to foreign officials for the purpose of improperly influencing any act or decision, securing any other improper advantage, or obtaining or retaining business.

Our current success depends on our network of distribution partners located in markets around the globe, including in Europe, the Middle East, China, Japan and South Korea. Our significant reliance on foreign suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and collaborators creates a risk of liability under the FCPA and similar anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws in other jurisdictions and demands a high degree of vigilance in preventing our partners, employees and consultants from participation in corrupt activity, because these foreign entities could be deemed our agents and we could be held responsible for their actions. Compliance with the FCPA is expensive and difficult, particularly in countries in which corruption is a recognized problem. In addition, the FCPA presents particular challenges in the pharmaceutical and medical device industry because, in many countries, hospitals are operated by the government and doctors and other hospital employees are considered

 

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foreign officials. In some cases, certain payments to hospitals in connection with clinical trials and other work have been deemed to be improper payments to government officials and have led to FCPA enforcement actions.

The FCPA also requires public companies to make and keep books and records that accurately and fairly reflect the transactions of the company and to maintain an adequate system of internal accounting controls. Although we do not control our international distributors, collaborators or other third party agents, we may nevertheless be liable for their actions and no assurance can be made that all employees, distributors, collaborators and other third party agents will comply with the FCPA and similar foreign laws. We also cannot assure you that we would not be required in the future to alter one or more of our practices to be in compliance with these laws or any changes in these laws or the interpretation thereof.

Any violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could disrupt our operations, involve significant management distraction, and involve significant costs and expenses, including legal fees. We could also suffer severe penalties, including criminal sanctions and civil penalties such as monetary fines, disgorgement of past profits, and other remedial measures, any of which could have a material and adverse impact on our business, financial conditions, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our employees, collaborators, independent contractors, principal investigators, consultants, vendors and CROs may engage in misconduct or other improper activities, including noncompliance with regulatory standards and requirements.

We are exposed to the risk that our employees, collaborators, independent contractors, principal investigators, consultants, vendors and CROs may engage in fraudulent or other illegal activity with respect to our business. Misconduct by these employees could include intentional, reckless and/or negligent conduct or unauthorized activity that violates:

 

   

FDA regulations and equivalent third country regulations, including those laws requiring the reporting of true, complete and accurate information to the FDA and equivalent third country authorities;

 

   

manufacturing standards;

 

   

federal and state healthcare fraud and abuse laws and regulations and equivalent third country regulations; or

 

   

laws that require the true, complete and accurate reporting of financial information or data.

In particular, sales, marketing and business arrangements in the healthcare industry are subject to extensive laws and regulations intended to prevent fraud, kickbacks, self-dealing and other abusive practices. These laws and regulations may restrict or prohibit a wide range of pricing, discounting, marketing and promotion, sales commission, customer incentive programs and other business arrangements. Misconduct by these parties could also involve individually identifiable information, including, without limitation, the improper use of information obtained in the course of clinical trials, or illegal misappropriation of drug product, which could result in regulatory sanctions and serious harm to our reputation. Any incidents or any other conduct that leads to an employee receiving an FDA or equivalent third country debarment could result in a loss of business from third parties and severe reputational harm.

In connection with this offering, we will adopt a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics to govern and deter such behaviors, but it is not always possible to identify and deter employee misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in controlling unknown or unmanaged risks or losses or in protecting us from governmental investigations or other actions or lawsuits stemming from a failure

 

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to be in compliance with such laws or regulations. If any such actions are instituted against us, and we are not successful in defending ourselves or asserting our rights, those actions could have a significant impact on our business, including the imposition of civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, monetary fines, disgorgement, imprisonment, possible exclusion from participation in Medicare, Medicaid and other federal or third country healthcare programs, contractual damages, reputational harm, diminished profits and future earnings, additional reporting requirements and oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or similar agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these laws, and curtailment of our operations.

A recall of our products, or the discovery of serious safety issues with our products, could have a significant adverse impact on us.

The FDA and equivalent third country authorities have the authority to require the recall of commercialized drugs or medical devices in the event of material deficiencies, defects in design or manufacture, or stability failures. Manufacturers may, under their own initiative, recall a product if any material deficiency in a drug or device is found. A government-mandated or voluntary recall by us or one of our distributors could occur as a result of an unacceptable risk to health, component failures, manufacturing errors, stability failures, drug contamination or impurities, design or labeling defects or other deficiencies and issues. Recalls of any of our products would divert managerial and financial resources and have an adverse effect on our reputation, financial condition and operating results, which could impair our ability to produce our products in a cost-effective and timely manner. The FDA and equivalent third country authorities require that certain classifications of recalls be reported to them within a defined period of time (within ten working days for the FDA) after the recall is initiated. Companies are required to maintain certain records of recalls, even if they are not reportable to the FDA or equivalent third country authorities. We may initiate voluntary recalls involving our products in the future that we determine do not require notification of the FDA or equivalent third country authorities. If the FDA or equivalent third country authorities disagree with our determinations, they could require us to report those actions as recalls. A future recall announcement could harm our reputation with customers and negatively affect our sales. In addition, the FDA or equivalent third country authorities could take enforcement action for failing to report the recalls when they were conducted.

An increase in the frequency or severity of adverse events, or repeated product complaints or malfunctions may result in a voluntary or involuntary product recall, which could divert managerial and financial resources, impair our ability to manufacture our products in a cost-effective and timely manner and have an adverse effect on our reputation, financial condition, and operating results.

Depending on the corrective action we take to redress a product’s deficiencies or defects, the FDA or an equivalent third country authority may require, or we may decide, that we will need to obtain new approvals or clearances for the products, or a new EC Certificate of Conformity before we may market or distribute the corrected products. Seeking such approvals or clearances may delay our ability to replace the recalled products in a timely manner. Moreover, if we do not adequately address problems associated with our products, we may face additional regulatory enforcement action, including FDA or equivalent third country authorities’ warning letters, product seizure, injunctions, administrative penalties, or civil or criminal fines. We may also be required to bear other costs or take other actions that may have a negative impact on our sales as well as face significant adverse publicity or regulatory consequences, which could harm our business, including our ability to market our products in the future.

Any adverse event involving our products could result in future voluntary corrective actions, such as recalls or customer notifications, or regulatory agency action, which could include inspection, mandatory recall or other enforcement action. Any corrective action, whether voluntary or involuntary, will require the dedication of our time and capital, distract management from operating our business and may harm our reputation and financial results.

 

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U.S. legislative or FDA regulatory reforms, or equivalent third country reforms, may make it more difficult and costly for us to obtain regulatory approval of our products and to manufacture, market and distribute our products after approval is obtained.

From time to time, legislation is drafted and introduced in Congress that could significantly change the statutory provisions governing the regulatory approval, manufacture and marketing of regulated products or the reimbursement thereof. In addition, FDA regulations and guidance are often revised or reinterpreted by the FDA in ways that may significantly affect our business and our products. Any new regulations or revisions or reinterpretations of existing regulations may impose additional costs or lengthen review times of future products. FDA regulations and guidance are often revised or reinterpreted by the agency in ways that may significantly affect our business and our products. It is impossible to predict whether legislative changes will be enacted or FDA regulations, guidance or interpretations changed, and what the impact of such changes, if any, may be.

In May 2017, the EU Medical Devices Regulation, or MDR, (Regulation 2017/745) was adopted. The MDR repeals and replaces the EU Medical Devices Directive and the Active Implantable Medical Devices Directive. Unlike directives, which must be implemented into the national laws of the EU member states, the MDR will be directly applicable in the EU member states and on the basis of the EEA agreement in Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway. The MDR is, among other things, intended to establish a uniform, transparent, predictable and sustainable regulatory framework across the EEA for medical devices and ensure a high level of safety and health while supporting innovation. The MDR will be applicable from May 26, 2020. Once applicable, the MDR will, among other things:

 

   

strengthen the rules on placing medical devices on the market and reinforce surveillance once they are available;

 

   

establish explicit provisions on manufacturers’ responsibilities for the follow-up of the quality, performance and safety of devices placed on the market;

 

   

improve the traceability of medical devices throughout the supply chain to the end-user or patient through a unique identification number;

 

   

set up a central database to provide patients, healthcare professionals and the public with comprehensive information on products available in the European Union; and

 

   

strengthen the rules for the assessment of certain high-risk devices, such as implants, which may have to undergo an additional check by experts before they are placed on the market.

Once applicable, the MDR will impose increased compliance obligations for us to access the EU market. Moreover, the scrutiny imposed by notified bodies for the technical documentation related these devices will increase considerably.

Risks Related to this Offering and Ownership of Our Common Stock

There has been no prior public market for our common stock, and an active trading market for our common stock may not develop or be sustained.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. The initial public offering price for our common stock will be determined through negotiations with the underwriters, and the negotiated price may not be indicative of the market price of the common stock after the offering. Based on the estimated offering price of our common stock in this offering, our initial market capitalization is expected to be modest and as a result our common stock may not be an attractive investment for a number of institutional investors, which could reduce the trading activity in our stock and make the trading price of our stock more volatile. Although we

 

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have applied to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market, an active trading market for our shares may never develop or be sustained following this offering. If an active market for our common stock does not develop, it may be difficult for our stockholders to sell shares purchased in this offering without depressing the market price for the shares or at all.

Our stock price may be volatile, and you may not be able to sell the shares you purchase in this offering at or above the offering price.

Our stock price is likely to be volatile. The stock market in general and the market for smaller medical device companies and pharmaceutical companies in particular have experienced extreme volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of particular companies. As a result of this volatility, you may not be able to sell the shares you purchase in this offering at or above the initial public offering price. The market price for our common stock may be influenced by many factors, including the following:

 

   

the success of competitive products or technologies;

 

   

results of clinical trials of our products or those of our competitors;

 

   

regulatory or legal developments in the United States and other countries, especially changes in laws or regulations applicable to our products and product candidates;

 

   

actions taken by regulatory agencies with respect to our products, clinical trials, manufacturing process, or sales and marketing terms;

 

   

the success of our efforts to develop, acquire or in-license additional products;

 

   

developments related to any future collaborations;

 

   

manufacturing disruptions;

 

   

developments or disputes concerning patent applications, issued patents or other proprietary rights;

 

   

the level of expenses related to any of our products or clinical development programs;

 

   

our ability or inability to raise additional capital and the terms on which we raise it;

 

   

the recruitment or departure of key personnel or members of our board of directors;

 

   

changes in the structure of healthcare payment systems;

 

   

actual or anticipated changes in earnings estimates or changes in stock market analyst recommendations regarding our common stock, other comparable companies or our industry generally;

 

   

trading volume of our common stock;

 

   

sales of our common stock by us or our stockholders;

 

   

short sales, hedging and other derivative transactions involving our capital stock;

 

   

general economic, industry and market conditions in the United States and abroad; and

 

   

the other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section.

 

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Broad market and industry factors may seriously harm the market price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance. These fluctuations may be even more pronounced in the trading market for our common stock shortly following this offering. If the market price of shares of our common stock after this offering does not ever exceed the initial public offering price, you may not realize any return on your investment in us and may lose some or all of your investment.

In the past, following periods of volatility in the market, securities class-action litigation has often been instituted against companies. Such litigation, if instituted against us, could result in substantial costs and diversion of management’s attention and resources, which could harm our business.

A significant portion of our total outstanding shares are restricted from immediate resale but may be sold into the market in the near future. This could cause the market price of our common stock to drop significantly, even if our business is doing well.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market could occur at any time. These sales, or the perception in the market that the holders of a large number of shares intend to sell shares, could reduce the market price of our common stock and could impair our ability to raise capital through the sale of additional equity securities. We are unable to predict the effect that such sales may have on the prevailing market price of our common stock.

Immediately after this offering, we will have outstanding              shares of common stock based on the number of shares outstanding as of September 30, 2018. This includes the shares that we are selling in this offering, which may be resold in the public market immediately without restriction, unless purchased by our affiliates. All of the remaining shares of our common stock will be restricted as a result of securities laws or lock-up agreements but will be able to be sold after the offering as described in the section of this prospectus titled “Shares Eligible for Future Sale.” Moreover, immediately after this offering, holders of an aggregate of up to              shares of our common stock will have rights, subject to some conditions, to require us to file registration statements covering their shares or to include their shares in registration statements that we may file for ourselves or other stockholders. We also intend to register all shares of common stock that we may issue under our equity compensation plans. Once we register these shares, they can be freely sold in the public market upon issuance, subject to volume limitations applicable to affiliates and the lock-up agreements described in the section of this prospectus titled “Underwriting.”

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research, or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research, about our business, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

The trading market for our common stock will depend, in part, on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us or our business. We do not have any control over these analysts. Securities and industry analysts do not currently, and may never, publish research on our company. If no securities or industry analysts commence coverage of our company, the trading price for our stock would likely be negatively impacted. In the event securities or industry analysts initiate coverage, if one or more of the analysts who cover us downgrade our stock or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, our stock price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to publish reports on us regularly, demand for our stock could decrease, which might cause our stock price and trading volume to decline.

We have broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds from this offering and may not use them effectively.

Our management will have broad discretion in the application of the balance of the net proceeds from this offering and could spend the proceeds in ways that do not improve our results of operations or enhance the value of our common stock. We intend to use the proceeds from this offering to fund the ongoing U.S. commercialization activities of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations, to fund the ongoing development, regulatory and international commercialization activities of the latest-generation KXL system, the

 

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Mosaic system and their respective associated drug formulations and for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes, which may include the acquisition or licensing of other products, product candidates, businesses or technologies.

The failure by our management to apply these funds effectively could result in financial losses that could harm our business, cause the price of our common stock to decline, and delay the development of our products. Pending their use, we may invest the net proceeds from this offering in a manner that does not produce income or that loses value.

After this offering, our executive officers, directors and principal stockholders will maintain the ability to control or significantly influence all matters submitted to stockholders for approval.

Prior to this offering, our executive officers, directors and stockholders who owned more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, and their respective affiliates, in the aggregate, beneficially owned shares representing approximately      % of our common stock, and upon consummation of this offering, that same group, in the aggregate, will beneficially own approximately     % of our common stock. As a result, if these stockholders were to choose to act together, they would be able to control or significantly influence all matters submitted to our stockholders for approval, as well as our management and affairs. For example, these stockholders, if they choose to act together, will control or significantly influence the election of directors and approval of any merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets. This concentration of voting power could delay or prevent an acquisition of our company on terms that other stockholders may desire, which in turn could depress our stock price and may prevent attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove the board of directors or management.

If you purchase shares of common stock in this offering, you will experience immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of your investment.

The assumed initial public offering price of our common stock is substantially higher than the net tangible book value per share of our common stock immediately after this offering. Therefore, if you purchase our common stock in this offering, you will incur an immediate dilution of $             in net tangible book value per share from the price you paid, based on an assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, the midpoint of the range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus. In addition, new investors who purchase shares in this offering will contribute approximately     % of the total amount of equity capital raised by us through the date of this offering, but will only own approximately     % of the outstanding share capital. The exercise of outstanding options and warrants will result in further dilution. For a further description of the dilution that you will experience as a result of investing in this offering, see the section of this prospectus titled “Dilution.”

Future issuances of our common stock or rights to purchase common stock, including pursuant to our equity incentive plans, could result in additional dilution of the percentage ownership of our stockholders and could cause our stock price to fall.

We expect that significant additional capital will be needed in the future to continue our planned operations. To raise capital, we may sell substantial amounts of common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock. These future issuances of common stock or common stock-related securities, together with the exercise of outstanding options, warrants and any additional shares issued in connection with acquisitions, if any, may result in material dilution to our investors. Such sales may also result in material dilution to our existing stockholders, and new investors could gain rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of holders of our common stock, including shares of common stock sold in this offering.

 

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We are an “emerging growth company” and we cannot be certain if the reduced reporting requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors.

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or the JOBS Act, which was enacted in April 2012. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We could be an emerging growth company for up to five years, although circumstances could cause us to lose that status earlier. We will remain an emerging growth company until the earlier of (1) the last day of the fiscal year (a) following the fifth anniversary of this offering, (b) in which we have total annual gross revenue of at least $1.07 billion or (c) in which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, which means the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of June 30 of that fiscal year, and (2) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the prior three-year period. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may suffer or be more volatile.

As an “emerging growth company,” the JOBS Act allows us to delay adoption of new or revised accounting pronouncements applicable to public companies until such pronouncements are made applicable to private companies. We have elected to use this extended transition period under the JOBS Act. As a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to the financial statements of issuers who are required to comply with the effective dates for new or revised accounting standards that are applicable to public companies, which may make our common stock less attractive to investors.

Complying with the laws and regulations affecting public companies will increase our costs and the demands on management and could harm our operating results.

As a public company, and particularly after we cease to be an “emerging growth company,” we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and rules subsequently implemented by the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, and the Nasdaq Stock Market impose numerous requirements on public companies, including requiring changes in corporate governance practices. Additionally, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, requires, among other things, that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and operating results. Our management and other personnel will need to devote a substantial amount of time to compliance with these laws and regulations. These burdens may increase as new legislation is passed and implemented, including any new requirements that the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 may impose on public companies. These requirements have increased and will continue to increase our legal, accounting, and financial compliance costs and have made and will continue to make some activities more time consuming and costly. We estimate that we will incur significant additional costs associated with being a publicly traded company, although it is possible that our actual additional costs will be higher than we currently estimate. For example, we expect these rules and regulations to make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and in the future we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or to incur substantial costs to maintain the same or similar coverage. These rules and regulations could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified persons to serve on our board of directors or our board committees or as executive officers.

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we assess the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting annually and the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures

 

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quarterly. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or Section 404, requires us to perform system and process evaluation and testing of our internal control over financial reporting to allow management to report on, and our independent registered public accounting firm potentially to attest to, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. As an “emerging growth company,” we expect to avail ourselves of the exemption from the requirement that our independent registered public accounting firm attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting under Section 404. However, we may no longer avail ourselves of this exemption when we cease to be an “emerging growth company.” When our independent registered public accounting firm is required to undertake an assessment of our internal control over financial reporting, the cost of our compliance with Section 404 will correspondingly increase. Our compliance with applicable provisions of Section 404 will require that we incur substantial accounting expense and expend significant management time on compliance-related issues as we implement additional corporate governance practices and comply with reporting requirements. Moreover, if we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 applicable to us in a timely manner, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm identifies deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses, the market price of our stock could decline and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.

Further, investor perceptions of our company may suffer if deficiencies are found, and this could cause a decline in the market price of our stock. Irrespective of compliance with Section 404, any failure of our internal control over financial reporting could have an adverse effect on our stated operating results and harm our reputation. If we are unable to implement these requirements effectively or efficiently, it could harm our operations, financial reporting, or financial results and could result in an adverse opinion on our internal control over financial reporting from our independent registered public accounting firm.

Provisions in our corporate charter documents could make an acquisition of us more difficult and may prevent attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management.

Provisions in our corporate charter and our bylaws that will become effective upon the closing of this offering may discourage, delay, or prevent a merger, acquisition or other change in control of us that stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares. These provisions could also limit the price that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock, thereby depressing the market price of our common stock. In addition, these provisions may frustrate or prevent any attempts by our stockholders to replace members of our board of directors. Because our board of directors is responsible for appointing the members of our management team, these provisions could in turn affect any attempt by our stockholders to replace current members of our management team. Among others, these provisions include the following:

 

   

our board of directors will be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms, which may delay or prevent a change of our management or a change in control;

 

   

our board of directors will have the right to elect directors to fill a vacancy created by the expansion of the board of directors or the resignation, death or removal of a director, which prevents stockholders from being able to fill vacancies on our board of directors;

 

   

our stockholders will not be able to act by written consent or call special stockholders’ meetings; as a result, a holder, or holders, controlling a majority of our capital stock will not be able to take certain actions other than at annual stockholders’ meetings or special stockholders’ meetings called by the board of directors, the chairman of the board or the chief executive officer;

 

   

our certificate of incorporation will prohibit cumulative voting in the election of directors, which will limit the ability of minority stockholders to elect director candidates;

 

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stockholders will be required to provide advance notice and additional disclosures in order to nominate individuals for election to the board of directors or to propose matters that can be acted upon at a stockholders’ meeting, which may discourage or deter a potential acquiror from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect the acquiror’s own slate of directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our company; and

 

   

our board of directors will be able to issue, without stockholder approval, shares of undesignated preferred stock, which will make it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of an attempt to acquire us.

Provisions under Delaware law could make an acquisition of our company more difficult, limit attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management and limit the market price of our common stock.

In addition to provisions in our corporate charter and our bylaws that will become effective upon the closing of this offering, because we are incorporated in Delaware, we are governed by the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which generally prohibits a Delaware corporation from engaging in any of a broad range of business combinations with any holder of at least 15% of our capital stock for a period of three years following the date on which the stockholder became a 15% stockholder. See the section of this prospectus titled “Description of Capital Stock—Anti-Takeover Provisions” for additional information.

Because we do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our capital stock in the foreseeable future, capital appreciation will be your sole source of gain, if any.

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain all of our future earnings, if any, to finance the growth and development of our business. In addition, current and any future debt agreements may preclude us from paying dividends. For example, we are currently subject to covenants under our debt arrangement with OrbiMed that places restrictions on our ability to pay dividends. As a result, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock will be your sole source of gain for the foreseeable future.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the exclusive forums for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or employees.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for (1) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (2) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers or other employees to us or our stockholders, (3) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or our amended and restated bylaws or (4) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine; provided that, the exclusive forum provision will not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. These exclusive forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and our directors, officers and other employees. For example, stockholders who do bring a claim in the Court of Chancery could face additional litigation costs in pursuing any such claim, particularly if they do not reside in or near the State of Delaware. The Court of Chancery and federal district courts may also reach different judgments or results than would other courts, including courts where a stockholder considering an action may be located or would otherwise choose to bring the action, and such judgments or results may be more favorable to us than to our stockholders.

 

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are contained principally in the sections of this prospectus titled “Prospectus Summary,” “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Business,” but are also contained elsewhere in this prospectus. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology intended to identify statements about the future. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that we have a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement contained in this prospectus, we caution you that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known by us and our expectations of the future, about which we cannot be certain.

These forward-looking statements include statements about:

 

   

our ability to support the establishment of consistent and favorable payment policies for our treatment of corneal ectatic disorders in the United States;

 

   

our ability to commercialize our products successfully;

 

   

our ability to obtain the required regulatory approvals and clearances to market and sell our products in the United States, the European Union and certain other countries;

 

   

the outcome or success of our clinical trials;

 

   

the rate and degree of market acceptance of our products;

 

   

our ability to significantly grow our commercial sales and marketing organization and manage our anticipated growth;

 

   

the effects of increased competition as well as innovations by new and existing competitors in our market;

 

   

our ability to obtain additional funding for our operations and our expected use of proceeds from this offering;

 

   

our ability to pay our debts as they come due and comply with our ongoing financial covenants under our credit agreement; and

 

   

our ability to maintain, protect and enhance our intellectual property rights and proprietary technologies and operate our business without infringing the intellectual property rights and proprietary technology of third parties.

We caution you that the foregoing list may not contain all of the forward-looking statements made in this prospectus.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions described under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus. New risks emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors

 

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on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in, or implied by, any forward-looking statements. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances described in this prospectus may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus.

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance, events, circumstances or achievements reflected in the forward-looking statements will ever be achieved or occur. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this prospectus to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

You should read this prospectus and the documents that we have filed as exhibits to the registration statement, of which this prospectus is a part, completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

 

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INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA

Unless otherwise indicated, information contained in this prospectus concerning our industry and the market in which we operate, including our market position, market opportunity and market size, is based on information from various sources. This information involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates. Although neither we nor the underwriters have independently verified the accuracy or completeness of any third-party information, we believe the market position, market opportunity and market size information included in this prospectus is reliable.

In addition, projections, assumptions and estimates of our future performance and the future performance of the industry in which we operate is necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in the section of this prospectus titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus. These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

The reports described herein represent data, research opinions or viewpoints published as part of a syndicated subscription service by each of the respective publishers thereof and are not representations of fact. Such reports speak as of their respective original publication dates (and not as of the date of this prospectus) and the opinions expressed in such reports are subject to change without notice.

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

We estimate that the net proceeds to us from this offering will be approximately $         million, after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. If the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares from us, we estimate that our net proceeds will be approximately $         million.

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $         million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. Each 1,000,000 share increase or decrease in the number of shares offered by us would increase or decrease the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $             million, assuming that the assumed initial public offering price remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us. We do not expect that a change in the initial price to the public or the number of shares by these amounts would have a material effect on uses of the proceeds from this offering, although a decrease in the initial offering price without a corresponding increase in the number of shares offered may accelerate the time at which we will need to seek additional capital.

The principal purposes of this offering are to obtain additional capital to support our operations, to create a public market for our common stock and to facilitate our future access to the public equity markets. We intend to use the net proceeds of this offering as follows:

 

   

approximately $             million to fund the ongoing U.S. commercialization activities of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations, including to hire additional sales and marketing personnel and to support costs associated with increased sales and marketing activities;

 

   

approximately $             million to fund the ongoing development, regulatory and international commercialization activities of the latest-generation KXL system and its associated drug formulations, including the completion of our ongoing Phase 3 trial of our latest-generation KXL system in combination with our investigational Boost Goggles and new riboflavin formulations for use in Epi-On procedures;

 

   

approximately $             million to fund the ongoing development, regulatory and international commercialization activities of the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations, including the initiation and completion of our Phase 2a trial of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia; and

 

   

the remainder for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes.

We may use a portion of our net proceeds to acquire and invest in complementary products, technologies or businesses; however, we currently have no agreements or commitments to complete any such transaction. Pending these uses, we intend to invest our net proceeds from this offering primarily in investment-grade, interest-bearing instruments.

The expected use of net proceeds from this offering represents our intentions based upon our present plans and business conditions. We cannot predict with certainty all of the particular uses for the proceeds of this offering or the amounts that we will actually spend on the uses set forth above. Accordingly, our management will have significant flexibility in applying the net proceeds of this offering. The timing and amount of our actual expenditures will be based on many factors, including cash flows from operations and the anticipated growth of our business.

 

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DIVIDEND POLICY

We have never declared or paid any dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings for the operation and expansion of our business and, therefore, we do not anticipate declaring or paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The payment of dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on our results of operations, capital requirements, financial condition, prospects, contractual arrangements, any limitations on payment of dividends present in our current and future debt agreements, and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. We are currently subject to covenants under our credit agreement with OrbiMed that place restrictions on our ability to pay dividends.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth our cash and cash equivalents and capitalization as of September 30, 2018:

 

   

on an actual basis;

 

   

on a pro forma basis, giving effect to (1) the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering; (2) the settlement of 51,518 restricted stock units for which we expect the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of September 30, 2018; (3) the conversion of all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock into warrants to purchase 774,446 shares of our common stock and (4) the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, which will be filed in connection with this offering; and

 

   

on a pro forma as adjusted basis to reflect (1) the pro forma items described immediately above and (2) the sale of              shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

The information below is illustrative only, and our capitalization following the closing of this offering will be adjusted based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of the offering determined at the pricing of this offering.

You should read this table together with the sections of this prospectus titled “Selected Financial Data,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

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     As of September 30, 2018  
     Actual     Pro Forma      Pro Forma
As
Adjusted (1)
 
     (in thousands, except share and per share data)  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 16,932     $ 16,932      $                      
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Convertible preferred stock warrant liability

   $ 636     $ —        $    

Long-term debt

     19,769       19,769     

Convertible preferred stock:

       

Series AA convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value per share; 32,650,000 shares authorized, 31,869,753 shares issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     31,852       —       

Series BB convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value per share; 5,950,000 shares authorized, 5,930,484 shares issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     11,789       —       

Series CC convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value per share; 9,529,571 shares authorized, 9,529,571 shares issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     24,782       —       

Stockholders’ (deficit) equity:

       

Common stock, $0.00001 par value per share; 66,905,000 shares authorized, 6,269,940 shares issued and outstanding, actual; 69,749,500 shares authorized, 53,651,366 shares issued and outstanding, pro forma and                  shares issued and outstanding, pro forma as adjusted

     2       2     

Preferred stock, $0.00001 par value per share; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, actual;                  shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     —         —       

Additional paid-in capital

        108,303       177,387     
       

Accumulated deficit

     (175,710     (175,735)     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

     (67,405     1,654     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total capitalization

   $ 21,423     $ 21,423      $    
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

The pro forma as adjusted information set forth above is illustrative only and will change based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ deficit and total capitalization by approximately $            , assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us. We may also increase (decrease) the number of shares we are offering. Each 1,000,000 share increase (decrease) in the number of shares offered by us would increase or decrease pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ deficit and total capitalization by approximately $            , assuming that the assumed initial public offering price remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us.

 

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The number of shares of our common stock shown in the table above is based on 53,651,366 shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and excludes:

 

   

11,153,162 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at a weighted-average exercise price of $0.64 per share;

 

   

2,844,500 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted subsequent to September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $2.86 per share, 2,498,000 of which were granted to our directors and executive officers and are exercisable subject to the completion of this offering;

 

   

774,446 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, which warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock upon completion of the offering;

 

   

128,868 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $0.01 per share;

 

   

30,910 shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2018, that will settle upon future satisfaction of a time-based service condition that had not been met as of September 30, 2018;

 

   

412,898 shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2012 Plan as of September 30, 2018, which reflects an amendment effected in January 2019 to increase the number of authorized shares under the 2012 Plan by 2,844,500 shares, all of which will cease to be available for future issuance immediately prior to the time that our 2019 Plan becomes effective in connection with this offering;

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2019 Plan, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in our 2019 Plan that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2019 Plan; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our ESPP, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in the ESPP that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the ESPP.

 

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DILUTION

If you invest in our common stock, your interest will be diluted to the extent of the difference between the initial public offering price per share and the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering.

Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) as of September 30, 2018 was $(67.4) million, or $(10.75) per share of common stock. Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) is the amount of our total tangible assets less our liabilities and convertible preferred stock, which is not included within stockholders’ deficit. Historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share is our historical net tangible book value (deficit) divided by the number of shares of common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018.

Our pro forma net tangible book value as of September 30, 2018 was $1.7 million, or $0.03 per share of common stock. Pro forma net tangible book value per share is our pro forma net tangible book value divided by the total number of shares of common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, after giving effect to (1) the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the closing of this offering, (2) the settlement of 51,518 restricted stock units for which we expect the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of September 30, 2018 and (3) the conversion of all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock into warrants to purchase 774,446 shares of our common stock.

Our pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value is our pro forma net tangible book value, after giving further effect to the sale of             shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

Our pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value as of September 30, 2018 was $            million, or $            per share of common stock. This amount represents an immediate increase in pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value of $            per share to our existing stockholders and an immediate dilution of $            per share to new investors participating in this offering. We determine dilution per share to new investors by subtracting pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value (deficit) per share after this offering from the assumed initial public offering price per share paid by new investors.

The following table illustrates this dilution on a per share basis to new investors:

 

Assumed initial public offering price per share

      $                

Historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share as of September 30, 2018

   $ (10.75   

Increase per share attributable to the pro forma transactions described above

     10.78     

Pro forma net tangible book value per share as of September 30, 2018

     0.03     
     

Increase in pro forma net tangible book value per share attributed to new investors purchasing shares from us in this offering

     
  

 

 

    

Pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value (deficit) per share after giving effect to this offering

     
     

 

 

 

Dilution per share to new investors participating in this offering

      $    
     

 

 

 

The dilution information discussed above is illustrative only and will be change based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. Each $1.00 increase or

 

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decrease in the assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase or decrease the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share by $            per share and the dilution per share to investors participating in this offering by $            per share, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. Each 1,000,000 share increase in the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share by $            and decrease the dilution per share to investors participating in this offering by $            , assuming the assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us. Each 1,000,000 share decrease in the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would decrease the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by $            and increase the dilution per share to new investors participating in this offering by $            , assuming the assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions payable by us.

If the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase an additional            shares of our common stock in this offering, the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value would increase to $            per share, representing an immediate increase to existing stockholders of $            per share and an immediate dilution of $            per share to investors participating in this offering.

The following table summarizes as of September 30, 2018, on the pro forma as adjusted basis described above, the number of shares of our common stock, the total consideration and the average price per share (1) paid to us by our existing stockholders and (2) to be paid by investors purchasing our common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $            per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, before deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

    

Shares Purchased

   

Total Consideration

   

Weighted-
Average Price
Per Share

 
    

Number

    

Percent

   

Amount

    

Percent

 

Existing stockholders

                           $                        $                

New investors

                             
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

        100.0   $                      100.0                   
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

The table above assumes no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares in this offering. If the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase             additional shares from us, the number of shares held by the existing stockholders after this offering would be reduced to     % of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding after this offering, and the number of shares held by new investors would increase to    % of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding after this offering.

The tables and calculations above are based on 53,651,366 shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and excludes:

 

   

11,153,162 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at a weighted-average exercise price of $0.64 per share;

 

   

2,844,500 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted subsequent to September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $2.86 per share, 2,498,000 of which were granted to our directors and executive officers and are exercisable subject to the completion of this offering;

 

   

774,446 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our convertible preferred stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, which warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock upon completion of the offering;

 

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128,868 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of our common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an exercise price of $0.01 per share;

 

   

30,910 shares of common stock issuable upon settlement of restricted stock units outstanding as of September 30, 2018, that will settle upon future satisfaction of a time-based service condition that had not been satisfied as of September 30, 2018;

 

   

412,898 shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2012 Plan as of September 30, 2018, which reflects an amendment effected in January 2019 to increase the number of authorized shares under the 2012 Plan by 2,844,500 shares, all of which will cease to be available for future issuance immediately prior to the time that our 2019 Plan becomes effective in connection with this offering;

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2019 Plan, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in our 2019 Plan that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2019 Plan; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our ESPP, which will become effective upon the execution of the underwriting agreement related to this offering, as well as any shares reserved pursuant to provisions in the ESPP that automatically increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the ESPP.

To the extent that any options or warrants are exercised, new options or other securities are issued under our equity incentive plans or we issue additional equity securities in the future, there will be further dilution to investors participating in this offering. In addition, we may choose to raise additional capital because of market conditions or strategic considerations, even if we believe that we have sufficient funds for our current or future operating plans. If we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, the issuance of these securities could result in further dilution to our stockholders.

 

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SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables set forth our selected financial data for the periods ended on and as of the dates indicated. We derived the selected statements of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017 and the selected balance sheet data as of December 31, 2016 and 2017 from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. We derived the selected statements of operations data for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018 and the selected balance sheet data as of September 30, 2018 from our unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. We have prepared the unaudited financial statements on the same basis as the audited financial statements, and the unaudited financial data include, in our opinion, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, that we consider necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations for these periods. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future and results for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2018 or any other period.

The data should be read together with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and in conjunction with the financial statements, related notes, and other financial information included elsewhere in this prospectus. The selected financial data in this section is not intended to replace the financial statements and is qualified in its entirety by the financial statements, related notes and other financial information included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2016     2017     2017     2018  
     (in thousands, except share and per share data)  

Statement of Operations Data:

      

Revenue

   $ 14,910     $ 20,154     $ 15,645     $ 19,467  

Cost of goods sold

     7,144       9,850       7,157       8,223  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     7,766       10,304       8,488       11,244  

Operating expenses:

        

Selling, general and administrative

     12,640       18,991       14,009       18,995  

Research and development

     10,047       10,286       7,525       8,826  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     22,687       29,277       21,534       27,821  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (14,921     (18,973     (13,046     (16,577

Other (expense) income:

        

Interest income

     13       26       19       144  

Interest expense

     (1,365     (2,144     (1,525     (1,975

Other (expense) income, net

     (104     (186     (48     (302
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income, net

     (1,456     (2,304     (1,554     (2,133
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (16,377   $ (21,277   $ (14,600   $ (18,710
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per common share, basic and diluted (1)

   $ (3.26   $ (3.62   $ (2.50   $ (3.02
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted (1)

     5,025,155       5,872,202       5,828,582       6,203,348  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share, basic and diluted (1)

     $ (0.51)       $ (0.39)  
    

 

 

     

 

 

 

Pro forma weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted (1)

       41,933,984         48,142,064  
    

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

(1)

See Note 16 to our audited financial statements and Note 10 to our unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for an explanation of the method used to calculate our historical and pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share.

 

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     As of December 31,     As of
September 30,
 
     2016     2017     2018  
     (in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

      

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 12,658     $ 8,850     $ 16,932  

Working capital (1)

     10,378       12,507       19,843  

Total assets

     20,439       21,696       31,162  

Convertible preferred stock warrant liability

     260       430       636  

Total debt

     9,624       19,319       19,769  

Total liabilities

     17,895       27,575       30,144  

Convertible preferred stock

     31,852       43,641       68,423  

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (29,308     (49,520     (67,405

 

(1)

We define working capital as current assets less current liabilities. See our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for further details regarding our current assets and current liabilities.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. In addition to historical financial information, the following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. These statements are often identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “would” or the negative or plural of these words or similar expressions or variations and such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to our future financial and business performance. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of many factors, including those discussed under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus.

Overview

We are a leading commercial-stage ophthalmic medical technology company focused on treating corneal ectatic disorders and improving vision to reduce dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Our proprietary Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is designed to strengthen, stabilize and reshape the cornea utilizing corneal cross-linking in minimally invasive and non-invasive outpatient procedures to treat corneal ectatic disorders and correct refractive conditions, which are caused by changes in the shape of the eye that prevent light from focusing on the retina, causing blurred vision. Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is comprised of our KXL and Mosaic systems, each of which delivers ultraviolet A, or UVA, light, and a suite of proprietary single-use riboflavin drug formulations, which, when applied together to the cornea, induce a biochemical reaction called corneal collagen cross-linking, or corneal cross-linking. Our KXL system in combination with our Photrexa drug formulations, which we launched in the United States in September 2016, is the first and only minimally invasive product offering approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, indicated for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Additionally, the FDA granted us orphan drug designations and we have orphan drug exclusivity until 2023 that covers our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system for our approved indications. We have obtained a Conformité Européene, or CE, mark for our Mosaic system, which allows it to be marketed throughout the European Union. The Mosaic System is capable of performing vision correction procedures and treating corneal ectatic disorders and we began a targeted international launch in late 2017.

We sell our products primarily to ophthalmologists, hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, or ASCs. The physicians primarily involved in corneal cross-linking are ophthalmologists who are either corneal specialists or trained in refractive procedures. According to Market Scope estimates, there are approximately 1,100 corneal refractive centers in the United States. Of these centers, we estimate there are approximately 800 centers in which a majority of cataract and refractive surgeons, as well as corneal specialists who treat keratoconus, are located. As of September 30, 2018, our KXL systems are placed in 305 centers. In the United States, we sell our products through a direct sales team that, as of September 30, 2018, consisted of 12 sales professionals. If we are able to obtain FDA approval for our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia, we expect to leverage our existing sales force to cross-sell our KXL and Mosaic systems and their respective drug formulations, as they share the same target customers. In addition to the approximately 800 centers we are targeting for keratoconus, we expect to sell the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations, if approved, to the remaining 300 corneal refractive centers that focus exclusively on refractive procedures. Outside the United States, we sell our products through a broad network of distribution partners located in markets where we see the greatest potential for corneal cross-linking procedures.

We have invested heavily in our research and development activities, including product development and clinical studies to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of our corneal cross-linking platform to support regulatory submissions. We intend to continue to make significant investments in research and development efforts to support our pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial of the Epi-On procedure using our KXL system, its associated

 

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drug formulations and our Boost Goggles for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and the Phase 2a clinical trial of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia. We also intend to make significant investments in our commercial organization by increasing the number of reimbursement specialists to support the establishment of consistent and favorable payment policies. Because of these and other factors, we expect to continue to incur net losses for the next several years and we expect to require substantial additional funding, which may include future equity and debt financings.

To date, we have financed our operations primarily through sales of our convertible preferred stock, debt financings and, more recently, sales of our proprietary Photrexa formulations and our KXL systems, and have devoted substantially all of our resources to the research, development and engineering of our products, seeking regulatory approval of our products and the commercial launch of our KXL system and its associated drug formulations. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017 and the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we generated revenue of $14.9 million, $20.2 million and $19.5 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, and the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we had net losses of $16.4 million, $21.3 million and $18.7 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2018, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $175.7 million.

Components of Our Results of Operations

Revenue

We generate revenue from sales of our single-use riboflavin drug formulations and our KXL and Mosaic systems. Recent revenue growth in single-use riboflavin drug formulations has been favorably impacted primarily by an increase in the average selling price in the United States, which took effect in July 2017, and we expect continued revenue growth as a result of increased patient and physician adoption of our products. The recent decrease in our U.S. device revenue has been driven by early market adoption due to significant market demand upon the U.S. commercial launch of our KXL system in September 2016, which has normalized in 2018. We expect our revenue growth may be impacted to the extent we are able to support the establishment of consistent and favorable payment policies, increase patient and physician awareness of our products and continue to drive device placements in existing geographies and expansion of sales to additional corneal refractive centers in the United States. We intend to continue to expand our sales, reimbursement and marketing organization to help us drive and support revenue growth and further penetrate the market. The single-use riboflavin drug formulations represent disposable items that are used on a treatment-by-treatment basis. As we sell more devices, we expect the number of treatments performed by ophthalmologists and, correspondingly, sales of our single-use riboflavin drug formulations, to grow. As demand for new products can fluctuate significantly and delays in market adoption and healthcare reimbursement policies may occur, we anticipate that our revenue, expense and operating losses will be difficult to predict. Our revenue may also fluctuate on a quarterly basis in the future due to a variety of factors, including the impact of the buying patterns of our distributors.

Cost of Goods Sold and Gross Margin

We manufacture our KXL and Mosaic systems at our manufacturing facilities in Burlington, Massachusetts and Dublin, Ireland. We contract third-party manufacturers to produce our single-use riboflavin drug formulations. Cost of goods sold primarily consist of manufacturing overhead costs, material costs and direct labor. Our material costs include raw materials, reserves for expected warranty costs, scrap and inventory obsolescence. Our manufacturing overhead costs include the cost of quality assurance, material procurement, inventory control, facilities, equipment, operations supervision and management, depreciation expense for production equipment, amortization of leasehold improvements, shipping costs and royalty expense payable in connection with sales of certain products. Our labor costs include salaries, bonus, benefits and stock-based compensation. We expect cost of goods sold to increase in absolute dollars primarily as, and to the extent, our revenue grows.

 

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We expect our overall gross margin, which is calculated as revenue less cost of goods sold for a given period divided by revenue, to improve in future periods as, and to the extent, sales of our single-use riboflavin drug formulations increase and as additional medical devices are purchased. Our gross margin has been, and we expect it will continue to be, affected by a variety of factors, including product and geographic sales mix, pricing, production volumes and manufacturing costs, production yields and scrap costs, and to a lesser extent the implementation of cost-reduction strategies. We sell our products in the United States at a higher price point than what we have received historically in the international markets and therefore, as we gain market share in the United States, we believe our gross margins may be positively impacted. We believe our gross margins may be further positively improved as, and to the extent, we increase drug production volume and scale our business. As we are in the earlier stages of commercialization, we have not yet been able to take advantage of economies of scale in our manufacturing and purchasing, so gross margins may continue to be negatively impacted until such time as these efficiencies can be achieved.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative, or SG&A, expenses are expensed as incurred and primarily consist of personnel-related expenses, including salaries, sales commissions, bonuses, fringe benefits and stock-based compensation for our executive, financial, marketing, sales and administrative functions. Other significant SG&A expenses include marketing programs, advertising, conferences and travel expenses, as well as the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining our patent portfolio and professional fees for accounting, auditing, consulting and legal services.

We expect SG&A expenses to continue to grow in the foreseeable future as we increase our sales and marketing infrastructure globally and our clinical education and general administration infrastructure in the United States. In addition, we expect our general and administrative expenses will significantly increase as we increase our headcount and expand administrative personnel to support our growth and operations as a public company including finance personnel and information technology services. We also anticipate increased expenses related to audit, legal, and tax-related services, director and officer insurance premiums and investor relations costs associated with being a public company.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development, or R&D, expenses are expensed as incurred and primarily consist of personnel-related expenses, including salaries, bonuses, fringe benefits and stock-based compensation for our R&D employees. Other significant R&D expenses include new product development projects and the cost of conducting our ongoing clinical trials, including the pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial of the Epi-On procedure using our KXL system, its associated drug formulations and our Boost Goggles for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and the Phase 2a clinical trial of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia, which may include payments to investigational sites and investigators, clinical research organizations, consultants and other outside technical services and the costs of materials, supplies and travel. We expect our R&D expenses to increase as we initiate and advance our development programs and clinical trials.

Other Expense, Net

Other expense, net, consists primarily of (1) changes in fair value of our derivative and convertible preferred stock warrant liabilities, (2) interest expense, which includes cash and non-cash interest related to our outstanding debt owed to outside lenders associated with debt facilities including accretion of debt discount on the debt facilities and (3) interest income from interest earned on our cash equivalents. In connection with this offering, our convertible preferred stock warrants will convert into common stock warrants and we expect the liability will be reclassified as additional paid-in capital.

 

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Results of Operations

Comparison of the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 and 2018

 

    Nine Months Ended September 30,      Change  
    2017      2018      $      %  
    (in thousands, except percentages)  

Revenue

  $       15,645      $       19,467      $     3,822        24.4

Cost of goods sold

    7,157        8,223        1,066        14.9  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

    8,488        11,244        2,756        32.5  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Gross margin

    54.3      57.8      

Operating expenses:

          

Selling, general and administrative

    14,009        18,995        4,986        35.6  

Research and development

    7,525        8,826        1,301        17.3  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total operating expenses

    21,534        27,821        6,287        29.2  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Loss from operations

    (13,046      (16,577      3,531        27.1  

Other expense, net

    (1,554      (2,133      579        37.3  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Net loss

  $ (14,600    $ (18,710    $ 4,110        28.2
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    
Revenue by Geography   Nine Months Ended September 30,  
    2017      2018  
   

Amount

    

% of

Revenue

    

Amount

    

% of

Revenue

 
    (in thousands, except percentages)  

United States

  $ 8,425        53.9    $ 13,067        67.1

Asia

    3,616        23.1        2,943        15.1  

Europe

    1,735        11.1        1,540        7.9  

Middle East

    954        6.1        1,001        5.1  

Other

    915        5.8        916        4.8  
 

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

  $ 15,645        100.0    $ 19,467        100.0

Revenue

Revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 increased by $3.8 million, or 24.4%, to $19.5 million as compared to $15.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was primarily a result of a $4.6 million, or 55.1%, increase in sales in the United States, offset by a decrease of $0.8 million, or 59.7%, in sales outside of the United States.

The increase in revenue within the United States was primarily attributable to a $6.6 million increase in drug revenue, partially offset by a $2.3 million decrease in device revenue. The increase in drug revenue was due to an increase in the average selling price of single-use riboflavin drug formulation, which was partially offset by a decrease in volume of single-use riboflavin drug formulations sold. In July 2017, we increased the price of our single-use riboflavin drug formulation sold in the United States. The decrease in U.S. device revenue was due to a decrease in volume of device sales. We sold 43 KXL systems in the United States in the nine months ended September 30, 2018 as compared to 72 KXL systems in the nine months ended September 30, 2017.

The decrease in revenue outside the United States was primarily attributable to a $1.2 million decrease in drug revenue, partially offset by a $0.4 million increase in device revenue. The decrease in drug revenue was due to an decrease in volume of single-use riboflavin drug formulations sold, while the increase in device revenue was due to an increase in volume of device sales.

 

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Cost of Goods Sold and Gross Margin

Our cost of goods sold for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 increased by $1.1 million, or 14.9%, to $8.2 million as compared to $7.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was primarily due to scrap costs related to expired drug product. Gross margin for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, increased $2.8 million as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2017, and gross margin increased from 54.3% during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 to 57.8% during the nine months ended September 30, 2018. This increase in gross margin was primarily due to an increase in the average selling price of single-use riboflavin drug formulation and our manufacturing fixed costs being spread as our production volumes increased.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 increased by $5.0 million, or 35.6%, to $19.0 million as compared to $14.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was driven primarily by increased employee-related costs and professional fees to support our growing business and increased commercial efforts. We incurred increased personnel and related costs of $2.8 million and increased professional fees of $0.8 million for accounting, audit, legal and tax services incurred as we increase our headcount and expand personnel and services to support our commercial growth. Additionally, marketing costs increased by $1.3 million in support of our commercial efforts.

Research and Development Expenses

R&D expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 increased by $1.3 million, or 17.3%, to $8.8 million as compared to $7.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. R&D headcount increased which resulted in a $0.8 million increase in personnel and related expenses. The increase was also due to $0.2 million of increased product development and clinical research costs and $0.1 million of increased depreciation expense.

Other Expense, Net

Other expense, net increased by $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, or 37.3%, as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was primarily due to $0.5 million of increased interest expense resulting from the borrowings under our credit facility entered into in March 2017, and $0.4 million of increased expense during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 due to the change in fair value of our warrant liability. This was offset by a $0.2 million decrease in loss on extinguishment of debt, as the extinguishment occurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and there were no similar changes recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2018.

 

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Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2017

 

     Year Ended December 31,     Change  
     2016     2017     $      %  
     (in thousands, except percentages)  

Revenue

   $ 14,910     $ 20,154     $ 5,244                35.2

Cost of goods sold

     7,144       9,850       2,706        37.9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

Gross profit

     7,766       10,304       2,538        32.7  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

Gross margin

     52.1     51.1     

Operating expenses:

         

Selling, general and administrative

     12,640       18,991       6,351        50.3  

Research and development

     10,047       10,286       239        2.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

Total operating expenses

     22,687       29,277       6,590        29.1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

Loss from operations

     (14,921     (18,973     4,052        27.2  

Other expense, net

     (1,456     (2,304     848        58.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

Net loss

   $ (16,377   $ (21,277   $ 4,900        29.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    
Revenue by Geography    Year Ended December 31,  
     2016     2017  
     Amount     % of
Revenue
    Amount      % of
Revenue
 
     (in thousands, except percentages)  

United States

   $ 8,562       57.4   $ 10,846        53.8

Asia

     2,381       16.0       4,534        22.5  

Europe

     1,619       10.9       2,348        11.7  

Middle East

     995       6.7       1,293        6.4  

Other

     1,353       9.0       1,133        5.6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues

   $ 14,910       100.0   $ 20,154        100.0

Revenue

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased by $5.2 million, or 35.2%, to $20.2 million as compared to $14.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily a result of a $2.3 million, or 26.7%, increase in sales in the United States and a $3.0 million, or 46.6%, increase in sales outside of the United States.

The increase in revenue within the United States was primarily attributable to a $3.0 million increase in drug revenue, partially offset by a $0.9 million decrease in device revenue. The increase in drug revenue was due to an increase in volume of single-use riboflavin drug formulation sold, as we began selling in the United States in the second half of 2016. Although we increased the price of our single-use riboflavin drug formulation in the United States in July 2017, the price increase did not have a material impact on revenue during the year ended December 31, 2017 due to our revenue recognition policy. The $0.9 million decrease in U.S. device revenue was due to a decrease in volume of sales. We sold 92 KXL systems in the United States in the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared to 167 KXL systems in the year ended December 31, 2016.

The increase in revenue outside the United States was primarily attributable to a $3.1 million increase in drug revenue, partially offset by a $0.2 million decrease in device revenue. The increase in drug revenue was due to an increase in volume of single-use riboflavin drug formulation sold, while the decrease in device revenue was due to a decrease in volume of device sales.

 

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Cost of Goods Sold and Gross Margin

Our cost of goods sold for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased by $2.7 million, or 37.9%, to $9.9 million as compared to $7.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily due to a $1.6 million increase in our manufacturing overhead costs, as we built our manufacturing capabilities for our pre-launch and post-launch commercialization in the United States. The remaining $1.1 million increase was due to direct product costs resulting from the increased sales of our single-use riboflavin drug formulation during the year ended December 31, 2017. Gross margin slightly decreased during the same period due to the increase in manufacturing overhead costs during year the ended December 31, 2017, as described above.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased by $6.4 million, or 50.3%, to $19.0 million as compared to $12.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was driven primarily by a $3.3 million increase in employee-related costs, a $1.7 million increase in professional fees, and a $1.3 million increase in marketing costs to support the growth of our business and increased commercial efforts.

Research and Development Expenses

R&D expenses for the year ended December 31, 2017 increased by $0.2 million, or 2.4%, to $10.3 million as compared to $10.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Personnel and related expenses decreased by $0.7 million as our regulatory and medical affairs groups shifted focus to support our KXL system which we launched in the United States in September 2016, resulting in these costs being classified as SG&A. In addition, there was a $1.2 million increase in product development and clinical research costs during the year ended December 31, 2017, primarily due to the production of drug formulations to be used in clinical trials that commenced in 2018. These increases were offset by a $0.1 million decrease in depreciation expense.

Other Expense, Net

Other expense, net increased by $0.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, or 58.2%, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was primarily due to $0.8 million of increased interest expense resulting from the additional debt obligation entered into in March 2017, in addition to $0.2 million recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt during the year ended December 31, 2017. We also recorded $0.2 million of expense resulting from the change in fair value of our derivative liability during the year ended December 31, 2017. These increases were offset by a $0.3 million increase in the gain recorded for the change in fair value of our warrant liability.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

At September 30, 2018, our principal source of liquidity was cash and cash equivalents of $16.9 million. At the date the most recent financial statements in this prospectus were issued, our management believed that we did not have sufficient cash to fund our operations for the next twelve months without additional financing and, therefore, we concluded there was substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the financial statements were issued. The financial statements included in this prospectus have been prepared on a basis that assumes that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. This financial information and these financial statements do not include any adjustments that may result from the outcome of this uncertainty. We believe that the anticipated net proceeds from this offering, along with our existing cash and cash equivalents, will be sufficient to fund our projected operating requirements for at least the next twelve months.

 

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Historically, our sources of cash have included private placements of equity securities, debt financings and cash generated from operations, primarily from the collection of accounts receivable resulting from product sales. Our historical cash outflows have primarily been associated with cash payments to service our debt, in addition to cash used for operating activities, such as the purchase and growth of inventory, expansion of our sales, marketing, research and development activities, and other working capital needs; and expenditures related to equipment and improvements used to increase our manufacturing capacity, to improve our manufacturing efficiency, and for overall facility expansion. If our sources of cash are insufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements, however, we may seek to sell additional equity or make additional borrowings under a new credit facility. If we raise additional funds by issuing equity securities, our stockholders would experience dilution. Debt financing, if available, may involve covenants restricting our operations or our ability to incur additional debt. Any additional debt financing or additional equity that we raise may contain terms that are not favorable to us or our stockholders. Additional financing may not be available at all, or in amounts or on terms unacceptable to us. If we are unable to obtain additional financing, we may be required to delay the development, commercialization and marketing of our products.

Debt Facility

On March 20, 2017, we entered into a credit agreement, or the Credit Agreement, with OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, L.P., or OrbiMed, which is affiliated with OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP, or OrbiMed Private Investments. The Credit Agreement made available to us two loans, one in the amount of $20.0 million, which we borrowed in March 2017, and the second in the amount of $10.0 million, which was available through December 31, 2017, based on a revenue milestone, but never drawn. Under the Credit Agreement, cash interest accrues until maturity at the rate of 10% per annum, or the Applicable Margin. Additional interest, or PIK interest, accrues at the per annum rate equal to the higher of (1) the three-month LIBOR rate and (2) 1.00%. Such PIK interest is added to the outstanding principal amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement on the last day of each calendar quarter until the maturity date. Outstanding principal amounts plus all accrued and unpaid PIK interest are due in one lump sum payment on the loan maturity date.

The Credit Agreement includes affirmative and negative covenants and events of default, including the following events of default: payment defaults, breaches of representations and warranties, non-performance of certain covenants and obligations, cross-acceleration with debt, judgment defaults, change in control, bankruptcy, certain events with respect to key permits, regulatory events, recalls and certain actions and settlements with governmental entities, key person events, a material impairment in the perfection or priority of OrbiMed’s security interest or in the value of the collateral, a material adverse change in the business, operations or condition of us and our subsidiaries taken as a whole and a material impairment of the prospect of repayment of the loans.

Upon the occurrence of an event of default and continuing until such event of default is no longer continuing, the Applicable Margin will increase by 3.00% per annum.

If we repay all or a portion of the term loans prior to maturity, we will pay OrbiMed a prepayment fee as follows: for amounts repaid after March 20, 2018 but on or prior to March 20, 2019, 9% of the portion of principal repaid; for amounts repaid after March 20, 2019 but on or prior to March 20, 2020, 5% of the portion of principal repaid; and for amounts repaid after March 20, 2020 but on or prior to March 20, 2021, 3% of the portion of the principal repaid. No prepayment fee will be required for amounts repaid after March 20, 2021 but prior to March 20, 2022. Our obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by a security interest in substantially all of our assets, including our intellectual property.

In connection with the Credit Agreement and the close of the first draw in March 2017, we issued to OrbiMed warrants to purchase 474,446 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share. Each warrant is exercisable for a period of ten years from the date of issuance and may be exercised on a cashless basis in whole or in part.

 

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During March 2017, we repaid in full a loan and security agreement we entered into in September 2014 with an outside lender for $12.5 million, with the proceeds from the Credit Agreement.

As of September 30, 2018, we have borrowed and have outstanding $20.0 million of debt under the Credit Agreement. As of September 30, 2018, we have recorded a long-term debt obligation of $19.8 million for the Credit Agreement, which includes borrowings outstanding of $20.0 million and accrued PIK interest of $0.5 million, net of debt discount of $0.7 million.

Cash Flows

The following table shows a summary of our cash flows for the periods presented:

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2016     2017     2017     2018  
     (in thousands)  

Net cash (used in) provided by:

        

Operating activities

   $ (12,813   $ (23,995   $ (16,980   $ (16,383

Investing activities

     (442     (818     (738     (256

Financing activities

     11,756       21,005       21,038       24,721  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   $ (1,499   $ (3,808   $ 3,320     $ 8,082  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating Activities

Net cash used in operating activities was $12.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, reflecting a net loss of $16.4 million, partially offset by non-cash charges of $2.2 million primarily for stock-based compensation expense and depreciation and net changes in operating assets and liabilities of $1.4 million. Net cash used in operating activities was $24.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, reflecting a net loss of $21.3 million, net changes in operating assets and liabilities of $4.7 million and partially offset by non-cash charges of $2.0 million primarily for stock-based compensation expense and depreciation.

Net cash used in operating activities was $17.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, reflecting a net loss of $14.6 million and net changes in operating assets and liabilities of $3.4 million, partially offset by non-cash charges of $1.0 million primarily for stock-based compensation expense and depreciation. Net cash used in operating activities was $16.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, reflecting a net loss of $18.7 million, partially offset by non-cash charges of $2.0 million primarily for stock-based compensation expense and depreciation and net changes in operating assets and liabilities of $0.3 million.

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was $0.4 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, respectively, and resulted from the purchase of property and equipment.

Net cash used in investing activities was $0.7 million and $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, respectively, and resulted from the purchase of property and equipment.

Financing Activities

Net cash provided by financing activities was $11.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 and was primarily due to net proceeds of $15.3 million from the issuance of the second tranche of Series AA convertible preferred stock, offset by principal payments on long-term debt of $2.7 million. Net cash provided by financing activities totaling $21.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 was primarily due to net

 

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proceeds of $11.8 million from the issuance of Series BB convertible preferred stock, proceeds of $20.0 million from borrowings under our Credit Agreement, offset by payments on long-term debt of $9.8 million, representing repayment of our prior credit agreement.

Net cash provided by financing activities totaling $21.0 million for the nine months ended September, 2017 was primarily due to net proceeds of $11.8 million from the issuance of Series BB convertible preferred stock and proceeds of $20.0 million from borrowings under our Credit Agreement, offset by principal payments on long-term debt of $9.8 million and payments for asset purchase and license obligations of $0.7 million. Net cash provided by financing activities totaling $24.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 was primarily due to net proceeds of $24.8 million from the issuance of Series CC convertible preferred stock, offset by payments for asset purchase and license obligations of $0.1 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, including entities sometimes referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities that were established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our contractual obligations and commitments consist of obligations under our outstanding debt facilities, leases for our office space, and our supplier and manufacturing agreements. The following table summarizes these contractual obligations as of December 31, 2017:

 

    Payments Due by Period  
    Less than
1 year
    1-3 years     3-5 years     More than
5 years
    Total  
    (in thousands)  

Long-term debt obligations

        $     $ 20,203     $     $ 20,203  

Operating lease obligations

    1,101       2,397       2,698       229       6,425  

Purchase obligations

    2,681                         2,681  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total contractual obligations

  $ 3,782     $ 2,397     $ 22,901     $ 229     $ 29,309  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Long-term debt obligation represents fixed amounts due under our Credit Agreement. The table above includes the $20.0 million maturity payment and PIK interest accrued as of December 31, 2017. We have not included an estimate of the additional PIK interest, which will accrue quarterly and is due on maturity, as the amount of accrued PIK interest will vary based on three month LIBOR. We pay 10% interest quarterly on the aggregate of the $20.0 million maturing payment and accrued PIK interest, which we have not included an estimate of due to the variable PIK interest rates that are dependent on market interest rates.

Operating lease obligations represent future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases in effect as of December 31, 2017, including remaining lease payments for our current facilities in Waltham and Burlington, Massachusetts.

Purchase obligations include minimum committed and non-cancelable amounts due under our supplier and manufacturing agreements.

In addition, we have a $0.3 million final milestone payment due under a license agreement. The payment is contingent on the issuance of a patent and therefore is not reflected in the table above.

There have been no material changes to our contractual obligations and commitments since December 31, 2017.

 

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Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Our Credit Agreement requires payment of interest only until maturity at the fixed rate of 10% per annum. Additionally, during each quarter in which principal is outstanding under the Credit Agreement, PIK interest accrues at the per annum rate equal to the higher of (1) the three month LIBOR rate and (2) 1.00%. We do not believe that an immediate 10% increase or decrease in overall interest rates would have a material effect on our operating results.

Credit Risk

As of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, our cash and cash equivalents were maintained at major financial institutions in the United States, and our current deposits are likely in excess of insured limits. We believe these institutions have sufficient assets and liquidity to conduct their operations in the ordinary course of business with little or no credit risk to us.

Our accounts receivable primarily relate to revenue from the sale of products developed using our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform through our direct sales organization in the United States and primarily through established distributors outside of the United States. To minimize credit risk, ongoing credit evaluations of customers’ financial condition are performed and upfront customer deposits are received prior to shipment whenever deemed necessary. One customer represented more than 10% of our accounts receivable as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018.

Foreign Currency Risk

Substantially all of our business is currently conducted in U.S. dollars. We do not believe that an immediate 10% increase or decrease in the relative value of the U.S. dollar to other currencies would have a material effect on our operating results.

Inflation Risk

Inflationary factors, such as increases in our cost of goods sold and selling and operating expenses, may adversely affect our operating results. Although we do not believe that inflation has had a material impact on our financial position or results of operations to date, a high rate of inflation in the future may have an adverse effect on our ability to maintain and increase our gross margin and selling and marketing and operating expenses as a percentage of our revenue if the selling prices of our products do not increase as much as or more than these increased costs.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that impact the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in our financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant assumptions used in the financial statements are the underlying assumptions used in revenue recognition, product warranties, inventory valuation and valuing share-based compensation including the fair value of our common stock. We base estimates and assumptions on historical experience when available and on various factors that it determined to be reasonable under the circumstances. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. Our actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

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Significant areas requiring management estimates or judgments include the following key financial areas:

Revenue Recognition

We derive our revenue principally from sales of our medical devices and related single-use riboflavin drug formulations. We recognize revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence that an agreement exists; (2) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (3) the selling price is fixed or determinable and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

U.S. Product Revenue

We sell single-use riboflavin drug formulations and medical devices directly to customers, which are typically physician clinics or hospitals, through our direct sales force. In each arrangement, we are responsible for installation and calibration of the medical devices and initial user training, which are deemed essential to the functionality of the medical device. Each medical device is sold with a standard one-year warranty from the date of shipment, which provides that the medical device will function as intended during that one-year period or we will either replace the product, or a portion thereof, or provide the necessary repair service during our normal service hours. The single-use riboflavin drug formulations are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to 12 months.

We generally enter into multiple element arrangements with our new customers, which include the sale of a medical device with an initial order of related single-use riboflavin drug formulations, and may include an extended warranty. Therefore, we recognize device revenue when the initial order of the related single-use riboflavin drug formulations is delivered, user training is completed and the medical device is delivered, installed and accepted by the end user customer. The customers have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions.

In the event we enter into a contract in which the deliverables are required to be separated, we will allocate arrangement consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We will determine the selling price using vendor-specific objective evidence, or VSOE, if it exists; otherwise, we will use third-party evidence, or TPE. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a deliverable, we will use best estimated selling price to allocate the arrangement consideration. We will apply appropriate revenue recognition guidance to each unit of accounting.

The assessment of multiple-deliverable arrangements requires judgment in order to determine the appropriate unit of accounting, the estimated selling price of each unit of accounting and the point in time that, or the period over which, revenue should be recognized.

Single-use riboflavin drug formulations have a warranty period up to sterility expiration, which is generally six to twelve months. Through June 30, 2017, we recognized revenue of subsequent single-use riboflavin drug formulations orders upon shipment as all four revenue criteria are met. In July 2017, we began offering extended payment terms to our customers in which a portion of the purchase price of the single-use riboflavin drug formulations would be payable in 30 days and the remainder payable in 180 days. Under these new payment terms, we were not able to reasonably assure the fees are fixed and determinable or collectability is reasonably assured on the shipment date. Therefore, we recognize revenue on the single-use riboflavin drug formulations when the payment becomes due from the customer and collectability is reasonably assured, which is generally 30 to 180 days from the invoice date. Although the amounts charged per treatment are invoiced to the customer on the shipment date, we do not record deferred revenue or accounts receivable for the amounts charged under extended payment terms since collectability cannot be reasonably assured. $2.4 million and $5.0 million of single-use riboflavin drug formulations amounts were invoiced to customers under extended payment terms, and were excluded from our balance sheet at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively.

 

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Product Revenue Outside the United States

We have established distributor agreements with various distributors throughout the world. Inventory title transfers to the distributor at the time of shipment. The payment from the distributor is due in accordance with our standard payment terms. These payments are not contingent upon the distributor’s sale of products to its customers. The distributors have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions. Medical devices sold are generally covered by a one year warranty. The related single-use riboflavin drug formulations are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to 12 months. Once the products are shipped to the distributor we have no further obligation except for the warranty provision. As such, revenue and cost of revenue are recognized upon shipment. The term of the distributor agreements is typically two years, with each option of renewal not exceeding one year.

Multiple-deliverable arrangements are analyzed to determine whether the deliverables can be separated or whether they must be accounted for as a single unit of accounting. When deliverables are separable, consideration received is allocated to the separate units of accounting based on the relative selling price method and the appropriate revenue recognition principles are applied to each unit. When we determine that an arrangement should be accounted for as a single unit of accounting, we must determine the period over which the performance obligations will be performed and revenue will be recognized.

Product Warranty

Our medical devices are covered by a standard warranty which outside the United States is for 15 months following shipment or 12 months following installation at the end-customer site, and inside the United States is 12 months following installation. We record our estimated contractual obligations at the time of shipment since installations are within 30 days of shipment and returns are not accepted. We consider the 12-month rolling average of actual warranty claims associated with its medical devices and related single-use riboflavin drug formulations when determining the warranty accrual estimate.

Inventories

We state inventories at the lower of first-in, first-out cost, or net realizable value. We adjust our cost basis for excess, expired and obsolete inventories primarily on estimates of forecasted net sales.

We capitalize inventories in preparation for sales of products when the related product candidates are considered to have a high likelihood of regulatory clearance and the related costs are expected to be recoverable through sales of the inventories. In addition, we capitalize inventories related to the manufacture of medical devices that have a high likelihood of regulatory clearance and will be retained as our assets upon determination that the instrument has alternative future uses. In determining whether or not to capitalize such inventories, we evaluate, among other factors, information regarding the product candidate’s status of regulatory submissions and communications with regulatory authorities, the outlook for commercial sales and alternative future uses of the product candidate. Costs associated with development products prior to satisfying the inventory capitalization criteria are charged to research and development expense as incurred.

We classify amounts related to medical devices that we own and use in the Company’s operations, as a component of property and equipment. The cost of these commercially sellable devices is capitalized as inventory until such time we determine the instrument will be used for internal purposes.

Stock-Based Compensation

We maintain an equity incentive plan to provide long-term incentives for employees, consultants, and members of the board of directors. The plan allows for the issuance of stock-based incentive awards to employees or employees of our affiliates.

 

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We recognize equity-based compensation expense for awards of equity instruments to employees and non-employees based on the grant date fair value of those awards in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation , or ASC 718. ASC 718 requires all equity-based compensation awards to employees and nonemployee directors, including grants of restricted shares and stock options, to be recognized as expense in the statements of operations and comprehensive loss based on their grant date fair values. We estimate the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. We use the value of our common stock to determine the fair value of restricted shares.

We account for restricted stock and common stock options issued to nonemployees under FASB ASC Topic 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees , or ASC 505-50. As such, the value of such options is periodically remeasured and income or expense is recognized over their vesting terms. Compensation cost related to awards with service-based vesting schedules is recognized using the straight-line method. We determine the fair value of the restricted stock and common stock granted to non-employees as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued. We have not granted any share-based awards to our consultants.

The Black-Scholes option pricing model requires the input of certain subjective assumptions, including (1) the expected share price volatility, (2) the expected term of the award, (3) the risk-free interest rate and (4) the expected dividend yield. Due to the lack of a public market for the trading of our common stock and a lack of company-specific historical and implied volatility data, we have based our estimate of expected volatility on the historical volatility of a group of similar companies that are publicly traded. The historical volatility is calculated based on a period of time commensurate with the expected term assumption. The group of representative companies have characteristics similar to us, including stage of product development and focus on the life science industry. We use the simplified method, which is the average of the final vesting tranche date and the contractual term, to calculate the expected term for options granted to employees as we do not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the expected term. For options granted to non-employees, we utilize the contractual term of the arrangement as the basis for the expected term assumption. The risk-free interest rate is based on a treasury instrument whose term is consistent with the expected term of the stock options. We use an assumed dividend yield of zero as we have never paid dividends and have no current plans to pay any dividends on our common stock.

We expense the fair value of our equity-based compensation awards granted to employees on a straight-line basis over the associated service period, which is generally the period in which the related services are received. We measure equity-based compensation awards granted to nonemployees at fair value as the awards vest and recognize the resulting value as compensation expense at each financial reporting period. We account for award forfeitures as they occur.

Historically, the fair value of the underlying common stock was determined by the board of directors, with input from management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining our equity value and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of our equity was then allocated to various securities within our capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security.

Starting with the valuation of our common stock on December 31, 2018, we utilized the probability-weighted expected return method, or PWERM, in combination with the option pricing method, or OPM, as a hybrid method, or Hybrid Method, which is an accepted valuation method under the AICPA Practice Guide, for determining the fair value of our common stock. The PWERM is a scenario-based analysis that estimates the value per share of common stock based on the probability-weighted present value of expected future equity

 

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values for the common stock, under various possible future liquidity event scenarios, in light of the rights and preferences of each class and series of stock, discounted for a lack of marketability. The OPM values each equity class by creating a series of call options on the equity value, with exercise prices based on the liquidation preferences, participation rights and strike prices of derivatives. The Hybrid Method is appropriate for a company expecting a near term liquidity event, but where, due to market or other factors, the likelihood of completing the liquidity event is uncertain. The Hybrid Method considers a company’s going concern nature, stage of development and the company’s ability to forecast near and long-term future liquidity scenarios.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 2 to our audited financial statements as well as Note 2 to our unaudited condensed financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for more information.

JOBS Act Accounting Election

We are an “emerging growth company” within the meaning of the Jumpstart Our Business Act of 2012, or JOBS Act. Section 107(b) of the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can leverage the extended transition period, provided in Section 102(b) of the JOBS Act, for complying with new or revised accounting standards. Thus, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until those standards apply to private companies. We have elected to use this extended transition period and, as a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with public company effective dates. We also intend to rely on other exemptions provided by the JOBS Act, including without limitation, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

We would cease to be an emerging growth company on the date that is the earliest of (1) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenues of $1.07 billion or more; (2) the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the completion of this offering; (3) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during the previous three years or (4) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

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BUSINESS

Overview

We are a leading commercial-stage ophthalmic medical technology company focused on treating corneal ectatic disorders and improving vision to reduce dependency on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Our proprietary Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is designed to strengthen, stabilize and reshape the cornea utilizing corneal cross-linking in minimally invasive and non-invasive outpatient procedures to treat corneal ectatic disorders and correct refractive conditions, which are caused by changes in the shape of the eye that prevent light from focusing on the retina, causing blurred vision. Our proprietary Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is comprised of our KXL and Mosaic systems, each of which delivers ultraviolet A, or UVA, light, and a suite of proprietary single-use riboflavin drug formulations, which, when applied together to the cornea, induce a biochemical reaction called corneal collagen cross-linking, or corneal cross-linking. Our KXL system in combination with our Photrexa drug formulations, which we launched in the United States in September 2016, is the first and only minimally invasive product offering approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, indicated for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Additionally, the FDA granted us orphan drug designations and we have orphan drug exclusivity until 2023 that covers our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system for our approved indications. We have obtained a Conformité Européene, or CE, mark for our Mosaic system, which allows it to be marketed throughout the European Union. The Mosaic System is capable of performing vision correction procedures and treating corneal ectatic disorders and we began a targeted international launch in late 2017. We plan to seek FDA approval for our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia as an initial targeted indication. We have invested significantly to establish the safety and broad clinical utility of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform and to drive its commercial adoption. We are the only company to have conducted randomized, sham-controlled clinical trials to receive marketing approval of a corneal cross-linking solution. We have conducted and supported more than 15 clinical trials and more than 130 peer-reviewed publications have been published, which provides support for what we believe to be the benefits of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform. To date, over 400,000 cross-linking procedures have been performed globally with our products, including more than 18,000 procedures performed in the United States alone.

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform technology uses corneal cross-linking to strengthen the cornea and modify its shape, a process we refer to as corneal remodeling. Because the cornea functions as the eye’s outermost lens, responsible for 65% to 75% of the eye’s total focusing power, we believe corneal remodeling represents a powerful approach to treating corneal ectatic disorders and correcting vision. We believe corneal remodeling is a particularly effective treatment for progressive keratoconus, a disease in which the cornea progressively thins and weakens, as corneal remodeling strengthens and stabilizes the cornea to slow or arrest the progression of the disease. Corneal remodeling can also potentially be used to correct vision for otherwise healthy individuals by reshaping the cornea through a non-invasive procedure without the need for corneal surgical procedures.

The broad utility of our platform in treating corneal ectatic disorders and correcting vision has the potential to enable us to target a population that we estimate to be approximately 64 million people in the United States, which represents an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $26 billion. Our initial commercial focus within the United States is the keratoconus market, which, according to a recent Market Scope study from 2018, we believe represents a total addressable market of approximately 600,000 people and an opportunity of approximately $3 billion. Keratoconus typically manifests at an early age and is the leading cause of full thickness corneal transplants in the United States, a procedure that costs an average of $20,000 per transplant and may require one or more repeat procedures in the same eye later in life. Unlike corneal cross-linking, non-surgical solutions, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, do not treat the underlying cause of keratoconus or slow disease progression, but temporarily attempt to address its symptoms, such as poor vision.

We estimate the vision correction market for our products in the United States to be approximately 63 million people, or an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $23 billion. Our initial clinical focus

 

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in vision correction is the treatment of patients with presbyopia, which we estimate affects more than 50 million people in the United States, representing an estimated total addressable market opportunity of approximately $15 billion. Vision correction procedures traditionally include refractive surgery or implants, the most common of which is laser in-situ keratomileusis, or LASIK. While LASIK is the most common vision correction procedure, we believe that it has not achieved greater market penetration due to patients’ fears of an ablative laser procedure and the associated side effects. Although we currently do not have any FDA-approved products to treat presbyopia, we believe that our Mosaic system, which is currently available in non-U.S. jurisdictions, addresses the critical challenges of currently available vision correction procedures, as corneal remodeling does not involve cutting or ablating the cornea. In addition to presbyopia, we are exploring the use of our Mosaic system as a treatment option for other large markets in the United States, including correcting refractive error for low myopia, which we estimate affects 13.5 million people, representing a total addressable market opportunity of approximately $8 billion, and post-cataract procedures, which we estimate affects 600,000 eyes annually, representing a total annual addressable market opportunity of approximately $180 million.

Our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations were approved by the FDA for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery on the basis of three pivotal randomized and sham-controlled Phase 3 U.S. clinical trials involving 205 patients with progressive keratoconus and 179 patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The results showed a clinically significant difference in corneal steepening, which is a defining indicator of disease progression in keratoconic patients, in the treatment group in comparison to the control group. We are currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial pursuant to a Special Protocol Assessment, or SPA, for a new indication for our latest-generation KXL system, its associated investigational drug formulations and our Boost Goggles in a shorter and non-invasive procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus that leaves the corneal epithelium in place, which we refer to as Epi-On. If approved, we believe this combination will be the first corneal cross-linking product offering approved in the United States for an Epi-On procedure and may result in the grant of a three-year period of market exclusivity. Our CE mark for the KXL system, which we received in 2011, covers a broader indication and technical range of use than currently approved in the United States. For example, our KXL system can currently be used outside the United States to perform other corneal cross-linking procedures such as Lasik Xtra, a procedure performed in conjunction with refractive procedures such as LASIK to strengthen the cornea and stabilize procedure results.

Our Mosaic system, which we believe offers the world’s most advanced and versatile cross-linking technology, is available outside of the United States for performing vision correction procedures in addition to treating keratoconus. Unlike the KXL system, which delivers UVA light across a large portion of the cornea in a fixed pattern, our Mosaic system uses a digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking to deliver metered UVA light to the cornea in a controllable pattern and to induce cross-linking in a targeted zone. This zonal corneal cross-linking induces a change in the shape of the cornea and enables refractive correction using a procedure we refer to as photorefractive intrastromal cross-linking, or PiXL. The Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations are currently being used in combination to treat and improve vision for keratoconic patients outside of the United States. We are generating additional clinical data to potentially expand applications of the Mosaic system and to increase physician and patient awareness and adoption. We plan to initiate a Phase 2a clinical trial in the first half of 2019 to evaluate the use of PiXL as a solution for vision improvement for patients with presbyopia. Contingent upon clinical development of corneal remodeling as a treatment for presbyopia, we also plan to leverage our platform to broaden our development programs into additional vision correction uses, such as the treatment of refractive error for low myopia and post-cataract procedures.

We sell our products primarily to ophthalmologists, hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, or ASCs. The physicians primarily involved in corneal cross-linking are ophthalmologists who are either corneal specialists or trained in refractive procedures. According to Market Scope estimates, there are approximately 1,100 corneal refractive centers in the United States. Of these centers, we estimate there are approximately 800 centers in which a majority of cataract and refractive surgeons, as well as corneal specialists who treat keratoconus, are located. As of September 30, 2018, our KXL systems are placed in 305 centers. In the

 

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United States, we sell our products through a direct sales team that, as of September 30, 2018, consisted of 12 sales professionals. If we are able to obtain FDA approval for our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia, we expect to leverage our existing sales force to cross-sell our KXL and Mosaic systems and their respective drug formulations, as they share the same target customers. In addition to the approximately 800 centers we are targeting for keratoconus, we expect to sell the Mosaic system, if approved, to the remaining 300 corneal refractive centers that focus exclusively on refractive procedures. Outside the United States, we sell our products through a broad network of distribution partners located in markets where we see the greatest potential for corneal cross-linking procedures.

We have successfully established broad private payor coverage and are continuing to work on pursuing favorable payment policies for use of our KXL system to treat keratoconus, with 63 private payors covering a total of up to 170 million covered lives in the United States, which we estimate includes approximately 95% of our estimated total U.S. addressable market for keratoconus. Corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus was granted a Category III Current Procedural Terminology, or CPT, code, and in November 2018, we received a product-specific J code for our Photrexa formulations. The J code became effective on January 1, 2019. We expect these changes will help stabilize payment policies. Outside the United States, reimbursement practices for keratoconus therapies depend on where the patient lives, but generally, there is some form of reimbursement in place to cover the procedure. In contrast, vision correction procedures are generally not covered by insurance and are paid for out-of-pocket by the patient. If we receive FDA approval for the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations to perform vision correction procedures for the treatment of presbyopia, we would expect providers to establish a price per procedure that is self-paid and competitive with current self-paid vision correction procedures, such as LASIK.

Since our U.S. commercial launch of the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in September 2016, we have sold over 300 KXL systems in the United States, and since our KXL system was CE marked in 2011, we have sold over 700 KXL systems outside the United States. Since our launch outside the United States, we have sold 20 Mosaic systems outside of the United States. We generated revenue of $20.2 million, with a gross margin of 51.1% and a net loss of $21.3 million, for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to revenue of $14.9 million, with a gross margin of 52.1% and a net loss of $16.4 million, for the year ended December 31, 2016. We generated revenue of $19.5 million, with a gross margin of 57.8% and a net loss of $18.7 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to revenue of $15.6 million, with a gross margin of 54.3% and a net loss of $14.6 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.

 

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The Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform consists of the following UVA light delivery devices and associated drug formulations:

 

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Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform Overview Device Formulations Procedures Application U.S. Status International Status Device Formulation KXL System Mosaic Device Photrexa Viscous & Photrexa ParaCel Part 1 & 2 VibeX Xtra ParaCel Part 1 & 2 (Epi-On) VibeX Rapid (Epi-Off) Vibex Xtra KXL (Epi-Off) KXL (Epi-On) Lasik Xtra Customized Remodeled Vision (CuRV) Photorefractive Intrastromal Cross-Linking (PiXL) Lasik Xtra Progressive Keratoconus and Corneal Ectasia Following Refractive Surgery Progressive Keratoconus Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression Keratoconus and Vision Improvement Presbyopia Low Myopia Post-Cataract Refractive Errors Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression FDA Approved (2016) Phase 3 Trial Ongoing+ - - Phase 2a Trial Planned for 1H2019 - CE Mark (2011)** CE Mark (2015)*# - CE mark (2011)*# CE mark (2011)*# CE Mark (2015)*# + In conjunction with our investigational Boost Goggles. * Also commercially available in the Middle East and Japan. ** Also commercially available in the Middle East, Japan and China. # Exclusively licensed to us from Medio-Haus Medizinprodukte GmbH.

Our Success Factors

We attribute our success to the following and believe these factors will drive our future growth:

 

   

Multiple large addressable and underserved market opportunities. We believe the broad utility of our platform has the potential to enable us to target a total addressable market of 64 million people in the United States who are looking for a non-invasive solution, which represents an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $26 billion. Based on estimates from a 2018 Market Scope study, we are initially targeting a market of approximately 600,000 individuals in the United States with progressive keratoconus, and we intend to expand into refractive conditions if our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations are approved. In the United States, there are currently no other minimally invasive therapeutic treatments for the corneal ectatic disorders our products are used to treat and no non-invasive solutions for vision correction available except for eyeglasses and contact lenses.

 

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Leverageable and intuitive corneal remodeling platform. Our platform is easy to use and requires a minimal learning curve as physicians are already familiar with the procedures to be performed using our devices. We believe the ease of use, reliability of our devices and broad potential uses of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform are key factors in increasing ophthalmologist adoption and enabling our platform to become an integral part of ophthalmology practices.

 

   

Significant body of supporting clinical data. Our platform is supported by a significant body of clinical data, consisting of more than 15 clinical trials and more than 130 peer-reviewed publications, evaluating its safety, efficacy and durability for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and improvement in vision. We believe this body of data provides us with a significant competitive advantage and will continue to support increased adoption of our platform.

 

   

U.S. market exclusivity and first-mover advantage. Our KXL system in combination with our Photrexa formulations is the first and only corneal cross-linking product offering approved by the FDA for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Our orphan drug designations provide us with market exclusivity that covers our Photrexa formulations used with our KXL system until 2023. We are currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate our Epi-On procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. If approved, we believe our latest-generation KXL system, its associated drug formulations and our Boost Goggles will be the first corneal cross-linking product offering approved in the United States for an Epi-On procedure, and may result in the grant of a three-year period of market exclusivity.

 

   

Broad private payor coverage for keratoconus. In the past two years, we have rapidly established broad private payor coverage in the United States, with 63 private payors covering a total of up to 170 million covered lives, which we estimate includes approximately 95% of our estimated total U.S. addressable market for keratoconus.

 

   

Established leadership position outside the United States for corneal ectatic disorders, facilitating rapid U.S. commercial adoption. We believe that the broad adoption and established market leadership position of our platform outside the United States for corneal ectatic disorders will help facilitate its commercial adoption in the United States. Since the U.S. commercial launch of our KXL system in September 2016, we sold over 300 KXL systems and more than 18,000 procedures have been performed. We expect to continue to expand our sales force to drive patient and physician adoption.

 

   

Robust research and development capabilities and comprehensive intellectual property portfolio. We have established strong research and development capabilities in drug discovery, biomedical optics, machine vision and computational modeling, which we believe will allow us to continue to innovate and maintain our competitive position. We have a comprehensive intellectual property portfolio, including 42 issued patents and 49 pending patent applications, a number of which are in-licensed patents.

 

   

Proven leadership with sector expertise . We have assembled a highly-specialized management team with an average of 25 years of experience across the fields of ophthalmology, drug products and medical devices. Our board of directors is comprised of industry-leading executives who have deep medical device public company experience and established track records in growing commercial-stage companies.

Our Growth Strategy

Our goal is to maintain and further extend our position as a global leader in corneal remodeling and to drive global adoption of our products. We believe the following strategies will play a critical role in achieving this goal in our future growth:

 

   

Drive customer adoption by pursuing consistent and favorable payment policies. We plan to continue our active discussions with private payors to establish positive national and regional

 

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coverage policies and facilitate claims processing. As we continue to establish favorable coverage and payment policies, we believe we can substantially expand patient access by reducing these hurdles to adoption.

 

   

Deepen existing and cultivate new ophthalmologist customer relationships. We plan to significantly grow our commercial sales and marketing organization as we achieve additional success in establishing consistent and favorable private payor coverage and payment policies for our treatment of corneal ectatic disorders in the United States. If we obtain FDA approval for additional indications, we plan to leverage our call points in order to cross-sell these additional uses of our products. We believe investing in a scalable, efficient direct sales force will help us broaden adoption of our products and drive revenue growth.

 

   

Increasing awareness among the broader eye care community, namely optometrists, in the United States. In addition to making ophthalmologists aware of the benefits of corneal cross-linking and our products through participating in eye care industry conferences, we are focusing our outreach on increasing awareness to referring optometrists of corneal cross-linking as a therapeutic treatment for corneal ectatic disorders. We also plan to continue building patient awareness through our direct-to-consumer marketing initiatives, which include paid search, radio, social media and online videos.

 

   

Secure additional FDA approvals and expand indications of our platform. We believe our market-leading platform can improve upon current applications and, contingent upon receiving FDA approval, be leveraged broadly across novel applications. We intend to continue to invest in research and development and clinical trials to improve patient experience and maximize the value of our platform to unlock additional addressable markets.

 

   

Expand global reach of our platform. Outside the United States, we plan to expand upon our substantial relationships and to invest in growing our sales and marketing organization in markets we deem attractive. We believe there is a significant market opportunity for corneal cross-linking in the European Union, the Middle East, China, South Korea, Japan and other countries, and we have sold our products into more than 80 countries.

Overview of the Cornea

The cornea functions as the eye’s outermost layer. It is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye and functions as a lens that converges and focuses the image into the eye. In fact, the cornea is responsible for 65% to 75% of the eye’s total focusing power.

 

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There are three main layers of the cornea important to cross-linking, including, from front to back, the epithelium, stroma and endothelium. The epithelium is the most superficial layer of the cornea and stops outside matter from entering the eye and absorbs oxygen and nutrients from tears. The stroma, which is the middle and thickest layer of the cornea, is primarily composed of water and collagen. The collagen proteins give the cornea its strength, elasticity and solid form. The endothelium, which is the thin, innermost layer of the cornea, plays a critical role in maintaining corneal hydration by pumping water out of the stroma, enabling transparency. As the cornea provides an important focusing mechanism for the eye, both shape and strength are essential to the cornea.

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform

Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform is designed to strengthen, stabilize and reshape the cornea utilizing corneal cross-linking in minimally invasive and non-invasive outpatient procedures to treat corneal ectatic disorders, and in certain jurisdictions outside of the United States, correct refractive conditions. Normal corneal stroma has collagen fibrils with bridges, or cross-links, present between them. Ectatic corneas have a distorted arrangement of these collagen fibrils with reduced thickness and strength, which results in vision impairment as the corneal loses structural shape and begins to bulge. Corneal cross-linking is a bioengineering technique that adds special bonds between the collagen fibers in the eye to increase the mechanical stability of the cornea.

The corneal cross-linking reaction typically requires three key components: (1) a biological form of riboflavin, a derivative of Vitamin B2, which is typically administered through eye drops and acts as a photosensitizer, (2) a UVA light source, which serves as a photoactivator and (3) oxygen, which is an essential component of cross-linking and is rapidly depleted upon UVA activation. When riboflavin is applied to the cornea and activated by UVA light, a biomechanical reaction produces reactive oxygen radicals that cause induction of collagen cross-links by forming new covalent bonds. This increases corneal rigidity and stiffens the anterior corneal stroma. As a result, cross-linking addresses the thinning and distortion of the cornea and the cornea is remodeled by becoming stronger. We developed our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform to improve the corneal cross-linking procedure. The figure below illustrates the steps of our corneal cross-linking procedure.

General Steps to Our Corneal Cross-Linking Procedures

 

LOGO

The Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform currently consists of two separate devices and associated drug formulations. Our KXL system delivers UVA light across a large portion of the cornea, inducing corneal cross-linking in combination with our Photrexa formulations to stabilize the cornea and slow or stop progression of a disease. Our Mosaic system, which has not been approved in the United States, uses a digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking to deliver metered UVA light to the cornea in a controllable pattern and to induce cross-linking in combination with its associated riboflavin formulations in a targeted zone to stabilize and reshape the cornea to improve vision. We also intend to enhance our Avedro

 

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Corneal Remodeling Platform with the introduction of our Boost Goggles, an additional investigational device component designed to allow for supplemental oxygen delivery to enhance the cross-linking reaction. We believe this component is essential for enabling us to non-invasively treat corneal ectatic disorders and refractive conditions by leaving the epithelium intact.

Benefits of the Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform

We believe our industry-leading Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform has a number of highly attractive benefits:

 

   

Corneal cross-linking using the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations offers safe, minimally invasive outpatient procedures, including the only FDA-approved alternative to surgical intervention for the treatment of keratoconus. The minimally invasive procedure indicated for use with our products is outpatient and has been well-tolerated for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. In addition, we are in the process of running a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial for our Epi-On procedure using our latest generation KXL system, its associated drug formulations and our Boost Goggles, which, if approved by the FDA, will enable physicians to perform a shorter and non-invasive procedure for the treatment of progressive keratoconus that leaves the corneal epithelium in place. We believe this combination represents the latest-generation of our cross-linking procedure by further simplifying the procedure, improving patient comfort and leading to faster recovery times.

 

   

High corneal cross-linking procedure success rate with demonstrated long-lasting effects. Corneal cross-linking has been used for more than a decade outside of the United States to treat corneal ectatic disorders. An independent retrospective study published in 2015, which observed non-U.S. patients who had received treatment for keratoconus substantially similar to ours, showed a treatment success rate of over 90% with average follow-up of approximately 11 years. We believe this success rate has the potential to extend further and could extend to refractive conditions due to the same mechanism of action.

 

   

Enhances quality of vision. Corneal remodeling is not only designed to address the root causes of corneal ectatic disorders, but it can also reshape the cornea for purposes of increasing visual acuity. As part of our pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of progressive keratoconus, we observed an improvement of more than one line of best corrected visual acuity, or BCVA, one year after surgery. We plan to further investigate the impact of corneal cross-linking on visual acuity by performing clinical trials using our Mosaic system.

 

   

Easy-to-use with a minimal learning curve . Our KXL and Mosaic systems have easy-to-use interfaces that guide physicians through the treatment and have built-in self-calibration. Ophthalmologists are familiar with the techniques used in our corneal cross-linking procedure, such as epithelium removal, application of eye drops and the use of eye-tracking devices. Because of the minimal training time involved in learning how to perform our procedures on our KXL and Mosaic systems, we believe our devices are suitable for use by most ophthalmologists. Further, we believe this increases the appeal and utilization of our products as effective treatment options.

 

   

Regulatory approvals and marketing authorizations supported by strong clinical data. We believe having an FDA-approved product helps to demonstrate the strength of our corneal cross-linking clinical data and is important for physicians in the United States and abroad due to the rigor of attaining approval. Furthermore, because the FDA regulates production of pharmaceuticals and medical devices requiring good manufacturing practices, physicians know there are tight quality controls around the production of our products. In the European Union, both our KXL and Mosaic

 

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systems are currently CE marked. We believe our commitment to securing regulatory approvals for our products for various cross-linking procedures will continue to be important to physicians as they assess options for treating patients with corneal ectatic disorders and vision correction.

Market Overview

Our target markets include corneal ectatic disorders, such as progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, and vision improvement applications for presbyopia, low myopia and post-cataract refraction error procedures. The broad utility of our platform has the potential to enable us to target a population that we estimate to be approximately 64 million people in the United States, which represents an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $26 billion. Further, we believe that there is a substantial additional market opportunity in the rest of the world.

The table below illustrates the total addressable market opportunities in the United States for our products.

Corneal Ectatic Disorder Market*

 

Indication

 

Approximate number of people

in the United States

 

Estimated U.S. market opportunity

Progressive keratoconus

  600,000**   $3 billion

 

*

Corneal ectasia following refractive surgery represents an additional market opportunity.

**

Based on estimates from a 2018 Market Scope study.

Vision Correction Market

 

Application

 

Approximate number of people

or eyes in the United States

 

Estimated U.S. market opportunity

Presbyopia

  More than 50 million people   $15 billion

Low myopia

  13.5 million people   $8 billion

Post-cataract refractive errors

  600,000 eyes annually   $180 million annually

Overview of Corneal Ectatic Disorders and Current Treatments

Corneal ectatic disorders are comprised of a class of diseases characterized by an ectatic, or a misshaped, cornea. Corneal ectasia is typically caused by a weakening of the cornea, which can be due to a number of factors, including genetic causes, adverse side effects from ophthalmic refractive procedures, such as LASIK, or excessive eye rubbing. We are currently targeting two primary corneal ectatic disorders with our corneal cross-linking technology: keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery.

 

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus is mostly a hereditary, degenerative ectatic disease in which the typically round, dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing a cone-like corneal bulge due to normal internal pressure

 

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of the eye. Patients with moderate keratoconus are often challenged by routine tasks such as driving, reading and recognizing faces from a distance, and the visual disturbances can be aggravated in bright conditions due to glare. In advanced stages of the disease, corneal scarring may cause incapacitating vision loss that can only be addressed by replacing the patient’s diseased cornea with a donor cornea through a surgical transplant procedure known as penetrating keratoplasty. Rubbing the eyes and certain geographical factors, such as air quality related to dust, sand and dirt, are also thought to be contributing factors to keratoconus.

Other than our KXL system and our associated Photrexa formulations, there are no other non-surgical treatments or FDA-approved products that slow or arrest progression of corneal ectatic disorders, such as keratoconus. Instead, currently available options for disease management include eyeglasses, rigid contact lenses or surgically implanted intracorneal ring segments, or ICRS, which only address symptoms of the disease, such as vision loss. While these options may be effective at managing the immediate vision impairment associated with early-stage corneal ectatic disorders, they do not treat the disease or slow or arrest disease progression. Over time, the severity of keratoconus and resulting vision loss can often lead to the need for a corneal transplant to restore visual function. According to an article published in the Survey of Ophthalmology journal in 1998, as many as 20% of patients with progressive keratoconus will ultimately require a corneal transplant, though it is not possible to predict which patients will progress to needing a transplant. A corneal transplant in the United States can cost an average of $20,000 per transplant. The procedure requires a long recovery period and presents risks of graft failure due to infection or rejection of the donated tissue. Corneal transplant patients are often required to use steroids and other medications for an extended period to prevent graft failure. Furthermore, a 2009 publication in Ophthalmology , found that 72% of grafts fail within 20 years and 98% failed at 30 years. As a result, younger cornea transplant patients will likely require more than one procedure during their lifetime. This is particularly relevant for keratoconic patients, as they often experience onset of disease in their teenage years and will likely require more than one procedure during their lifetime.

Prior to the 1990s, physicians were limited in their ability to effectively diagnose patients with keratoconus, as they had to utilize subjective visual exams. The lack of adequate corneal imaging topography techniques, an imaging technology that is useful for mapping and examining characteristics of the cornea such as shape, curvature, power and thickness, resulted in an under-reporting of the disease. In an article published by the American Journal of Ophthalmology in 1986, prior to the introduction of corneal topography, the potential keratoconic eyes available to be treated in the United States were estimated at 176,000 patients, or one in 2,000 people. More recently, however, advancements in corneal topography have enabled physicians to diagnose corneal irregularities more accurately, more objectively and earlier in the disease’s progression. As a result, a recent nationwide registration study of keratoconus in the Netherlands published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology in 2017 estimated that the prevalence was significantly higher than previously thought, at approximately one in 375 people. According to a 2018 study by Market Scope, there are approximately 600,000 people with progressive keratoconus in the United States and 17,000 new cases annually. We believe this represents a total addressable market opportunity of $3 billion for our KXL system.

We believe the U.S. market for the treatment of keratoconus using corneal cross-linking is less than 5% penetrated, primarily because there had been no FDA-approved therapeutic alternative for treating the disease until the FDA approved our KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations in April 2016. A significant opportunity exists to increase the number of procedures performed in the United States using our KXL system and Photrexa formulations. We believe this is possible due to our commercial experience outside the United States, where corneal cross-linking has been established as the standard of care for the treatment of keratoconus for well over a decade.

Corneal Ectasia Following Refractive Surgery and Lasik Xtra

Corneal ectasia following refractive surgery is a serious complication that involves the cornea becoming weakened following a refractive procedure, such as LASIK, with symptoms similar to naturally occurring keratoconus. According to a publication in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery in 2012, the structural

 

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integrity of the cornea can be weakened by up to 33% during LASIK, as a result of the creation of the LASIK flap and thinning of the cornea, which can lead to corneal ectasia. Our KXL system is marketed to treat corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The incidence of corneal ectasia following refractive surgery in the United States is relatively low, as U.S. ophthalmologists generally do not treat high myopic patients with a refractive error of -7.0 diopter, a unit measure of the refractive power of a lens, or more.

Outside the United States, where ophthalmologists do treat high myopic patients, an increasing number of ophthalmologists proactively cross-link the cornea during refractive surgery as a way to stabilize the cornea and potentially avoid corneal ectasia. We refer to this procedure as Lasik Xtra. The largest market opportunity for the Lasik Xtra procedure performed with our KXL system is outside the United States, as more than 2.0 million LASIK procedures are performed annually outside the United States. Specifically, we believe the opportunity is greatest in China, Japan, Singapore and South Korea, where physicians utilize LASIK to treat high myopic patients. Since 2012, our devices have been used to perform over 140,000 Lasik Xtra treatments worldwide, with 23,500 procedures performed in the nine months ended September 30, 2018.

Overview of Vision Correction and Current Treatments

We believe corneal cross-linking has the potential to be an effective means of reducing or eliminating eyeglasses or contact lens dependence in patients requiring lower-level refractive error correction, including for presbyopia, low myopia and post-cataract refractive error, in addition to several other applications. While most individuals with low refractive errors of less than -1.5 diopters would like to see their vision improved, we believe that the fear of surgery outweighs the benefits of vision improvement for such patients. As a result, we believe these patients, who represent a large and attractive market, require a non-invasive solution for vision improvement. For example, in the United States, the majority of individuals with myopia are low myopic patients in the range of -0.75 diopters to -1.25 diopters. Rather than achieving vision correction through surgical procedures, such as LASIK or implants, corneal cross-linking can effectively improve vision by reshaping and strengthening the cornea. We estimate the vision correction market for our products in the United States to be approximately 63 million people, or an estimated total addressable market opportunity of $23 billion.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a refractive disorder that is a natural part of aging and affects everyone after the age of about 40. Presbyopia is primarily due to the hardening of the eye’s crystalline lens over time, resulting in a loss of lens elasticity or the ability of the lens to change shape in order to focus incoming light on the retina. Elasticity is slowly lost as people age, resulting in a slow decrease in the ability of the eye to focus on close objects and can impact common tasks such as reading fine print. The disorder may go unnoticed for several years after its initial onset but will worsen with age. Many patients begin noticing the effects of presbyopia after age 40, but the changes to the shape of the crystalline lens start at a younger age.

According to a study published in Ophthalmology , presbyopia affected approximately 1.8 billion people worldwide in 2015, or approximately 25% of the global population. We estimate the worldwide presbyopic population is expected to be approximately 2.1 billion people by the end of 2020. The market opportunity for presbyopia is large and growing due to the aging of the global population. The median age of the global population is projected to increase from 29 years in 2011 to 38 years by 2050. We believe a non-invasive treatment for presbyopia will be an attractive alternative for patients and physicians. We plan to develop our products for a subset of individuals with presbyopia that need low refractive correction of approximately +1.0 diopters and – 1.0 diopters. We estimate that there are more than 50 million people in the United States that may be potential candidates for corneal cross-linking for the treatment of presbyopia, representing a total addressable market opportunity of approximately $15 billion.

Low Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition in which close objects are seen clearly, but objects farther away appear blurred, and is usually caused by an elongation of the eyeball or a cornea having too much

 

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curvature, causing the image to be focused in front of the retina rather than on the retina. Myopia first occurs in school-age children and typically progresses until about age 20. The American Optometric Association estimates that myopia affects nearly 30% of the U.S. population. Some geographies, including South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, China and Japan, have shown a higher prevalence of myopia, at upwards of 80% to 90%.

Patients with myopia of -1.5 diopters or less, which we refer to as low myopia, typically do not opt for LASIK surgery. These individuals more often wear eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct their refractive errors. We believe LASIK has struggled to achieve more meaningful adoption with low myopic patients due to fear of the invasive LASIK process and the potential for unintended side effects. These side effects may include temporary discomfort and vision disturbances, LASIK flap complications, dry eye, irregular astigmatism, epithelial ingrowth, significant under-correction, overcorrection or regression, corneal ectasia following refractive surgery and eye infection. In a 2014 report on refractive surgery, of the approximately 94 million people in the United States with low myopia, fewer than 0.4% chose to be treated with laser vision correction, or LVC. We believe there is a significant clinical unmet need for patients suffering from low myopia who are seeking an alternative to invasive surgical procedures and prefer not to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses. We are initially developing our products for patients with low myopia of under -1.5 diopters. We estimate that there are 13.5 million people in the United States with low myopia that may be potential candidates for corneal cross-linking, representing approximately an $8 billion market.

Post-IOL Cataract Patients with Refractive Errors

According to Market Scope, in 2014, 9,900 surgeons performed 4.1 million cataract surgeries in the United States. Studies report that as many as 45% of patients that have had cataract surgery have some form of refractive error following the procedure, making them potential candidates for corneal cross-linking treatment. A subset of patients chose to correct their refractive error and presbyopia at the same time as their cataract surgery by selecting premium intraocular lenses, or IOLs, or opting for a monovision route to be able to see both far and near. Accurate target refraction in these patients is critical since these patients pay additional fees to obtain this benefit. It is estimated that 15% of the cataract patients chose premium IOLs.

We believe that corneal cross-linking could represent a useful tool alongside the implantation of premium IOLs. Premium IOLs are intended to correct some form of refractive error and are typically not fully reimbursed by insurance companies, thereby requiring some form of out-of-pocket payment from the patient. This results in patients having higher expectations of visual outcomes post procedure. We believe a procedure that can refine the refractive correction following implantation of premium IOLs would represent an attractive option for patients and physicians. We estimate that there are 600,000 eyes annually in the United States that may be potential candidates for corneal cross-linking, representing an annual market of approximately $180 million.

Other Applications

We continue to explore additional opportunities where our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform could provide benefit to other conditions, such as hyperopia or astigmatism. Outside the United States, some physicians already use our platform to treat these and other applications pursuant to existing CE marks. We believe these to be additional opportunities for our platform, which we may explore further in the future.

Overview of Our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform

Conventional therapies do not slow or arrest the progression of corneal ectatic disorders, and the costs and risks associated with corneal transplant procedures represent a significant burden for patients, physicians and payors. We believe that there is a clear unmet medical need for our minimally invasive and non-invasive corneal cross-linking technology to enable cornea remodeling to slow or arrest progression of the disease. The Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform currently consists of two separate devices and associated drug formulations. Our KXL system delivers UVA light across a large portion of the cornea, inducing corneal cross-linking in

 

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combination with our Photrexa formulations to stabilize the cornea and slow or stop progression of a disease. Our Mosaic system uses a digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking to deliver metered UVA light to the cornea in a controllable pattern and to induce cross-linking in combination with its associated riboflavin formulations in a targeted zone to stabilize and reshape the cornea to improve vision.

 

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Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform Overview Device Formulations Procedures Application U.S. Status International Status Device Formulation KXL System Mosaic Device Photrexa Viscous & Photrexa ParaCel Part 1 & 2 VibeX Xtra ParaCel Part 1 & 2 (Epi-On) VibeX Rapid (Epi-Off) Vibex Xtra KXL (Epi-Off) KXL (Epi-On) Lasik Xtra Customized Remodeled Vision (CuRV) Photorefractive Intrastromal Cross-Linking (PiXL) Lasik Xtra Progressive Keratoconus and Corneal Ectasia Following Refractive Surgery Progressive Keratoconus Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression Keratoconus and Vision Improvement Presbyopia Low Myopia Post-Cataract Refractive Errors Corneal Weakening Following Refractive Surgery and Refractive Regression FDA Approved (2016) Phase 3 Trial Ongoing+ - - Phase 2a Trial Planned for 1H2019 - CE Mark (2011)** CE Mark (2015)*# - CE mark (2011)*# CE mark (2011)*# CE Mark (2015)*# + In conjunction with our investigational Boost Goggles. * Also commercially available in the Middle East and Japan. ** Also commercially available in the Middle East, Japan and China. # Exclusively licensed to us from Medio-Haus Medizinprodukte GmbH.

 

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The KXL System

The KXL system delivers UVA light in a circular pattern across a large portion of the cornea, following the application of its associated drug formulations. Key components of the KXL system include an optical head and touch panel display.

 

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The optical head of the KXL system houses the UVA irradiation mechanism. The LED emits UVA radiation and, depending on the indication and geography, can emit different intensities for different time durations. A fixed aperture mounted in the UVA irradiation beam path is used to produce a circular area of irradiation at the treatment plane. Alignment lasers are used to aid the user in focusing the beam on the patient’s cornea. Fine alignment of the UVA beam through observation of the alignment lasers is controlled by the user through a wireless remote. The KXL system is portable, with an articulating arm to allow movement of the system for alignment of the UVA beam to the patient’s cornea.

Outside the United States, we received an EC Certificate of Conformity from our notified body for the KXL system for corneal cross-linking in 2011. The CE mark affixed to the KXL system on the basis of this Certificate relates to corneal cross-linking procedures more generally, as compared to our FDA approvals, which relate to specific corneal conditions using regimented treatment protocols. Our CE mark for our KXL system covers a broader indication and technical range of use than currently granted in the United States and procedures for which we may plan to pursue FDA approval in the future. For example, our KXL system can currently be marketed and used outside the United States to perform other corneal cross-linking procedures such as Lasik Xtra, a procedure performed in conjunction with refractive procedures such as LASIK to strengthen the cornea and stabilize procedure results.

 

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Broad Treatment for Keratoconus

 

 

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Note: The figures on the left and right represent the corneal and photo activation areas during the CuRV procedure. The eye’s normal intraocular pressure, combined with stiffening of selective cornea regions, results in a flattening of the cornea.

KXL Procedure (Epi-Off)

The KXL system in combination with our Photrexa formulations is FDA-approved for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery using corneal cross-linking following removal of the corneal epithelium, which we refer to as the Epi-Off procedure. Removal of the epithelium, a procedure familiar to ophthalmologists, prior to delivery of our Photrexa formulations facilitates absorption of the drug into the stroma and eliminates the diffusion barrier for ambient oxygen. The KXL system sold in the United States has fixed UVA delivery settings, which is delivered at a lower intensity and for a longer period of time than for our Epi-On procedure. The procedure can take approximately 60 to 90 minutes to perform the entire procedure, including removal of the epithelium, which typically takes less than five minutes, administration of the Photrexa Viscous eye drops for 30 minutes and then delivery of the UVA light for 30 minutes. In some patient cases where the cornea has not sufficiently thickened, Photrexa is also needed to additionally prep the cornea for the application of the UVA light.

KXL Procedure (Epi-On)

We believe our latest-generation KXL system, its associated drug formulations and Boost Goggles, if approved, will offer an effective treatment for patients with keratoconus using the Epi-On procedure, while potentially offering a shorter procedure with greater patient comfort, more rapid healing and fewer adverse events than the Epi-Off procedure. In the European Union, the KXL system is CE marked according to the requirements of the Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC and can be used in accordance with the CE-marked indication to perform corneal cross-linking without the removal of the epithelium. The Epi-On procedure is enabled by new technology designed to eliminate the need for removal of the epithelium and to reduce treatment duration. This technology includes new drug formulations designed for the Epi-On procedure, an enhanced KXL system that is designed to deliver pulsed UVA light at a significantly higher power than used for our Epi-Off procedure in the United States, and our Boost Goggles, which is a proprietary device designed to deliver a high concentration of oxygen to the stroma throughout the cross-linking procedure. The higher-powered UVA light delivery increases the rate of oxygen consumption during the cross-linking procedure, requiring the addition of supplemental oxygen through the Boost Goggles, which is designed to provide a larger concentration of available oxygen that is required for the increased rate of reaction. The procedure typically takes approximately 20 minutes, including application of the eye drops for ten minutes and delivery of the UVA light and supplemental oxygen for approximately ten minutes.

 

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In June 2018, we announced that we had begun enrolling patients in a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of our latest-generation KXL system, its associated drug formulations and Boost Goggles for the treatment of keratoconus using our Epi-On procedure. We are conducting this trial under an SPA with the FDA, which means that the FDA has agreed that the design and size of the Phase 3 trial are acceptable to support regulatory approval of the product candidate with respect to effectiveness of the indication studied. If our clinical trial is successful and we obtain FDA approval, we believe this combination will be the first corneal cross-linking product offering approved in the United States for an Epi-On procedure and may result in the grant of a three-year period of market exclusivity. We expect enrollment in this trial to be complete by the second half of 2019 and for the complete data set to be available in the first half of 2021.

Lasik Xtra

 

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Outside the United States and most commonly in East Asia, physicians use our KXL system to perform Lasik Xtra, which is a procedure we developed to address corneal weakening caused by refractive surgery such as LASIK and mitigate the risks of corneal ectasia and stabilizes the refractive correction following refractive surgery.

Lasik Xtra can be performed intraoperatively during a LASIK procedure to restore the biomechanical strength of the cornea, and typically adds a total of approximately three minutes to the LASIK procedure. After completion of a LASIK procedure and before the LASIK flap is repositioned, an intrastromal drug formulation is applied directly to the stromal bed. A higher concentration formulation is used for direct application to the stromal bed, with application time reduced to approximately 90 seconds. The LASIK flap is then repositioned as usual, and high power UVA light is applied using continuous illumination for approximately 90 seconds. The reduced treatment duration is enabled by the availability of oxygen under the flap, the availability of the higher-power setting of the KXL system and the presence of the drug formulation only in the target tissue. International clinical trials conducted by third parties have demonstrated that the strengthening induced by Lasik Xtra reduces refractive regression following LASIK. Based on these data, we believe Lasik Xtra may prevent or substantially reduce corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Lasik Xtra can also be used in conjunction with other refractive surgeries that have a similar weakening effect on the cornea, such as photorefractive keratectomy, or PK.

The Mosaic System

The Mosaic system, which we believe offers the world’s most advanced and versatile cross-linking technology, is available outside of the United States for performing vision correction procedures in addition to treating keratoconus. Unlike the KXL system, which delivers UVA light across a large portion of the cornea, our Mosaic system uses a digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking to deliver metered UVA light to the cornea in a controllable pattern and to induce cross-linking in a targeted zone of the cornea. This zonal corneal cross-linking induces a change in the shape of the cornea and enables refractive correction using a procedure we refer to as PiXL. Key components of the Mosaic system include an optical head and touch panel display.

 

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Precise registration between the UVA treatment pattern and the patient’s eye is enabled by importing a detailed map of the corneal topography and iris pattern of a patient’s eye, which is created by a third party corneal topographer, into our Mosaic system. Our software then establishes a common point of reference between the UVA illumination pattern and the topography of the patient’s eye by using unique features in the iris pattern. A clinician can view the topography of a patient’s eye and program the UVA illumination pattern based on structurally abnormal areas of the patient’s eye and the appropriate treatment plan. The UVA light then illuminates a digital micro mirror device, or DMD, and the UVA light reflected from the DMD is projected onto the patient’s eye. The Mosaic system automatically controls the configuration of the DMD’s mirrors such that the UVA light pattern is modulated in real time. A real-time eye tracking system keeps the UVA light pattern located on the desired region of the cornea throughout the procedure. These unique characteristics of the Mosaic system allow us to address these vision correction applications.

In the European Union, the Mosaic system is CE marked in accordance with the requirements of the Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC for corneal cross-linking and is being used by ophthalmologists for a broader range of procedures than can be performed using the KXL system in the United States, including correcting lower-level refractive errors at the same time as treating keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The Mosaic system is currently being used to treat and improve vision for keratoconic patients outside of the United States. We are generating additional clinical data to expand its application and drive commercial adoption. We completed a Phase 1 trial of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations in five patients with functionally blind eyes, evaluating the safety and tolerability of the PiXL procedure with supplemental oxygen at UVA light doses of 10 and 15 joules per cm 2 . In this trial, which followed the patients for up to three months post-treatment, the PiXL procedure was observed to be well-tolerated with no occurrence of any treatment- or dose-related toxicity or serious adverse events. Proof-of-concept and safety of the PiXL procedure has also been demonstrated through investigator-initiated clinical trials outside the United States, in which a total of more than 200 myopic and presbyopic eyes have been treated. We plan to initiate a Phase 2a clinical trial in the first half of 2019 to evaluate the use of PiXL as a solution for vision improvement for presbyopic patients and if the clinical trial is successful, we plan to pursue FDA approval of the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for this indication. We have sold 20 Mosaic systems in countries including the European Union, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, India, Japan, the Netherlands, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.

 

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Customized Remodeled Vision Procedure (CuRV)

Custom Treatment for Keratoconus

 

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Note: The figures on the left and right represent the corneal and photo activation areas during the CuRV procedure. The eye’s normal intraocular pressure, combined with stiffening of selective cornea regions, results in a flattening of the cornea.

Outside the United States, we are in limited commercialization of our Mosaic system for a procedure we have developed for treating keratoconus and addressing refractive conditions in a single procedure called Customized Remodeled Vision, or CuRV, procedure. The CuRV procedure is covered by the EC Certificate of Conformity we obtained for our Mosaic system. CuRV uses our Mosaic system to direct desired amounts of light to specific regions of the cornea to slow or arrest progression of the disease and change the corneal shape to improve vision. CuRV provides physicians with the ability to customize corneal cross-linking for the specific patient, which we believe can result in higher satisfaction and better clinical outcomes. Clinical trials have demonstrated that CuRV can result in greater flattening of the curvature of the cornea, improved corneal shape and faster epithelial healing, as compared to standard cross-linking. While our FDA-approved KXL system used for the Epi-Off procedure applies a circular UVA beam to uniformly strengthen the cornea, the Mosaic system applying the CuRV procedure uses a zonal UVA pattern derived from the patient’s imported corneal topography as well as real-time eye tracking technology to target and strengthen the weakest parts of the cornea. This treatment may lead to improved visual function, in addition to stabilization against keratoconus progression. The current procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes. We believe CuRV could be even faster if used in conjunction with our Boost Goggles.

PiXL Procedure

Outside the United States, we are planning to conduct clinical trials of our Mosaic system for the PiXL procedure for corneal remodeling, which is covered by the EC Certificate of Conformity obtained for our Mosaic system. The PiXL procedure, which uses our Mosaic system together with our Epi-On drug formulations and Boost Goggles, is designed to correct refractive error by strengthening a selective zone of the cornea to induce desired changes in corneal curvature. The strengthened zone has greater resistance to strain from the outwardly directed forces of the intraocular pressure, or IOP, of the eye than the untreated zone. The untreated region bends outward in response to the IOP, resulting in a relative flattening or steepening of the central zone of the cornea.

Our PiXL procedure provides a non-invasive means of changing the corneal shape by selectively strengthening corneal tissue, rather than using conventional refractive surgical techniques or implants. We expect that all of our refractive procedures will be done without removal of the epithelium. The non-invasive nature of PiXL offers an alternative to conventional refractive surgery for patients that are not optimal candidates for

 

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LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, due to abnormalities in corneal shape, corneal weakness, thin corneas, other risk factors for surgical complications or a reluctance to undergo surgery.

The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes and is intended to be conducted using our Boost Goggles. Following application of our investigational Epi-On drug formulation, our Mosaic system delivers a ring-like UVA pattern, which targets steepening of the untreated central cornea to improve near vision. Based on clinical results of the Mosaic system’s application of the PiXL procedure outside the United States, we believe the PiXL procedure can offer an effective means of reducing or eliminating eyeglasses or contact lens dependence in patients requiring lower-level refractive error correction, including for presbyopia, low myopia, post-cataract refractive error and potentially other conditions, such as hyperopia and astigmatism.

Presbyopia Application

Ring Treatment for Presbyopia

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Note: The figures on the left and right represents the corneal and photo activation areas during the PiXL procedure. The stiffening of selective cornea regions allows for corneal remodeling as intraocular pressure is redistributed within the eye resulting in a steepening of the cornea.

We plan on conducting a Phase 2a clinical trial outside the United States to formally evaluate the safety and efficacy of the PiXL procedure using the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations for the treatment of presbyopia and expect enrollment to begin in the first half of 2019. We expect interim data from the Phase 2a trial to inform product or procedure modifications and further clinical development. We expect to begin a Phase 2b clinical trial utilizing our Mosaic system, Boost Goggles and a drug formulation in the United States in the first half of 2020.

 

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Low Myopia Application

Central Treatment for Myopia

 

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Note: The figures on the left and right represents the corneal and photo activation areas during the Mosaic procedures. The stiffening of selective cornea regions allows for corneal remodeling as intraocular pressure is redistributed within the eye resulting in a flattening of the cornea.

Similar to presbyopia, outside the United States, we believe the PiXL procedure may offer an effective means of improving distance vision in patients suffering from low myopia who do not opt for LASIK due to their mild condition or fear of surgery. Following application of the Epi-On drug formulation, our Mosaic system delivers a centrally limited UVA pattern, resulting in flattening of the treated central cornea and reduction of myopic refractive error. A total of more than 200 myopic eyes have been treated to date with the PiXL procedure in investigator-initiated clinical trials with the Mosaic system in Germany, France, Sweden and India, which has informed our development of refined PiXL treatment parameters. We believe the results from these investigator-initiated trials in myopia and our own future clinical trials in presbyopia will guide our decisions regarding a potential future regulatory approval pathway for the treatment of individuals with low myopia in the United States.

Post-Cataract Refractive Error Application

Outside the United States, our PiXL procedure also has the potential to offer non-invasive refractive correction for patients with residual refractive error following implantation of IOLs. We believe that this application of the PiXL procedure could improve outcomes following cataract procedures and would have utility following implantation of IOLs. We believe that patients and surgeons would welcome non-invasive options to correct residual post-operative refractive error after IOL implantation so that their patients can avoid other corrective measures. We believe our PiXL procedure is well positioned to fill this need for a non-invasive alternative to LVC for the cataract surgeon and patient. Outside the United States, we believe that the PiXL procedure will offer an effective means of reducing refractive errors in this patient population.

Riboflavin Drug Formulations

We have a broad suite of proprietary single-use riboflavin drug formulations, which we either own or have exclusively licensed and are intended for use either with our KXL or Mosaic systems, depending on the procedure and the patient geography. Our Photrexa family of drug formulations, which are used in combination with our KXL system in the United States, are manufactured at a good manufacturing practice, or GMP, certified facility; and are the only FDA-approved riboflavin ophthalmic formulations used with our KXL system to treat progressive

 

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keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. Outside the United States, our family of drug formulations for use with our KXL and Mosaic systems consist of VibeX Xtra, VibeX Rapid, ParaCel Part 1 and ParaCel Part 2.

 

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RFID Treatment Cards

Our drug formulations are sold in packages containing procedure- and drug-specific RFID treatment cards that ensure the appropriate combination of drug formulation and device parameter to support patient safety, efficacy and durability.

Boost Goggles

 

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Oxygen is an essential component of corneal cross-linking. Its availability is rapidly depleted upon UVA activation, especially in higher-powered corneal cross-linking procedures. Furthermore, in procedures

 

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where the epithelium remains in place, the epithelium may act as a barrier to oxygen diffusion. We have developed our proprietary, single-use Boost Goggles to supply and concentrate oxygen around the procedure site. The Boost Goggles are placed onto the patient’s face and intended to facilitate the delivery of supplemental oxygen while still allowing for the unobstructed delivery of UVA light to the cornea. Our Boost Goggles are currently being developed in conjunction with our Epi-On procedure and our vision correction applications. Both the Boost Goggles and the use of supplemental oxygen in corneal cross-linking procedures are patent-protected in the United States and are investigational.

Clinical Results and Studies

We have invested significantly to establish the safety and broad clinical utility of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform and to drive its commercial adoption and are the only company to have completed a randomized, sham-controlled clinical trials to receive marketing approval of a corneal cross-linking solution. A significant body of published clinical evidence, which include more than 15 clinical trials and more than 130 peer-reviewed publications, provides support for what we believe to be the benefits, safety and effectiveness of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform.

Completed Pivotal Phase 3 Clinical Trials to Support Approval of our KXL System

We completed three pivotal randomized and sham-controlled Phase 3 clinical trials in the United States that evaluated the safety and efficacy of our KXL system in combination with its associated Photrexa formulations in a total of 205 patients with progressive keratoconus and 179 patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The results from these trials formed the basis of our NDA submission in 2013. The first Phase 3 clinical trial, which we refer to as the UVX-001 trial, was a single-center clinical trial that enrolled both patients with progressive keratoconus and patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The other two Phase 3 clinical trials, which we refer to as the UVX-002 and UVX-003 trials, respectively, were multi-center clinical trials, one of which only enrolled patients with progressive keratoconus and the other only enrolled patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. In each trial, we designated one eye of each patient as the “trial eye.” Trial eyes were randomized to receive either corneal cross-linking or a sham treatment, and patients were followed for up to 12 months after treatment. Each treated eye received only a single course of corneal cross-linking treatment. Additionally, three months after the treatment of the trial eye, sham-treated trial eyes and non-trial eyes could receive corneal cross-linking at the physician’s and patient’s discretion.

In all three trials, the primary efficacy endpoint was a statistically significant differential of equal to or greater than 1.0 diopters in change in maximum corneal curvature from baseline between the treatment and sham groups, as measured by maximum keratometry, or Kmax. Kmax is an objective measurement of the steepest corneal curvature, where an increasing Kmax denotes disease progression. Since sham-treated trial eyes could receive corneal cross-linking treatment after month 3, we used last observation carried forward, or LOCF, methodology to impute missing data for the primary analysis of efficacy.

Efficacy Results

The single-center trial, UVX-001, enrolled 58 patients with progressive keratoconus and 49 patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery. The UVX-002 trial enrolled 147 patients with progressive keratoconus and the UVX-003 trial enrolled 130 patients with corneal ectasia. In each trial, cross-linked eyes showed increasing improvement in Kmax from Month 3 through Month 12. Summaries of the Kmax change from baseline for each of the trials are presented in tabular format below.

 

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Baseline Kmax and Change from Baseline Kmax: Mean (SD) in diopters

 

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For simplicity of presentation, the graph below depicts the primary efficacy endpoint data for all progressive keratoconic patients pooled across the UVX-001 and UVX-002 trials, where the data from the individual trials is provided in the table above. Although the pooled data was submitted to the FDA, the FDA did not include pooled data in the approved label for the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations.

These results showed a clinically significant impact of treatment on corneal steepening, which is a defining indicator of disease progression in keratoconic patients, versus control.

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Safety Results

We obtained safety data from 193 randomized treated trial eyes, 191 control eyes and 319 other placebo and non-trial eyes that received corneal cross-linking treatment with the KXL system.

In keratoconic patients, the most common ocular adverse events observed were corneal opacity, punctate keratitis points of localized inflammation of the superficial layer of the cornea, corneal striae, or wrinkles or folds in the cornea, corneal epithelium defect, eye pain, reduced visual acuity and blurred vision. In patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, the most common ocular adverse events observed were corneal opacity, corneal epithelium defect, corneal striae, dry eye, eye pain, punctate keratitis, photophobia, reduced visual acuity and blurred vision. These events are commonly observed following removal of the corneal epithelium and in the treatment group of our trials, occurred at a higher incidence than observed in control patients.

The majority of adverse events reported were resolved during the first month, while events such as corneal epithelium defect, corneal striae, punctate keratitis, photophobia, dry eye, eye pain and decreased visual acuity took up to six months after treatment to resolve and corneal opacity took up to 12 months after treatment to resolve. In 1% to 2% of keratoconic patients, at least one event of corneal epithelium defect, corneal edema, corneal opacity and corneal scar was evident at 12 months. In 6% of patients with corneal ectasia following refractive surgery, corneal opacity was present at 12 months.

 

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Ancillary Results - Visual Acuity

Visual acuity was measured using a standard vision test similar to the eye chart routinely used in a doctor’s office. The vision test chart used was developed for the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study, or ETDRS, where changes of less than five letters are typically viewed as within the margin of error for this test. The ETDRS chart includes 11 rows of five letters per row.

Visual acuity data were collected at each follow-up visit for patients during the three pivotal trials for the KXL system and its associated Photrexa formulations; however, change in visual acuity was not a pre-specified efficacy endpoint in any of the three pivotal trials. Visual acuity data and results were submitted to the FDA, but the FDA did not include visual acuity data or claims in the approved product labeling. Further, we make no claims about improved visual acuity associated with the use of our products. Rather, the observed findings below are only ancillary and are not key trial results. The graph below depicts the visual acuity data for UVX-002, the multi-center clinical trial for the treatment of progressive keratoconus, and is representative of the outcomes in the single-center UVX-001 trial.

 

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Epi-On Procedure for the Treatment of Keratoconus

We are currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial of our latest generation KXL system and its associated drug formulations that are designed to allow for corneal cross-linking to be used in an Epi-On procedure for the treatment of patients with progressive keratoconus. We are conducting this trial under an SPA with the FDA on the trial design, endpoints and analyses. The SPA provides that the clinical trial design sufficiently addresses the key endpoints which, if met, we believe may form the basis of a supplemental NDA approval for our latest-generation KXL system, its associated investigational drug formulations and our investigational Boost Goggles for the treatment of progressive keratoconus in an Epi-On procedure. We are currently enrolling patients at ten U.S. clinical sites, with approximately 35% of enrollment completed as of November 5, 2018.

 

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The Phase 3 clinical trial is a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial in approximately 275 trial eyes with progressive keratoconus. The objectives of this trial are to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Epi-On corneal cross-linking in slowing the progression of, and reducing, maximum corneal curvature in keratoconic eyes. Trial eyes are randomized to receive either corneal cross-linking with our proprietary drug formulations or placebo.

Each treated eye receives only a single course of treatment and the trial eyes are followed for approximately 12 months. After receiving treatment, trial eyes in the treatment group are assessed at day 1, day 3, week 1 and months 1, 3, 6 and 12. Trial eyes in the placebo group follow a similar assessment schedule until month 6. After the month 6 visit, eyes in the placebo group may receive the Epi-On procedure and be followed for another six months.

The primary endpoint in the trial is a differential of equal to or greater than 1.0 diopters in change in Kmax from baseline over a six-month period between the treatment and placebo groups.

Vision Correction

We believe corneal cross-linking represents an effective means of reducing or eliminating eyeglasses or contact lens dependence in patients requiring lower-level refractive error correction, including for presbyopia, low myopia and post-cataract refractive error, in addition to several other applications. We have demonstrated proof-of-concept and safety of our zonal corneal cross-linking procedure through investigator-initiated and sponsored clinical trials outside the United States, which we believe support further clinical development of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations and seeking FDA approval for use in the treatment of presbyopia as a first indication.

Phase 2a Clinical Trial of our Mosaic System and Associated Drug Formulations

We plan to initiate a Phase 2a multicenter, parallel-group, randomized, open-label trial in the first half of 2019 to evaluate the use of our Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations, along with our Boost Goggles, for zonal corneal cross-linking as a vision improvement solution for presbyopic patients. The objectives of the trial are to evaluate the safety, tolerability and comparative efficacy of three candidate treatment patterns. We believe the findings will allow us to select the most effective zonal UVA treatment pattern to employ in subsequent clinical trials.

The trial will be conducted at approximately five clinical sites outside of the United States, and will enroll approximately 75 presbyopic patients between the ages of 42 and 65. After screening, subjects will be randomized to receive the treatment in one of three treatment patterns. After treatment, patients will be followed at day 1, week 1 and months 1, 3, 6 and 12.

We expect interim data to inform product modifications and further clinical trial development. We expect to begin enrollment in a Phase 2b clinical trial utilizing the Mosaic system, our investigational Boost Goggles and an investigational Epi-On drug formulation in the United States in the first half of 2020.

Independent Retrospective Study of Corneal Cross-Linking

An independent retrospective study published in 2015, which observed non-U.S. patients who had received treatment for keratoconus substantially similar to ours, observed a treatment success rate of over 90% with average follow-up of approximately 11 years. In this study, maximum corneal curvature was significantly reduced following the corneal cross-linking treatment and remained significantly lower than pre-operative values at ten years. Additionally, corrected distance visual acuity was also significantly improved at ten years relative to pre-operative values, which the authors of the study attributed to the reductions in astigmatism and corneal distortion, and to an improved contact lens fit enabled by regularization of the corneal surface. Two patients in

 

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the study underwent repeat cross-linking due to further progression of the disease, after five years and ten years respectively, and both cases subsequently showed stabilization of corneal curvature. Two additional independent retrospective studies evaluated non-U.S. patients who had received treatment with follow-up of seven years, and the long-term stability of cross-linking was also observed in these studies.

Research and Development

Product Evolution

The UV-X device, a first-generation UVA delivery device, was used in the clinical trials UVX-001, UVX-002 and UVX-003, which formed the basis of the NDA for our KXL system and its associated drug formulations. During review of the NDA, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, or CDRH, requested us to conduct a bench-top bridging test to demonstrate UVA equivalence between the KXL system that we were seeking marketing approval for and the UV-X device that was used in the clinical trials. Prior to conducting the test, CDRH reviewed and agreed to the test protocol and acceptance criteria. Based on the equivalence test results, which showed that all tests results were observed to be within the acceptance criteria, CDRH deemed that we had demonstrated the comparability equivalence of the two devices.

Overview

We have invested, and continue to invest, in building strong internal research and development capabilities in drug discovery, biomedical optics, machine vision and computational modeling, which we believe will allow us to continue to innovate and maintain our competitive position. As of September 30, 2018, our research and development department consisted of 23 individuals, with a combined scientific track record comprising over 200 publications, 6,500 forward citations and 70 patents.

Our research and development function is divided into four teams: drug development, systems development, software development and advanced algorithms, all of which report to our Vice President of Research and Development. Maintaining a strong cadence of new applications for corneal cross-linking is an integral part of our strategy. The major focus of our research and development team is to leverage our drug and device platform for new applications. This includes technology research and development efforts directed towards next-generation UVA delivery devices, next-generation cross-linking drugs and related accessories, and the development of device software to support our products.

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, we incurred research and development expenses of $10.1 million and $10.3 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, we incurred research and development expenses of $7.5 million and $8.8 million, respectively.

Sales and Marketing

In the United States, we sell our products through a direct sales organization that, as of September 30, 2018, consisted of 12 sales professionals, including a regional sales director, local sales managers, field reimbursement specialists and third party payor directors.

Our sales organization is primarily responsible for training ophthalmologists about the ease-of-use, convenience and cost-effectiveness of our platform and helping these physicians integrate the technology into their practices. Our platform is easy to use and requires a minimal learning curve. Our KXL and Mosaic systems have easy-to-use interfaces that guide physicians through the treatment and have built-in self-calibration. Ophthalmologists are familiar with the techniques used in our corneal cross-linking procedure, such as epithelium removal, application of eye drops and the use of eye-tracking devices. We believe the ease of use, reliability of our devices and broad potential uses of our Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform are key factors in increasing ophthalmologist adoption and enabling our platform to become an integral part of ophthalmology practices.

 

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Our reimbursement team consists of staff that work directly with provider practices to help them understand the reimbursement process, as well as staff that calls directly on private payors in order to advocate for coverage and establish payment for our products.

Over the next few years, we plan to expand the size and reach of our direct U.S. sales organization as demand for our cross-linking procedure increases and the reimbursement environment continues to develop. We continue to recruit experienced sales professionals with extensive sales and/or clinical experience in ophthalmic medical technologies. We invest significant time and expense to provide comprehensive training to our sales professionals so that they are proficient in all aspects of our products, including features and benefits, procedure techniques. In addition, we provide technical education regarding the cornea and diagnosis of keratoconus.

Outside the United States, we sell our products through a broad network of distribution partners located in markets where we see potential for cross-linking usage. We have sold our products into more than 80 countries. We will monitor our international sales progress and may consider conversion to a direct sales approach on a country-by-country basis, depending on our assessment of market conditions, net sales and profitability trends, reimbursement coding and coverage potential, and other factors. As of September 30, 2018, we had agreements with approximately 42 distributor organizations. Our top two distributors accounted for 16.9% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Our global sales efforts and promotional activities are currently aimed at ophthalmologists and other eye care professionals. Our primary customers include ophthalmologists, hospitals and ASCs. We provide physicians with a training program prior to performing cross-linking consisting of in-servicing in the physician office.

We work nationally and in our local markets to educate diagnosing providers (primarily optometrists) about keratoconus and the signs and symptoms of the disease. These efforts are intended to facilitate proper diagnosis and treatment of patients.

We support the growth of our keratoconus market through targeted direct-to-consumer marketing initiatives. These efforts consist of targeted approaches online and on social media where we work to educate newly diagnosed keratoconus patients, and provide information regarding treatment centers near them as well as providing insurance and other clinical information.

We support our revenue growth with marketing programs and initiatives designed to build awareness and appreciation for our platform and corneal cross-linking generally. These include participating in eye care industry conferences, as well as advertisements and editorial coverage in professional publications.

Private Payor Coverage and Reimbursement

U.S. Reimbursement

There are three key components for reimbursement in the United States: (1) coding, (2) coverage and (3) payment. Coding refers to distinct numeric and alphanumeric billing codes that are used by healthcare providers to report the provision of medical procedures and the use of supplies for specific patients to payors. Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System, or HCPCS, code set are broken into different categories of codes: (1) HCPCS Level I, which includes CPT codes, and are managed by the American Medical Association, or AMA, (Category I, II and III) and (2) HCPCS Level II, which includes items and services such as ambulance, drugs and durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies.

The corneal cross-linking procedure for the treatment of keratoconus was granted a Category III CPT code from the AMA in 2016. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, or CMS, created a HCPCS Level II product-specific J code for our Photrexa formulations. The HCPCS code became effective on January 1, 2019.

 

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Coverage refers to decisions made by individual private payors as to whether or not to provide their members access to and pay for a specific procedure and related supplies, and if so, under what conditions (i.e., for which specific diagnoses and clinical indications). Payors typically base coverage decisions on reviews of clinical evidence presented in published peer-reviewed medical literature. Currently, we have coverage from 63 private payors, covering a total of up to 170 million covered lives.

Payment refers to the amount paid to providers for specific procedures and supplies. Separate payment may be established for the cross-linking procedure and for Photrexa formulations. We offer a number of resources, including the Avedro Reimbursement Customer Hub, or ARCH, program, and a customer-focused field team educating providers on working with their private payors to receive appropriate reimbursement. The ARCH program educates on and assists with coverage and reimbursement questions related to the cross-linking procedure involving the KXL system and Photrexa formulations, provides no-charge drug to uninsured or government-insured patients who meet financial eligibility criteria and, for a limited time, offers healthcare providers a discount on future purchases of Photrexa formulations in certain qualifying circumstances. We have not signed a Medicaid Drug Rebate Agreement for our Photrexa formulations, and therefore, payment for the Photrexa formulations is not available under Medicare and may not be available under some or all state Medicaid plans.

Codes to Specifically Identify the Collagen Cross-Linking Procedure

In 2016, the AMA established a Category III CPT code for corneal cross-linking. Category III codes may expire five years after the date they become effective. Prior to expiration, a company can submit an application to convert the Category III code to a Category I code or submit an application for a five-year extension of Category III status.

In November 2018, we also received a product-specific J code from CMS for our Photrexa formulations, and the code became effective on January 1, 2019. In the meantime, the Category III CPT code may be used for the cross-linking procedure and a miscellaneous J code may be used for our Photrexa formulations.

Coverage of Corneal Cross-Linking by Private Payors

As most keratoconic patients are under the age of 40, reimbursement through Medicare is not a priority. We have not signed a Medicaid Drug Rebate Agreement for our Photrexa formulations, and therefore, payment for the Photrexa formulations is not available under Medicare, and may not be available under some or all state Medicaid plans. As a result, we estimate our target addressable market to exclude most Medicare beneficiaries and we have focused our efforts on establishing coverage and reimbursement with private payors. In the United States, there are hundreds of private payors participating in the commercial insurance market. However, only a handful of private payors, such as Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shields and Cigna, cover the majority of our private payor patient population.

Shortly after we received FDA approval for our KXL system and associated Photrexa formulations for the treatment of progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery and launched U.S. commercialization of our KXL system, physician practices and patients began submitting claims to their insurance companies. Based on review of the clinical evidence and a comparison to the alternative solutions for corneal ectatic disorders, private payors began establishing coverage policies. From January 2017 to December 2018, the number of private payors covering corneal cross-linking treatments increased from three to 63, and covered lives increased from 23 million to up to 170 million, which includes 27 million lives covered by United Healthcare, which in May 2018 changed its negative coverage policy to neutral. We believe the uptake trend of private payor coverage has been very encouraging. To drive physician adoption in the United States, we plan to continue our active discussions with private payors to establish positive national and regional coverage policies and facilitate patient and physician processing of claims.

 

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Payment Policies for Corneal Cross-Linking Procedure

Payment for corneal cross-linking procedure as a treatment for corneal ectatic disorders is comprised of payment for the physician service and typically a separate drug payment for the Photrexa formulations. In general, each private payor establishes its own reimbursement policies and rates for procedures in physicians’ offices and facilities, although private payors often reference Medicare’s methodology and payment rate for those procedures. However, final reimbursement may be informed by alternate data or provider contracts. For example, private payors may base their payments to physicians on rates determined under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, or MPFS.

Private payors use a variety of reimbursement methodologies and guidelines to reimburse for physician services. Possible methods include, among others, payment based on established fee schedules, including the MPFS, or payment based on a charge-related basis. Payments for CPT codes under the MPFS are based on the review of the Relative Value Update Committee and valuation by CMS. Medicare does not establish payment rates for Category III CPT codes on the MPFS. As a result, individual Medicare contractors establish their own payment rates for services described by Category III CPT codes.

Corneal cross-linking is largely performed in physicians’ offices, and our target patient population is concentrated in the private payor segment. In this situation, adequate and favorable reimbursement for the procedure is often a result of successful negotiation with private payors.

Since our U.S. commercial launch in September 2016, we have seen tremendous improvements in private payor coverage for the corneal cross-linking procedure. However, we believe payment policies have been inconsistent and inadequate in some cases, due to lack of formal coverage assessment by private payors, confusion around the miscellaneous J code and an inexperienced physician community trying to navigate the complications and complexity that is inherent in third-party payment systems. Our physician customers must typically bill the costs and fees for our corneal cross-linking procedure directly to the patient or payor, as appropriate, for patients enrolled in commercial insurance plans. Because there is often varied reimbursement for supplies and drugs of new surgical procedures, the additional cost or negotiations necessary to achieve appropriate reimbursement to use our products may affect the profit margin of the practice where the corneal cross-linking procedure is performed.

With the anticipated implementation of the product-specific J code in January 2019, we expect to see payment policy variability stabilize in the near term, and eventually become a pass-through cost for physician practices. We believe pursuing favorable payment policies with private payors will substantially expand patient access.

Self-Payment of Vision Correction Procedures

In contrast, vision correction procedures are generally not covered by insurance and are paid for out-of-pocket by the patient. If we receive FDA approval for the Mosaic system and its associated drug formulations to perform vision correction procedures for the treatment of presbyopia, we would expect providers to establish a price per procedure that is self-paid and competitive with current self-paid vision correction procedures, such as LASIK.

Adoption, Coverage and Cost-Effectiveness Research of Cross-Linking Outside the United States

Corneal cross-linking has a long and well-established history outside the United States. In the European Union, corneal cross-linking has been available in every country for more than a decade, and it has been available in Canada since 2008. In 2013, the United Kingdom National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, or NICE, issued guidance stating that evidence on the safety and efficacy of the Epi-Off corneal cross-linking procedure for the treatment of keratoconus and keratectasia is adequate in quality and quantity. In 2015, the

 

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Global Delphi Panel of Keratoconus and Ectatic Diseases, an international expert panel of ophthalmologists and clinical researchers, endorsed corneal cross-linking for the treatment of progressive keratoconus, and recommended using corneal cross-linking to prevent disease progression in keratoconic patients as soon as keratoconus is definitively diagnosed. In May 2018, corneal cross-linking was added to the Australia Medicare Benefits Scheme. Corneal cross-linking is also covered in the United Kingdom and France.

There have also been several studies conducted outside the United States supporting private payor adoption of policies to cover corneal cross-linking treatments. In 2017, a study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology evaluated the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking for the treatment of progressive keratoconus from the payor’s perspective in the Netherlands, and showed that the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio, or ICER, associated with corneal cross-linking for progressive keratoconus was €10,149 per quality-adjusted life-year, or QALY, or $11,163 per QALY when adjusted for the effect of cross-linking over ten years.

A study by the UK National Health Service also showed that corneal cross-linking is cost effective for progressive keratoconus, as compared to standard management, at an incremental cost of £3,174 per QALY over 25 years. This incremental cost compares favorably against the NICE willingness to pay, or WTP, range of £20,000 to £30,000 per QALY gained.

Most recently, a Canadian cost-effectiveness analysis estimated that the lifetime costs and QALYs for corneal cross-linking were C$5,530 and 50.12 QALYs. The discounted ICER comparing corneal cross-linking to conventional management with PK was C$9,090 per QALY gained, which falls well below the range of C$20,000 to C$100,000 per QALY and below $50,000 per QALY, which are the thresholds generally used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of health interventions in Canada and the United States.

Competition

The medical device industry in general, and the ophthalmic medical technology market in particular, are highly competitive and subject to rapid change and significantly affected by new product introductions and market activities of other participants. While we believe that our proprietary Avedro Corneal Remodeling Platform, development and commercialization experience, scientific knowledge and industry relationships with eye care professionals and healthcare providers provide us with competitive advantages to establish our position as a leading global corneal remodeling company, our currently marketed products are, and any future products we commercialize will be, subject to intense competition.

Certain of our current and potential competitors may have significantly greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than we do and may be able to devote greater resources to the development, regulatory approval, promotion, sale and support of their products. Our competitors may also have more extensive customer bases and broader customer relationships than we do, including relationships with our potential customers. In addition, many of these companies have longer operating histories and greater brand recognition than we do. Because of the size of the keratoconus and vision correction markets and the high growth profile of such markets, we anticipate that companies will dedicate significant resources to developing competing products. We believe that the principal competitive factors in these markets will include:

 

   

improved outcomes for patients and other product quality issues;

 

   

product innovation;

 

   

acceptance by ophthalmic surgeons;

 

   

ease of use and reliability;

 

   

regulatory status and speed to market;

 

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product price and procedure price; and

 

   

reputation for technical leadership.

We cannot assure you that we will be able to compete effectively against our competitors in regard to any one or all of these factors.

Corneal Ectatic Disorders Market

In the United States, our KXL system is the first and only FDA-approved corneal cross-linking treatment to slow or arrest disease progression. However, we are aware that some providers who are not currently our customers are promoting corneal cross-linking for the treatment of keratoconus and we believe these providers are primarily using products from CXLUSA or PeschkeTrade GmBH, a Swiss corporation. We are not currently aware of any companies that are conducting ongoing clinical trials for FDA approval for the treatment of corneal ectatic disorders using a corneal cross-linking procedure. iVeena Delivery Systems is currently in preclinical development for a twice-daily eye drop for the treatment of keratoconus.

Outside the United States, our primary competitors in the corneal ectatic disorder market offer for sale devices and drug product for corneal cross-linking procedures, including PeschkeTrade, EMAGine, IROS, LIGHTMED Corporation, NVILaser, SERVImed, SOOFT italia S.p.A. and Appasamy Associates. Several of these companies offer lower-cost solutions for corneal cross-linking. None of these companies currently offer a device that uses digital UVA beam-forming technology in conjunction with real-time eye tracking, which our Mosaic system uses to induce cross-linking in a targeted zone.

Vision Correction Market

Our initial clinical focus in the vision correction market is on the treatment of patients with presbyopia. Our primary competitors in this market are mainly competitors that are developing corneal inlay surgical solutions for presbyopia, such as Presbia, LLC, which is in the process of obtaining FDA approval for a proprietary optical lens implant for treating presbyopia, Allotex Inc., which is developing shaped human corneal grafts for inlay, and Gebauer Medizintechnik GmbH, which offers an inlay procedure outside of the United States using human donor tissue. Other primary competitors in this market are developing pharmaceutical therapies for presbyopia, including Novartis, which is developing a drug to permanently soften the lens.

We believe there is a significant clinical unmet need for patients suffering from presbyopia who are seeking an alternative to invasive surgical procedures and prefer not to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses. Although we currently do not have any FDA-approved products to treat presbyopia, we believe that our Mosaic system, which is currently approved in non-U.S. jurisdictions, may address the critical challenges of currently available vision correction procedures, as corneal remodeling does not involve cutting or ablating the cornea. For example, the non-invasive nature of PiXL, which is currently an approved procedure outside the United States performed using our device, offers an alternative to conventional refractive surgery for patients that are not optimal candidates for LASIK or PRK due to abnormalities in corneal shape, corneal weakness, thin corneas, other risk factors for surgical complications or a reluctance to undergo surgery. Other competitors developing non-surgical treatment options for presbyopia include Allergan plc, Presbyopia Therapies, LLC, Clerio Vision, Inc. and TECLens, LLC. We expect that any such treatment options that are successfully developed could eventually be available both within and outside the United States.

If we obtain FDA approval for additional applications of our platform for vision correction, such as to treat presbyopia, we believe the main driver in this highly competitive market will be leveraging our call points in order to cross-sell these additional applications of our devices, since the vision correction market shares the same target customer as the corneal ectatic disorder market.

 

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Intellectual Property

Our success depends significantly on our ability to obtain and maintain patent and other intellectual property protection for commercially important technology, proprietary processes, inventions and know-how related to our business, defend and enforce our patents, protect trademarks that are integral to our international marketing and branding strategies, preserve the confidentiality of our trade secrets and operate without infringing the valid and enforceable patents and other proprietary rights of third parties. For more information, please see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Intellectual Property.”

Patents

As of December 14, 2018, our patent portfolio included 25 active patent families. Our patent portfolio consisted of 42 issued utility patents globally, of which 15 were issued as U.S. patents and 21 were under exclusive license from third parties. The issued patents are scheduled to expire between 2027 and 2036. We own 19 utility patents and exclusively in-license 20 utility patents covering product candidates in the United States, Japan, German, France, Great Britain, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. These patents expire between 2027 and 2036. Additionally, we own four utility patents and exclusively in-license one utility patent covering procedures in the United States, with expiration dates between 2029 and 2036. We own two utility patents covering drug formulations in Italy, with expiration dates in 2027 and 2030. We are pursuing patent protection under 44 pending non-provisional national patent applications in various jurisdictions, of which 14 were pending U.S. patents and three were pending PCT applications still due for national phase filings. Over the next 12 months, we plan to file at least five new non-provisional applications based on pending provisional patent applications.

Our current patent portfolio is directed to technologies we have developed in fields relating to corneal cross-linking treatments including, but not limited to, photoactivation of cross-linking drugs, drug formulations, drug delivery, eye-tracking, treatment monitoring and biomechanical measurement. We regularly review the assets in our patent portfolio and evaluate where the portfolio fits in the intellectual property landscape in those countries where we intend to make, have made, use, offer for sale, or sell devices. We believe our patent portfolio is aligned with our current and future commercial goals. We continue to seek patent protection in the United States and other countries for proprietary technologies that are important to our business. Our patent strategy is guided by a strong understanding of the industry in which we do business and the companies against whom we compete. We consistently mine the results of our research and development activities to identify patentable aspects of our devices and any other inventions that are important to maintaining an advantage over our competitors. For example, we can identify opportunities to gain a competitive advantage by strategically blocking others from practicing key technologies.

Patent Applications

The process for obtaining patent protection for an invention starts with drafting and filing a patent application with one or more patent offices in respective jurisdictions. According to the patent laws enacted by the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act in the United States and the patent laws that have been in effect in most foreign jurisdictions in which we seek patent protection, the applicant who is the first to file an application gains priority over other applicants, even if the other applicants were actually earlier to invent. As such, there is a greater need to draft and file applications expediently once we have decided that patent protection for a particular invention is important. We implement best practices for preparing patent applications to enable a quick turnaround without sacrificing quality. We also work with intellectual property counsel to ensure that we properly file patent applications and take any other appropriate steps, such as requiring non-disclosure agreements before publicly disclosing any aspects of our important inventions.

To start the patent application drafting process, our inventors typically prepare documentation detailing the invention and then coordinate with an IP Committee to review and approve the invention for possible patent protection. The IP Committee includes at least our Vice President of Research & Development, Chief Medical

 

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Officer, Vice President of Marketing, our General Counsel and our intellectual property counsel. Working with our intellectual property counsel, we draft a patent application based on the documentation from the inventors. The patent application provides a detailed description of the primary embodiments of the invention contemplated by the inventors as well as alternative embodiments. In addition to claims directed to the primary embodiments, the patent application typically includes claims directed to aspects of alternative embodiments, so that competitors find it more difficult to work around the patent. In addition, claims directed to aspects of alternative embodiments might block competitors from actually practicing their preferred technology even if we do not intend to practice the alternative embodiments ourselves. Furthermore, the claims of a patent application can be later modified to incorporate aspects of alternative embodiments to reflect subsequent changes or developments in commercially relevant technologies in the industry.

In some cases, we may prepare and file a non-provisional patent application directly after we have identified a patentable invention. We have, however, incorporated the filing of U.S. provisional patent applications into our patent filing strategy, especially as a way to establish the earliest possible filing dates for first-to-file patent systems. A provisional patent application preserves the filing date for one year, by which time the applicant must file a non-provisional patent application directed to the same subject matter in order to maintain the priority of the provisional patent application filing date. A provisional patent application must meet fewer formal requirements than a non-provisional patent application and thus may allow a patent application to be filed more quickly. A provisional patent application also gives the applicant time to continue business activities to determine whether an invention is commercially feasible and/or sufficiently important to pursue patent protection under a non-provisional patent application. Our provisional patent applications provide a sufficiently detailed description of the primary and alternative embodiments to ensure that our invention is entitled to the priority date associated with the provisional patent application.

Within the year after an initial provisional patent application is filed, there may be further developments to technology relating to the invention disclosed in the initial provisional patent application. In such cases, we may file one or more additional provisional patent applications to describe such developments. The additional provisional patent applications can then be consolidated with the initial provisional patent application into a single non-provisional patent application. The single non-provisional patent application must be filed before the initial provisional application expires one year after its filing. A non-provisional patent application based on more than one provisional patent application generally describes many different embodiments, giving us the ability to develop claims that are directed to different patentable features.

When we eventually file non-provisional applications, we work with our intellectual property counsel to draft a set of claims that covers the invention and provides the broadest patent protection possible. The claim drafting process includes an analysis of the prior art to enhance the chances of allowance of the claims over prior art that may be cited during examination of the patent application. Although we may consider ordering a formal prior art search by a professional firm, we typically conduct our prior art searches in-house. Because our research and development activities are highly specialized and require an up-to-date understanding of the state of the art, we are usually better suited to identify the most relevant prior art. Our understanding of the state of the art is, among other things, based on reviewing current research disclosed in scientific/technical publications and conferences as well as reviewing the patent references therein.

The claims in an application may include apparatus or system claims to protect structural aspects of our inventions. Additionally or alternatively, the claims may include method claims to protect the manner in which our inventions are operated, e.g., for medical procedures, and/or produced. To determine the most appropriate types of claims to file, we consider how the claims may be enforced. For example, when enforcing a patent against an infringing manufacturer, apparatus or system claims protecting structural aspects of one of our inventions may be more appropriate than method claims that cover medical procedures that use the invention, since such method claims for medical procedures in general are directly infringed by users of the invention (e.g., medical practitioners) rather than manufacturers. In addition, we consider whether the claims constitute patent eligible subject matter in the given jurisdiction. For example, many foreign jurisdictions prohibit method claims that recite steps for performing a medical procedure on a human subject.

 

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Once the claims are completed, we draft the rest of the application and typically file a U.S. application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, and an international Patent Cooperation Treaty, or PCT, application with the World International Patent Organization. A PCT application can be used as the basis for subsequent national phase filings in any of the member countries who have signed onto the PCT agreement. The member countries include most industrialized countries. Thus, the PCT application gives us the option of filing for patent protection in foreign jurisdictions that are of interest to us. We have selectively filed foreign applications in the European Patent Office, or EPO, Japan, China and South Korea. When granted, applications with the EPO allow us to obtain corresponding patent protection in individual EU member states. Rather than filing in as many foreign countries as possible to protect an invention, we identify the jurisdictions where patent protection will be more commercially effective, such as jurisdictions where we intend to make, have made, use, offer for sale or sell devices. In addition, we also consider whether a given jurisdiction would deem an invention to be patent eligible subject matter.

Our non-provisional patent applications generally describe many different embodiments, and the claims can be directed to different patentable features. As such, a single non-provisional patent application (parent) can provide the basis for a large family of related non-provisional patent applications (children). In some cases, a patent examiner may require us to restrict examination in a parent patent application to an elected subset of claims directed to a single identifiable invention, in which case we may file divisional patent applications directed to unelected claims. In other cases, we may file continuation patent applications with claims directed to previously unclaimed features that have since become more commercially relevant. In yet other cases, we may file a continuation-in-part, or CIP, application in the United States to claim new subject matter related to the initial invention. Such new subject matter, for example, may be directed to improvements to the initial invention, which by themselves may be less appropriate for a separate patent family. Before filing CIP applications, we weigh the benefits of claiming priority to the parent patent applications against the loss of patent term, as the term of a child patent application depends on the term of the parent patent application.

Monitoring Third-Party Activity

Our knowledge of the industry allows us to identify and closely monitor third parties whose activities may impact our business. These third parties may be competing companies who are practicing technologies protected by our patents. Where necessary, we will defend and enforce our patents against such companies.

In addition, to understand the IP landscape, we consistently conduct searches for relevant patents and patent applications filed by third parties. We regularly search both U.S. and foreign patent databases using the names of competing companies, research institutions, inventors, and researchers who are known to be involved in the industry and/or relevant scientific/technological fields. We also search the patent databases according to relevant search classifications and concepts (keywords). We typically conduct these searches in-house with the assistance of our intellectual property counsel using the in-depth knowledge we have on the state of the industry and art.

If we identify a potentially relevant patent during our searches, we conduct a freedom-to-operate analysis to ensure that we can operate without infringing the patent. For a potentially relevant patent application, we regularly monitor the progress of the application during the examination to ensure that any granted claims will not interfere with our freedom to operate. Where possible, we may intervene in the examination and/or grant of the patent application, such as via third-party submission, reexamination or opposition.

Furthermore, our searches may identify opportunities for us to obtain patent protection by acquiring or licensing potentially relevant patents and/or patent applications from third parties.

Trademarks and Trade Names

Our marketing department works closely with our intellectual property counsel and brings them in early and often to select protectable marks based on, for example, the availability, marketing appeal, strength,

 

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acceptability for registration, and acceptability for regulatory approval of the marks. For important marks, we develop a registration strategy that is informed by the commercial activities and opportunities for the branded products associated with such marks. Generally, we file for registration in our most important markets first and then seek registration in additional countries as those markets become commercially relevant, taking advantage of priority claims when possible. Our trademark portfolio is strengthened by our use of appropriate trademark symbols in connection with the marks and by monitoring the marketplace to ensure that our marks are not impermissibly used by others.

As of November 5, 2018, our trademark portfolio included 56 trademark registrations, of which ten were registered U.S. trademarks, and 19 pending trademark applications covering various products and services in the United States, the European Union, Canada, China, Japan and South Korea, of which five were pending U.S. trademarks. The trademarks for which we have received or applied for registration are: Avedro, KXL, KXL II, PiXL, Lasik Xtra, Vibex, Vibex Xtra, Vibex Rapid, Photrexa, ParaCel, See Strong, The World Leader In Corneal Cross-Linking Science, The World Leader in Corneal Remodeling, CuRV, Boost Goggles, Mosaic, ZXL, AK Xtra and KeraFlex.

Trade Secrets

Some inventions cannot be reverse engineered or would be difficult to reverse engineer from the products that we sell. Additionally, some inventions are directed to subject matter that does not constitute patent eligible subject matter, such as algorithms, computer programs per se and collections of data. In such cases, we consider protecting our technologies as trade secrets rather than protecting them by filing patent applications. To protect these inventions as trade secrets, we institute protections to keep the inventions secret. For example, we require our employees and consultants to execute confidentiality agreements in connection with their employment or consulting relationships with us.

We also require our employees and consultants who work on our technologies to agree to disclose and assign to us all inventions conceived during the term of their employment, while using our property or for inventions which relate to our business. Despite measures taken to protect our intellectual property, these agreements may be breached and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach. In addition, unauthorized parties may attempt to copy aspects of our technologies or to obtain and use information that we regard as proprietary. To the extent that our commercial partners, collaborators, employees and consultants use intellectual property owned by others in their work for us, disputes may arise as to the rights of related or resulting know-how and inventions. In addition, our competitors may independently develop similar technologies.

Infringement

The medical device and pharmaceutical industries are characterized by the existence of a large number of patents and frequent litigation based on allegations of patent and other intellectual property infringement. As the number of entrants into our market increases, the risk of an infringement claim being brought against us grows. While we attempt to ensure that our technologies and methods do not infringe third parties’ patents and proprietary rights, our competitors may assert that our products or systems, and the methods we employ, are covered by patents held by them. In addition, our competitors may assert that future products and methods we may employ infringe their patents. If third parties claim that we infringe upon their intellectual property rights, we may incur liabilities and costs and may have to redesign or discontinue selling the affected product.

In the future, we may also need to engage in litigation to enforce our issued patents, to protect our trade secrets or know-how, to defend against claims of infringement of the rights of others or to determine the scope and validity of the proprietary rights of others. Litigation could be costly and could divert our attention from other functions and responsibilities. Adverse determinations in litigation could subject us to significant liabilities to third parties, could require us to seek licenses from third parties and could prevent us from manufacturing, selling or using our products, any of which could severely harm our business.

 

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Intellectual Property Agreements

CalTech

In February 2015, we entered into a license agreement with the California Institute of Technology, or CalTech, which was amended and restated, or the Amended CalTech Agreement, in its entirety in July 2017. The Amended CalTech Agreement is an exclusive, royalty-bearing license in the United States to certain patent rights granting us the right to make, have made, import, use, sell and offer for sale any product, device, system, article of manufacture, machine, composition of matter or process or service in the field of corneal cross-linking through the use of UVA light. However, the license grant specifically excludes the use of visible light and cross-linking in any non-corneal tissue such as the sclera. Under the Amended CalTech Agreement, we agreed to pay CalTech a high single digit royalty on net revenue derived from the sale or distribution of cross-linking agents for performing cross-linking procedures in the United States that are substantially concurrent with corneal surgically invasive corrective procedures, including, but not limited to, LASIK or PK, the royalty products, but excluding procedures for the treatment of keratoconus. The agreement includes certain other payments including (1) an initial payment in the low five digits, (2) a low single digit dollar royalty per treatment on the sale of cross-linking agents for treatment of keratoconus, as well as a minimum annual royalty in the low five digits for such procedures, (3) a percentage in the mid-double digits of certain non-royalty sublicensing revenue and (4) development and regulatory milestone payments in the low to mid six digits in the aggregate. Royalties are payable on a product-by-product basis until December 5, 2029.

Unless earlier terminated, the Amended CalTech Agreement expires on the later of the expiration, revocation, invalidation or unenforceability of the licensed patents and the date that royalties are no longer payable. Either party may terminate the Amended CalTech Agreement upon an uncured material breach of the other party. Additionally, CalTech may terminate the Amended CalTech Agreement upon an uncured payment default by us or our bankruptcy or insolvency.

IROC

In August 2014, we entered into an asset purchase and license agreement with IROC Innocross AG, or IROC, which we refer to as the IROC Asset Purchase Agreement, to acquire certain assets, including a list of customers and certain agreements, as well as a fully paid-up, royalty-free, perpetual, worldwide, nonexclusive license to certain patents, granting us the right to import, manufacture, develop, use, advertise, merchandise, promote, publicize, sell and distribute devices and drugs used in corneal cross-linking. The total purchase price was CHF2.5 million, to be paid in specified delineated installments.

In April 2015, we entered into a patent license and purchase agreement with IROC, or the IROC IP Agreement, to expand the scope of the IROC Asset Purchase Agreement. The IROC IP Agreement granted us a worldwide, exclusive license to certain additional patents to research, develop, make, have made, use, import, offer for sale, sell and otherwise commercialize additional corneal cross-linking technologies. Additionally, under the IROC IP Agreement, upon the payment of the last remaining payment required under the agreement, which include (1) the $50,000 upfront payment and (2) milestone payments of up to $1.7 million in the aggregate, the additional patents will be transferred to us.

Government Regulation

Government authorities in the United States, at the federal, state and local level, and in other countries and jurisdictions, including the European Union, extensively regulate, among other things, the research, development, testing, manufacture, quality control, approval, packaging, storage, recordkeeping, labeling, advertising, promotion, distribution, marketing, post-approval monitoring and reporting and import and export of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. The processes for obtaining marketing approvals for drugs and devices in the United States and in foreign countries and jurisdictions, along with subsequent compliance with

 

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applicable statutes and regulations and other competent authorities, require the expenditure of substantial time and financial resources.

Drug-Device Combination Products

A combination product is the combination of two or more regulated components, such as drug/device, that are combined or mixed and produced as a single entity, packaged together in a single package or as a unit or a drug or device packaged separately that according to its investigational plan or proposed labeling is intended for use only with an approved individually specified drug or device where both are required to achieve the intended use, indication or effect. A combination product is assigned to a center within the FDA that has primary jurisdiction over its regulation, which determines the product’s approval pathway.

To determine which FDA center or centers will review a combination product candidate submission, companies may submit a request for assignment to the FDA. Those requests may be handled formally or informally. In some cases, jurisdiction may be determined informally based on FDA experience with similar products. However, informal jurisdictional determinations are not binding on the FDA. Companies also may submit a formal Request for Designation to the FDA Office of Combination Products. The Office of Combination Products will review the request and make its jurisdictional determination within 60 days of receiving a Request for Designation.

The FDA will determine which center or centers within the FDA will review the product candidate and under what legal authority the product candidate will be reviewed. Depending on how the FDA views the product candidates that are developed, FDA may have aspects of the product candidate reviewed by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, or CDER, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, or CDRH, or the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, or CBER, though one center will be designated as the center with primary jurisdiction based on the product candidate’s primary mode of action. The FDA determines the primary mode of action based on the single mode of action that provides the most important therapeutic action of the combination product candidate – the mode of action expected to make the greatest contribution to the overall intended therapeutic effects of the combination product candidate. The review of such combination product candidates is often complex and time consuming, as the FDA may select the combination product candidate to be reviewed and regulated by one or multiple of the FDA centers identified above, which could affect the path to regulatory clearance or approval. Furthermore, the FDA may also require submission of separate applications to multiple centers.

The post-market requirements that apply to the cleared or approved product will largely be aligned with the agency center determined to have primary jurisdiction over the product candidate and that provided marketing authorization. However, additional post-marketing obligations may apply to specific constituents of the combination product.

After providing regulatory clearance or approval, the FDA has discretion in determining post-approval compliance requirements for combination products and could thus require compliance with certain current Good Manufacturing Practice, or cGMP, requirements as well as the FDA’s Quality System Requirements, or QSR, if the product includes a device constituent. Other post-market requirements in the same vein as those described above for medical devices and drugs will also apply, depending on the application type and center overseeing regulation of the combination product, including:

 

   

Other record-keeping requirements;

 

   

Post-market adverse event, periodic reporting, and Medical Device Reporting requirements;

 

   

Labeling regulations and FDA prohibitions against the promotion of products for uncleared, unapproved or off-label uses;

 

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Advertising and promotion requirements;

 

   

Restrictions on sale, distribution or use of the product;

 

   

Requirements for recalls being conducted and recall reporting;

 

   

An order of repair, replacement or refund;

 

   

Product tracking requirements; and

 

   

Post-market surveillance or clinical trials.

U.S. Review and Approval Processes for Drugs

The FDA regulates drug products under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, or FDCA, and its implementing regulations. Under the FDCA, new drugs other than biological products (biologics) that are marketed in the United States generally must be FDA-approved under a new drug application, or NDA. The applicable provisions of the FDCA and the implementing regulations set forth, among other things, requirements for preclinical and clinical testing, product development, manufacture, labeling, storage, distribution, record keeping, reporting, import, export, advertising and promotion of our products and product candidates. Failure to comply with applicable U.S. requirements may subject a company to a variety of administrative or judicial sanctions, such as FDA refusal to approve pending NDAs, warning or untitled letters, product recalls, product seizures, total or partial suspension of production or distribution, injunctions, fines, civil penalties and criminal prosecution.

The process for obtaining regulatory approval to market a drug or drug-device combination product is expensive, often takes many years, and can vary substantially based on the type, complexity, and novelty of the product candidates involved. An applicant seeking approval to market and distribute a new drug product, or a new drug-device combination product regulated by CDER, in the United States must typically undertake the following:

 

   

completion of extensive nonclinical laboratory tests, animal studies and formulation studies in compliance with the FDA’s good laboratory practice, or GLP, regulations;

 

   

submission to the FDA of an investigational new drug application, or IND, for human clinical testing which must take effect before human clinical trials may begin;

 

   

approval by an independent institutional review board, or IRB, representing each clinical site before each clinical trial may be initiated;

 

   

performance of adequate and well-controlled human clinical trials in accordance with current Good Clinical Practices, or cGCPs, to establish the safety and efficacy of the proposed drug product for each proposed indication;

 

   

preparation and submission to the FDA of an NDA requesting marketing for one or more proposed indications;

 

   

review by an FDA advisory committee, where appropriate or if applicable, as may be requested by the FDA to assist with its review;

 

   

satisfactory completion of one or more FDA inspections of the manufacturing facility or facilities at which active pharmaceutical ingredient, or API, finished drug product, and in the case of

 

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combination drug/device products, the device components, are produced to assess compliance with cGMP requirements and to assure that the facilities, methods and controls are adequate to preserve the product’s identity, strength, quality and purity;

 

   

satisfactory completion of FDA audits of clinical trial sites to assure compliance with cGCPs and the integrity of the clinical data;

 

   

payment of user fees, per published Prescription Drug User Fee Amendments, or PDUFA, guidelines for the relevant year, and securing FDA review and approval of the NDA; and

 

   

compliance with any post-approval requirements, including the potential requirement to implement a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, and the potential requirement to conduct post-approval studies.

Preclinical Studies

Before testing any investigational biopharmaceutical in human subjects in the United States, a company must generate extensive preclinical data. Preclinical testing typically includes laboratory evaluation of product composition and formulation, as well as toxicological and pharmacological studies in several animal species to assess the quality and safety of the product. In addition, concurrent with clinical trials, companies sometimes complete additional animal studies and develop additional information about the chemistry and physical characteristics of the drug. Animal studies must be performed in compliance with the FDA’s GLP regulations and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal Welfare Act.

IND Application

Human clinical trials conducted in the United States cannot commence until an IND application is submitted and becomes effective. A company must submit preclinical testing results to the FDA as part of the IND, and the FDA must evaluate whether there is an adequate basis for testing the drug in initial clinical trials in human volunteers. Unless the FDA raises concerns, the IND becomes effective 30 days following its receipt by the FDA. If, within such 30-day window, the FDA raises concerns or questions about planned clinical trials under the IND, such as whether human research subjects will be exposed to an unreasonable health risk, the IND sponsor and the FDA must resolve any outstanding FDA concerns or questions before clinical trials can proceed.

At any time the FDA may stop clinical trials by placing them on “clinical hold” because of concerns about the safety of the product being tested, or for other reasons. The FDA may order a partial clinical hold is a delay or suspension of only part of the clinical work requested under the IND. For example, a specific protocol or part of a protocol is not allowed to proceed, while other protocols may do so. No more than 30 days after imposition of a clinical hold or partial clinical hold, the FDA will provide the sponsor a written explanation of the basis for the hold. Following issuance of a clinical hold or partial clinical hold, an investigation may only resume after the FDA has notified the sponsor that the investigation may proceed. The FDA will base that determination on information provided by the sponsor correcting the deficiencies previously cited or otherwise satisfying the FDA that the investigation can proceed.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials involve the administration of the investigational product to human subjects under the supervision of qualified investigators in accordance with GCP requirements, which include, among other things, the requirement that all research subjects provide their informed consent in writing before their participation in any clinical trial. Clinical trials are conducted under written study protocols detailing, among other things, the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the objectives of the study, the parameters to be used in monitoring safety and the effectiveness criteria, if any, to be evaluated. Each protocol is submitted to the FDA as part of the IND. In

 

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addition, each clinical trial must be reviewed, approved and conducted under the auspices of an IRB at or servicing each institution at which the clinical trial will be conducted. FDA regulations impose certain obligations upon IRBs related to protecting the welfare and rights of trial participants. Additionally, some trials are overseen by an independent group of qualified experts organized by the trial sponsor, often referred to as an independent data monitoring committee, or data safety monitoring board or committee. Companies sponsoring the clinical trials, investigators and IRBs also must comply with regulations and guidelines for obtaining informed consent from the study subjects, complying with the protocol and investigational plan, adequately monitoring the clinical trial and timely reporting of adverse events.

A sponsor may choose, but is not required, to conduct a foreign clinical trial under an IND. When a foreign clinical trial is conducted under an IND, all FDA IND requirements must be met unless waived. When the foreign clinical trial is not conducted under an IND, the sponsor must ensure that the trial complies with certain regulatory requirements in order to use the trial as support for an IND or application for marketing approval. Such non-IND trials must be conducted in accordance with GCP, including review and approval by an independent ethics committee, or IEC, and informed consent from subjects, and must be accompanied by a sufficient description of actions taken to ensure compliance with GCP requirements in order to be accepted by the FDA. The GCP requirements encompass both ethical and data integrity standards for clinical trials. The FDA’s regulations are intended to help ensure the protection of human subjects enrolled in non-IND foreign clinical trials, as well as the quality and integrity of the resulting data. They further help ensure that non-IND foreign trials are conducted in a manner comparable to that required for IND trials.

Human clinical trials in the United States are typically conducted in three sequential phases, although the phases may overlap with one another:

 

   

Phase 1 clinical trials include the initial administration of the investigational drug to humans, typically to a small group of healthy human subjects, but occasionally to a group of patients with the targeted disease or disorder. Phase 1 clinical trials generally are intended to determine the metabolism and pharmacologic actions of the drug, the side effects associated with increasing doses, and, if possible, to gain early evidence of effectiveness. Sponsors sometimes designate their Phase 1 clinical trials as Phase 1a or Phase 1b. Phase 1b clinical trials are typically aimed at confirming dosing, pharmacokinetics and safety in larger number of patients. Some Phase 1b studies evaluate biomarkers or surrogate markers that may be associated with efficacy in patients with specific types of diseases.

 

   

Phase 2 clinical trials generally are controlled trials that involve a relatively small sample of the intended patient population, and are designed to develop data regarding the product’s effectiveness, to determine dose response and the optimal dose range, and to gather additional information relating to safety and potential adverse effects.

 

   

Phase 3 clinical trials are conducted after preliminary evidence of effectiveness has been obtained and are intended to gather additional information about safety and effectiveness necessary to evaluate the drug’s overall risk-benefit profile, and to provide an adequate basis for product labeling. Generally, Phase 3 clinical development programs consist of expanded trials of patients with the target disease or disorder to obtain statistical evidence of the efficacy and safety of the product at the proposed dosing regimen.

Post-approval clinical trials, sometimes referred to as Phase 4 clinical trials, may be conducted after initial marketing approval. These clinical trials are used to gain additional experience from the treatment of patients in the intended therapeutic indication, particularly for long-term safety follow-up.

Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials can sometimes be combined or collapsed into a single study protocol, such as when optimal dosing and other questions typically explored in Phase 2 clinical trials are already resolved and where the Phase 2 clinical trial is designed sufficiently to yield adequate and well-controlled clinical data on which the FDA can base an approval decision.

 

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During all phases of clinical development, regulatory agencies require extensive monitoring and auditing of all clinical activities, clinical data, and clinical trial investigators. Annual progress reports detailing the results of the clinical trials must be submitted to the FDA. The sponsor must submit an IND safety report within 15 calendar days after the sponsor determines that the information qualifies for reporting. The sponsor also must notify the FDA of any unexpected fatal or life-threatening suspected adverse reaction within seven calendar days after the sponsor’s initial receipt of the information.

A study sponsor is required to register post-Phase 1 clinical trials with the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, and to submit certain details for public posting on its clinicaltrials.gov database. Registration must occur not later than 21 days after the first patient is enrolled, and the submission must include descriptive information, recruitment information, location and contact information, and other relevant administrative data. Generally within one year of a trial’s completion, outcomes data and related information must be submitted to the NIH for online dissemination. An NDA, NDA supplement and certain other submissions to the FDA require certification of compliance with these clinical trials database requirements.

Under the Pediatric Research Equity Act, or PREA, NDAs must generally contain data to assess the safety and effectiveness of the drug for the claimed indications in all relevant pediatric subpopulations and to support dosing and administration for each pediatric subpopulation for which the product is safe and effective. The FDA may grant full or partial waivers from PREA requirements, however, including waivers for certain products that are not likely to be used in a substantial number of pediatric patients.

Unless otherwise required by regulation, PREA does not apply to any drug for an indication for which orphan drug designation has been granted.

The sponsoring company, the FDA or the IRB may suspend or terminate a clinical trial at any time on various grounds, including a finding that the subjects are being exposed to an unacceptable health risk. Further, success in early-stage clinical trials does not assure success in later-stage clinical trials. Data obtained from clinical activities are not always conclusive and may be subject to alternative interpretations that could delay, limit, or prevent regulatory approval.

Special Protocol Assessment

The Special Protocol Assessment, or SPA, process is designed to facilitate the FDA’s review and approval of drugs by allowing the FDA to evaluate the proposed design and size of certain clinical or animal trials, including clinical trials that are intended to form the primary basis for determining a drug’s efficacy. Upon specific request by a clinical trial sponsor, the FDA will evaluate the protocol and respond to a sponsor’s questions regarding protocol design and \\LA - 709334/008555 - 1926111 v2 scientific and regulatory requirements. FDA aims to complete SPA reviews within 45 days of receipt of the request.

The FDA ultimately assesses whether specific elements of the protocol design of the trial, such as entry criteria, dose selection, endpoints and/or planned analyses, are acceptable to support regulatory approval of the product candidate with respect to effectiveness of the indication studied. All agreements and disagreements between the FDA and the sponsor regarding an SPA must be clearly documented in an SPA letter or the minutes of a meeting between the sponsor and the FDA. Even if the FDA agrees to the design, execution and analyses proposed in protocols reviewed under the SPA process, the FDA may revoke or alter its agreement under the following circumstances:

 

   

public health concerns emerge that were unrecognized at the time of the protocol assessment, or the director of the review division determines that a substantial scientific issue essential to determining safety or efficacy has been identified after testing has begun;

 

   

a sponsor fails to follow a protocol that was agreed upon with the FDA; or

 

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the relevant data, assumptions or information provided by the sponsor in a request for SPA change are found to be false statements or misstatements, or are found to omit relevant facts.

A documented SPA may be modified, and such modification will be deemed binding on the FDA review division, except under the circumstances described above, if FDA and the sponsor agree in writing to modify the protocol.

Submission and Review of an NDA by the FDA

Assuming successful completion of required clinical testing and other requirements, the results of the preclinical studies and clinical trials, together with detailed information relating to the product’s chemistry, manufacture, controls and proposed labeling, among other things, are submitted to the FDA as part of an NDA requesting approval to market the drug product for one or more indications. Under the Prescription Drug User Fee Amendments of 2017, or PDUFA VI, the submission of most NDAs is additionally subject to a significant human drug application fee, which is collected at the time of submission. PDUFA VI eliminated user fees for supplements and establishments. In addition, the sponsor of an approved NDA is also subject to annual program fee. For federal fiscal year 2018, the submission of an NDA for which clinical data (other than bioavailability or bioequivalence studies) with respect to safety or effectiveness are required for approval is subject to an application user fee of $2,421,495. The annual program user fee for fiscal year 2018 is $304,162.

Certain exceptions and waivers are available for some of these fees, such as an exception from the application fee for drugs with orphan designation and a waiver for certain small businesses. Orphan designated drugs are also exempt from program fees if the drug meets certain public health and revenue criteria.

The FDA conducts a preliminary review of an NDA generally within 60 calendar days of its receipt and strives to inform the sponsor by the 74th day after the FDA’s receipt of the submission to determine whether the application is sufficiently complete before the agency accepts it for filing and conducts substantive review. The FDA may refuse to file any NDA that it deems incomplete or not properly reviewable at the time of submission and may request additional information rather than accept an NDA for filing. In this event, the application must be resubmitted with the additional information. The resubmitted application is also subject to review before the FDA accepts it for filing. Once the submission is accepted for filing, the FDA begins an in-depth substantive review. The FDA has agreed to specified performance goals in the review process of NDAs. Under that agreement, 90% of applications seeking approval of New Molecular Entities, or NMEs, are meant to be reviewed within ten months from the date on which the FDA accepts the NDA for filing, and 90% of applications for NMEs that have been designated for “priority review” are meant to be reviewed within six months of the filing date. For applications seeking approval of drugs that are not NMEs, the ten-month and six-month review periods run from the date the FDA receives the application. The review process and the PDUFA goal date may be extended by the FDA for three additional months to consider new information or clarification provided by the applicant to address an outstanding deficiency identified by the FDA following the original submission.

Before approving an NDA, the FDA typically will inspect the facility or facilities where the product is or will be manufactured. These pre-approval inspections may cover all facilities associated with an NDA submission, including drug component manufacturing, such as API, finished drug product manufacturing and control testing laboratories. The FDA will not approve an application unless it determines that the manufacturing processes and facilities are in compliance with cGMP requirements and adequate to assure consistent production of the product within required specifications. Additionally, before approving an NDA, the FDA will typically inspect one or more clinical sites to assure compliance with cGCP. To assure cGMP and GCP compliance, an applicant must incur significant expenditure of time, money and effort, including in the areas of training, record keeping, production and quality control.

In addition, as a condition of approval, the FDA may require an applicant to develop a REMS. REMS use risk minimization strategies beyond the professional labeling to ensure that the benefits of the product

 

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outweigh the potential risks. To determine whether a REMS is needed, the FDA will consider the size of the population likely to use the product, seriousness of the disease, expected benefit of the product, expected duration of treatment, seriousness of known or potential adverse events and whether the product is a new molecular entity. REMS can include medication guides, physician communication plans for healthcare professionals and elements to assure safe use, or ETASU. ETASU may include, but are not limited to, special training or certification for prescribing or dispensing, dispensing only under certain circumstances, special monitoring and the use of patient registries. The FDA may require a REMS before approval or post-approval if it becomes aware of a serious risk associated with use of the product. The requirement for a REMS can materially affect the potential market and profitability of a product.

The FDA is required to refer an application for a novel drug to an advisory committee or explain why such referral was not made. Typically, an advisory committee is a panel of independent experts, including clinicians and other scientific experts, that reviews, evaluates and provides a recommendation as to whether the application should be approved and under what conditions. The FDA is not bound by the recommendations of an advisory committee, but it considers such recommendations carefully when making decisions.

On the basis of the FDA’s evaluation of the NDA and accompanying information, including the results of the inspection of the manufacturing facilities, the FDA may issue an approval letter or a complete response letter. An approval letter authorizes commercial marketing of the product with specific prescribing information for specific indications. Notwithstanding the submission of relevant data and information, the FDA may ultimately decide that the NDA does not satisfy its regulatory criteria for approval and deny approval. If the agency decides not to approve the NDA in its present form, the FDA will issue a complete response letter. A complete response letter generally outlines the deficiencies in the submission and may require substantial additional testing or information in order for the FDA to reconsider the application. If and when those deficiencies have been addressed to the FDA’s satisfaction in a resubmission of the NDA, the FDA will issue an approval letter. The FDA has committed to reviewing such resubmissions in two or six months depending on the type of information included. Even with submission of this additional information, the FDA ultimately may decide that the application does not satisfy the regulatory criteria for approval.

If the FDA approves a product, it may limit the approved indications for use for the product, require that contraindications, warnings or precautions be included in the product labeling, require that post-approval studies, including Phase 4 clinical trials, be conducted to further assess the drug’s safety after approval, require testing and surveillance programs to monitor the product after commercialization or impose other conditions, including distribution restrictions or other risk management mechanisms, including REMS, which can materially affect the potential market and profitability of the product. The FDA may prevent or limit further marketing of a product based on the results of post-market studies or surveillance programs. After approval, many types of changes to the approved product, such as adding new indications, manufacturing changes and additional labeling claims, are subject to further testing requirements and FDA review and approval.

Expedited Programs for Serious Conditions: Fast Track, Breakthrough Therapy, Priority Review and Accelerated Approval

The FDA has certain programs to expedite the development and review of products designed to address an unmet need in the treatment of a serious or life-threatening disease or condition. These expedited programs are referred to as Fast Track designation, Breakthrough Therapy designation, priority review designation and accelerated approval. The 21st Century Cures Act, or the Cures Act, signed into law in December 2016, authorized $500 million in new funding over nine years to help the FDA accelerate review and approval of products and bring new innovations and advances to patients faster and more efficiently. The Cures Act enhances the FDA’s ability to modernize clinical trial designs and clinical outcome assessments to speed the development and review of novel medical products.

 

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Fast Track

The FDA may designate a product for Fast Track review if it is intended, whether alone or in combination with one or more other products, for the treatment of a serious or life-threatening disease or condition, and it demonstrates the potential to address unmet medical needs for such a disease or condition. For Fast Track products, sponsors may have greater interactions with the FDA and the FDA may initiate review of sections of a Fast Track product’s application before the application is complete. This rolling review may be available if the FDA determines, after preliminary evaluation of clinical data submitted by the sponsor, that a Fast Track product may be effective. The sponsor must also provide, and the FDA must approve, a schedule for the submission of the remaining information and the sponsor must pay applicable user fees. However, the FDA’s time period goal for reviewing a Fast Track application does not begin until the last section of the application is submitted. In addition, the Fast Track designation may be withdrawn by the FDA if the FDA believes that the designation is no longer supported by data emerging in the clinical trial process.

Breakthrough Therapy

A product may be designated as Breakthrough Therapy if it is intended, either alone or in combination with one or more other products, to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition and preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the product may demonstrate substantial improvement over existing therapies on one or more clinically significant endpoints, such as substantial treatment effects observed early in clinical development. The FDA may take certain actions with respect to Breakthrough Therapies, including holding meetings with the sponsor throughout the development process, providing timely advice to the product sponsor regarding development and approval, involving more senior staff in the review process, assigning a cross-disciplinary project lead for the review team and taking other steps to design the clinical trials in an efficient manner.

Priority Review

The FDA may designate a product for priority review if it is a product that treats a serious condition and, if approved, would provide a significant improvement in safety or effectiveness. The FDA determines, on a case-by-case basis, whether the proposed product represents a significant improvement when compared with other available therapies. Significant improvement may be illustrated by evidence of increased effectiveness in the treatment of a condition, elimination or substantial reduction of a treatment-limiting product reaction, documented enhancement of patient compliance that may lead to improvement in serious outcomes and evidence of safety and effectiveness in a new subpopulation. A priority designation is intended to direct overall attention and resources to the evaluation of such applications, and to shorten the FDA’s goal for taking action on a marketing application from ten months to six months.

Accelerated Approval Pathway

The FDA may grant accelerated approval to a drug for a serious or life-threatening condition that provides meaningful therapeutic advantage to patients over existing treatments based upon a determination that the drug has an effect on a surrogate endpoint that is reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit. The FDA may also grant accelerated approval for such a condition when the product has an effect on an intermediate clinical endpoint that can be measured earlier than an effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality, or IMM, and that is reasonably likely to predict an effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality or other clinical benefit, taking into account the severity, rarity or prevalence of the condition and the availability or lack of alternative treatments. Drugs granted accelerated approval must meet the same statutory standards for safety and effectiveness as those granted traditional approval.

Accelerated approval is usually contingent on a sponsor’s agreement to conduct, in a diligent manner, additional post-approval confirmatory studies to verify and describe the drug’s clinical benefit. As a result, a drug

 

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candidate approved on this basis is subject to rigorous post-marketing compliance requirements, including the completion of Phase 4 or post-approval clinical trials to confirm the effect on the clinical endpoint. Failure to conduct required post-approval studies, or confirm a clinical benefit during post-marketing studies, would allow the FDA to initiate expedited proceedings to withdraw approval of the drug. All promotional materials for drug candidates approved under accelerated regulations are subject to prior review by the FDA.

Orphan Drug Designation and Exclusivity

Under the Orphan Drug Act, the FDA may grant orphan drug designation to drugs and biological products intended to treat a “rare disease or condition,” which generally is a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States. Orphan drug designation must be requested before submitting a marketing application for the drug or biologic for the proposed rare disease or condition. After the FDA grants orphan drug designation, the common name of the therapeutic agent and its designated orphan use are publicly disclosed by the FDA.

Orphan drug designation does not, by itself, convey any advantage in, or shorten the duration of, the regulatory review and approval process. If an orphan-designated drug subsequently receives FDA approval for a use or indication that is within the rare disease or condition for which it has been designated, the approved product is entitled to a seven-year orphan exclusivity period, during which the FDA may not approve another sponsor’s application to market the same drug for the same indication. There is one exception to this general rule: if the FDA has previously approved the same drug for the same indication, orphan exclusivity will not be granted unless the sponsor of the subsequent drug can show that its product is clinically superior to the previously-approved drug by means of greater efficacy, greater safety or a major contribution to patient care.

Exceptions to the seven-year exclusivity period may apply in limited circumstances, such as where the sponsor of a different version of the product is able to demonstrate that its product is clinically superior to the approved orphan drug product or the manufacturer of the orphan designated product cannot assure sufficient quantities of product. In addition, orphan exclusivity does not prevent a competitor from obtaining approval to market a different drug to treat the same disease or condition, or the same drug to treat a different disease or condition. The FDA can revoke a product’s orphan drug exclusivity under certain circumstances, including when the holder of the approved orphan drug application is unable to assure the availability of sufficient quantities of the drug to meet patient needs. Orphan exclusivity operates independently from other regulatory exclusivities and other protections against biosimilar competition, including patents that we hold for our products.

A sponsor of a product application that has received an orphan drug designation is also granted tax incentives for clinical research undertaken to support the application. In addition, the FDA may coordinate with the sponsor on research study design for an orphan drug and may exercise its discretion to grant marketing approval on the basis of more limited product safety and efficacy data than would ordinarily be required, based on the limited size of the applicable patient population.

U.S. Patent Term Restoration and Marketing Exclusivity

Patent term extensions may also be granted arising from delays generated by pre-approval regulatory review processes. In the United States, the term of a patent that covers an FDA-approved drug may be eligible for a patent term extension pursuant to 35 USC 156 of up to five years under the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984, also referred to as the Hatch-Waxman Amendments. The length of the patent term extension is calculated by the USPTO based on the length of time the drug is under regulatory review. It should be noted that in contrast to extensions pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 154 for administrative delays at the USPTO, patent term extension under 35 U.S.C. 156 for regulatory delays at the FDA does not extend to the full scope of the patent claims, but only to the extent they cover the approved product and approved indication upon which the extension was based. In other words, the Hatch-Waxman Amendments do not extend all claims of the subject patent, and the practice of those claims by third parties after the original patent term expires, as extended

 

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pursuant to 35 USC 154, may not constitute infringement. A patent term extension under the Hatch-Waxman Amendments cannot extend the remaining term of a patent beyond a total of 14 years from the date of product approval. Only one patent encompassing an approved drug or method of treatment using that drug, may be extended. A patent can only be extended once under 35 U.S.C. 156 and thus, if a single patent is applicable to multiple products, it can only be extended one time for one approved product. Once a product is approved, it cannot serve as the basis for patent term extension of another patent at a later time, even if the product is approved for a different indication.

Similar provisions are available in Europe and certain other foreign jurisdictions to extend the term of a patent that covers an approved drug. Beyond the statute connecting patent term and FDA approval, the two are unrelated. Patent issuance does not affect FDA approval and FDA approval does not affect issuance of a patent.

Pediatric Exclusivity

Under the PREA, an NDA or supplement thereto must contain data that are adequate to assess the safety and effectiveness of the drug product for the claimed indications in all relevant pediatric subpopulations, and to support dosing and administration for each pediatric subpopulation for which the product is safe and effective. With enactment of the FDA Safety and Innovation Act of 2012, or FDASIA, sponsors must also submit pediatric study plans prior to the assessment data. Those plans must contain an outline of the proposed pediatric study or studies the applicant plans to conduct, including study objectives and design, any deferral or waiver requests and any other information required by regulation. The applicant, the FDA and the FDA’s internal review committee must then review the information submitted, consult with each other and agree upon a final plan. The FDA or the applicant may request an amendment to the plan at any time.

In addition, the FDA Reauthorization Act of 2017, or FDARA, requires the FDA to meet early in the development process to discuss pediatric study plans with drug sponsors. The legislation requires the FDA to meet with drug sponsors by no later than the end-of-phase 1 meeting for serious or life-threatening diseases and by no later than 90 days after the FDA’s receipt of the study plan.

The FDA may, on its own initiative or at the request of the applicant, grant deferrals for submission of some or all pediatric data until after approval of the product for use in adults, or full or partial waivers from the pediatric data requirements. Additional requirements and procedures relating to deferral requests and requests for extension of deferrals are contained in FDASIA. Unless and until the FDA promulgates a regulation stating otherwise, the pediatric data requirements do not apply to products with orphan designation, unless the orphan-designated product is intended for use in certain molecularly targeted cancer indications.

Pediatric exclusivity is another type of non-patent marketing exclusivity in the United States and, if granted, provides for the attachment of an additional six months of marketing protection to the term of any Orange Book listed patent and any existing regulatory exclusivity periods. This six-month exclusivity may be granted if an NDA sponsor submits pediatric data that fairly respond to a written request from the FDA for such data. The data do not need to show the product to be effective in the pediatric population studied. Rather, if the clinical trial is deemed to fairly respond to the FDA’s request, the additional protection is granted. If reports of requested pediatric studies are submitted to and accepted by the FDA within the statutory time limits, whatever statutory or regulatory periods of exclusivity or patent protection cover the product are extended by six months. Pediatric exclusivity does not extend the term of the patent, but it effectively extends the preclusive effect of the patent on FDA’s authority to approve a competitor’s abbreviated new drug applications, or ANDAs, or 505(b)(2) NDA application. With regard to patents, the six-month pediatric exclusivity period will not attach to any patents for which a generic (ANDA or 505(b)(2) NDA) applicant submitted a paragraph IV patent certification, unless the NDA sponsor or patent owner first obtains a court determination that the patent is valid and infringed by a proposed generic product.

 

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505(b)(2) NDAs

As an alternative path to FDA approval for modifications to formulations or uses of products previously approved by the FDA pursuant to an NDA, an applicant may submit an NDA under Section 505(b)(2) of the FDCA. Section 505(b)(2) was enacted as part of the Hatch-Waxman Amendments and permits the filing of an NDA where at least some of the information required for approval comes from studies not conducted by, or for, the applicant and for which the applicant does not have a right of reference. If the 505(b)(2) applicant can establish that reliance on FDA’s previous findings of safety and effectiveness is scientifically and legally appropriate, it may eliminate the need to conduct certain preclinical or clinical studies of the new product. The FDA may also require companies to perform additional studies or to provide additional data, including clinical trials, to support the change from the previously approved reference drug. The FDA may then approve the new product candidate for all, or some, of the labeled indications for which the reference drug has been approved, as well as for any new indication sought by the 505(b)(2) applicant.

Generic Products and Exclusivity

In 1984, with passage of the Hatch-Waxman Amendments to the FDCA, Congress established an abbreviated regulatory scheme allowing the FDA to approve generic drugs that are shown to contain the same active ingredients as, and to be bioequivalent to, drugs previously approved by the FDA pursuant to NDAs. To obtain approval of a generic drug, an applicant must submit an abbreviated new drug application, or ANDA, to the agency. An ANDA is a marketing application that contains, among other things, data and information pertaining to the active pharmaceutical ingredient, bioequivalence, drug product formulation, specifications and stability of the generic drug, as well as analytical methods, manufacturing process validation data and quality control procedures. ANDAs are “abbreviated” because they generally do not include preclinical and clinical data to demonstrate safety and effectiveness. Instead, in support of such applications, a generic manufacturer may rely on the preclinical and clinical testing previously conducted for a drug product previously approved under an NDA, known as the reference-listed drug, or RLD.

Specifically, in order for an ANDA to be approved, the FDA must find that the generic version is identical to the RLD with respect to the active ingredient(s), the route of administration, the dosage form, the strength and the conditions of use of the drug. At the same time, the FDA must also determine that the generic drug is “bioequivalent” to the RLD. Under the statute, a generic drug is bioequivalent to a RLD if “the rate and extent of absorption of the drug do not show a significant difference from the rate and extent of absorption of the listed drug.”

For drug-device combination products, the FDA expects a generic drug-device combination product to have the same clinical effect and safety profile when administered to patients under the conditions specified in the labeling. The FDA has provided guidance that the generic combination product must be able to be substituted for the brand name product without additional physician intervention and/or retraining prior to use, and with no greater error rate than the error rate shown for the brand name product.

Upon approval of an ANDA, the FDA indicates whether the generic product is “therapeutically equivalent” to the RLD in its publication “Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations,” also referred to as the “Orange Book.” FDA considers a therapeutically equivalent generic drug to be fully substitutable for the RLD. In addition, by operation of certain state laws and numerous health insurance programs, the FDA’s designation of therapeutic equivalence often results in substitution of the generic drug without the knowledge or consent of either the prescribing physician or patient.

Under the Hatch-Waxman Amendments, the FDA may not approve an ANDA until any applicable period of non-patent exclusivity for the RLD has expired. The FDCA provides a period of five years of non-patent data exclusivity for a new drug containing a new chemical entity. For the purposes of this provision, a new chemical entity, or NCE, is a drug that contains no active moiety that has previously been approved by the

 

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FDA in any other NDA. An active moiety is the molecule or ion responsible for the physiological or pharmacological action of the drug substance. In cases where such New Chemical Entity, or NCE, exclusivity has been granted, an ANDA or 505(b)(2) NDA referencing the approved application may not be filed with the FDA until the expiration of five years from the date of the RLD’s approval, unless the submission is accompanied by a Paragraph IV certification, in which case the applicant may submit its application four years following the original product approval.

The FDCA also provides for a period of three years of exclusivity if the NDA includes reports of one or more new clinical investigations, other than bioavailability or bioequivalence studies, that were conducted by or for the applicant and are essential to the approval of the application. This three-year exclusivity period often protects changes to a previously approved drug product, such as a new dosage form, route of administration, combination or indication. Three-year exclusivity is available for a drug product that contains a previously approved active moiety, provided the statutory requirement for a new clinical investigation is satisfied. Unlike five-year NCE exclusivity, three-year exclusivity blocks only the approval of a competitor drug application, not its submission. In particular, three-year exclusivity blocks approval of an ANDA or 505(b)(2) NDA for the same active moiety for the same conditions of approval. The FDA typically makes decisions about granting exclusivity shortly before a product is approved.

U.S. Review and Approval Processes for Medical Devices

Although our products are currently regulated in the United States primarily as drugs, there is a chance that our future products will be classified as medical devices and subject to the jurisdiction of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health and device regulations.

Unless an exemption applies, all medical devices introduced to the U.S. market since 1976 are required by the FDA, as a condition of marketing, to secure either clearance of a 510(k) pre-market notification or approval of a premarket approval application, or PMA. The FDA classifies medical devices into one of three classes. Devices deemed to pose a low or moderate risk are placed in Class I or II, which requires the manufacturer to submit to the FDA a 510(k) premarket notification requesting clearance for commercial distribution, unless the device type is exempt from this requirement. Devices deemed by the FDA to pose the greatest risk, such as life-sustaining, life supporting or implantable devices or devices deemed not substantially equivalent to a previously cleared 510(k) device are placed in Class III, requiring submission and approval of a PMA. Both the 510(k) clearance and PMA processes can be resource intensive, expensive and lengthy, and require payment of significant user fees.

FDA 510(k) Pathway

To obtain 510(k) clearance, a company must submit a premarket notification demonstrating that the proposed device is “substantially equivalent” to a previously cleared 510(k) device or a device that was in commercial distribution before May 28, 1976 for which the FDA has not yet called for the submission of PMAs. The FDA’s 510(k) clearance pathway usually takes from three to 12 months from the date the notification is submitted, but it can take considerably longer, depending on the extent of FDA’s requests for additional information and the amount of time a sponsor takes to fulfill them.

After a 510(k) premarket notification is submitted, the FDA determines whether to accept it for substantive review. If it lacks necessary information for substantive review, the FDA will refuse to accept the 510(k) notification. If it is accepted for filing, the FDA begins a substantive review. By statute, the FDA is required to complete its review of a 510(k) notification within 90 days of receiving the 510(k) notification. As a practical matter, clearance often takes longer, and clearance is never assured.

Although many 510(k) premarket notifications are cleared without clinical data, the FDA may require further information, including clinical data, to make a determination regarding substantial equivalence, which

 

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may significantly prolong the review process. If the FDA agrees that the device is substantially equivalent to a predicate device, it will grant clearance to commercially market the device.

After a device receives 510(k) clearance, any modification, including modification to or deviation from design, manufacturing processes, materials, packaging and sterilization that could significantly affect its safety or effectiveness, or that would constitute a new or major change in its intended use, may require a new 510(k) clearance or, depending on the modification, could require a PMA application. The FDA requires each manufacturer to make this determination initially, but the FDA can review any such decision and can disagree with a manufacturer’s determination. If the FDA requires a new 510(k) clearance or approval of a PMA application for any modifications to a previously cleared product, the applicant may be required to cease marketing or recall the modified device until clearance or approval is received. In addition, in these circumstances, the FDA can impose significant regulatory fines or penalties for failure to submit the requisite 510(k) or PMA application.

If the FDA determines that the device is not “substantially equivalent” to a predicate device, or if the device is automatically classified into Class III, the device sponsor must then fulfill the much more rigorous premarketing requirements of the PMA approval process, or seek reclassification of the device through the de novo process. Pursuant to amendments to the FDCA in 2012, a manufacturer can also submit a petition for direct de novo review if the manufacturer is unable to identify an appropriate predicate device and the new device or new use of the device presents a moderate or low risk.

De Novo Classification

Medical device types that the FDA has not previously classified as Class I, II or III are automatically classified into Class III regardless of the level of risk they pose. The Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act of 1997 established a new route to market for low to moderate risk medical devices that are automatically placed into Class III due to the absence of a predicate device, called the “Request for Evaluation of Automatic Class III Designation,” or the de novo classification procedure.

This procedure allows a manufacturer whose novel device is automatically classified into Class III to request down-classification of its medical device into Class I or Class II on the basis that the device presents low or moderate risk, rather than requiring the submission and approval of a PMA application. Prior to the enactment of Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act, or FDASIA, a medical device could only be eligible for de novo classification if the manufacturer first submitted a 510(k) premarket notification and received a determination from the FDA that the device was not substantially equivalent. FDASIA streamlined the de novo classification pathway by permitting manufacturers to request de novo classification directly without first submitting a 510(k) premarket notification to the FDA and receiving a not substantially equivalent determination. Under FDASIA, the FDA is required to classify the device within 120 days following receipt of the de novo application. If the manufacturer seeks reclassification into Class II, the manufacturer must include a draft proposal for special controls that are necessary to provide a reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of the medical device. In addition, the FDA may reject the reclassification petition if it identifies a legally marketed predicate device that would be appropriate for a 510(k) or determines that the device is not low to moderate risk or that general controls would be inadequate to control the risks and special controls cannot be developed.

FDA PMA Pathway

A company must submit a PMA if its device cannot be cleared through the 510(k) clearance or de novo process. A PMA application must be supported by extensive data, including, but not limited to, technical information, preclinical data, clinical trial data, manufacturing data and labeling, to demonstrate to the FDA’s satisfaction the safety and efficacy of the device for its intended use.

 

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Following receipt of a PMA application, the FDA conducts an administrative review to determine whether the application is sufficiently complete to permit a substantive review. If it is not, the agency will refuse to file the PMA. If it is, the FDA will accept the application for filing and begin the review. The FDA, by statute and by regulation, has 180 days to review a filed PMA application, although the review of an application more often occurs over a significantly longer period of time. During this review period, the FDA may request additional information or clarification of information already provided, and the FDA may issue a major deficiency letter to the applicant, requesting the applicant’s response to deficiencies communicated by the FDA. The FDA considers a PMA or PMA supplement to have been voluntarily withdrawn if an applicant fails to respond to an FDA request for information, such as a major deficiency letter, within a total of 360 days. Before approving or denying a PMA, an FDA advisory committee may review the PMA at a public meeting and provide the FDA with the committee’s recommendation on whether the FDA should approve the submission, approve it with specific conditions, or not approve it. Prior to approval of a PMA, the FDA may conduct a bioresearch monitoring inspection of the clinical trial data and clinical trial sites, and a QSR inspection of the manufacturing facility and processes. Overall, the FDA review of a PMA application is to take 180 days, although the review generally takes between one and three years or longer. The FDA can delay, limit or deny approval of a PMA application for many reasons, including:

 

   

the device may not be shown safe or effective to the FDA’s satisfaction;

 

   

the data from pre-clinical studies and/or clinical trials may be found unreliable or insufficient to support approval;

 

   

the manufacturing process or facilities may not meet applicable requirements; and

 

   

changes in FDA approval policies or adoption of new regulations may require additional data.

If the FDA evaluation of a PMA is favorable, the FDA will issue either an approval letter, or an approvable letter, the latter of which usually contains a number of conditions that must be met in order to secure final approval of the PMA. When and if those conditions have been fulfilled to the satisfaction of the FDA, the agency will issue a PMA approval letter authorizing commercial marketing of the device, subject to the conditions of approval and the limitations established in the approval letter. If the FDA’s evaluation of a PMA application or manufacturing facilities is not favorable, the FDA will deny approval of the PMA or issue a not approvable letter. The FDA also may determine that additional tests or clinical trials are necessary, in which case the PMA approval may be delayed for several months or years while the trials are conducted and data are submitted in an amendment to the PMA, or the PMA is withdrawn and resubmitted when the data are available. The PMA process can be expensive, uncertain and lengthy and a number of devices for which the FDA approval has been sought by other companies have never been approved by the FDA for marketing.

New PMA applications or PMA supplements may be required for modification to the manufacturing process, equipment or facility, quality control procedures, sterilization, packaging, expiration date, labeling, device specifications, components, materials or design of a device that has been approved through the PMA process. PMA supplements often require submission of the same type of information as an initial PMA application, except that the supplement is limited to information needed to support any changes from the device covered by the approved PMA application and may or may not require as extensive technical or clinical data or the convening of an advisory panel, depending on the nature of the proposed change.

In approving a PMA application, as a condition of approval, the FDA may also require some form of post-approval studies or postmarket surveillance, whereby the applicant follows certain patient groups for a number of years and makes periodic reports to the FDA on the clinical status of those patients when necessary to protect the public health or to provide additional or longer term safety and effectiveness data for the device. The FDA may require postmarket surveillance for certain devices approved under a PMA or cleared under a 510(k) notification, such as implants or life-supporting or life-sustaining devices used outside a device user facility,

 

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devices where the failure of which would be reasonably likely to have serious adverse health consequences, or devices expected to have significant use in pediatric populations. The FDA may also approve a PMA application with other post-approval conditions intended to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device, such as, among other things, restrictions on labeling, promotion, sale, distribution and use.

Medical Device Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are almost always required to support a PMA and are sometimes required for a 510(k) premarket notification. In the United States, these trials often require submission of an application for an investigational device exemption, or IDE, if the investigation involves a significant risk device. The IDE application must be supported by appropriate data, such as animal and laboratory testing results, showing that it is safe to test the device in humans and that the testing protocol is scientifically sound. The IDE must be approved in advance by the FDA for a specified number of patients, unless the product candidate is deemed a non-significant risk device and is eligible for more abbreviated IDE requirements. Clinical trials for a significant risk device may begin once the IDE application is approved by the FDA and appropriate IRBs at the clinical trial sites.

FDA Post-Approval Requirements

Drugs and medical devices manufactured or distributed pursuant to FDA approvals are subject to pervasive and continuing regulation by the FDA, including, among other things, requirements relating to recordkeeping, periodic reporting, product sampling and distribution, advertising and promotion, reviewing adverse event information and literature and reporting of adverse experiences with the product. After approval, most changes to the approved product, such as adding new indications or other labeling claims, are subject to prior FDA review and approval. There also are continuing, annual program user fee requirements for any marketed products.

In addition, drug manufacturers and other entities involved in the manufacture and distribution of approved drugs are required to register their establishments with the FDA and state agencies, and are subject to periodic inspections by the FDA and these state agencies for compliance with cGMP requirements. Manufacturers of medical devices are also subject to periodic inspections for compliance with cGMP requirements, as well as with the QSR. Changes to the manufacturing process are strictly regulated and often require prior FDA approval before being implemented. FDA regulations also require investigation and correction of any deviations from cGMP and impose reporting and documentation requirements upon the sponsor and any third-party manufacturers that the sponsor may decide to use. Accordingly, manufacturers must continue to expend time, money, and effort in the area of production and quality control to maintain cGMP compliance.

Holders of an NDA for a combination product containing a device constituent part are also subject to certain device-related post-approval requirements, such as five-day reporting requirements and device malfunction reporting requirements.

Once an approval is granted, the FDA may withdraw the approval if compliance with regulatory requirements and standards is not maintained or if problems occur after the product reaches the market. Later discovery of previously unknown problems with a product, including adverse events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or with manufacturing processes, or failure to comply with regulatory requirements, may result in revisions to the approved labeling to add new safety information; imposition of post-market studies or clinical trials to assess new safety risks; or imposition of distribution or other restrictions under a REMS program. Other potential consequences include, among other things:

 

   

restrictions on the marketing or manufacturing of the product, suspension of the approval, or complete withdrawal of the product from the market or product recalls;

 

   

fines, warning letters or holds on post-approval clinical trials;

 

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refusal of the FDA to approve pending NDAs or supplements to approved NDAs;

 

   

product seizure or detention, or refusal to permit the import or export of products; or

 

   

injunctions or the imposition of civil or criminal penalties.

The FDA strictly regulates the marketing, labeling, advertising and promotion of prescription drug products placed on the market. This regulation includes, among other things, standards and regulations for direct-to-consumer advertising, communications regarding unapproved uses, industry-sponsored scientific and educational activities and promotional activities involving the Internet and social media. Promotional claims about the safety or effectiveness of a drug or device are prohibited before approval. After approval, a drug or device generally may not be promoted for uses that are not approved by the FDA, as reflected in the product’s prescribing information. In the United States, healthcare professionals are generally permitted to prescribe or administer drugs or devices for uses not described in the applicable labeling, known as off-label uses, because the FDA does not regulate the practice of medicine. However, FDA regulations impose rigorous restrictions on manufacturers’ communications, prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses. It may be permissible, under very specific, narrow conditions, for a manufacturer to engage in non-promotional, non-misleading communication regarding off-label information, such as distributing scientific or medical journal information. If a company is found to have promoted off-label uses, it may become subject to adverse public relations and administrative and judicial enforcement by the FDA, the Department of Justice or the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as state authorities. This could subject a company to a range of penalties that could have a significant commercial impact, including civil and criminal fines and agreements that materially restrict the manner in which a company promotes or distributes drug products. The federal government has levied large civil and criminal fines against companies for alleged improper promotion, and has also requested that companies enter into consent decrees or permanent injunctions under which specified promotional conduct is changed or curtailed.

In addition, the distribution of prescription pharmaceutical products is subject to the Prescription Drug Marketing Act, or PDMA, and its implementation regulations, as well as the Drug Supply Chain Security Act, or DSCSA, which regulate the distribution and tracing of prescription drugs and prescription drug samples at the federal level, and set minimum standards for the regulation of drug distributors by the states. The PDMA, its implementing regulations and state laws limit the distribution of prescription pharmaceutical product samples, and the DSCSA imposes requirements to ensure accountability in distribution and to identify and remove counterfeit and other illegitimate products from the market.

Other Healthcare Laws and Regulations

Healthcare providers and third party payors play a primary role in the recommendation, prescription, treatment and coverage of procedures and FDA-approved prescription drugs. Arrangements and interactions with healthcare professionals, third party payors and patients, among others, are subject to broadly applicable fraud and abuse, anti-kickback and false claims laws and regulations and other healthcare laws and regulations that may constrain our business and/or financial arrangements. The U.S. federal and state healthcare laws and regulations that may affect our ability to operate include, but are not limited to the following:

 

   

the federal healthcare Anti-Kickback Statute, which prohibits, among other things, persons and entities from knowingly and willfully soliciting, offering, paying, or receiving remuneration, directly or indirectly, in cash or in kind, to induce or reward either the referral of an individual for, or the purchase, lease, order or arranging for or recommending the purchase, lease, or order of any good or service, for which payment may be made, in whole or in part, by federal healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. This statute has been interpreted to apply to arrangements between pharmaceutical companies on one hand and prescribers, purchasers and formulary managers on the other. Liability under the federal Anti-Kickback Statute may be

 

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established without proving actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it. In addition, the government may assert that a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the federal civil False Claims Act. Although there are a number of statutory exceptions and regulatory safe harbors to the federal Anti-Kickback Statute protecting certain common business arrangements and activities from prosecution or regulatory sanctions, the exceptions and safe harbors are drawn narrowly. Practices that involve remuneration to those who prescribe, purchase or recommend pharmaceutical and biological products, including discounts or engaging such individuals as consultants, advisors and speakers, may be subject to scrutiny if they do not fit squarely within an exception or safe harbor. Our practices may not in all cases meet all of the criteria for safe harbor protection from anti-kickback liability. Moreover, there are no safe harbors for many common practices, such as reimbursement support programs, patient assistance programs, educational and research grants, or charitable donations;

 

   

the federal civil False Claims Act prohibits individuals or entities from, among other things, knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment of government funds, or knowingly making, using or causing to made or used a false record or statement material to a false or fraudulent claim or to an obligation to pay money to the government or knowingly concealing or knowingly and improperly avoiding, decreasing or concealing an obligation to pay money to the federal government. Actions under the federal False Claims Act may be brought by the Attorney General or as a qui tam action by a private individual in the name of the government. Many pharmaceutical manufacturers have been investigated and have reached substantial financial settlements with the federal government under the civil False Claims Act for a variety of alleged improper activities including causing false claims to be submitted as a result of the marketing of their products for unapproved and thus non reimbursable uses, and interactions with prescribers and other customers including those that may have affected their billing or coding practices and submission to the federal government. The government may assert that a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the federal civil False Claims Act. Pharmaceutical and other healthcare companies also are subject to other federal false claims laws, including, among others, federal criminal healthcare fraud and false statement statutes that extend to non-government health benefit programs;

 

   

the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, which prohibits improper offering, promising, giving or authorizing others to offer, promise or give anything of value, either directly or indirectly, to foreign officials for the purpose of improperly influencing any act or decision, securing any other improper advantage, or obtaining or retaining business;

 

   

the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, and their implementing regulations, or collectively, HIPAA, which imposes criminal and civil liability for, among other things, knowingly and willfully executing or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, or knowingly and willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement or representation, or making or using any false writing or document knowing the same to contain any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement or entry, in connection with the delivery of or payment for healthcare benefits, items or services;

 

   

the federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act requires certain manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or the State Children’s Health Insurance Program to report annually to CMS information related to payments and other transfers of value that they make to physicians and teaching hospitals and

 

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ownership and investment interests in the company held by physicians and their immediate families. Beginning in 2022, applicable manufacturers also will be required to report information regarding payments and transfers of value provided to physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse anesthetists and certified nurse-midwives; and

 

   

analogous state laws and regulations, such as state anti-kickback and false claims laws, which may apply to healthcare items or services that are reimbursed by non-governmental third party payors, including private insurers.

In addition to the foregoing requirements, several state, local and foreign laws now require prescription drug companies to report expenses relating to the marketing and promotion of drug products and to report gifts and payments to individual healthcare professionals and entities in these states. Other states restrict when pharmaceutical companies may provide meals or gifts to prescribers or engage in other marketing-related activities. Other states and cities require identification or licensing of sales representatives. Other states prohibit various other marketing related activities, including restricting the ability of manufacturers to offer co-pay support to patients for certain prescription drugs. Still other states require the posting of information relating to clinical studies and their outcomes and other states and cities require identification or licensing of sales representatives. In addition, California, Connecticut, Nevada and Massachusetts require pharmaceutical companies to implement compliance programs and/or marketing codes of conduct. Several additional states are considering similar proposals. Compliance with these laws is difficult and time consuming, and companies that do not comply with these state laws may face civil penalties.

State and federal regulatory and enforcement agencies continue to actively investigate violations of healthcare laws and regulations, and the U.S. Congress continues to strengthen the arsenal of enforcement tools. Most recently, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 increased the criminal and civil penalties that can be imposed for violating certain federal healthcare laws, including the federal Anti-Kickback Statute. Enforcement agencies also continue to pursue novel theories of liability under these laws. In particular, government agencies recently have increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement activity with respect to manufacturer reimbursement support activities and other patient support programs, including bringing criminal charges or civil enforcement actions under the federal Anti-Kickback statute, civil False Claims Act and violations of healthcare fraud and HIPAA privacy provisions.

Compliance with these federal and state laws and regulations requires substantial resources. If our operations are found to be in violation of any of the laws described above or any other governmental regulations that apply to us, we may be subject to significant civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, fines, imprisonment, disgorgement, exclusion from participation in government healthcare programs such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs, reputational harm, administrative burdens such as integrity oversight and reporting obligations, diminished profits and future earnings, and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our financial results. Companies settling federal false claims, kickback or Civil Monetary Penalty cases also may be required to enter into a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General in order to avoid exclusion from participation (i.e., loss of coverage for their products) in federal healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Corporate Integrity Agreements typically impose substantial costs on companies to ensure compliance.

For additional information regarding obligations under federal healthcare statues and regulations, refer to the risk factor titled “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Government Regulation—If we fail to comply with healthcare and other regulations, we could face substantial penalties and our business operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.”

 

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U.S. Data Privacy Laws

Under the administrative simplification provisions of HIPAA, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or HHS, issued regulations that establish uniform standards governing the conduct of certain electronic healthcare transactions and requirements for protecting the privacy and security of protected health information, or PHI. HIPAA includes privacy and security rules, breach notification requirements and electronic transaction standards. HIPAA applies to covered entities which include certain healthcare providers, healthcare clearinghouses and health plans, as well as persons and entities that provide services on their behalf that involve PHI, known as business associates.

In addition, we may be subject to state health information privacy, security and data breach notification laws, which may govern the collection, use, disclosure and protection of health-related and other personal information. State laws may be more stringent, broader in scope or offer greater individual rights with respect to PHI than HIPAA, and state laws may differ from each other, which may complicate compliance efforts.

Entities that are found to be in violation of HIPAA as the result of a breach of unsecured PHI, a complaint about privacy practices or an audit by HHS, may be subject to significant civil, criminal and administrative fines and penalties and/or additional reporting and oversight obligations if required to enter into a resolution agreement and corrective action plan with HHS to settle allegations of HIPAA non-compliance.

Each state in the United States has its own law relating to notification requirements to users and state attorneys’ general and state agencies in the event of data breach (the unauthorized disclosure of or access to users personal data). In addition to its state breach notification requirements, California recently adopted the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, or CCPA, which will come into effect beginning in January 2020. The CCPA has been characterized as the first “GDPR-like” privacy statute to be enacted in the United States because it mirrors a number of the key provisions of the European Union General Data Protection Regulation, or the GDPR. The CCPA establishes a new privacy framework for covered businesses by creating an expanded definition of personal information, establishing new data privacy rights for consumers in the State of California, imposing special rules on the collection of consumer data from minors, and creating a new and potentially severe statutory damages framework for violations of the CCPA and for businesses that fail to implement reasonable security procedures and practices to prevent data breaches.

GDPR

EU member states, Switzerland and other countries have also adopted data protection laws and regulations, which impose significant compliance obligations. In the European Union, the collection and use of personal health data is governed by the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR. The GDPR became effective on May 25, 2018, repealing the Data Protection Directive and increasing our responsibility and liability in relation to the processing of personal data of EU subjects.

The GDPR, together with the national legislation of the EU member states governing the processing of personal data, impose strict obligations and restrictions on the ability to collect, analyze and transfer personal data, including health data from clinical trials and adverse event reporting. In particular, these obligations and restrictions concern the consent of the individuals to whom the personal data relates, the information provided to the individuals, the transfer of personal data out of the European Union, security breach notifications, security and confidentiality of the personal data and imposition of substantial potential fines for breaches of the data protection obligations. Data protection authorities from the different EU member states may interpret the GDPR and national laws differently and impose additional requirements, which add to the complexity of processing personal data in the European Union. Guidance on implementation and compliance practices are often updated or otherwise revised.

 

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U.S. Healthcare Reform

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, which we refer to together as the Healthcare Reform Act, which has substantially changed the way healthcare is financed by both governmental and private insurers and significantly impacts the pharmaceutical industry. Among the ways in which it may impact our business, particularly if in the future Medicare or Medicaid covers or reimburses our drug formulations, the Healthcare Reform Act:

 

   

imposes an annual excise tax of 2.3% on any entity that manufactures or imports medical devices offered for sale in the United States, with limited exceptions, although the effective rate paid may be lower. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016, the excise tax was suspended through December 31, 2017, and under the continuing resolution on appropriations for fiscal year 2018, or 2018 Appropriations Resolution, signed by President Trump on January 22, 2018, was further suspended through December 31, 2019;

 

   

establishes an annual, nondeductible fee on any entity that manufactures or imports certain specified branded prescription drugs and biologic agents apportioned among these entities according to their market share in some government healthcare programs;

 

   

expands eligibility criteria for Medicaid programs by, among other things, allowing states to offer Medicaid coverage to additional individuals and by adding new mandatory eligibility categories for individuals with income at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, thereby potentially increasing manufacturers’ Medicaid rebate liability;

 

   

expands the entities eligible for discounts under the Public Health program; and

 

   

creates a new Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to oversee, identify priorities in, and conduct comparative clinical effectiveness research.

Some of the provisions of the Healthcare Reform Act have yet to be implemented, and there have been judicial and Congressional challenges to certain aspects of the Healthcare Reform Act, as well as recent efforts by the Trump administration to repeal or replace certain aspects of the Healthcare Reform Act. Since January 2017, President Trump has signed two Executive Orders and other directives designed to delay the implementation of certain provisions of the Healthcare Reform Act or otherwise circumvent some of the requirements for health insurance mandated by the Healthcare Reform Act. Concurrently, Congress has considered legislation that would repeal or repeal and replace all or part of the Healthcare Reform Act. While Congress has not passed comprehensive repeal legislation, two bills affecting the implementation of certain taxes under the Healthcare Reform Act have been signed into law. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 includes a provision repealing, effective January 1, 2019, the tax-based shared responsibility payment imposed by the Healthcare Reform Act on certain individuals who fail to maintain qualifying health coverage for all or part of a year that is commonly referred to as the “individual mandate.” Additionally, the 2018 Appropriations Resolution delayed the implementation of certain Healthcare Reform Act-mandated fees, including, without limitation, the medical device excise tax. More recently, in July 2018, CMS published a final rule permitting further collections and payments to and from certain Healthcare Reform Act qualified health plans and health insurance issuers under the Healthcare Reform Act risk adjustment program in response to the outcome of federal district court litigation regarding the method CMS uses to determine this risk adjustment. We continue to evaluate the potential impact of the Healthcare Reform Act and its possible repeal or replacement on our business.

In addition, other legislative changes have been proposed and adopted since the Healthcare Reform Act was enacted. On August 2, 2011, the Budget Control Act of 2011 was signed into law, which, among other things, created the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to recommend to Congress proposals for spending reductions. The Joint Select Committee did not achieve a targeted deficit reduction of at least $1.2

 

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trillion for the years 2013 through 2021, triggering the legislation’s automatic reduction to several government programs. This includes reductions to Medicare payments to providers of 2% per fiscal year, which went into effect on April 1, 2013 and, due to subsequent legislative amendments to the statute, will remain in effect through 2027 unless additional Congressional action is taken. On January 2, 2013, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law, which, among other things, reduced Medicare payments to several providers and increased the statute of limitations period for the government to recover overpayments to providers from three to five years.

We expect that additional healthcare reform measures will be adopted in the future.

U.S. Pharmaceutical Pricing and Reimbursement

Our ability to commercialize our products successfully, and to attract commercialization partners for our products, depends in significant part on the availability of financial coverage and adequate reimbursement from third party payors, managed care organizations and private health insurers.

Political, economic and regulatory influences are subjecting the healthcare industry in the United States to fundamental changes. There have been, and we expect there will continue to be, legislative and regulatory proposals in the United States to change the healthcare system in ways that could impact our ability to sell our products profitably, particularly given the current atmosphere of mounting criticism of prescription drug costs in the United States. We expect to continue to experience pricing pressure in the United States in connection with the sale of our products due to managed healthcare, the increasing influence of health maintenance organizations, additional legislative proposals to curb healthcare costs and negative publicity regarding pricing and price increases generally, which could limit the prices that we charge for our products, limit our commercial opportunity and/or negatively impact revenues from sales of our products. We anticipate that the Congress, state legislatures and the private sector will continue to consider and may adopt healthcare policies impacting pricing that are intended to curb rising healthcare costs. These cost containment measures may include; pharmaceutical cost transparency bills that aim to require drug companies to justify their prices through required disclosures; controls on healthcare providers; challenges to the pricing of products or limits or prohibitions on reimbursement for specific products through other means; requirements to try less expensive products or generics before a more expensive branded product; changes in drug importation laws; expansion of use of managed care systems in which healthcare providers contract to provide comprehensive healthcare for a fixed cost per person; and public funding for cost effectiveness research, which may be used by third party payors to make coverage and payment decisions.

In addition, drug pricing by pharmaceutical companies is currently, and is expected to continue to be, under close scrutiny, including with respect to companies that have increased the price of products after acquiring those products from other companies. Such scrutiny has resulted in several recent congressional inquiries and proposed and enacted federal and state legislation designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to product pricing, review the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient programs, and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for products. At the federal level, Trump administration released a “Blueprint” to lower drug prices and reduce out of pocket costs of drugs that contains additional proposals to increase manufacturer competition, increase the negotiating power of certain federal healthcare programs, incentivize manufacturers to lower the list price of their products and reduce the out of pocket costs of drug products paid by consumers. HHS has already started the process of soliciting feedback on some of these measures and, at the same, is immediately implementing others under its existing authority. For example, in October 2018, CMS proposed a new rule that would require direct-to-consumer television advertisements of prescription drugs and biological products, for which payment is available through or under Medicare or Medicaid, to include in the advertisement the Wholesale Acquisition Cost, or list price, of that drug or biological product. Although a number of these, and other proposed measures will require authorization through additional legislation to become effective, Congress and the Trump administration have each indicated that it will continue to seek new legislative and/or administrative measures to control drug costs. At the state

 

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level, legislatures have increasingly passed legislation and implemented regulations designed to control pharmaceutical and biological product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement constraints, discounts, restrictions on certain product access and marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from other countries and bulk purchasing.

Third party payors, decide which products can be reimbursed and establish reimbursement and co-pay levels and conditions for reimbursement. Third party payors are increasingly challenging the prices charged for medical products and services and examining their cost effectiveness, in addition to their safety and efficacy. We may need to conduct expensive pharmacoeconomic and/or clinical studies in order to demonstrate the cost effectiveness of our products. Even with studies, our products may be considered less safe, less effective or less cost-effective than other products, and third party payors may not provide and maintain coverage and reimbursement for our products or any of our product candidates that we commercialize, in whole or in part.

The process for determining whether a third party payor will provide coverage for a product may be separate from the process for setting the reimbursement rate that the payor will pay for the product once coverage is approved. Third party payors may limit coverage or may not provide coverage of an approved products for a particular indication. Additionally, no uniform policy for coverage and reimbursement exists in the United States. Therefore, coverage and reimbursement can differ significantly from payor to payor.

Regulation in the European Union

In the European Union, we are required under the European Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC to conduct an assessment of the conformity of our products falling within the definition of a medical device with the obligations laid down in the Medical Devices Directive, where necessary with the participation of a notified body who must issue a related EC Certificate of Conformity, and to affix the CE mark to these medical devices prior to selling the products in EU member states.

The CE mark is an EU symbol that represents adherence to certain requirements governing the safety, and performance of the medical device mandated in the European Medical Device Directive. This includes the “Essential Requirements” listed in Annex I to the Directive. Once affixed, the CE mark enables a product to be sold within the European Economic Area, or EEA, which is composed of the 28 member states of the European Union plus Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. A bi-lateral agreement concluded between the European Union and Switzerland also permits CE marked medical devices to be marketed in Switzerland. To demonstrate compliance with the Essential Requirements, we must undergo a conformity assessment procedure. This includes an evaluation of clinical data supporting the safety and performance of the products during normal conditions of use. The conformity assessment procedure varies according to the type of medical device and its classification. Except for low risk medical devices (Class I with no measuring function and which are not sterile) in relation to which the manufacturer can prepare their own EC Declaration of Conformity following conduct of a self-assessment of the conformity of its products with the Essential Requirements of the Medical Devices Directive, a conformity assessment procedure requires the intervention of a notified body. In the case of medium to high risk (Class IIa, IIb and III) medical devices, including our KXL and Mosaic systems which are Class IIa medical devices, the EC Certificate of Conformity is issued by a notified body. Notified bodies are private organizations that are licensed by the competent authorities of individual EU member states to conduct conformity assessment procedures and to verify the conformity of manufacturers and their medical devices with the Essential Requirements.

Depending on the relevant conformity assessment procedure, the notified body would typically audit and examine the technical file, the clinical evaluation report and the quality system for the manufacture, design and final inspection of our devices. The notified body issues an EC Certificate of Conformity following successful completion of a conformity assessment procedure conducted in relation to the medical device and its manufacturer and their conformity with the Essential Requirements. This EC Certificate of Conformity must be renewed, generally on a three yearly basis.

 

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In 2011, we received a EC Certificate of Conformity from our notified body for our KXL system allowing the CE mark to be affixed to the KXL system. Our existing EC Certificate of Conformity for our KXL system is valid until May 1, 2020. In 2015, we received a EC Certificate of Conformity from our notified body for our Mosaic system allowing the CE mark to be affixed to the Mosaic system. Our existing EC Certificate of Conformity for our Mosaic system is valid until May 1, 2020.

Manufacturers must also comply with quality system requirements laid down in the Annexes to the Medical Devices Directive. To facilitate compliance with the Essential Requirements quality system requirements for which the Medical Devices Directive provides, Article 5 of the Medical Devices Directive foresees the possible recourse to harmonized European Standards. Where the reference of these Standards has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union, compliance with such Standards will constitute a presumption of conformity with Essential Requirements laid down in Annex I to the Medical Devices Directive or the quality system requirements laid down in the relevant Annex to the Directive. While compliance with the Essential Requirements and relevant quality system requirements is obligatory, the Standards remain voluntary. However, compliance with the Standards is an effective way of demonstrating compliance with the Essential Requirements and quality management system requirements.

The Medical Devices Directive requires manufacturers to maintain a Technical File related to their products demonstrating compliance with the obligations imposed by the Medical Devices Directive. Once the manufacturer has completed the Technical File for the medical device and, where necessary, the EC Certificate of Conformity has been issued, the manufacturer may affix the CE mark to its medical devices after having prepared and signed a related EC Declaration of Conformity.

If we introduce any substantial changes to our medical devices, this could require conduct of an additional conformity assessment process in relation to the substantial changes and modification or preparation of a new Technical File, new EC Certificates of Conformity and new EC Declarations of Conformity. Additionally, we may need to assess the conformity with the Medical Devices Directive and affix a CE mark to any new medical devices that we may develop in the future.

Products regulated as medical devices according to the Medical Devices Directive are subject to a number of post-marketing regulatory requirements, including establishment of a post-marketing vigilance procedure, requirements for reporting of adverse events, procedures related to conduct of Field Safety Corrective Actions, including product recalls and withdrawals, marketing and promotion of medical devices, interactions with healthcare professionals, registration of medical devices and pricing and reimbursement of medical devices. In some circumstances, issue of an EC Certificate of Conformity by a notified body may also be conditional on our providing undertaking to conduct post-marketing clinical studies.

In May 2017, the EU Medical Devices Regulation (Regulation 2017/745), or MDR, was adopted. The MDR repeals and replaces the EU Medical Devices Directive and the Active Implantable Medical Devices Directive. Unlike Directives, which must be implemented into the national laws of the EU member states, the MDR will be directly applicable in the EU member states and on the basis of the EEA agreement in Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway. The MDR is, among other things, intended to establish a uniform, transparent, predictable and sustainable regulatory framework across the EEA for medical devices and ensure a high level of safety and health while supporting innovation. The MDR will apply as of May 26, 2020. Once applicable, the MDR will among other things:

 

   

strengthen the rules on placing medical devices on the market and reinforce surveillance once they are available;

 

   

establish explicit provisions on manufacturers’ responsibilities for the follow-up of the quality, performance and safety of devices placed on the market;

 

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improve the traceability of medical devices throughout the supply chain to the end-user or patient through a unique identification number;

 

   

set up a central database to provide patients, healthcare professionals and the public with comprehensive information on products available in the European Union; and

 

   

strengthen the rules for the assessment of certain high-risk devices, such as implants, which may have to undergo an additional check by experts before they are placed on the market.

Once applicable, the MDR will impose increased compliance obligations for us to access the EU market. Moreover, the scrutiny imposed by notified bodies for the technical documentation related these devices will increase considerably.

Facilities, Manufacturing and Distribution

Our corporate headquarters occupy approximately 27,000 square feet of leased office and laboratory space in Waltham, Massachusetts pursuant to a lease agreement that expires in 2022. We currently occupy approximately 13,000 square feet of leased manufacturing space in Burlington, Massachusetts that oversees our global operations pursuant to a lease agreement that expires in 2023. We also have a small production facility focused on distribution and limited manufacturing outside the United States that occupies 300 square feet in Dublin, Ireland. We believe that our current facilities are suitable and adequate to meet our current needs. We intend to add new facilities or expand existing facilities as we add employees, and we believe that suitable additional or substitute space will be available as needed to accommodate any such expansion of our operations.

We currently produce the majority of our KXL and Mosaic systems at our headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts, with some additional limited manufacturing operations in Dublin, Ireland. We use a mix of custom and off-the-shelf components, which are supplied to us from suppliers per our specifications. We assemble and test our devices for compliance with our specifications before releasing the finished product for shipment to our customers. Our Burlington and Dublin facilities are ISO 13485 compliant. A number of components used in our KXL and Mosaic systems are supplied to us from single source suppliers. We generally acquire our single source components pursuant to purchase orders placed in the ordinary course of business. As such, if one of our suppliers or manufacturers fails to perform adequately or fulfill our needs, we may be required to incur significant costs and devote significant efforts to find new suppliers or manufacturers and may also face delays in the development and commercialization of our products.

Our ability to supply our products and to develop our products depends, in part, on our ability to successfully obtain in sufficient quantities the active ingredients in our riboflavin drug formulations, as well as the final formulations that have been produced in accordance with FDA requirements. We have entered into manufacturing, supply or quality agreements with our single source suppliers pursuant to which they supply these ingredients and drug formulations. To date, we have not experienced any significant supply constraints or delays in procuring active pharmaceutical ingredient, or API, or drug products.

We currently have a master services agreement, or MSA, dated November 2012 with Albany Molecular Research Inc., or AMRI. The MSA extends until terminated by either party in accordance with the termination provision, which requires nine months’ notice if terminated by AMRI and 30 days’ notice if terminated by us. In March 2014, we entered into a commercial supply agreement with AMRI, pursuant to which we purchase the API in our riboflavin formulations, which is manufactured exclusively for us, in quantities specified in forecasts provided by us and updated on a rolling basis. This supply agreement has a five-year term. We also recently executed a quality agreement with AMRI to specify which party is responsible for the various cGMP aspects of manufacturing.

In November 2010, we signed an exclusive supply agreement with Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH, or Medio-Haus, in Germany for the products we market outside of the United States. In June 2014, we

 

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entered into an amendment to this supply agreement with Medio-Haus, pursuant to which we have exclusive rights to distribute all of their riboflavin drug formulations, including the Medio Cross, Vibex and ParaCel products, subject to ordering certain minimum quantities, in quantities to be specified in forecasts provided by us. This agreement extends exclusively until May 2029. Either we or Medio-Haus may terminate the agreement prior to that date for cause.

In December 2014, we entered in to a commercial manufacturing agreement with Ajinomoto Althea pursuant to which Ajinomoto Althea formulates our API into the final drug product. This agreement extends until December 2018, and automatically renews for successive two-year periods. Either we or Ajinomoto Althea may terminate the agreement prior to that date without cause upon 24 month’s written notice. In addition, either party may terminate the agreement for uncured material breach by, or insolvency of, the other party, and we may terminate the agreement in the event of a change of control of either us or Ajinomoto Althea.

Employees

As of September 30, 2018, we had 122 full-time employees with 22 in research and development, business development and laboratory and commercial operations, and 15 in general and administrative functions. None of our employees are represented by a labor union or covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We consider our relations with our employees to be good. We have also engaged and may continue to engage independent contractors to assist us with operational, clinical, sales and engineering functions.

Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we may become involved in legal proceedings or be subject to claims arising in the ordinary course of our business. We are not currently a party to any material legal proceedings and we are not aware of any pending or threatened legal proceeding against us that we believe could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results or financial condition

 

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MANAGEMENT

Executive Officers and Directors

The following table sets forth information concerning our executive officers and directors as of December 31, 2018:

 

Name

  

Age

    

Position(s)

Executive Officers

     

Reza Zadno, Ph.D.

     63     

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Thomas E. Griffin

     55     

Chief Financial Officer

Paul S. Bavier

     46     

General Counsel and Secretary

David First

     55     

Chief Human Resources Officer

Rajesh K. Rajpal, M.D.

     56     

Chief Medical Officer

Jim Schuermann

     50     

Chief Business Officer

Non-Employee Directors

     

Thomas W. Burns

     59     

Director

Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D.

     60     

Director

Garheng Kong, M.D., Ph.D.

     43     

Director

Hongbo Lu, Ph.D.

     47     

Director

Robert J. Palmisano

     74     

Chairman of the Board of Directors

Jonathan Silverstein

     51     

Director

Donald J. Zurbay

     51     

Director

Executive Officers

Reza Zadno, Ph.D. has served as our President and Chief Executive Office and as a member of our board of directors since September 2016. Dr. Zadno has served in various capacities at venture capital firms, including from January 2012 to January 2018 as an Advisor and Venture Partner at InterWest Partners, LLC, from January 2015 to January 2018 as an Innovation Advisor at Novartis Venture Fund and from January 2011 to January 2012 as a Venture Partner at New Leaf Venture Partners, L.L.C. From 2000 to 2009, Dr. Zadno was the Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Visiogen, Inc., where he developed an accommodating intraocular lens for cataract and presbyopia. Visiogen was acquired by Abbott Medical Optics in 2009, where Dr. Zadno served as a General Manager and Divisional Vice President until January 2011. Dr. Zadno has served on the board of directors of a number of private and public companies, including Invuity, Inc., Carbylan Therapeutics, Inc., Transcend Medical, Inc., which was acquired by Alcon Holdings, Inc., and Oraya Therapeutics, Inc., which was acquired by Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. Dr. Zadno holds a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (M.Sc.) in mechanical properties of materials and a Docteur d’Ingenieur (Ph.D.) in Metallurgy from École nationale supérieure des mines de Paris. Our board of directors believes that Dr. Zadno’s extensive experience in ophthalmology, with a focus on medical devices, provides him with the qualifications to serve on our board of directors.

Thomas E. Griffin has served as our Chief Financial Officer since April 2017. Mr. Griffin also sits on the board of directors of Helius Medical Technologies, Inc., where he serves as the chairperson of the audit committee and a member of the compensation committee. Prior to joining us, Mr. Griffin served as the Chief Financial Officer of Entellus Medical, Inc., a medical technology company, from 2007 to May 2016, including during Entellus’ initial public offering in 2015, before transitioning to Vice President of Finance from May 2016 to January 2017. Mr. Griffin earned a B.A. in Accounting from the University of Minnesota, Duluth and an M.B.A. in Management from the University of St. Thomas.

Paul S. Bavier has served as our General Counsel and Secretary since January 2017. Prior to joining us, Mr. Bavier worked at Biodel Inc. from 2007 to 2008 as Deputy General Counsel, from 2008 to 2013 as General

 

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Counsel and Secretary, from 2013 to 2014 as General Counsel, Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer and from 2014 to 2016 as General Counsel, Secretary, Chief Administrative Officer and Vice President of Corporate Development. Mr. Bavier was Interim President of Biodel from January 2016 to November 2016 during the execution of Biodel’s reverse merger with Albireo Pharma, Inc. Prior to joining Biodel, Inc., Mr. Bavier was the Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary at Gerber Scientific, Inc. from 2004 to 2007, a NYSE-listed software and equipment manufacturing company. Mr. Bavier holds a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and a B.A. from Middlebury College .

David First has served as our Chief Human Resources Officer since September 2018. Prior to joining us, Mr. First was Vice President of Human Resources from April 2018 to September 2018 at Biogen Inc., a multinational biotechnology company specializing in neurogenerative, hematologic and autoimmune diseases. Prior to joining Biogen, Inc., Mr. First was Global Head of Human Resources from 2015 to 2017 at Heart Ware Inc., a private company that specializes in developing implantable blood pumps for the treatment of heart failure. Prior to his time at Heartware, Mr. First led Organizational Development for TripAdvisor. Mr. First holds a B.A. in Economics and an M.A.T. from Union College.

Rajesh Rajpal, M.D. has served as our Chief Medical Officer since March 2016 and is a practicing ophthalmologist. Dr. Rajpal has served on the clinical faculty of Georgetown University Medical Center since 1992, and as the Cornea Consultant to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for over 15 years. Dr. Rajpal previously served as Director of the Cornea Service at Georgetown University until 1995 and as a Director of the Refractive Laser Eye Center at George Washington University Medical Center from 1996 to 1998. Dr. Rajpal is also the Founder of the See Clearly Vision Group, which he founded in 1995. Dr. Rajpal earned an M.D. from the Medical College of Virginia and completed his fellowship in Corneal Diseases and Surgery from Wills Eye Hospital.

Jim Schuermann has served as our Chief Business Officer since April 2018. Mr. Schuermann serves as a director of Lumicell, Inc. From 2016 to 2018, Mr. Schuermann served as the Vice President and General Manager of Mechanical Circulatory Support, a business unit of Medtronic plc. From 2007 to 2016, Mr. Schuermann was the Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing of HeartWare Inc. Mr. Schuermann holds a B.S. in Marketing from Indiana University and an M.B.A. in Finance and General Management from Golden Gate University.

Non-Employee Directors

Thomas W. Burns has served as a member of our board of directors since July 2018. Since 2002, Mr. Burns has also been a Chief Executive Officer and director of Glaukos Corporation. Prior to joining Glaukos, Mr. Burns led Eyetech Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which was acquired by OSI Pharmaceuticals, Inc., as its President and Chief Operating Officer, and served as a director in 2001. From 1990 to 1997, Mr. Burns served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Chiron Vision Corporation, which was acquired by Bausch & Lomb, Inc., and then as Vice President of Global Strategy and General Manager of Refractive Surgery of Bausch & Lomb from 1998 to 2000. Mr. Burns received a B.A. from Yale University. Our board of directors believes Mr. Burns’ significant industry experience, corporate management skills and experience qualify him to serve on our board of directors.

Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since November 2015. Dr. Kliman is the Managing Director at InterWest Management Partners X, LLC, where he has led their medical device team since 1999. Dr. Kliman is also the Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of the Ophthalmology Innovation Summit, an ophthalmology business conference. Dr. Kliman serves as a director of publicly held Glaukos Corporation and Restoration Robotics, Inc. and is a former board member of Neuronetics, Inc. Dr. Kliman also serves on the board of several private life science companies. Dr. Kliman received a B.A. from Harvard University, an M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.B.A. from Stanford University. Our board of directors believes Dr. Kliman is qualified to serve on our board of directors due to his experience investing in medical device and technology companies for over two decades.

 

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Garheng Kong, M.D., Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since 2018. In 2013, he founded, and has since served as Managing Partner of, HealthQuest Capital Management Company, LLC, a healthcare venture growth fund focused on medical products, devices, diagnostics, consumer health and healthcare IT. Dr. Kong was a general partner at Sofinnova Ventures, L.L.C., a venture firm focused on life sciences, from September 2010 to December 2013. From May 2000 to September 2010, he worked at Intersouth LLC, LTD., a venture capital firm, serving most recently as a General Partner. Dr. Kong serves as a director of Melinta Therapeutics, Inc., StrongBridge Biopharma plc, Histogenics Corporation, Alimera Sciences, Inc. and Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings. Dr. Kong holds a B.S. from Stanford University and an M.D., Ph.D. and M.B.A. from Duke University. Our board of directors believes that Dr. Kong’s extensive experience in life sciences venture capital provides him with the qualifications to serve on our board of directors.

Hongbo Lu, Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since May 2018. Dr. Lu is a Partner at LAV Agile Limited, an independent global healthcare investment firm that focuses on investment opportunities in the life science and healthcare sectors. Dr. Lu previously served as a Managing Director at OrbiMed Advisors, LLC in Asia from 2011 to 2016. Prior to her work at OrbiMed, Dr. Lu spent more than five years at Piper Jaffray & Co. as an equity analyst. Dr. Lu previously served as a director of Crown Bioscience International. Dr. Lu received a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Washington, an M.B.A. from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and a B.S./M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University in China. Our board of directors believes Dr. Lu’s extensive experience in life sciences provides her with the qualifications to serve on our board of directors.

Robert J. Palmisano has served as a member of our board of directors since May 2014 and as chairman of our board of directors since January 2019. Mr. Palmisano has served as the Chief Executive Officer, President and Executive Director of Wright Medical Group N.V. since September 2011. Prior to joining Wright Medical Group, Mr. Palmisano served as President and Chief Executive Officer of ev3, Inc., a global endovascular device company, from April 2008 to July 2010, when it was acquired by Covidien plc. Mr. Palmisano previously served as a director of Osteotech, Inc., Abbott Medical Options, Inc. and Bausch & Lomb Incorporated. Mr. Palmisano holds a B.A. in Political Science from Providence College and currently serves on its Board of Trustees. Our board of directors believes Mr. Palmisano’s significant industry experience and corporate management experience qualify him to serve on our board of directors.

Jonathan Silverstein has served as a member of our board of directors since November 2015. He is a Partner and a Co-Head of Global Private Equity, at OrbiMed Advisors, LLC. Mr. Silverstein joined OrbiMed in 1999 to focus on private equity and structured transactions in small-capitalization public biotechnology and medical device companies. Mr. Silverstein serves as a director of resTORbio, Inc. and previously served as a director of Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Audentes Therapeutics, Inc., Relypsa Inc., scPharmaceuticals Inc., Glaukos Corporation, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ascendis Pharma, Inc. and Roka Bioscience, Inc. Mr. Silverstein has a J.D. and an M.B.A. from the University of San Diego and a B.A. in Economics from Denison University. Our board of directors believes Mr. Silverstein’s extensive experience in life sciences venture capital provides him with the qualifications to serve on our board of directors.

Donald J. Zurbay has served as a member of our board of directors since September 2017. Since 2018, Mr. Zurbay has been the Chief Financial Officer of Patterson Companies, Inc., a medical supplies conglomerate. Prior to his work at Patterson, Mr. Zurbay served as the Chief Financial Officer of St. Jude Medical Inc. from 2012 to 2017. Mr. Zurbay received his B.Sc. in Business from the University of Minnesota. Our board of directors believes Mr. Zurbay’s extensive experience in life sciences provides him with the qualifications to serve on our board of directors .

Family Relationships

There are no family relationships among any of our executive officers or directors.

 

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Board Composition

Our business and affairs are managed under the direction of our board of directors, which currently consists of eight members. Certain members of our board of directors were elected pursuant to the provisions of a voting agreement among certain of our major stockholders. The voting agreement will terminate upon the closing of this offering and following such termination, none of our stockholders will have any special rights regarding the election or designation of members of our board of directors.

Our board of directors will consist of eight members upon the closing of this offering. In accordance with our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to be filed in connection with this offering, immediately after this offering, our board of directors will be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. At each annual general meeting of stockholders, the successors to directors whose terms then expire will be elected to serve from the time of election and qualification until the third annual meeting following election. Our directors will be divided among the three classes as follows:

 

   

Class I, which will consist of Garheng Kong, Hongbo Lu and Jonathan Silverstein, and will have a term that expires at our first annual meeting of stockholders to be held after the closing of this offering;

 

   

Class II, which will consist of Gilbert H. Kliman and Robert J. Palmisano, and will have a term that expires at our second annual meeting of stockholders to be held after the closing of this offering; and

 

   

Class III, which will consist of Reza Zadno, Donald J. Zurbay and Thomas W. Burns, and will have a term that expires at our third annual meeting of stockholders to be held after the closing of this offering.

Our amended and restated bylaws, which will become effective immediately prior to the closing of this offering, will provide that the authorized number of directors may be changed only by resolution approved by a majority of our board of directors.

We expect that any additional directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors will be distributed among the three classes so that, as nearly as possible, each class will consist of one-third of the directors. The division of our board of directors into three classes with staggered three-year terms may delay or prevent a change of our management or a change in control.

Director Independence

Our board of directors has undertaken a review of the independence of our directors and considered whether any director has a relationship that, in the opinion of the board of directors, would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a member of our board. Based upon information requested from and provided by each director concerning such director’s background, employment and affiliations, including family relationships, our board of directors determined that Messrs. Burns, Palmisano, Silverstein and Zurbay and Drs. Kliman, Kong and Lu , representing seven of our eight directors, are “independent directors” as defined under the standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market. In making these determinations, our board of directors considered the current and prior relationships that each non-employee director has with our company and all other facts and circumstances that our board of directors deemed relevant in determining their independence, including the beneficial ownership of our capital stock by each non-employee director and the transactions involving them described in the section of this prospectus titled “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

Board Committees

Our board of directors has established an audit committee, a compensation committee and a nominating and corporate governance committee, which will be reconstituted in connection with this offering. From time to time, the board may establish other committees to facilitate the management of our business.

 

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Audit Committee

Our audit committee will consist of three directors, Mr. Zurbay, Mr. Palmisano and Dr. Kong, each of whom our board of directors has determined satisfies the independence requirements for audit committee members under the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market and Rule 10A-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. Each member of our audit committee meets the financial literacy requirements of the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market. Mr. Zurbay will be the chairman of the audit committee and our board of directors has determined that Mr. Zurbay is an audit committee “financial expert” as defined by Item 407(d) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act. The principal duties and responsibilities of our audit committee include, among other things:

 

   

selecting a qualified firm to serve as the independent registered public accounting firm to audit our financial statements;

 

   

helping to ensure the independence and performance of the independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

discussing the scope and results of the audit with the independent registered public accounting firm, and reviewing, with management and the independent accountants, our interim and year-end operating results;

 

   

developing procedures for employees to submit concerns anonymously about questionable accounting or audit matters;

 

   

reviewing our policies on risk assessment and risk management;

 

   

reviewing related party transactions;

 

   

obtaining and reviewing a report by the independent registered public accounting firm at least annually, that describes our internal quality-control procedures, any material issues with such procedures, and any steps taken to deal with such issues when required by applicable law; and

 

   

approving (or, as permitted, pre-approving) all audit and all permissible non-audit services, other than de minimis non-audit services, to be performed by the independent registered public accounting firm.

Our audit committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective immediately prior to the closing of this offering, that satisfies the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market.

Compensation Committee

Our compensation committee will consist of three directors, Mr. Burns, Mr. Silverstein and Dr. Kliman, each of whom our board of directors has determined is a non-employee member of our board of directors as defined in Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act. The composition of our compensation committee meets the requirements for independence under current rules and regulations of the SEC and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market. Mr. Burns will be the chairman of the compensation committee. The principal duties and responsibilities of our compensation committee include, among other things:

 

   

reviewing and approving, or recommending that our board of directors approve, the compensation of our executive officers, including evaluating the performance of our chief executive officer and, with his assistance, that of our other executive officers;

 

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reviewing and recommending to our board of directors the compensation of our directors;

 

   

reviewing and approving, or recommending that our board of directors approve, the terms of compensatory arrangements with our executive officers;

 

   

administering our equity and non-equity incentive plans;

 

   

reviewing and approving, or recommending that our board of directors approve, incentive compensation and equity plans; and

 

   

reviewing and establishing general policies relating to compensation and benefits of our employees and reviewing our overall compensation philosophy.

Our compensation committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective immediately prior to the closing of this offering, that satisfies the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

The nominating and corporate governance committee will consist of two directors, Mr. Palmisano and Mr. Zurbay. The composition of our nominating and governance committee meets the requirements for independence under current rules and regulations of the SEC and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market. Mr. Zurbay will be the chairman of the nominating and corporate governance committee. The nominating and corporate governance committee’s responsibilities include, among other things:

 

   

identifying, evaluating and selecting, or recommending that our board of directors approve, nominees for election to our board of directors and its committees;

 

   

evaluating the performance of our board of directors and of individual directors;

 

   

considering and making recommendations to our board of directors regarding the composition of our board of directors and its committees;

 

   

reviewing developments in corporate governance practices;

 

   

evaluating the adequacy of our corporate governance practices and reporting;

 

   

developing and making recommendations to our board of directors regarding corporate governance guidelines and matters; and

 

   

overseeing an annual evaluation of the board’s performance.

Our nominating and governance committee will operate under a written charter, to be effective immediately prior to the closing of this offering, which satisfies the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC and the listing standards of the Nasdaq Stock Market.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

In connection with this offering, we have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, or the Code of Conduct, applicable to all of our employees, executive officers and directors. Following the closing of this offering, the Code of Conduct will be available on our website at www.avedro.com. The nominating and corporate governance committee of our board of directors will be responsible for overseeing the Code of Conduct

 

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and must approve any waivers of the Code of Conduct for employees, executive officers and directors. We expect that any amendments to the Code of Conduct, or any waivers of its requirements, will be disclosed on our website. Information contained in, or accessible through, our website does not constitute a part of, and is not incorporated into, this prospectus.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

None of our executive officers currently serves, or in the past year has served, as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers planned to serve on our board of directors or compensation committee. None of the members of our compensation committee is an officer or employee of our company, nor have they ever been an officer or employee of our company.

Non-Employee Director Compensation

We provide cash and/or equity-based compensation to certain of our independent directors who are not employees or affiliated with our largest investors for the time and effort necessary to serve as a member of our board of directors. In addition, all of our independent directors are entitled to reimbursement of direct expenses incurred in connection with attending meetings of the board or committees thereof.

Non-Employee Director Compensation Policy

In anticipation of this offering and the increased responsibilities of our directors as directors of a public company, our board of directors has adopted a non-employee director compensation policy, pursuant to which each of our directors who is not an employee or consultant of our company will be eligible to receive compensation for service on our board of directors and committees of our board of directors. In January 2019, following market research and advice from its compensation consultant, our board of directors adopted the non-executive director compensation policy, to be effective immediately upon the closing of this offering.

Under this policy, we will pay each of our non-executive directors a cash retainer for service on our board of directors and committees of our board of directors. Our lead independent director also receives an additional cash retainer. These retainers will be payable in arrears in four equal quarterly installments within thirty days after the end of each calendar quarter, provided that the amount of such payment will be prorated for any portion of such quarter that the director is not serving on our board. We will also reimburse our directors for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending board and committee meetings.

Directors will be eligible to receive cash compensation as follows:

 

     Annual Cash
Retainer ($)
 

Annual retainer

     40,000  

Additional retainer for lead independent director

     40,000  

Additional retainer for audit committee chair

     20,000  

Additional retainer for audit committee member

     10,000  

Additional retainer for compensation committee chair

     15,000  

Additional retainer for compensation committee member

     7,500  

Additional retainer for nominating and governance committee chair

     10,000  

Additional retainer for nominating and governance committee member

     5,000  

Equity Compensation

In addition to cash compensation, each non-executive director will be eligible to receive options and/or restricted stock units under the 2019 Equity Incentive Plan. Any options granted under this policy will have a

 

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term of ten years from the date of grant, subject to earlier termination in connection with a termination of service. Vesting schedules for equity awards will be subject to the non-employee director’s continuous service on each applicable vesting date.

Notwithstanding any vesting schedule, for each non-employee director who remains in continuous service with us until immediately prior to the closing of a change in control (as such term is defined in our 2019 Equity Incentive Plan), the shares subject to his or her then-outstanding initial or annual equity awards that were granted pursuant to this policy will become fully vested immediately prior to the closing of such change in control.

Upon the termination of the membership of the non-employee director on the board for any reason, his or her options granted under this policy shall remain exercisable for three months following his or her date of termination (or such longer period as the board may determine in its discretion on or after the date of grant of such options).

Initial Award

Each new non-employee director elected to our board of directors will be granted an initial, one-time equity award of options to purchase our common stock and/or restricted stock units having an aggregate grant date fair value of $180,000, which will vest in three equal annual installments through the third anniversary of the grant date.

Annual Awards

On the date of each annual meeting of stockholders of our company, each non-employee director that continues to serve will be granted an option to purchase shares of our common stock and/or restricted stock units having an aggregate grant date fair value of $115,000, each of which will vest in full on the date that is one year after the grant date. The option awards to our non-employee directors made in January 2019 and described under the heading “—Equity Awards to Our Non-Employee Directors Relating to the Completion of this Offering” are intended to constitute the annual award with respect to 2019.

2018 Director Compensation Table

The following table sets forth information regarding the compensation earned for service on our board of directors during the year ended December 31, 2018 by our directors who were not also our employees. Dr. Zadno, our Chief Executive Officer, is also a member of our board of directors, but did not receive any additional compensation for service as a director. Dr. Zadno’s compensation as an executive officer is set forth in the section titled “Executive Compensation—2018 Summary Compensation Table.”

 

Name

   Fees Earned
or Paid in
Cash ($)
     Option
Awards
($) (1)(2)
     Total ($)  

Thomas W. Burns (3)

            222,119        222,119  

Gilbert H. Kliman

                    

Garheng Kong

                    

Hongbo Lu

                    

Joseph Mandato (4)

                    

Robert J. Palmisano

     40,000        20,327        60,327  

Jonathan Silverstein

                    

Donald J. Zurbay

            20,327        20,327  

 

(1)

This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value for options granted during the fiscal year as computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standard Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, or ASC 718, as stock-based compensation in our financial statements. These amounts do not

 

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  correspond to the actual value that may be recognized by the named executive officers upon vesting or exercise of the applicable awards. The assumptions we used in valuing options are described in Note 13 to our audited financial statements included in this prospectus.
(2)

The table below lists the aggregate number of option awards outstanding for each of our non-employee directors as of December 31, 2018:

 

     Option Awards (#)  

Thomas W. Burns (a)

     496,000 (b)   

Gilbert H. Kliman

      

Garheng Kong

      

Hongbo Lu

      

Joseph Mandato (c)

      

Robert J. Palmisano

     231,510 (d)   

Jonathan Silverstein

      

Donald J. Zurbay

     232,138 (e)   
  (a)

Mr. Burns was appointed to our board of directors on July 18, 2018.

  (b)

Consists of a common stock option grant of 496,000 shares, 51,667 of which had vested and become exercisable as of December 31, 2018, and the remainder of which will continue to vest over a two-year period beginning on July 18, 2018 in 24 equal monthly installments.

  (c)

Mr. Mandato resigned from our board of directors on September 13, 2018.

  (d)

Consists of (i) a common stock option grant of 4,813 shares, one-third of which vested and became exercisable on July 1, 2015, and the remainder of which vested over a two-year period beginning on July 1, 2015 in two equal yearly installments, (ii) a common stock option grant of 125,000 shares, which vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments that began on January 13, 2016, (iii) a common stock option grant of 56,197 shares, one quarter of which vested and became exercisable on June 28, 2018, and the remainder of which vest over a three-year period beginning on June 28, 2018 in 36 equal monthly installments and (iv) a common stock option grant of 45,500 shares, which vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments that began on June 21, 2018.

  (e)

Consists of (i) a common stock option grant of 186,638 shares, one quarter of which vested and became exercisable on June 28, 2018, and the remainder vest over a three-year period beginning on June 28, 2018 in 36 equal monthly installments and (ii) a common stock option grant of 45,500 shares, which vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments beginning on June 21, 2018, each subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(3)

Mr. Burns was appointed to our board of directors on July 18, 2018.

(4)

Mr. Mandato resigned from our board of directors on September 13, 2018.

Equity Awards to Our Non-Employee Directors Relating to the Completion of this Offering

On January 9, 2019, our board of directors, based on the recommendation of our compensation committee, approved the grant of an aggregate of 259,000 options under our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan to our non-employee directors, which will vest upon the earlier of (i) June 1, 2020 or (ii) the first anniversary of the first annual meeting of our stockholders following the date of this offering, subject to continued service through such date, provided that the offering has occurred on such date and provided further that the option will terminate if this offering is not completed by December 31, 2019. For more information regarding these contingent stock option grants to non-employee directors, see “Executive Compensation—Equity Awards Relating to the Completion of this Offering.”

 

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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Our named executive officers for the year ended December 31, 2018, which consists of our principal executive officer and our two other most highly compensated executive officers, are:

 

   

Reza Zadno, President and Chief Executive Officer;

 

   

Rajesh K. Rajpal, M.D., Chief Medical Officer; and

 

   

Jim Schuermann, Chief Business Officer.

2018 Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth information regarding compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to our named executive officers for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2018.

 

Name and Principal Position

  Year     Salary ($)     Stock
Awards
($) (1)
    Option
Awards ($) (2)
    Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($) (3)
    All Other
Compensation
($)
    Total ($)  

Reza Zadno, Ph.D (4) .

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

   

2018

2017

 

 

   

    412,000

400,000

 

 

   

    35,933

—  

 

 

   

    1,007,357

—  

 

 

   

187,460

104,000

 

 

   

77,241

83,840

(5)  

(6)  

 
   

    1,719,991

587,840

 

 

Rajesh K. Rajpal (7)

Chief Medical Officer

    2018       289,479 (8)        3,633       152,900       78,733       24,934 (9)        549,678  

Jim Schuermann (10)

Chief Business Officer

    2018       243,734       —         306,747       78,050       —         628,531  

 

(1)

This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock unit awards granted during the fiscal year as computed in accordance with ASC 718 as stock-based compensation in our financial statements. See “—Outstanding Equity Awards as of December 31, 2018” for a description of the material terms of the restricted stock unit awards.

(2)

This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of options granted during the fiscal year as computed in accordance with ASC 718 as stock-based compensation in our financial statements. These amounts do not correspond to the actual value that may be recognized by the named executive officers upon vesting or exercise of the applicable awards. The assumptions we used in valuing options are described in Note 13 to our audited financial statements and Note 9 to our unaudited financial statements included in this prospectus.

(3)

See “—Narrative to 2018 Summary Compensation Table—Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” below for a description of the material terms of the program pursuant to which this compensation was awarded.

(4)

Dr. Zadno is also a member of our board of directors but did not receive any additional compensation in his capacity as a director.

(5)

Reflects (i) $47,476 for housing reimbursement, $10,876 of which reflects a tax gross-up for rent reimbursement, (ii) $26,705 for commuting expenses reimbursement and (iii) $3,060 for car allowance.

(6)

Reflects (i) $46,969 for housing reimbursement, $10,969 of which reflects a tax gross-up for rent reimbursement, (ii) $30,841 for commuting expenses reimbursement, (iii) $4,030 for car allowance and (iv) a one-time $2,000 payment for an award cancellation.

(7)

Dr. Rajpal was not one of our named executive officers for the year ended December 31, 2017.

(8)

Dr. Rajpal’s employment agreement was amended and restated in February 2018 and again in January 2019, which most recent amendment and restatement will become effective upon completion of this offering. The salary reported represents a pro-rata portion of his salary in 2018. His annualized base salary for 2018 was $350,000. Dr. Rajpal works on an 80% schedule, and his salary is adjusted accordingly.

(9)

Reflects reimbursement for commuting expenses.

 

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(10)

Mr. Schuermann joined us in April 2018. Mr. Schuermann’s employment agreement was entered into in January 2018 and amended and restated in January 2019, which amendment and restatement will become effective upon completion of this offering. The salary reported represents a pro-rata portion of his salary in 2018. His annualized base salary for 2018 was $335,000.

Narrative to 2018 Summary Compensation Table

The compensation committee of our board of directors has historically determined our executives’ compensation and determines the compensation of our named executive officers. Our compensation committee typically reviews and discusses management’s proposed compensation with the Chief Executive Officer for all executives other than the Chief Executive Officer. Based on those discussions and its discretion, the compensation committee then approves the compensation of each executive officer after discussions without members of management present.

Annual Base Salary

The annual base salaries of our named executive officers are generally determined, approved and reviewed periodically by our compensation committee in order to compensate our named executive officers for the satisfactory performance of duties to our company. Annual base salaries are intended to provide a fixed component of compensation to our named executive officers, reflecting their skill sets, experience, roles and responsibilities. Base salaries for our named executive officers have generally been set at levels deemed necessary to attract and retain individuals with superior talent.

The following table sets forth the annual base salaries for each of our named executive officers for 2017, 2018 and 2019, as determined by the compensation committee:

 

Name

 

2017 Annual
Base Salary ($)

   

2018 Annual
Base Salary ($)

   

2019 Annual
Base Salary ($)

 

Reza Zadno

    400,000       412,000       412,000  

Rajesh K. Rajpal

    286,474       350,000       350,000  

Jim Schuermann

    —         335,000       335,000  

Effective upon the consummation of this offering, the base salaries of our named executive officers will be $515,000 for Dr. Zadno, $350,000 for Dr. Rajpal and $335,000 for Mr. Schuermann.

Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation

We seek to motivate and reward our executives for achievements relative to our corporate goals and objectives for each fiscal year. Each of our named executive officers are eligible to receive an annual performance bonus based on the achievement of individual and company-wide annual performance goals as determined by our board of directors. Each officer is assigned a target bonus expressed as a percentage of his base salary. Pursuant to their current employment agreements, the target bonus amounts for Dr. Zadno, Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann are currently set at 50%, 30% and 35%, respectively. The bonus amounts paid to our named executive officers with respect to 2017 reflect the achievement of general corporate objectives, including the availability of reimbursement for our products in the United States, and goals and objectives related to our PiXL procedure and KXL system. The bonus amounts paid to our named executive officers with respect to 2018 reflect the achievement of general corporate objectives, established by the compensation committee in its sole discretion and communicated to each officer. The compensation committee determined that the percentage attainment of our corporate goals for 2018 was 91% and as a result, each of our named executive officers earned a 2018 performance bonus equal to 91% of his target bonus (which, for Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann, was pro-rated for the portion of the year during which they were employed), as reflected in the column of the 2018 Summary Compensation Table above entitled “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation.” Upon consummation

 

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of this offering, the amendment and restatements of our named executive officers’ employment agreements described below under “—Agreements with Our Named Executive Officers” will become effective and the target bonus percentages of our named executive officers will be 75% for Dr. Zadno, 40% for Dr. Rajpal and 50% for Mr. Schuermann.

Actual bonus amounts paid with respect to 2017 and 2018 are reflected in the “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table above.

Outstanding Equity Awards as of December 31, 2018

The following table sets forth certain information about outstanding equity awards granted to our named executive officers that remain outstanding as of December 31, 2018.

 

     Option Awards (1)      Stock Awards  

Name

  

Grant Date

    

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

   

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable

   

Option
Exercise
Price ($)

    

Option
Expiration
Date

    

Number of
Unearned
Shares,
Units or
Other
Rights
That Have
Not
Vested (#)

    

Market or
Payout
Value of
Unearned
Shares,
Units or
Other
Rights
That Have
Not
Vested (#)

 

Reza Zadno

     1/31/2018        1,572,667       766,618 (2)      $ 0.48        1/30/2028        74,860        214,100 (10)   
     7/18/2018        111,706       781,944 (3)      $ 0.83        7/17/2028        —          —    

Rajesh K. Rajpal

     8/12/2011        628 (4)        —       $ 10.34        8/12/2021        7,568        21,644 (10)   
     4/21/2013        314 (5)        —       $ 7.96        4/21/2023        —          —    
     3/24/2016        162,594       73,906 (6)      $ 0.30        3/24/2026        —          —    
     1/31/2018        23,100       87,782 (7)      $ 0.48        1/30/2028        —          —    
     1/31/2018        148,837       87,663 (8)      $ 0.48        1/30/2028        —          —    
     7/18/2018        17,000       119,000 (3)      $ 0.83        7/17/2028        —          —    

Jim Schuermann

     6/21/2018        —         661,711 (9)      $ 0.83        6/20/2028        —          —    

 

(1)

All of the option awards listed in the table above were granted under our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, the terms of which are described below under “— Equity Incentive Plans—2012 Equity Incentive Plan.”

(2)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vested and became exercisable as to 1,025,082 of the shares of common stock underlying the option on February 1, 2018 and as to the remainder of the shares of common stock underlying the option, vest and become exercisable over a two-year period in 24 equal monthly installments beginning on March 1, 2018, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(3)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments commencing on June 21, 2018, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(4)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vested and became exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments commencing on June 22, 2011, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(5)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vested and became exercisable over a three-year period as to 33.33% of the shares of common stock underlying the option on March 11, 2014 and as to 66.66% of the shares of common stock underlying the option in two equal annual installments thereafter, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(6)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments commencing on March 16, 2016, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(7)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments commencing on February 1, 2018, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

 

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(8)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vested and became exercisable as to 86,220 of the shares of common stock underlying the option on February 1, 2018 and vest and become exercisable as to the remainder of the shares of common stock underlying the option over a two-year period in 24 equal monthly installments beginning on March 1, 2018, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(9)

The shares of common stock underlying this option vest and become exercisable over a four-year period as to 25% of the shares of common stock underlying the option on April 8, 2019 and as to 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the option in 36 equal monthly installments thereafter, subject to the recipient’s continued service through each vesting date.

(10)

The amounts in this column reflect grants of restricted stock units, or the RSU Awards. The RSU Awards include both a liquidity event-based vesting requirement and service-based vesting requirement. The liquidity event-based requirement must occur before January 31, 2025, and will be satisfied on the first to occur of: (1) a change in control within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code Section 409A or (2) the effective date of a registration statement we file under the Securities Act for the sale of our common stock. The service-based requirement vested with respect to 50% of the grant on February 1, 2018, with the remainder vesting in eight equal quarterly installments over a two-year period for each quarter of continuous service thereafter. The RSU Awards are denominated in shares of common stock. As of December 31, 2018, none of the RSU Awards have vested as the liquidity event-based requirement has not been satisfied. The liquidity event-based requirement will be satisfied upon completion of this offering. The market values set forth above are based on the fair market value of our common stock of $2.86 per share as of December 31, 2018.

See “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control” for a description of vesting acceleration applicable to stock options held by our named executive officers.

We may in the future, on an annual basis or otherwise, grant additional equity awards to our executive officers pursuant to our equity incentive plans, the terms of which are described below under “—Equity Incentive Plans.”

Equity Awards Relating to the Completion of this Offering

On January 9, 2019, our board of directors, based on the recommendation of our compensation committee, approved grants of an aggregate of 2,666,000 options under our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, to our named executive officers, non-employee directors, certain of our employees and a consultant, exercisable contingent upon the completion of this offering, at an exercise price equal to $2.86 per share. The exercise price was based on a contemporaneous third-party valuation as of December 31, 2018. Of these option grants, 1,630,000 options will be granted to our named executive officers, with a grant date fair value of approximately $2.7 million, and 259,000 options will be granted to our non-employee directors, with a grant date fair value of approximately $0.4 million. The options granted to our named executive officers and non-employee directors will not be eligible to vest or become exercisable unless and until the date that we complete this offering, subject to the option holder’s continued service through such vesting date.

The options granted to our executive officers will vest in 48 equal monthly installments over a four-year period for each month of continuous service beginning on January 20, 2019, which is the first monthly anniversary of the vesting commencement date of such options, subject to the named executive officer’s continuous service through such date. In the event that this offering occurs after the date that any portion of the option would have otherwise vested, such portion will vest on the date that the offering is completed. Furthermore, if this offering is not completed by December 31, 2019, the option will terminate.

The options granted to our non-employee directors will vest on the earlier of (x) June 1, 2020 and (y) the first anniversary of the first annual meeting of our stockholders following the completion of this offering, subject to the non-employee director’s continued service through such date. Furthermore, if this offering is not completed by December 31, 2019, the option will terminate.

 

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Additional terms of the option grants to our named executive officers and non-employee directors are as follows:

 

   

In the event that the completion of this offering occurs after the date that any portion of the option would have otherwise vested, then on the date that this offering is completed, only the remainder of the shares subject to the option will continue to vest. However, if this offering is not completed on or before December 31, 2019, the option will terminate and may no longer be exercised.

 

   

The options will accelerate in accordance with our standard form of stock option agreement and grant notice or in accordance with the named executive officer’s or non-employee director’s employment agreement, as applicable, forms of which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. See “—2012 Equity Incentive Plan” for a description of vesting acceleration applicable to stock options granted under our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan and “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control” below for a description of vesting acceleration applicable to stock options held by our named executive officers.

Agreements with Our Named Executive Officers

We have employment agreements with each of our named executive officers. These agreements provide for base salaries and incentive compensation, and each component reflects the scope of each named executive officer’s anticipated responsibilities and the individual experience they bring to the company. The employment of each of our named executive officers is “at will” and may be terminated at any time. In addition, each of our named executive officers has executed a form of our standard proprietary information and inventions agreement. The material terms of each agreement are described below.

Reza Zadno . We entered into an employment agreement with Dr. Zadno in September 2016 in connection with his appointment as our permanent Chief Executive Officer, which was amended and restated in January 2019, effective upon the completion of this offering. The agreement provides for an initial base salary, bonus opportunity and equity award grants. Pursuant to the agreement, we agreed to grant to Dr. Zadno options to purchase shares of our common stock, subject to approval by our board of directors, consisting of two grants: (i) an option to purchase 236,500 shares of our common stock, or the Interim CEO Grant, granted in recognition of Dr. Zadno’s role as interim Chief Executive Officer and (ii) an option to purchase 2,105,885 shares of our common stock, or the CEO Grant, granted in connection with Dr. Zadno’s appointment as our permanent Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Zadno agreed to cancel and terminate these options in consideration of the payment noted in the 2018 Summary Compensation Table.

The amended and restated agreement acknowledges the grant to Dr. Zadno on January 9, 2019 of an option to purchase 1,190,000 shares of our common stock, as well as the equity awards noted in the table of Outstanding Equity Awards as of December 31, 2018. These January 2019 options will not vest or become exercisable until the date that we complete this offering, subject to Dr. Zadno’s continued service through the vesting date.

In addition, under both the current employment agreement and the amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon the completion of this offering, we have also agreed to reimburse Dr. Zadno for reasonable travel expenses incurred in connection with his weekly travel from his home in California to our offices in Massachusetts, including the cost of a corporate apartment and a corporate car, as well as an additional amount that Dr. Zadno retains, on an after-tax basis, which is otherwise reimbursable. Dr. Zadno has also agreed not to compete with us or to solicit customers or employees during the term of his employment and for the one-year period following his termination of employment. Dr. Zadno’s current employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon the completion of this offering also provide for certain severance and change of control benefits, the terms of which are described below under “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control.”

 

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Rajesh K. Rajpal. We entered into an employment agreement with Dr. Rajpal in March 2016 in connection with the commencement of his part-time employment as our Chief Medical Officer. In February 2018, we amended and restated Dr. Rajpal’s employment agreement. Most recently, we amended and restated Dr. Rajpal’s employment agreement in January 2019, which amendment and restatement will become effective upon completion of this offering. Both the February 2018 and January 2019 amended and restated employment agreements provide for a base salary, bonus opportunity and equity award grants and acknowledge the grant to Dr. Rajpal of 236,500 shares of our common stock pursuant to his employment agreement of March 2016. Twenty-five percent of the grant vested and became exercisable in March 2017, and the remainder vests monthly in 48 equal installments, subject to Dr. Rajpal’s continued employment with us. Dr. Rajpal has also agreed not to compete with us or to solicit customers or employees during the term of his employment and for the one-year period following his termination of employment. Dr. Rajpal’s February 2018 amended and restated agreement and January 2019 amended and restated agreement also provide for certain severance and change of control benefits, the terms of which are described below under “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control.”

Jim Schuermann. We entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Schuermann in January 2018 in connection with the commencement of his employment as our Chief Business Officer. In January 2019, we amended and restated Mr. Schuermann’s employment agreement, which amendment and restatement will become effective upon completion of this offering. The agreement provides for a base salary, bonus opportunity and equity award grants. Under both the current employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon the completion of this offering, we agreed to grant Mr. Schuermann an option to purchase 661,711 shares of our common stock, subject to approval by our board of directors. Twenty-five percent of the grant will vest and become exercisable in April 2019, and the remainder will vest monthly in 48 equal installments, subject to Mr. Schuermann’s continued employment with us. Mr. Schuermann has also agreed not to compete with us for the longer of the three-month period following his termination of employment and the period that he receives severance benefits from us, or to solicit customers or employees during the term of his employment and for the one-year period following his termination of employment. Mr. Schuermann’s current employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon the completion of this offering also provide for certain severance and change of control benefits, the terms of which are described below under “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control.”

Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control

Regardless of the manner in which a named executive officer’s service terminates, each named executive officer is entitled to receive amounts earned during his term of service, including salary.

Reza Zadno . Pursuant to his employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, if Dr. Zadno’s service with us ends due to his termination “without cause” he is entitled to (1) continued payment of his base salary for 12 months following his termination, less applicable withholdings and deductions, (2) accelerated vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards, to the extent that such awards are subject to time-based vesting, such that 50% of the then unvested-shares will be deemed fully vested and exercisable, (3) a lump sum cash amount equivalent to a prorated portion of his annual target bonus and (4) assuming timely election for continued coverage following termination, payments of premiums for continued health benefits under COBRA until the earliest of (a) 12 months following the termination date, (b) the date of eligibility for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment and (c) the date that eligibility for continued COBRA coverage ceases. In addition, pursuant to his employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, if Dr. Zadno’s service with us ends due to his resignation with “good reason,” he is entitled to the severance payments and benefits described in the preceding sentence.

Pursuant to his current employment agreement, Dr. Zadno is also entitled to the severance payments and benefits described in the preceding paragraph if his service ends with us due to termination “without cause” and

 

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not due to death or “disability” or for “good reason”, immediately before or within 12 months immediately following a “change in control,” provided, that, the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards, to the extent that such awards are subject to time-based vesting, will be accelerated in full and the cash severance component payable in lump sum.

Pursuant to Dr. Zadno’s amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, if Dr. Zadno’s service with us ends due to his termination “without cause” and not due to death or “disability” or for “good reason,” within three months before or within 18 months immediately following a “change in control,” then, in lieu of the above, he is entitled to (1) a lump-sum payment equal to (a) 18 months of his then-current base salary termination, plus (b) one and one-half times his annual target bonus for the year of termination, (2) accelerated vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards, to the extent that such awards are subject to time-based vesting, and (3) assuming timely election for continued coverage following termination, payments of premiums for continued health benefits under COBRA until the earliest of (a) 18 months following the termination date, (b) the date of eligibility for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment and (c) the date that eligibility for continued COBRA coverage ceases.

Dr. Zadno’s severance payments and benefits under both his employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon the completion of this offering are, in all events, conditioned on his, among other things, giving notice following a cure period, as applicable, returning all our property, complying with his post-resignation or post-termination obligations under the applicable agreement, including any non-disparagement and confidentiality obligations contained therein, and signing a general release of claims against us.

For purposes of Dr. Zadno’s employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, “cause” means (1) any material breach of such agreement, the proprietary information and inventions agreement or any other written agreement between Dr. Zadno and us, if such breach causes material harm or reasonably threatens to cause such harm to us, (2) any material failure to comply with our written policies or rules, as they may be in effect from time to time during the employment, if such failure causes material harm to us, and to the extent it is curable by Dr. Zadno, is not cured within 30 days after written notice thereof is given by us, (3) commission, conviction of or a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to a felony under the laws of the United States or any state, (4) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act having the effect of materially injuring (whether financially or otherwise) our business or reputation, which to the extent it is curable by Dr. Zadno, is not cured within 30 days after written notice thereof is given by us or (5) willful misconduct with respect to any of Dr. Zadno’s material duties or obligations under such agreement, including, without limitation, willful insubordination with respect to reasonable directions from the board of directors which, to the extent curable by Dr. Zadno, is not cured within 30 days after written notice thereof is given by us.

For purposes of Dr. Zadno’s employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, “good reason” means the occurrence of any of the following events without Dr. Zadno’s consent: (1) a material reduction in base salary, other than an across-the-board decrease in base salary applicable to all executive officers), (2) a material breach of the agreement by us, (3) a material reduction in the duties, authority and responsibilities relative to Dr. Zadno’s duties, authority and responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction or (4) the relocation of Dr. Zadno’s then-principal place of employment, without his consent, in a manner that lengthens his one-way commute distance by 50 or more miles from his then-current principal place of employment immediately prior to such relocation; provided that, any such termination will only be deemed for good reason pursuant to this definition if: (1) Dr. Zadno gives us written notice of his intent to terminate for good reason within 30 days following the first occurrence of the conditions that he believes constitutes good reason, which notice will describe such conditions; (2) we fail to remedy such conditions within 30 days following receipt of the written notice and (3) Dr. Zadno voluntarily terminates his employment within 30 days following the end of the period called for by the preceding clause (2). For purposes of Dr. Zadno’s employment agreement and amended and

 

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restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, “change in control” has the meaning provided in our 2012 Plan.

For purposes of Dr. Zadno’s employment agreement and amended and restated employment agreement to become effective upon completion of this offering, “disability” means a physical or mental condition that prevents Dr. Zadno from performing the essential functions of his position with or without reasonable accommodation for six months in the aggregate during any 12-month period or based on the written certification by two licensed physicians of the likely continuation of such condition for such period. This definition is interpreted and applied consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act and other applicable law.

Rajesh K. Rajpal and Jim Schuermann. The current employment agreements entered into with Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann and their amended and restated employment agreements to become effective upon completion of this offering described above under “—Agreements with our Named Executive Officers” contain severance benefits. The current employment agreements and the amended and restated employment agreements to become effective upon the completion of this offering provide that, if Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann are terminated without “cause” or resign with “good reason” (as such terms are defined in the applicable agreement) and such executive executes a release in a customary form presented by us, he is entitled to (1) continued payment of his base salary for eight months following such executive’s termination, less applicable withholdings and deductions and (2) assuming timely election for continued coverage following termination, payment premiums for continued health benefits under COBRA until the earliest of (a) eight months following the termination date, (b) the date of eligibility for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment and (c) the date that eligibility for continued COBRA coverage ceases.

Pursuant to their current employment agreements, if Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann are terminated “without cause” or resign with “good reason” within three months before or within 12 months immediately following a “change in control” (as defined in the 2012 Plan), which constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), then we will pay or provide such executive with the benefits described above, provided that, the severance benefits will in all instances be calculated using 12 months instead of eight months. Additionally, (1) the severance payment based on the executive’s salary will be paid as a lump sum, (2) the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options or awards, to the extent that such awards are subject to time-based vesting, will be accelerated in full and (3) we will pay such executive a lump sum cash amount equivalent to the executive’s annual bonus, prorated based on the number of days the executive was employed during the year.

Pursuant to their amended and restated employment agreements to become effective upon completion of this offering, if Dr. Rajpal and Mr. Schuermann are terminated “without cause” or resign with “good reason” within three months before or within 12 months immediately following a “change in control” (as defined in the 2012 Plan), which constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), such named executive officer is entitled to (1) a lump-sum payment equal to (a) 12 months of his then current base salary plus (b) one time his annual target bonus for the year of termination, and (2) assuming timely election for continued coverage following termination, payment premiums for continued health benefits under COBRA until the earliest of (a) 12 months following the termination date, (b) the date of eligibility for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment and (c) the date that eligibility for continued COBRA coverage ceases. Additionally the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options or awards, to the extent that such awards are subject to time-based vesting, will be accelerated in full.

Dr. Rajpal’s and Mr. Schuermann’s severance payments and benefits under both their current employment agreements and amended and restated employment agreements to become effective upon the completion of this offering are, in all events, conditioned on the executive, among other things, giving notice following a cure period (as applicable), returning all our property, complying with his post-resignation or post-

 

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termination obligations under the applicable agreement, including any non-disparagement and confidentiality obligations contained therein, and signing a general release of claims against us.

Equity Incentive Plans

The principal features of our equity incentive plans are summarized below. These summaries are qualified in their entirety by reference to the actual text of the plans, which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

2019 Equity Incentive Plan

We expect that, prior to the closing of this offering, our board of directors will adopt and our stockholders will approve our 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, or 2019 Plan. The 2019 Plan will become effective immediately upon the date of execution of the underwriting agreement for this offering, at which point no further grants will be made under our 2012 Plan, as described in “—2012 Equity Incentive Plan.” No awards have been granted and no shares of our common stock have been issued under our 2019 Plan. Our 2019 Plan will provide for the grant of stock options qualifying as incentive stock options, or ISOs, within the meaning of Section 422 of U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, to our employees and for the grant of nonstatutory stock options, or NSOs, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, stock appreciation rights, performance stock awards and other forms of stock compensation to our employees, consultants and directors. Our 2019 Plan will also provide for the grant of performance cash awards to our employees, consultants and directors.

Authorized Shares. The number of shares of our common stock initially reserved for issuance under our 2019 Plan is the sum of (1)                      shares of our common stock, (ii) up to                      shares reserved, and remaining available for issuance under our 2012 Plan when the 2019 Plan becomes effective and (iii) any shares of our common stock subject to outstanding awards under our 2012 Plan and 2003 Plan when the 2019 Plan becomes effective that thereafter expire or are forfeited, canceled, withheld to satisfy tax withholding or to purchase or exercise an award, repurchased by us or are otherwise terminated. The number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under our 2019 Plan will automatically increase on January 1 of each year, for a period of ten years, from January 1, 2020 continuing through January 1, 2029, by    % of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, or a lesser number of shares as may be determined by our board of directors. The maximum number of shares that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of ISOs under the 2019 Plan is                .

Shares issued under our 2019 Plan may be authorized but unissued or reacquired shares of our common stock. Shares subject to stock awards granted under our 2019 Plan that expire or terminate without being exercised in full, or that are paid out in cash rather than in shares, will not reduce the number of shares available for issuance under our 2019 Plan. Additionally, shares issued pursuant to stock awards under our 2019 Plan that we repurchase or that are forfeited, as well as shares reacquired by us as consideration for the exercise or purchase price of a stock award or to satisfy tax withholding obligations related to a stock award, will become available for future grant under our 2019 Plan.

Administration. Our board of directors, or a duly authorized committee thereof, has the authority to administer our 2019 Plan. Our board of directors has delegated its authority to administer our 2019 Plan to our compensation committee under the terms of the compensation committee’s charter. Our board of directors may also delegate to one or more of our officers the authority to (1) designate employees other than officers to receive specified stock awards and (2) determine the number of shares of our common stock to be subject to such stock awards. Subject to the terms of our 2019 Plan, the administrator has the authority to determine the terms of awards, including recipients, the exercise price or strike price of stock awards, if any, the number of shares subject to each stock award, the fair market value of a share of our common stock, the vesting schedule applicable to the awards, together with any vesting acceleration, the form of consideration, if any, payable upon

 

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exercise or settlement of the stock award and the terms and conditions of the award agreements for use under our 2019 Plan.

The administrator has the power to modify outstanding awards under our 2019 Plan. Subject to the terms of our 2019 Plan, the administrator has the authority to reprice any outstanding option or stock award, cancel and re-grant any outstanding option or stock award in exchange for new stock awards, cash or other consideration or take any other action that is treated as a repricing under generally accepted accounting principles, with the consent of any adversely affected participant.

Limitation on Grants to Non-Employee Directors. The maximum number of shares of our common stock subject to awards granted under our 2019 Plan or otherwise during a single calendar year to any of our non-employee directors, taken together with any cash fees paid by us to such non-employee director during the calendar year for serving on our board, will not exceed $            in total value (the value of any such stock awards to be based on their grant date fair market value for financial reporting purposes) or, with respect to the calendar year in which a non-employee director is first appointed or elected to our board, $                .

Corporate Transactions. Our 2019 Plan provides that in the event of a specified corporate transaction, including without limitation a consolidation, merger, or similar transaction involving our company, the sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of our company or the consolidated assets of our company and our subsidiaries or a sale or disposition of more than 50% of the outstanding capital stock of our company, the administrator will determine how to treat each outstanding stock award. The administrator may:

 

   

arrange for the assumption, continuation or substitution of a stock award by a successor corporation;

 

   

arrange for the assignment of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us to a successor corporation;

 

   

accelerate the vesting of the stock award and provide for its termination prior to the effective time of the corporate transaction;

 

   

arrange for the lapse, in whole or in part, of any reacquisition or repurchase right held by us;

 

   

cancel the stock award prior to the transaction in exchange for such cash consideration, if any, that the administrator in its discretion determines to be appropriate; or

 

   

make a payment in a form determined by the administrator equal to the excess of the value of the property the participant would have received upon exercise of the stock award immediately prior to the transaction over the exercise price payable in connection with the stock award.

The administrator is not obligated to treat all stock awards or portions of stock awards, even those that are of the same type, in the same manner. The administrator may take different actions with respect to the vested and unvested portions of a stock award.

Change in Control.     The administrator may provide, in an individual award agreement or in any other written agreement between us and the participant, that the stock award will be subject to additional acceleration of vesting and exercisability in the event of a change in control. Under our 2019 Plan, a change in control is generally (1) the acquisition by a person or entity of more than 50% of our combined voting power other than by merger, consolidation or similar transaction, (2) a consummated merger, consolidation or similar transaction immediately after which our stockholders cease to own more than 50% of the combined voting power of the surviving entity, (3) a consummated sale, lease or exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of our consolidated assets or (4) certain dissolutions, liquidations and changes in our board of directors. In the absence of such a provision, no such acceleration of the stock award will occur.

 

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Amendment or Termination.      Our board has the authority to amend, suspend, or terminate our 2019 Plan, provided that such action does not materially impair the existing rights of any participant without such participant’s written consent. No ISOs may be granted after the tenth anniversary of the date our board of directors adopts our 2019 Plan.

2012 Equity Incentive Plan

Our board of directors adopted and our stockholders approved our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, or 2012 Plan, in October 2012. Our 2012 Plan was amended most recently in January 2019. The 2012 Plan provides for the discretionary grant of ISOs, nonstatutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards to our employees, directors and consultants or our affiliates. ISOs may be granted only to our employees or employees of our affiliates.

The 2012 Plan will be frozen following the date the 2019 Plan becomes effective. Any outstanding options granted under the 2012 Plan will remain outstanding, subject to the terms of our 2012 Plan and stock option agreements, until such outstanding options are exercised or until they terminate or expire by their terms.

Authorized Shares. The maximum aggregate number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under our 2012 Plan is 16,580,792 shares of common stock. The maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued upon the exercise of ISOs under our 2012 Plan is 16,580,792 shares of common stock. As of September 30, 2018 but after giving effect to a 2,844,500 share increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance under our 2012 Plan and the grant of awards covering 2,844,500 shares of common stock, each approved on January 9, 2019, 2,098,836 shares of our common stock have been issued pursuant to the exercise of options granted under our 2012 Plan, options to purchase 13,986,630 shares of common stock were outstanding at a weighted average exercise price of $1.08 per share, 82,428 shares of common stock are issuable upon settlement of restricted stock units and 412,898 shares of common stock were available for future grants under our 2012 Plan.

Plan Administration . Our board of directors or a duly authorized committee of our board of directors administers our 2012 Plan and the stock awards granted under it. Our board of directors may also delegate to one or more of our officers the authority to (1) designate officers and employees to receive specified stock awards and (2) determine the number of shares subject to such stock awards. Subject to the terms of our 2012 Plan, the board of directors has the authority to determine the terms of the awards, including recipients, the exercise, purchase or strike price of stock awards, if any, the number of shares subject to each stock award, the fair market value of a share of our common stock, the vesting schedule applicable to the awards, together with any vesting acceleration and the form of consideration, if any, payable upon exercise or settlement of the award and the terms of the award agreements for use under our 2012 Plan.

The board of directors has the power to modify outstanding awards under our 2012 Plan. The board of directors has the authority to reprice any outstanding option or stock appreciation right, cancel any outstanding stock award in exchange for new stock awards, cash or other consideration or take any other action that is treated as a repricing under GAAP, with the consent of any adversely affected participant.

Stock Options . Incentive and nonstatutory stock options are granted pursuant to stock option agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the 2012 Plan, provided that the exercise price of a stock option generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant; provided, however, that an incentive stock option held by a participant who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of our stock must have an exercise price of at least 110% of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date. Options granted under the 2012 Plan vest at the rate specified by the plan administrator.

The plan administrator determines the term of stock options granted under the 2012 Plan, up to a maximum of ten years; provided, however, that an incentive stock option held by a participant who owns more

 

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than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock may not have a term in excess of five years. Unless the terms of an option holder’s stock option agreement provide otherwise, if an option holder’s service relationship with us, or any of our affiliates, ceases for any reason other than disability, death or cause, the option holder may generally exercise any vested options for a period of three months following the cessation of service. The option term may be extended in the event that exercise of the option following such a termination of service is prohibited by applicable securities laws or our insider trading policy. If an option holder’s service relationship with us or any of our affiliates ceases due to disability or death or an optionholder dies within a certain period following cessation of service, the optionholder or a beneficiary may generally exercise any vested options for a period of 12 months in the event of disability and 18 months in the event of death. In the event of a termination for cause, options generally terminate immediately. In no event may an option be exercised beyond the expiration of its term.

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of common stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the plan administrator and may include (1) cash, check, bank draft or money order, (2) a deferred payment or similar arrangement, (3) the tender of shares of our common stock previously owned by the optionholder, (4) a net exercise of the option if it is an nonqualified stock option and (5) other legal consideration approved by the plan administrator.

Certain Adjustments . In the event of certain changes made in our common stock, appropriate adjustments will be made in the number and class of shares that may be delivered under the 2012 Plan and/or the number, class and price of shares covered by each outstanding award and the numerical share limits contained in the 2012 Plan.

Dissolution and Liquidation . In the event of our proposed winding up, liquidation or dissolution, the plan administrator will notify participants as soon as practicable and all awards will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed transaction.

Corporate Transactions . Our 2012 Plan provides that in the event of certain specified significant corporate transactions, as defined under our 2012 Plan, each outstanding award will be treated as the plan administrator determines. The plan administrator may (1) arrange for the assumption, continuation or substitution of a stock award by a successor corporation, or the acquiring corporation’s parent company; (2) arrange for the assignment of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us to a successor corporation, or the acquiring corporation’s parent company; (3) accelerate the vesting, in whole or in part, of the stock award and provide for its termination prior to the transaction; (4) arrange for the lapse, in whole in or in part, of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us; (5) cancel or arrange for the cancellation of the stock award, to the extent not vested or not exercised prior to the effective date of the transaction, prior to the transaction in exchange for a cash payment, if any, determined by the board or (6) make a payment in such form as determined by the board of directors equal to the excess of the value of the property that would have been received immediately prior to the effective time of the transaction and the exercise price. The plan administrator is not obligated to treat all stock awards or portions of stock awards, even those that are of the same type, in the same manner.

Transferability . Unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator, a participant may not transfer stock awards under our 2012 Plan other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution, or as otherwise provided under our 2012 Plan, and may be exercised only by such participant.

Plan Amendment or Termination . Our board of directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate our 2012 Plan, provided that such action is approved by our stockholders to the extent stockholder approval is necessary and that such action does not impair the existing rights of any participant without such participant’s written consent. As described above, our 2012 Plan will be frozen upon the date of the prospectus and no future stock awards will be granted thereunder; provided that the 2012 Plan will continue to govern the terms and conditions of awards originally granted under the 2012 Plan. Following the consummation of the initial public offering, we expect to make future awards under our 2019 Plan.

 

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2003 Stock Plan

Our board of directors adopted, and our stockholders approved, our 2003 Stock Plan, or 2003 Plan, in April 2003. Our 2003 Plan allowed for the grant of ISOs to our employees, and for the grant of NSOs and stock purchase rights to employees, officers, directors and consultants. Our 2003 Plan terminated pursuant to its terms in April 2013 and after termination, no further stock awards were to be granted under our 2003 Plan. All outstanding stock awards under our 2003 Plan will continue to be governed by their existing terms.

Authorized Shares . As of September 30, 2018, options to purchase 11,032 shares of common stock were outstanding at a weighted average exercise price of $8.58 per share. As of September 30, 2018, no shares of our common stock are issuable upon the settlement of stock purchase rights.

Plan Administration . Our board of directors, or a committee thereof appointed by our board of directors, administers our 2003 Plan and the stock awards granted under it. Subject to the terms of our 2003 Plan, the plan administrator has the authority to take any actions it deems necessary or advisable for the administration of the 2003 Plan, including to modify outstanding stock awards under our 2003 Plan.

The board of directors has the power to modify outstanding awards under our 2003 Plan. The board of directors has the authority to reprice any outstanding option, cancel any outstanding stock award in exchange for new stock awards, cash or other consideration or take any other action that is treated as a repricing under GAAP, with the consent of any adversely affected participant.

Stock Options . Incentive and nonstatutory stock options are granted pursuant to stock option agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for a stock option, within the terms and conditions of the 2003 Plan, provided that the exercise price of a stock option generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant; provided, however, that an incentive stock option held by a participant who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of our stock must have an exercise price of at least 110% of the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date. Options granted under the 2003 Plan vest at the rate specified by the plan administrator.

The plan administrator determines the term of stock options granted under the 2003 Plan, up to a maximum of ten years; provided, however, that an incentive stock option held by a participant who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock may not have a term in excess of five years.

Awards or Sales of Shares. Awards or sales of shares may be made under the 2003 Plan subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the 2003 Plan and other terms and conditions as the plan administrator deems appropriate. Such shares shall be subject to forfeiture conditions, repurchase rights and other rights and restrictions as the plan administrator may determine.

Certain Adjustments . In the event of certain changes made in our common stock, appropriate adjustments will be made in the number and class of shares that may be delivered under the 2003 Plan and/or the number, class and price of shares covered by each outstanding award and the numerical share limits contained in the 2003 Plan.

Corporate Transactions . Our 2003 Plan provides that in the event of certain specified significant corporate transactions, as defined under our 2003 Plan, each outstanding award will be treated as the plan administrator determines. The plan administrator may (1) arrange for the continuation of our stock awards (if we are the surviving corporation); (2) arrange for the assumption of the 2003 Plan and any outstanding options by the successor corporation, or the successor corporation’s parent company; (3) arrange for the substitution by the successor corporation or the successor corporation’s parent company; (4) arrange for the full exercisability of the outstanding options and full vesting of the common stock subject to the options, followed by cancellation of such options or (5) arrangement for the settlement of the full value of outstanding options (whether or not then exercisable) in cash or cash equivalents, followed by the cancellation of the options.

 

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Transferability . Unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator, a participant may not transfer option awards under our 2003 Plan other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under our 2003 Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a participant may transfer a nonstatutory option award under the 2003 Plan by (1) gift to the participant’s immediate family or (2) gift to an inter vivos or testamentary trust in which members of the participant’s immediate family have a beneficial interest of more than 50% and which provides that such nonstatutory option is to be transferred to the beneficiaries upon the participant’s death. An incentive stock option may be exercised only by the participant.

Plan Amendment or Termination . Our board of directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate our 2003 Plan, provided that such action is approved by our stockholders to the extent it (1) increases the number of shares available for issuance under the 2003 Plan or (2) materially changes the class of persons who are eligible for grants of incentive stock options. As described above, our 2003 Plan terminated pursuant to its terms in April 2013.

2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

We expect that our board of directors will adopt and our stockholders will approve prior to the closing of this offering our 2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or our ESPP. The ESPP will become effective immediately prior to the date of execution of the underwriting agreement for this offering. The purpose of the ESPP is to secure the services of new employees, to retain the services of existing employees and to provide incentives for such individuals to exert maximum efforts toward our success. The ESPP is intended to qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” within the meaning of Section 423 of the Code.

Share Reserve . The maximum number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under our ESPP is                  shares. Additionally, the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance will automatically increase on January 1 of each calendar year, from January 1, 2020 (assuming the ESPP becomes effective in 2019) through January 1, 2029, by the lesser of (1)    % of the total number of shares of our common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding calendar year and (2)            shares; provided, that prior to the date of any such increase, our board of directors may determine that such increase will be less than the amount set forth in clauses (1) and (2). If purchase rights granted under the ESPP terminate without having been exercised, the shares of our common stock not purchased under such purchase rights will again become available for issuance under the ESPP.

Administration. Our board of directors intends to delegate concurrent authority to administer the ESPP to our compensation committee. The ESPP is implemented through a series of offerings under which eligible employees are granted purchase rights to purchase shares of our common stock on specified dates during such offerings. Under the ESPP, we may specify offerings with durations of not more than 27 months, and may specify shorter purchase periods within each offering. Each offering will have one or more purchase dates on which shares of our common stock will be purchased for employees participating in the offering. An offering under the ESPP may be terminated under certain circumstances.

Payroll Deductions . Generally, all regular employees, including executive officers, employed by us or by any of our designated affiliates, may participate in the ESPP and may contribute, normally through payroll deductions, up to 15% of their earnings (as defined in the ESPP) for the purchase of our common stock under the ESPP. Unless otherwise determined by our board of directors, common stock will be purchased for the accounts of employees participating in the ESPP at a price per share equal to the lower of (i) 85% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the first trading date of an offering or (ii) 85% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of purchase.

Limitations . Employees may have to satisfy one or more of the following service requirements before participating in the ESPP, as determined by our board of directors, including: (1) being customarily employed for more than 20 hours per week, (2) being customarily employed for more than five months per calendar year or

 

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(3) continuous employment with us or one of our affiliates for a period of time (not to exceed two years). No employee may purchase shares under the ESPP at a rate in excess of $25,000 worth of our common stock based on the fair market value per share of our common stock at the beginning of an offering for each year such a purchase right is outstanding. Finally, no employee will be eligible for the grant of any purchase rights under the ESPP if immediately after such rights are granted, such employee has voting power over 5% or more of our outstanding capital stock measured by vote or value pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code.

Changes to Capital Structure . In the event that there occurs a change in our capital structure through such actions as a stock split, merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, reincorporation, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, large nonrecurring cash dividend, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure or similar transaction, the board of directors will make appropriate adjustments to (1) the number of shares reserved under the ESPP, (2) the maximum number of shares by which the share reserve may increase automatically each year, (3) the number of shares and purchase price applicable to all outstanding offerings and purchase rights and (4) the number of shares that are subject to purchase limits under ongoing offerings.

Corporate Transactions . In the event of certain significant corporate transactions, including (1) a sale of all or substantially all of our assets, (2) the sale or disposition of more than 50% of our outstanding securities, (3) the consummation of a merger or consolidation where we do not survive the transactions and (4) the consummation of a merger or consolidation where we do survive the transaction but the shares of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to such transaction are converted or exchanged into other property by virtue of the transaction, any then-outstanding rights to purchase our stock under the ESPP may be assumed, continued or substituted for by any surviving or acquiring entity (or its parent company). If the surviving or acquiring entity (or its parent company) elects not to assume, continue or substitute for such purchase rights, then the participants’ accumulated payroll contributions will be used to purchase shares of our common stock within ten business days prior to such corporate transaction, and such purchase rights will terminate immediately.

Amendments or Termination . Our board of directors has the authority to amend or terminate our ESPP, provided that except in certain circumstances such amendment or termination may not materially impair any outstanding purchase rights without the holder’s consent. We will obtain stockholder approval of any amendment to our ESPP, as required by applicable law or listing requirements.

401(k) Plan

We maintain a 401(k) plan intended to qualify as a tax-qualified plan under Section 401 of the Code with the 401(k) plan’s related trust intended to be tax exempt under Section 501(a) of the Code. The 401(k) plan provides that each participant may contribute up to the lesser of 100% of his or her compensation or the statutory limit, which is $18,000 and $18,500 for calendar years 2017 and 2018, respectively. Participants that are 50 years or older can also make “catch-up” contributions, which in calendar years 2017 and 2018 may be up to an additional $6,000 above the statutory limit. We have the ability to make discretionary contributions to the 401(k) plan but have not done so to date. Employees’ pre-tax contributions are allocated to each participant’s individual account and are then invested in selected investment alternatives according to the participants’ directions. Employees are immediately and fully vested in their contributions. As a tax-qualified retirement plan, contributions to the 401(k) plan and earnings on those contributions are not taxable to the employees until distributed from the 401(k) plan.

Limitations on Liability and Indemnification Matters

Upon the closing of this offering, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will contain provisions that limit the liability of our current and former directors for monetary damages to the fullest extent

 

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permitted by Delaware law. Delaware law provides that directors of a corporation will not be personally liable for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duties as directors, except liability for:

 

   

any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders;

 

   

any act or omission not in good faith or that involves intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;

 

   

unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions as provided in Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law; or

 

   

any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

These limitations of liability do not apply to liabilities arising under federal securities laws and do not affect the availability of equitable remedies, such as injunctive relief or rescission.

We plan to enter into separate indemnification agreements with our directors and officers in connection with this offering and in addition to the indemnification provided for in our amended and restated bylaws. These indemnification agreements provide, among other things, that we will indemnify our directors and officers for certain expenses, including damages, judgments, fines, penalties, settlements and costs and attorneys’ fees and disbursements, incurred by a director or officer in any claim, action or proceeding arising in his or her capacity as a director or officer of our company or in connection with service at our request for another corporation or entity. The indemnification agreements also provide for procedures that will apply in the event that a director or officer makes a claim for indemnification.

We also maintain a directors’ and officers’ insurance policy pursuant to which our directors and officers are insured against liability for actions taken in their capacities as directors and officers. We believe that these indemnification provisions and insurance are useful to attract and retain qualified directors and officers.

The limitation of liability and indemnification provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against directors for breach of their fiduciary duties. They may also reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though an action, if successful, might benefit us and our stockholders. A stockholder’s investment may be harmed to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers pursuant to these indemnification provisions. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers and controlling persons pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that, in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. There is no pending litigation or proceeding naming any of our directors or officers as to which indemnification is being sought, nor are we aware of any pending or threatened litigation that may result in claims for indemnification by any director or officer.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Other than compensation arrangements, we describe below transactions and series of similar transactions, since January 1, 2016, to which we were a party or will be a party, in which:

 

   

the amounts involved exceeded or will exceed $120,000; and

 

   

any of our directors, executive officers, or holders of more than 5% of our common stock, or any member of the immediate family of the foregoing persons, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

We have entered into various employment-related agreements and compensatory arrangements with our directors and executive officers that, among other things, provide for compensatory and certain severance and change in control benefits. For a description of these agreements and arrangements, see the sections titled “Management” and “Executive Compensation.”

OrbiMed Loan Agreement

On March 20, 2017, we entered into a credit agreement, or the Credit Agreement, with OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, L.P., or OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities, which is affiliated with OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP, or OrbiMed Private Investments. Jonathan Silverstein, a member of our board of directors, is affiliated with OrbiMed Private Investments, a beneficial owner of more than 5% of our capital stock. The Credit Agreement made two loans available to us, one in the amount of $20.0 million, which we borrowed in March 2017, and the second in the amount of $10.0 million, which was available until December 31, 2017 upon the achievement of a revenue milestone, but was never drawn. As of September 30, 2018 and November 14, 2018, there was $20.0 million outstanding under the Credit Agreement. Amounts borrowed under the Credit Agreement mature on March 20, 2022.

Under the Credit Agreement, cash interest accrues until maturity at the rate of 10% per annum, which we refer to as the Applicable Margin. Additional interest, or PIK interest, accrues at the per annum rate equal to the higher of (1) the three-month LIBOR rate and (2) 1.00%. PIK interest is added to the outstanding principal amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement on the last day of each calendar quarter until the maturity date. Cash interest payments are due and payable on the last day of each calendar quarter. Outstanding principal amounts plus all accrued and unpaid PIK interest are due in one lump sum payment on the loan maturity date. As of September 30, 2018, we had paid $3.1 million in interest pursuant to the Credit Agreement.

The Credit Agreement includes affirmative and negative covenants and events of default, including the following events of default: payment defaults, breaches of representations and warranties, non-performance of certain covenants and obligations, cross-acceleration with debt, judgment defaults, change in control, bankruptcy, certain events with respect to key permits, regulatory events, recalls and certain actions and settlements with governmental entities, key person events, a material impairment in the perfection or priority of OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities’ security interest or in the value of the collateral, a material adverse change in the business, operations or condition of us and our subsidiaries taken as a whole and a material impairment of the prospect of repayment of the loans.

Upon the occurrence of an event of default and continuing until such event of default is no longer continuing, the Applicable Margin will increase by 3.00% per annum.

If we repay all or a portion of the term loans prior to maturity, we will owe OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities a prepayment fee as follows: for amounts repaid after March 20, 2018 but on or prior to March 20, 2019, 9.0% of the portion of principal repaid; for amounts repaid after March 20, 2019 but on or prior to March 20, 2020, 5.0% of the portion of principal repaid and for amounts repaid after March 20, 2020 but on or

 

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prior to March 20, 2021, 3.0% of the portion of the principal repaid. No prepayment fee will be required for amounts repaid after March 20, 2021 but prior to March 20, 2022. Our obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by a security interest in substantially all of our assets, including our intellectual property.

In connection with the Credit Agreement and the close of the first draw in March 2017, we issued to OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities warrants to purchase 474,446 shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share. Each warrant is exercisable for a period of ten years from the date of issuance and may be exercised on a cashless basis in whole or in part.

Series BB Convertible Preferred Stock Financing

In April 2017, we sold an aggregate of 5,930,584 shares of our Series BB convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of approximately $2.02341 per share, for aggregate proceeds of approximately $12.0 million.

The participants in the Series BB convertible preferred stock financing included certain beneficial owners of more than 5% of our capital stock, certain of our executive officers and entities affiliated with certain of our directors, as set forth in the table below:

 

Related Party

  

Shares of Series BB
Convertible
Preferred Stock  (#)

 

HealthQuest Partners II, L.P. (1)

     2,499,446  

OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP (2)

     1,482,646  

InterWest Partners X, L.P. (3)

     988,431  

De Novo Ventures III, L.P (4)

     593,059  

Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust (5)

     5,833  

Rajesh Rajpal & Apra Rajpal (6)

     1,977  

 

(1)

Garheng Kong, a member of our board of directors, is a managing partner of HealthQuest Partners II, L.P.

(2)

Jonathan Silverstein, a member of our board of directors, is affiliated with OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP.

(3)

Gilbert H. Kliman, a member of our board of directors, is a managing director of InterWest Management Partners X, LLC, which is the general partner of InterWest Partners X, L.P.

(4)

De Novo Ventures III, L.P is a holder of more than 5% our capital stock.

(5)

Robert J. Palmisano is a member of our board of directors.

(6)

Rajesh Rajpal is our Chief Medical Officer.

Series CC Convertible Preferred Stock Financing

In April 2018, we sold an aggregate of 9,529,571 shares of our Series CC convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of approximately $2.623410 per share, for aggregate proceeds of approximately $25.0 million.

The participants in the Series CC convertible preferred stock financing included certain beneficial owners of more than 5% of our capital stock, certain of our executive officers and entities affiliated with certain of our directors, as set forth in the table below:

 

Related Party

  

Shares of Series CC
Convertible
Preferred Stock  (#)

 

LAV Agile Limited (1)

     3,811,832  

HealthQuest Partners II, L.P. (2)

     2,382,395  

OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP (3)

     1,707,674  

InterWest Partners X, L.P. (4)

     762,366  

De Novo Ventures III, L.P (5)

     190,591  

Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust (6)

     95,295  

Rajesh Rajpal & Apra Rajpal (7)

     5,717  

 

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(1)

Hongbo Lu, a member of our board of directors, is a partner at LAV Agile Limited.

(2)

Garheng Kong, a member of our board of directors, is a managing partner of HealthQuest Partners II, L.P.

(3)

Jonathan Silverstein, a member of our board of directors, is affiliated with OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP.

(4)

Gilbert H. Kliman, a member of our board of directors, is a managing director of InterWest Management Partners X, LLC, which is the general partner of InterWest Partners X, L.P.

(5)

De Novo Ventures III, L.P is a holder of more than 5% of our capital stock.

(6)

Robert J. Palmisano is a member of our board of directors.

(7)

Rajesh Rajpal is our Chief Medical Officer.

Investors’ Rights, Voting and Stockholders Agreements

In connection with our convertible preferred stock financings, we entered into investors’ rights, voting and stockholder agreements containing registration rights, information rights, voting rights and rights of first refusal, among other things, with certain holders of our convertible preferred stock and certain holders of our common stock including entities affiliated with InterWest Partners X, L.P., OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP, HealthQuest Partners II L.P., LAV Agile Limited, De Novo Ventures III, L.P. and Robert J. Palmisano. These stockholder agreements will terminate upon the closing of this offering, except for the registration rights granted under our amended and restated investors’ rights agreement, as more fully described in the section of this prospectus titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights.”

Employment Arrangements

We have entered into employment agreements or offer letter agreements with certain of our executive officers. For more information regarding these agreements with our named executive officers, see “Executive Compensation—Agreements with our Named Executive Officers.”

Severance Arrangements

We have entered into severance arrangements with certain of our executive officers. For more information regarding these arrangements with our named executive officers, see “—Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control.”

Indemnification Agreements

We plan to enter into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers in connection with this offering. The indemnification agreements and our amended and restated bylaws, each to be in effect upon the closing of this offering, require us to indemnify our directors and executive officers to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. For more information regarding these agreements, see “Executive Compensation—Limitations on Liability and Indemnification Matters.”

Executive and Director Compensation

We have granted stock options and restricted stock unit awards to certain of our executive officers and directors. See the sections titled “Executive Compensation” for a description of these equity awards.

Related Person Transaction Policy

Prior to this offering, we have not had a formal policy regarding approval of transactions with related parties. We have adopted a written related person transaction policy that sets forth our procedures for the identification, review, consideration and approval or ratification of related person transactions. The policy will become effective immediately upon the execution of the underwriting agreement for this offering. For purposes of our policy only, a related person transaction is a transaction, arrangement or relationship, or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships, in which we and any related person are, were or will be

 

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participants and in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000. Transactions involving compensation for services provided to us as an employee or director are not covered by this policy. A related person is any executive officer, director or beneficial owner of more than 5% of any class of our voting securities, including any of their immediate family members and any entity owned or controlled by such persons.

Under the policy, if a transaction has been identified as a related person transaction, including any transaction that was not a related person transaction when originally consummated or any transaction that was not initially identified as a related person transaction prior to consummation, our management must present information regarding the related person transaction to our audit committee, or, if audit committee approval would be inappropriate, to another independent body of our board of directors, for review, consideration and approval or ratification. The presentation must include a description of, among other things, the material facts, the interests, direct and indirect, of the related persons, the benefits to us of the transaction and whether the transaction is on terms that are comparable to the terms available to or from, as the case may be, an unrelated third party or to or from employees generally. Under the policy, we will collect information that we deem reasonably necessary from each director, executive officer and, to the extent feasible, significant stockholder to enable us to identify any existing or potential related-person transactions and to effectuate the terms of the policy.

In addition, under our Code of Conduct, which we have adopted in connection with this offering, our employees and directors have an affirmative responsibility to disclose any transaction or relationship that reasonably could be expected to give rise to a conflict of interest.

In considering related person transactions, our audit committee, or other independent body of our board of directors, will take into account the relevant available facts and circumstances including, but not limited to:

 

   

the risks, costs and benefits to us;

 

   

the impact on a director’s independence in the event that the related person is a director, immediate family member of a director or an entity with which a director is affiliated;

 

   

the availability of other sources for comparable services or products; and

 

   

the terms available to or from, as the case may be, unrelated third parties or to or from employees generally.

The policy requires that, in determining whether to approve, ratify or reject a related person transaction, our audit committee, or other independent body of our board of directors, must consider, in light of known circumstances, whether the transaction is in, or is not inconsistent with, our best interests and those of our stockholders, as our audit committee, or other independent body of our board of directors, determines in the good faith exercise of its discretion.

All of the transactions described above were entered into prior to the adoption of the written policy, but all were approved by our board of directors considering similar factors to those described above.

 

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PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

The following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of December 31, 2018, as adjusted to reflect the sale of common stock offered by us in this offering, for:

 

   

each person, or group of affiliated persons, who is known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our common stock;

 

   

each of our named executive officers;

 

   

each of our directors; and

 

   

all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

The percentage ownership information shown in the table prior to this offering is based on 53,670,288 shares of common stock outstanding as of December 31, 2018, after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock upon the closing of this offering and including the settlement of 56,669 restricted stock units for which the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of December 31, 2018.

The percentage ownership information shown in the table after this offering is based on            shares outstanding, assuming the sale of             shares of our common stock by us in this offering and no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares.

We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with the rules of the SEC. These rules generally attribute beneficial ownership of securities to persons who possess sole or shared voting power or investment power with respect to those securities. In addition, the rules include shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the exercise of stock options or warrants that are either immediately exercisable or exercisable on or before March 1, 2019, which is 60 days after December 31, 2018. These shares are deemed to be outstanding and beneficially owned by the person holding those options or warrants for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of that person, but they are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Unless otherwise indicated, the persons or entities identified in this table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to applicable community property laws.

 

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Except as otherwise noted below, the address for persons listed in the table is c/o Avedro, Inc., 201 Jones Road, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451.

 

Owner

   Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
     Percentage of Shares
Beneficially Owned
 
  

Before
Offering

   

After
Offering

 

5% or greater stockholders:

       

OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP (1)

     19,343,028        35.7             

InterWest Partners X, L.P. (2)

     12,202,972        22.7    

HealthQuest Partners II, L.P. (3)

     5,759,382        10.7    

LAV Agile Limited (4)

     3,811,832        7.1    

De Novo Ventures III Liquidating Trust (5)

     3,164,146        5.9    

Named executive officers and directors:

       

Reza Zadno, Ph.D. (6)

     1,887,288        3.4    

Rajesh K. Rajpal, M.D. (7)

     425,953        *    

Jim Schuermann

     —          —      

Thomas W. Burns (8)

     72,333        *    

Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D. (9)

     12,202,972        22.7    

Garheng Kong, M.D., Ph.D. (10)

     5,759,382        10.7    

Hongbo Lu, Ph.D.

     —          —      

Robert J. Palmisano (11)

     312,725        *    

Jonathan Silverstein (1)

     19,343,028        35.7    

Donald J. Zurbay (12)

     85,344        *    

All current executive officers and directors as a group (13 persons) (1)(2)(3)(13)

     40,567,815        70.9  

 

*

Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1%.

(1)

Consists of (a) (i) 678,262 shares of common stock, (ii) 15,000,000 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 1,482,646 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock and (iv) 1,707,674 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock held by OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP, or OPI VI, and (b) 474,446 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of a convertible preferred stock warrant held by OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP, or ORO II. OrbiMed Capital GP VI LLC, or GP VI, is the general partner of OPI VI. OrbiMed Advisors LLC, or OrbiMed Advisors, is the managing member of GP VI. OrbiMed ROF II LLC, or ROF II, is the sole general partner of ORO II, and OrbiMed Advisors is the sole managing member of ROF II. Jonathan Silverstein, a member of OrbiMed Advisors, is a member of our board of directors. OrbiMed Advisors exercises investment and voting power through a management committee comprised of Carl L. Gordon, Sven H. Borho and Jonathan T. Silverstein. The address of OrbiMed Advisors is 601 Lexington Avenue, 54th floor, New York, New York 10022.

(2)

Consists of (i) 452,176 shares of common stock, (ii) 9,999,999 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 988,431 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock and (iv) 762,366 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock held by InterWest Partners X, L.P., or IW10. InterWest Management Partners X, LLC, or IMP10, is the general partner of IW10. Gilbert H. Kliman and Arnold L. Oronsky are the managing directors of IMP10, and Keval Desai and Khalad A. Nasr are venture members of IMP10. Each managing director and venture member of IMP10, including Gilbert H. Kliman, shares voting and investment power with respect to the securities held by IW10. IW10 is affiliated with Dr. Kliman, a member of our board of directors. The address for the entities is 2710 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, CA 94025.

 

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(3)

Consists of (i) 487,435 shares of common stock, (ii) 390,106 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 2,499,446 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock and (iv) 2,382,395 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock held by HealthQuest Partners II, L.P., or HealthQuest. Garheng Kong, a member of our board of directors, is the managing member of HealthQuest and has sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities held by HealthQuest. The address for HealthQuest is 1301 Shoreway Road, Suite 350, Belmont, CA 94002.

(4)

Consists of shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock held by LAV Agile Limited, or LAV. The managing partner of LAV is Yi Shi. Dr. Shi may be deemed to have voting and investment power with respect to the securities held by LAV. LAV is affiliated with Hongbo Lu, a member of our board of directors. The address for LAV is Unit 1109-10, Two Chinachem Central, 26 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong.

(5)

Consists of (i) 707,871 shares of common stock, (ii) 1,672,625 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 593,059 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock, (iv) 190,591 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock and (v) 19,684 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of a warrant that is exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018 held by De Novo Ventures III Liquidating Trust, or De Novo. The address for De Novo is PO Box 2160, Saratoga, CA 95070.

(6)

Consists of (i) 1,404 shares of common stock that are held by the Martine and Reza Zadno Revocable Trust, for which Dr. Zadno is a co-trustee and shares voting and investment power and (ii) 1,885,884 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted to Dr. Zadno that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018.

(7)

Consists of (a) (i) 8,437 shares of common stock, (ii) 16,112 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 1,977 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock and (iv) 5,717 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock and held by Rajesh Rajpal & Apra Rajpal and (b) 393,710 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted to Dr. Rajpal that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018.

(8)

Consists of shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018.

(9)

Dr. Kliman, a managing director of IMP10 which is the general partner of IW10, shares voting and investment power with respect to the securities held by IW10, as described above in footnote (2).

(10)

Dr. Kong is the managing member of HealthQuest and has sole voting and investment power with respect to the securities held by HealthQuest, as described above in footnote (3).

(11)

Consists of (a) (i) 25,309 shares of common stock, (ii) 41,486 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 5,833 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock, (iv) 95,295 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock and (v) 6,319 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of a warrant held by the Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust, for which Mr. Palmisano is a co-trustee and shares voting and investment power, and (b) 117,997 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options granted to Mr. Palmisano that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018.

(12)

Consists of shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018.

(13)

Consists of (a) (i) 25,309 shares of common stock, (ii) 41,486 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 5,833 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock, (iv) 95,295 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock and (v) 6,319 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of a warrant held by the Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust, for which Mr. Palmisano is a co-trustee and shares voting and investment power, (b) 1,404 shares of common stock that are held by the Martine and Reza Zadno Revocable Trust, for which Dr. Zadno is a co-trustee and shares voting and investment power, (c) (i) 8,437 shares of common stock, (ii) 16,112 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock, (iii) 1,977 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of

 

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  Series BB convertible preferred stock and (iv) 5,717 shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock held by Rajesh Rajpal and Apra Rajpal, for which Rajesh Rajpal shares voting and investment power, (d) 3,054,544 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options held by all current executive officers and directors as a group that are exercisable within 60 days of December 31, 2018. The percentage of shares beneficially owned after this offering reflects the issuance of an aggregate of 56,669 shares of our common stock upon the settlement of outstanding restricted stock units for which we expect the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition has been satisfied as of December 31, 2018.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

The following description of our capital stock, certain provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, as each will be in effect upon the closing of this offering, and certain provisions of Delaware law are summaries. You should also refer to the amended and restated certificate of incorporation and the amended and restated bylaws, which are filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is part. We refer in this section to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws that we intend to adopt in connection with this offering as our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, respectively.

General

Upon the closing of this offering, our certificate of incorporation will authorize us to issue up to      shares of common stock, $0.00001 par value per share, and                     shares of preferred stock, $0.00001 par value per share, all of which shares of preferred stock will be undesignated. Our board of directors may establish the rights and preferences of the preferred stock from time to time.

As of September 30, 2018, after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 47,329,908 shares of our common stock upon the closing of this offering and including the settlement of 51,518 restricted stock units for which the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition will be satisfied upon effectiveness of this offering, and for which the time-based service condition had been satisfied as of September 30, 2018, there would have been 53,651,366 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, held of record by 83 stockholders.

Common Stock

Voting Rights

Each holder of our common stock is entitled to one vote for each share on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders, including the election of directors. Under our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, our stockholders will not have cumulative voting rights. Because of this, the holders of a majority of the shares of common stock entitled to vote in any election of directors can elect all of the directors standing for election, if they should so choose.

Dividends

Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any then-outstanding preferred stock, holders of common stock are entitled to receive ratably those dividends, if any, as may be declared from time to time by the board of directors out of legally available funds.

Liquidation

In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding up, holders of common stock will be entitled to share ratably in the net assets legally available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all of our debts and other liabilities and the satisfaction of any liquidation preference granted to the holders of any then-outstanding shares of preferred stock.

Rights and Preferences

Holders of common stock have no preemptive, conversion or subscription rights and there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the common stock. The rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of common stock are subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any series of preferred stock that we may designate in the future.

 

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Preferred Stock

As of September 30, 2018, there were 47,329,908 shares of convertible preferred stock outstanding, which will convert, immediately prior to the closing of this offering, into 47,329,908 shares of our common stock. Our Series AA convertible preferred stock will convert at a ratio of one share of common stock for each share of preferred stock. Our Series BB convertible preferred stock will convert at a ratio of one share of common stock for each share of preferred stock. Our Series CC convertible preferred stock will convert at a ratio of one share of common stock for each share of preferred stock. All shares of common stock (including fractions thereof) issuable upon conversion of convertible preferred stock by a holder thereof shall be aggregated for purposes of determining whether the conversion would result in the issuance of any fractional share. If, after such aggregation, the conversion results in the issuance of any fractional share, we will, in lieu of issuing any fractional share, pay cash equal to the product of such fraction multiplied by the initial public offering price.

Upon the closing of this offering, our board of directors may, without further action by our stockholders, fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of up to an aggregate of                          shares of preferred stock in one or more series and authorize their issuance. These rights, preferences and privileges could include dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption, liquidation preferences, sinking fund terms and the number of shares constituting any series or the designation of such series, any or all of which may be greater than the rights of our common stock. The issuance of our preferred stock could adversely affect the voting power of holders of our common stock and the likelihood that such holders will receive dividend payments and payments upon liquidation. In addition, the issuance of preferred stock could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control or other corporate action. Upon the closing of this offering, no shares of preferred stock will be outstanding, and we have no present plan to issue any shares of preferred stock.

Options

As of September 30, 2018, options to purchase an aggregate of 11,153,162 shares of common stock were outstanding under our 2003 Plan and 2012 Plan at a weighted average exercise price of $0.64 per share. See “Executive Compensation—Equity Incentive Plans” for additional information regarding the terms of our 2003 Plan and 2012 Plan.

In addition, our board of directors, based on the recommendation of our compensation committee, approved grants of an aggregate of 2,666,000 options, with an exercise price equal to $2.86 per share, to our named executive officers, non-employee directors, certain of our employees and a consultant, exercisable contingent upon the completion of this offering. See “Executive Compensation—Equity Awards Relating to the Completion of this Offering” for more information regarding these contingent stock option grants to our named executive officers, non-employee directors, certain of our employees and a consultant. Our board of directors, based on the recommendation of our compensation committee, also approved grants of an aggregate of 107,000 options to certain of our employees hired in the second half of 2018 and an aggregate of 71,500 options to certain of our existing employees. The options have an exercise price equal to $2.86 per share, and the vesting of the shares of common stock underlying these options are not contingent upon the completion of this offering. The shares of common stock underlying the new hire employee options vest and become exercisable over a four-year period as to 25% of the common stock underlying the option on the vesting commencement date identified in the applicable stock option agreement and as to 75% of the common stock underlying the option in 36 monthly installments thereafter, subject to the option holder’s continued service through each vesting date. The shares of common stock underlying the existing employee options vest and become exercisable over a four-year period in 48 equal monthly installments commencing on the vesting commencement date, subject to the option holder’s continued service through each vesting date.

 

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Warrants

As of September 30, 2018, there were outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our capital stock as follows:

 

   

Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 300,000 shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, held by Hercules Technology III, L.P. Unless exercised earlier for shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock, these warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock upon completion of the offering. These warrants will expire on September 11, 2024.

 

   

Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 474,446 shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, held by OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP. Unless exercised earlier for shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock, these warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock upon completion of the offering. These warrants expire on March 20, 2027.

 

   

Warrants to purchase an aggregate of 128,868 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share. These warrants expire on November 5, 2021.

The warrants contain provisions for the adjustment of the exercise price and the number of shares issuable upon the exercise of the applicable warrant in the event of certain stock dividends, stock splits, reorganizations, reclassifications and consolidations. The warrants also contain net exercise provisions pursuant to which the holder may, in lieu of paying the exercise price in cash, surrender the applicable warrant and receive a net amount of shares based on the fair market value of our stock at the time of exercise after deducting the aggregate exercise price.

Registration Rights

After the completion of this offering, certain holders of shares of our common stock, including those shares of our common stock that will be issued upon conversion of our convertible preferred stock in connection with this offering, will be entitled to certain rights with respect to registration of such shares under the Securities Act pursuant to the terms of an investors’ rights agreement. These shares are collectively referred to herein as registrable securities.

The amended and restated investor rights agreement provides the holders of registrable securities with demand, piggyback and S-3 registration rights as described more fully below. As of September 30, 2018, after giving effect to the conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into shares of our common stock in connection with the closing of this offering, there would have been an aggregate of 53,407,435 registrable securities that were entitled to these demand, piggyback and S-3 registration rights. Under the terms of the investors’ rights agreement, holders of registrable securities will have equivalent registration rights with respect to any additional shares of our common stock acquired by these holders.

Demand Registration Rights

At any time beginning 180 days following the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, the holders of at least 40% of the registrable securities then outstanding have the right to make up to two demands that we file a registration statement under the Securities Act covering at least 40% of the registrable securities then outstanding, subject to specified conditions and exceptions.

Piggyback Registration Rights

If we register any securities for public sale, the holders of our registrable securities then outstanding will each be entitled to notice of the registration and will have the right to include their shares in the registration

 

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statement. The underwriters of any underwritten offering will have the right to limit the number of shares having registration rights to be included in such registration statement, but not below 25% of the total amount of securities included in such registration.

Registration on Form S-3

If we are eligible to file a registration statement on Form S-3, the holders of at least 20% of our registrable securities have the right to demand that we file registration statements on Form S-3, provided that the aggregate amount of securities to be sold under the registration statement is at least 5.0 million, net of underwriting discounts and commissions. We are not obligated to effect a demand for registration on Form S-3 by holders of our registrable securities more than twice during any 12-month period. The right to have such shares registered on Form S-3 is further subject to other specified conditions and limitations.

Expenses of Registration

We will pay all expenses relating to any demand, piggyback or Form S-3 registration, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, subject to specified conditions and limitations.

Termination of Registration Rights

The demand, piggyback and Form S-3 registration rights described above will terminate on the earliest to occur of (1) the seven-year anniversary of the closing of this offering and (2) with respect to each stockholder, at such time as Rule 144 under the Securities Act or another similar exemption is available for the sale of all of such holder’s shares without limitation during a three-month period without registration.

Anti-Takeover Provisions

Anti-Takeover Statute

We are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which generally prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in any business combination with any interested stockholder for a period of three years after the date that such stockholder became an interested stockholder, with the following exceptions:

 

   

before such date, the board of directors of the corporation approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder;

 

   

upon completion of the transaction that resulted in the stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction began, excluding for purposes of determining the voting stock outstanding, but not the outstanding voting stock owned by the interested stockholder, those shares owned (1) by persons who are directors and also officers and (2) employee stock plans in which employee participants do not have the right to determine confidentially whether shares held subject to the plan will be tendered in a tender or exchange offer; or

 

   

on or after such date, the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of the stockholders, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of at least 66-2/3% of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested stockholder.

In general, Section 203 defines a “business combination” to include the following:

 

   

any merger or consolidation involving the corporation and the interested stockholder;

 

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any sale, transfer, pledge or other disposition of 10% or more of the assets of the corporation involving the interested stockholder;

 

   

subject to certain exceptions, any transaction that results in the issuance or transfer by the corporation of any stock of the corporation to the interested stockholder;

 

   

any transaction involving the corporation that has the effect of increasing the proportionate share of the stock or any class or series of the corporation beneficially owned by the interested stockholder; or

 

   

the receipt by the interested stockholder of the benefit of any loans, advances, guarantees, pledges or other financial benefits by or through the corporation.

In general, Section 203 defines an “interested stockholder” as an entity or person who, together with the person’s affiliates and associates, beneficially owns, or within three years prior to the time of determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation.

Anti-Takeover Effects of Certain Provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws to be in Effect upon the Closing of this Offering

Our certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon the closing of this offering will provide for our board of directors to be divided into three classes with staggered three-year terms. Only one class of directors will be elected at each annual meeting of our stockholders, with the other classes continuing for the remainder of their respective three-year terms. Because our stockholders do not have cumulative voting rights, our stockholders holding a majority of the voting power of our shares of common stock outstanding will be able to elect all of our directors. The directors may be removed by the stockholders only for cause upon the vote of holders of 66 2/3% of the shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors. Furthermore, the authorized number of directors may be changed only by resolution of our board of directors, and vacancies and newly created directorships on our board of directors may, except as otherwise required by law or determined by our board, only be filled by a majority vote of the directors then serving on the board, even though less than a quorum. Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws will provide that all stockholder actions must be effected at a duly called meeting of stockholders and not by a consent in writing. A special meeting of stockholders may be called only by a majority of our whole board of directors, the chair of our board of directors or our chief executive officer. Our bylaws will also provide that stockholders seeking to present proposals before a meeting of stockholders to nominate candidates for election as directors at a meeting of stockholders must provide timely advance notice in writing, and will specify requirements as to the form and content of a stockholder’s notice.

Our certificate of incorporation will further provide that, immediately after this offering, the affirmative vote of holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock, voting as a single class, will be required to amend certain provisions of our certificate of incorporation, including provisions relating to the structure of our board of directors, the size of the board, removal of directors, special meetings of stockholders, actions by written consent and cumulative voting. The affirmative vote of holders of at least 66 2/3% of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock, voting as a single class, will be required to amend or repeal our bylaws, although our bylaws may be amended by a simple majority vote of our whole board of directors.

The foregoing provisions will make it more difficult for our existing stockholders to replace our board of directors as well as for another party to obtain control of our company by replacing our board of directors. Since our board of directors has the power to retain and discharge our officers, these provisions could also make it more difficult for existing stockholders or another party to effect a change in management. In addition, the authorization of undesignated preferred stock makes it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of any attempt to change the control of our company.

 

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These provisions are intended to enhance the likelihood of continued stability in the composition of our board of directors and its policies and to discourage certain types of transactions that may involve an actual or threatened acquisition of our company. These provisions are also designed to reduce our vulnerability to an unsolicited acquisition proposal and to discourage certain tactics that may be used in proxy rights. However, such provisions could have the effect of discouraging others from making tender offers for our shares and may have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in control of our company or our management. As a consequence, these provisions also may inhibit fluctuations in the market price of our stock that could result from actual or rumored takeover attempts.

Choice of Forum

Our certificate of incorporation to be in effect upon the closing of this offering will provide that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the exclusive forum for: (1) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf; (2) any action asserting a breach of fiduciary duty owed by and of our directors, officers or employees to us or our stockholders; (3) any action asserting a claim against us arising pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, our certificate of incorporation or our bylaws or (4) any action asserting a claim against us that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine, provided that, the exclusive forum provision will not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Exchange Act or any other claim for which the federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction; and provided further that, if and only if the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware dismisses any such action for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, such action may be brought in another state or federal court sitting in the State of Delaware. Several lawsuits have been filed in Delaware challenging the enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions and it is possible that a court determines such provisions are not enforceable.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock is Computershare Trust Company, N.A. The transfer agent’s address is 250 Royall Street, Canton, Massachusetts 02021.

Listing

We have applied to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market under the trading symbol “AVDR”.

 

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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

Prior to this offering, no public market existed for our common stock, and although we expect that our common stock will be approved for listing on the Nasdaq Global Market, we cannot assure investors that there will be an active public market for our common stock following this offering. We cannot predict what effect, if any, sales of our shares in the public market or the availability of shares for sale will have on the market price of our common stock. Future sales of substantial amounts of common stock in the public market, including shares issued upon exercise of outstanding options or warrants or vesting of outstanding restricted stock units, or the perception that such sales may occur, however, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock and also could adversely affect our future ability to raise capital through the sale of our common stock or other equity-related securities at times and prices we believe appropriate.

Based on our shares outstanding as of September 30, 2018, upon the closing of this                      offering,              shares of our common stock will be outstanding, or              shares of common stock if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares.

All of the shares of common stock sold in this offering will be freely tradable without restrictions or further registration under the Securities Act, except for any shares sold to our “affiliates,” as that term is defined under Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The remaining outstanding shares of common stock held by existing stockholders are “restricted securities,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if the offer and sale is registered under the Securities Act or if the offer and sale of those securities qualifies for exemption from registration, including exemptions provided by Rules 144 and 701 promulgated under the Securities Act.

As a result of lock-up agreements and market standoff provisions described below and the provisions of Rules 144 and 701, the restricted securities will be available for sale in the public market as follows:

 

   

            shares will be eligible for immediate sale upon the closing of this offering; and

 

   

approximately            shares will be eligible for sale upon expiration of lock-up agreements and market standoff provisions described below, beginning 181 days after the date of this prospectus, subject in certain circumstances to the volume, manner of sale and other limitations under Rule 144 and Rule 701.

We may issue shares of our common stock from time to time for a variety of corporate purposes, including in capital-raising activities through future public offerings or private placements, in connection with exercise of stock options and warrants, vesting of restricted stock units and other issuances relating to our employee benefit plans and as consideration for future acquisitions, investments or other purposes. The number of shares of our common stock that we may issue may be significant, depending on the events surrounding such issuances. In some cases, the shares we issue may be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act; in other cases, we may grant registration rights covering the shares issued in connection with these issuances, in which case the holders of the common stock will have the right, under certain circumstances, to cause us to register any resale of such shares to the public.

Rule 144

In general, persons who have beneficially owned restricted shares of our common stock for at least six months, and any of our affiliates who owns restricted shares of our common stock, are entitled to sell their securities without registration with the SEC under an exemption from registration provided by Rule 144 under the Securities Act.

 

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Non-Affiliates

Any person who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale may sell an unlimited number of restricted securities under Rule 144 if:

 

   

the restricted securities have been held for at least six months, including the holding period of any prior owner other than one of our affiliates;

 

   

we have been subject to the Exchange Act periodic reporting requirements for at least 90 days before the sale; and

 

   

we are current in our Exchange Act reporting at the time of sale.

Any person who is not deemed to have been an affiliate of ours at the time of, or at any time during the three months preceding, a sale and has held the restricted securities for at least one year, including the holding period of any prior owner other than one of our affiliates, will be entitled to sell an unlimited number of restricted securities without regard to the length of time we have been subject to Exchange Act periodic reporting or whether we are current in our Exchange Act reporting.

Affiliates

Persons seeking to sell restricted securities who are our affiliates at the time of, or any time during the three months preceding, a sale, would be subject to the restrictions described above. They are also subject to additional restrictions, by which such person would be required to comply with the manner of sale and notice provisions of Rule 144 and would be entitled to sell within any three-month period only that number of securities that does not exceed the greater of either of the following:

 

   

1% of the number of shares of our common stock then outstanding, which will equal approximately                shares immediately after the closing of this offering based on the number of shares outstanding as of September 30, 2018; or

 

   

the average weekly trading volume of our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale.

Rule 701

In general, under Rule 701 a person who purchased shares of our common stock pursuant to a written compensatory plan or contract and who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates during the immediately preceding 90 days may sell these shares in reliance upon Rule 144, but without being required to comply with the notice, manner of sale or public information requirements or volume limitation provisions of Rule 144. Rule 701 also permits affiliates to sell their Rule 701 shares under Rule 144 without complying with the holding period requirements of Rule 144. All holders of Rule 701 shares, however, are required to wait until 90 days after the date of this prospectus before selling such shares pursuant to Rule 701. As of September 30, 2018, 2,232,384 shares of our outstanding common stock had been issued in reliance on Rule 701 as a result of exercises of stock options and issuance of restricted stock. However, substantially all Rule 701 shares are subject to lock-up agreements as described below and in the section of this prospectus titled “Underwriting” and will become eligible for sale upon the expiration of the restrictions set forth in those agreements.

Form S-8 Registration Statements

As of September 30, 2018, options to purchase an aggregate of 11,153,162 shares of our common stock were outstanding. As soon as practicable after the closing of this offering, we intend to file with the SEC one or

 

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more registration statements on Form S-8 under the Securities Act to register the shares of our common stock that are issuable pursuant to our equity incentive plans. See “Executive Compensation—Equity Incentive Plans” for a description of our equity incentive plans. These registration statements will become effective immediately upon filing. Shares covered by these registration statements will then be eligible for sale in the public markets, subject to vesting restrictions, any applicable lock-up agreements described below and Rule 144 limitations applicable to affiliates.

Lock-Up Agreements

All of our directors and officers and substantially all of our stockholders, warrant holders and option holders are subject to lock-up agreements that prohibit them from offering for sale, selling, contracting to sell, granting any option for the sale of, transferring or otherwise disposing of any shares of our common stock, options or warrants to acquire shares of our common stock or any security or instrument related to our common stock, or entering into any swap, hedge or other arrangement that transfers any of the economic consequences of ownership of our common stock, for a period of 180 days following the date of this prospectus without the prior written consent of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, LLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC on behalf of the underwriters. See the section of this prospectus titled “Underwriting.”

In addition to the restrictions contained in the lock-up agreement described above, we have entered into agreements with certain security holders, including the investor rights agreement and our standard form option agreement, that contain market stand-off provisions imposing restrictions on the ability of such security holders to offer, sell or transfer our equity securities for a period of 180 days following the date of this prospectus.

Registration Rights

Upon the closing of this offering, the holders of                      shares of our common stock, or their transferees, will be entitled to specified rights with respect to the registration of the offer and sale of their shares under the Securities Act. Registration of the offer and sale of these shares under the Securities Act would result in the shares becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of the registration. See the section of this prospectus titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for additional information.

 

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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS

The following discussion is a summary of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences to non-U.S. holders (as defined below) of the ownership and disposition of our common stock issued pursuant to this offering. This discussion is not a complete analysis of all potential U.S. federal income tax consequences relating thereto, does not address the potential application of the Medicare contribution tax on net investment income or the alternative minimum tax, and does not address any estate or gift tax consequences or any tax consequences arising under any state, local or foreign tax laws, or any other U.S. federal tax laws. This discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, judicial decisions, and published rulings and administrative pronouncements of the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, all as in effect on the date of this prospectus. These authorities are subject to differing interpretations and may change, possibly retroactively, resulting in U.S. federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below. We have not requested a ruling from the IRS with respect to the statements made and the conclusions reached in the following summary, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will agree with such statements and conclusions.

This discussion is limited to non-U.S. holders who purchase our common stock pursuant to this offering and who hold our common stock as a “capital asset” within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment). This discussion does not address all of the U.S. federal income tax consequences that may be relevant to an individual holder in light of such holder’s particular circumstances. This discussion also does not consider any specific facts or circumstances that may be relevant to holders subject to special rules under the U.S. federal income tax laws, including:

 

   

certain former citizens or long-term residents of the United States;

 

   

partnerships or other pass-through entities (and investors therein);

 

   

“controlled foreign corporations”;

 

   

“passive foreign investment companies”;

 

   

corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax;

 

   

banks, financial institutions, investment funds, insurance companies, brokers, dealers or traders in securities;

 

   

tax-exempt organizations and governmental organizations;

 

   

tax-qualified retirement plans;

 

   

persons subject to special tax accounting rules under Section 451(b) of the Code;

 

   

persons who hold or receive our common stock pursuant to the exercise of any employee stock option or otherwise as compensation;

 

   

“qualified foreign pension funds” as defined in Section 897(l)(2) of the Code and entities all of the interests of which are held by qualified foreign pension funds;

 

   

persons that own or have owned, actually or constructively, more than 5% of our common stock;

 

   

persons who have elected to mark securities to market; and

 

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persons holding our common stock as part of a hedging or conversion transaction or straddle, or a constructive sale, or other risk reduction strategy or integrated investment.

If an entity or arrangement that is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our common stock, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partnerships holding our common stock and the partners in such partnerships are urged to consult their tax advisors about the particular U.S. federal income tax consequences to them of holding and disposing of our common stock.

THIS DISCUSSION IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE PARTICULAR U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF ACQUIRING, OWNING AND DISPOSING OF OUR COMMON STOCK, AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING UNDER ANY STATE, LOCAL OR FOREIGN TAX LAWS AND ANY OTHER U.S. FEDERAL TAX LAWS . IN ADDITION, SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN U.S. FEDERAL TAX LAWS WERE RECENTLY ENACTED. PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS SHOULD ALSO CONSULT WITH THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH RESPECT TO SUCH CHANGES IN U.S. TAX LAW AS WELL AS POTENTIAL CONFORMING CHANGES IN STATE TAX LAWS.

Definition of Non-U.S. Holder

For purposes of this discussion, a non-U.S. holder is any beneficial owner of our common stock that is not a “U.S. person” or a partnership (including any entity or arrangement treated as a partnership) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A U.S. person is any person that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is or is treated as any of the following:

 

   

an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;

 

   

a corporation (including any entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created or organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

 

   

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

 

   

a trust (1) whose administration is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and which has one or more U.S. persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) that has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

Distributions on Our Common Stock

If we distribute cash or other property on our common stock, such distributions will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid from our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Amounts not treated as dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes will constitute a return of capital and will first be applied against and reduce a holder’s tax basis in our common stock, but not below zero. Any excess amount distributed will be treated as gain realized on the sale or other disposition of our common stock and will be treated as described under “—Gain On Disposition of Our Common Stock” below.

Subject to the discussion below regarding effectively connected income, backup withholding and FATCA (as defined below), dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder of our common stock generally will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% of the gross amount of the dividends or such lower rate specified

 

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by an applicable income tax treaty. To receive the benefit of a reduced treaty rate, a non-U.S. holder must furnish us or our withholding agent with a valid IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E (or applicable successor form) certifying such holder’s qualification for the reduced rate. This certification must be provided to us or our withholding agent before the payment of dividends and must be updated periodically. If the non-U.S. holder holds our common stock through a financial institution or other agent acting on the non-U.S. holder’s behalf, the non-U.S. holder will be required to provide appropriate documentation to the agent, which then will be required to provide certification to us or our withholding agent, either directly or through other intermediaries.

If a non-U.S. holder holds our common stock in connection with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, and dividends paid on our common stock are effectively connected with such holder’s U.S. trade or business (and are attributable to such holder’s permanent establishment or fixed base in the United States if required by an applicable tax treaty), the non-U.S. holder will be exempt from U.S. federal withholding tax. To claim the exemption, the non-U.S. holder must generally furnish a valid IRS Form W-8ECI (or applicable successor form) to the applicable withholding agent, certifying that the dividends are effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a trade or business within the United States.

However, any such effectively connected dividends paid on our common stock generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis at the regular U.S. federal income tax rates in the same manner as if such holder were a resident of the United States. A non-U.S. holder that is a foreign corporation also may be subject to an additional branch profits tax equal to 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year, as adjusted for certain items.

Non-U.S. holders that do not provide the required certification on a timely basis, but that qualify for a reduced treaty rate, may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by timely filing an appropriate claim for refund with the IRS. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding any applicable income tax treaties that may provide for different rules.

Gain on Disposition of Our Common Stock

Subject to the discussion below regarding backup withholding and FATCA, a non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any gain realized on the sale or other disposition of our common stock, unless:

 

   

the gain is effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, is attributable to a permanent establishment or fixed base maintained by the non-U.S. holder in the United States;

 

   

the non-U.S. holder is a nonresident alien individual present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year of the disposition, and certain other requirements are met; or

 

   

our common stock constitutes a “United States real property interest” by reason of our status as a United States real property holding corporation, or a USRPHC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes at any time within the shorter of the five-year period preceding the disposition or the non-U.S. holder’s holding period for our common stock, and our common stock is not regularly traded on an established securities market during the calendar year in which the sale or other disposition occurs.

Determining whether we are a USRPHC depends on the fair market value of our U.S. real property interests relative to the fair market value of our other trade or business assets and our foreign real property interests. We believe that we are not currently and we do not anticipate becoming a USRPHC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, although there can be no assurance we will not in the future become a USRPHC.

 

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Gain described in the first bullet point above generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis at the regular U.S. federal income tax rates in the same manner as if such holder were a resident of the United States. A non-U.S. holder that is a foreign corporation also may be subject to an additional branch profits tax equal to 30% (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty) of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year, as adjusted for certain items. Gain described in the second bullet point above will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at a flat 30% rate (or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty), but may be offset by certain U.S.-source capital losses (even though the individual is not considered a resident of the United States), provided that the non-U.S. holder has timely filed U.S. federal income tax returns with respect to such losses. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding any applicable income tax treaties that may provide for different rules. Gain described in the third bullet point above will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax in the same manner as gain that is effectively connected with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business (subject to any provisions under an applicable income tax treaty), except that the branch profits tax generally will not apply.

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

Annual reports are required to be filed with the IRS and provided to each non-U.S. holder indicating the amount of dividends on our common stock paid to such holder and the amount of any tax withheld with respect to those dividends. These information reporting requirements apply even if no withholding was required because the dividends were effectively connected with the holder’s conduct of a U.S. trade or business, or withholding was reduced or eliminated by an applicable income tax treaty. This information also may be made available under a specific treaty or agreement with the tax authorities in the country in which the non-U.S. holder resides or is established. Backup withholding, currently at a 24% rate, generally will not apply to payments to a non-U.S. holder of dividends on or the gross proceeds of a disposition of our common stock provided the non-U.S. holder furnishes the required certification for its non-U.S. status, such as by providing a valid IRS Form W-8BEN, IRS Form W-8BEN-E or IRS Form W-8ECI, or certain other requirements are met. Backup withholding may apply if the payor has actual knowledge, or reason to know, that the holder is a U.S. person who is not an exempt recipient.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. If any amount is withheld under the backup withholding rules, the non-U.S. holder should consult with a U.S. tax advisor regarding the possibility of and procedure for obtaining a refund or a credit against the non-U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, if any.

Withholding on Foreign Entities

Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, which are commonly referred to as FATCA, impose a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on certain payments made to a “foreign financial institution” (as specially defined under these rules) unless such institution enters into an agreement with the U.S. government to withhold on certain payments and to collect and provide to the U.S. tax authorities substantial information regarding certain U.S. account holders of such institution (which includes certain equity and debt holders of such institution, as well as certain account holders that are foreign entities with U.S. owners) or an exemption applies. FATCA also generally will impose a U.S. federal withholding tax of 30% on certain payments made to a non-financial foreign entity unless such entity provides the withholding agent a certification identifying certain direct and indirect U.S. owners of the entity or an exemption applies. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country may modify these requirements. Under certain circumstances, a non-U.S. holder might be eligible for refunds or credits of such taxes. FATCA currently applies to dividends paid on our common stock. Subject to recently proposed Treasury Regulations, FATCA will also apply to gross proceeds from sales or other dispositions of our common stock after December 31, 2018.

The Treasury Department has recently proposed regulations which, if finalized in their present form, would eliminate the federal withholding tax of 3% applicable to gross proceeds from a disposition of our common stock.

Prospective investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible implications of this legislation on their investment in our common stock.

 

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UNDERWRITING

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC are acting as representatives of each of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement among us and the underwriters, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each of the underwriters has agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase from us, the number of shares of common stock set forth opposite its name below.

 

                           Underwriter    Number
of Shares
 

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
                 Incorporated

                               

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

                       

Cowen and Company, LLC

                       

Guggenheim Securities, LLC

                       

SVB Leerink LLC

                       
  

 

 

 

             Total

                       
  

 

 

 

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, the underwriters have agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase all of the shares sold under the underwriting agreement if any of these shares are purchased. If an underwriter defaults, the underwriting agreement provides that the purchase commitments of the nondefaulting underwriters may be increased or the underwriting agreement may be terminated.

We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.

The underwriters are offering the shares, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by them, subject to approval of legal matters by their counsel, including the validity of the shares, and other conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, such as the receipt by the underwriters of officers’ certificates and legal opinions. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part.

Commissions and Discounts

The representatives have advised us that the underwriters propose initially to offer the shares to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to dealers at that price less a concession not in excess of $             per share. After the initial offering, the public offering price, concession or any other term of the offering may be changed.

The following table shows the public offering price, underwriting discount and proceeds before expenses to us. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares.

 

    

Per Share

    

Without Option

    

With Option

 

Public offering price

   $        $        $    

Underwriting discount

   $        $        $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to Avedro

   $        $        $    

The expenses of the offering payable by us, not including the underwriting discount, are estimated at $             . We have also agreed to reimburse the underwriters for certain of their expenses incurred in connection with, among other things, the review and clearance by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. in an amount of up to $             .

 

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Option to Purchase Additional Shares

We have granted an option to the underwriters, exercisable for 30 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to              additional shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount. If the underwriters exercise this option, each will be obligated, subject to conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, to purchase a number of additional shares proportionate to that underwriter’s initial amount reflected in the above table.

Reserved Share Program

At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to five percent of the shares offered by this prospectus for sale to some of our directors, officers, employees, business associates and related persons. If these persons purchase reserved shares, this will reduce the number of shares available for sale to the general public. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares offered by this prospectus.

No Sales of Similar Securities

We have agreed, subject to limited exceptions, that we will not: (1) directly or indirectly, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of any shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for common stock or file or confidentially submit any registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, with respect to any of the foregoing or (2) enter into any swap or any other agreement or any transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the economic consequence of ownership of the common stock, whether any such swap or transaction described in clause (1) or (2) above is to be settled by delivery of common stock or other securities, in cash or otherwise, in each case without the prior written consent of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, for a period continuing to and including the date 180 days after the date of this prospectus.

Our executive officers and directors and our other existing security holders have agreed not to sell or transfer any common stock or securities convertible into, exchangeable for, exercisable for, or repayable with common stock, for 180 days after the date of this prospectus without first obtaining the written consent of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC. Specifically, we and these other persons have agreed, with certain limited exceptions, not to directly or indirectly:

 

   

offer, pledge, sell or contract to sell any common stock,

 

   

sell any option or contract to purchase any common stock,

 

   

purchase any option or contract to sell any common stock,

 

   

grant any option, right or warrant for the sale of any common stock,

 

   

lend or otherwise dispose of or transfer any common stock,

 

   

publicly disclose an intention to make any offer, sale, pledge or disposition of any common stock,

 

   

request or demand that we file or make a confidential submission of a registration statement related to the common stock, or

 

   

enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, the economic consequence of ownership of any common stock whether any such swap or transaction is to be settled by delivery of shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.

 

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These lock-up provisions apply to common stock and to securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or repayable with common stock. They also apply to common stock owned now or acquired later by the person executing the agreement or for which the person executing the agreement later acquires the power of disposition.

Listing

We have applied to list our shares on the Nasdaq Global Market, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol “AVDR.”

Before this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. The initial public offering price will be determined through negotiations between us and the representatives. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price are:

 

   

the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that the representatives believe to be comparable to us,

 

   

our financial information,

 

   

the history of, and the prospects for, our company and the industry in which we compete,

 

   

an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our future revenues,

 

   

the present state of our development, and

 

   

the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

An active trading market for the shares may not develop. It is also possible that after the offering the shares will not trade in the public market at or above the initial public offering price.

The underwriters do not expect to sell more than 5% of the shares in the aggregate to accounts over which they exercise discretionary authority.

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

Until the distribution of the shares is completed, rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission may limit underwriters and selling group members from bidding for and purchasing our common stock. However, the representatives may engage in transactions that stabilize the price of the common stock, such as bids or purchases to peg, fix or maintain that price.

In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell our common stock in the open market. These transactions may include short sales, purchases on the open market to cover positions created by short sales and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve the sale by the underwriters of a greater number of shares than they are required to purchase in the offering. “Covered” short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares described above. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional shares or purchasing shares in the open market. In determining the source of shares to close out the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the option granted to them. “Naked” short sales are sales in excess of such option. The underwriters must close out any naked short position by purchasing shares in the open

 

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market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of our common stock in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. Stabilizing transactions consist of various bids for or purchases of shares of common stock made by the underwriters in the open market prior to the completion of the offering.

The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter repays to the underwriters a portion of the underwriting discount received by it because the representatives have repurchased shares sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

Similar to other purchase transactions, the underwriters’ purchases to cover the syndicate short sales may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of our common stock or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of our common stock. As a result, the price of our common stock may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the Nasdaq Global Market, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

Neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of our common stock. In addition, neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation that the representatives will engage in these transactions or that these transactions, once commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.

Electronic Distribution

In connection with the offering, certain of the underwriters or securities dealers may distribute prospectuses by electronic means, such as e-mail.

Other Relationships

Some of the underwriters and their affiliates have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, investment banking and other commercial dealings in the ordinary course of business with us or our affiliates. They have received, or may in the future receive, customary fees and commissions for these transactions.

In addition, in the ordinary course of their business activities, the underwriters and their affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account and for the accounts of their customers. Such investments and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of ours or our affiliates. The underwriters and their affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or financial instruments and may hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

European Economic Area

In relation to each member state of the European Economic Area, no offer of shares of common stock which are the subject of the offering has been, or will be made to the public in that Member State, other than under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Directive:

 

  (a)

to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Directive;

 

  (b)

to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive), subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives for any such offer; or

 

  (c)

in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive,

 

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provided that no such offer of shares of common stock referred to in (a) to (c) above shall result in a requirement for us or any representative to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive, or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 16 of the Prospectus Directive.

Each person located in a Member State to whom any offer of common stock is made or who receives any communication in respect of an offer of common stock, or who initially acquires any common stock will be deemed to have represented, warranted, acknowledged and agreed to and with each representative and us that (1) it is a “qualified investor” within the meaning of the law in that Member State implementing Article 2(1)(e) of the Prospectus Directive; and (2) in the case of any shares of common stock acquired by it as a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive, the common stock acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in any Member State other than qualified investors, as that term is defined in the Prospectus Directive, or in circumstances in which the prior consent of the Representatives has been given to the offer or resale; or where shares of common stock have been acquired by it on behalf of persons in any Member State other than qualified investors, the offer of those shares of common stock to it is not treated under the Prospectus Directive as having been made to such persons.

We, the representatives and their and our respective affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgments and agreements.

This prospectus has been prepared on the basis that any offer of shares in any Member State will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Directive from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of shares. Accordingly any person making or intending to make an offer in that Member State of shares which are the subject of the offering contemplated in this prospectus may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for us or any of the representatives to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive in relation to such offer. Neither we nor the representatives have authorized, nor do we or they authorize, the making of any offer of shares in circumstances in which an obligation arises for us or the representatives to publish a prospectus for such offer.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer of common stock to the public” in relation to any common stock in any Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the common stock to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe the common stock, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive in that Member State, the expression “Prospectus Directive” means Directive 2003/71/EC (as amended) and includes any relevant implementing measure in each Member State.

The above selling restriction is in addition to any other selling restrictions set out below.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom

In addition, in the United Kingdom, this document is being distributed only to, and is directed only at, and any offer subsequently made may only be directed at persons who are “qualified investors” (as defined in the Prospectus Directive) (i) who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19 (5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the “Order”) and/or (ii) who are high net worth companies (or persons to whom it may otherwise be lawfully communicated) falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). This document must not be acted on or relied on in the United Kingdom by persons who are not relevant persons. In the United Kingdom, any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is only available to, and will be engaged in with, relevant persons.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Switzerland

The shares may not be publicly offered in Switzerland and will not be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, or SIX, or on any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. This document has

 

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been prepared without regard to the disclosure standards for issuance prospectuses under art. 652a or art. 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or the disclosure standards for listing prospectuses under art. 27 ff. of the SIX Listing Rules or the listing rules of any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the shares or the offering may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland.

Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the offering, the Company, the shares have been or will be filed with or approved by any Swiss regulatory authority. In particular, this document will not be filed with, and the offer of shares will not be supervised by, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority , and the offer of shares has not been and will not be authorized under the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes, or CISA. The investor protection afforded to acquirers of interests in collective investment schemes under the CISA does not extend to acquirers of shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the Dubai International Financial Centre

This prospectus relates to an Exempt Offer in accordance with the Offered Securities Rules of the Dubai Financial Services Authority, or DFSA. This prospectus is intended for distribution only to persons of a type specified in the Offered Securities Rules of the DFSA. It must not be delivered to, or relied on by, any other person. The DFSA has no responsibility for reviewing or verifying any documents in connection with Exempt Offers. The DFSA has not approved this prospectus nor taken steps to verify the information set forth herein and has no responsibility for the prospectus. The shares to which this prospectus relates may be illiquid and/or subject to restrictions on their resale. Prospective purchasers of the shares offered should conduct their own due diligence on the shares. If you do not understand the contents of this prospectus you should consult an authorized financial advisor.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Australia

No placement document, prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, or ASIC, in relation to the offering. This prospectus does not constitute a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act 2001, or the Corporations Act, and does not purport to include the information required for a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act.

Any offer in Australia of the shares may only be made to persons, or the Exempt Investors, who are “sophisticated investors” (within the meaning of section 708(8) of the Corporations Act), “professional investors” (within the meaning of section 708(11) of the Corporations Act) or otherwise pursuant to one or more exemptions contained in section 708 of the Corporations Act so that it is lawful to offer the shares without disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act.

The shares applied for by Exempt Investors in Australia must not be offered for sale in Australia in the period of 12 months after the date of allotment under the offering, except in circumstances where disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act would not be required pursuant to an exemption under section 708 of the Corporations Act or otherwise or where the offer is pursuant to a disclosure document which complies with Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act. Any person acquiring shares must observe such Australian on-sale restrictions.

This prospectus contains general information only and does not take account of the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any particular person. It does not contain any securities recommendations or financial product advice. Before making an investment decision, investors need to consider whether the information in this prospectus is appropriate to their needs, objectives and circumstances, and, if necessary, seek expert advice on those matters.

 

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Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

The shares of common stock have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (a) to “professional investors” as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or (b) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a “prospectus” as defined in the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32) of Hong Kong or which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of that Ordinance. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the shares of common stock has been or may be issued or has been or may be in the possession of any person for the purposes of issue, whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere, which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public of Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to shares of common stock which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to “professional investors” as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance and any rules made under that Ordinance.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

The shares of common stock have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948, as amended) and, accordingly, will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan, or for the benefit of any Japanese Person or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to any Japanese Person, except in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines promulgated by relevant Japanese governmental or regulatory authorities in effect at the relevant time. For the purposes of this paragraph, “Japanese Person” shall mean any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of shares may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the shares be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore, or the SFA, (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 275(1), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275, of the SFA, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA.

Where the shares are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is:

 

  (a)

a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or

 

  (a)

a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor,

securities (as defined in Section 239(1) of the SFA) of that corporation or the beneficiaries’ rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the shares pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except:

 

  (b)

to an institutional investor or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person arising from an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) or Section 276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA;

 

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  (c)

where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer;

 

  (d)

where the transfer is by operation of law;

 

  (e)

as specified in Section 276(7) of the SFA; or

 

      

as specified in Regulation 32 of the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) (Shares and Debentures) Regulations 2005 of Singapore.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Canada

The shares of common stock may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations. Any resale of the shares of common stock must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws.

Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory. The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal advisor.

Pursuant to section 3A.3 (or, in the case of securities issued or guaranteed by the government of a non-Canadian jurisdiction, section 3A.4) of National Instrument 33-105 Underwriting Conflicts (NI 33-105), the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI 33-105 regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in connection with this offering.

 

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LEGAL MATTERS

The validity of the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Cooley LLP, Boston, Massachusetts. As of the date of this prospectus, entities comprised of partners and associates of Cooley LLP beneficially own an aggregate of              shares of our common stock. Certain legal matters will be passed upon for the underwriters by Latham & Watkins LLP.

EXPERTS

Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our financial statements at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, as set forth in their report. We have included our financial statements in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Ernst & Young LLP’s report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act, with respect to the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus, which constitutes a part of the registration statement. This prospectus, which constitutes part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information in the registration statement and its exhibits. For further information with respect to us and the common stock offered by this prospectus, we refer you to the registration statement and its exhibits. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or any other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and in each instance, we refer you to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement. Each of these statements is qualified in all respects by this reference.

You can read our SEC filings, including the registration statement, over the internet at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference facilities at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of these documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference facilities.

Upon the closing of this offering, we will be subject to the information reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and we will file reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. These reports, proxy statements and other information will be available for inspection and copying at the public reference room and web site of the SEC referred to above. We also maintain a website at www.avedro.com, at which you may access these materials free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. However, the information contained in or accessible through our website is not part of this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, and investors should not rely on such information in making a decision to purchase our common stock in this offering.

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Index to Financial Statements

 

    

Page

 
Audited financial statements   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     F-2  

Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016

     F-3  

Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December  31, 2017 and 2016

     F-4  

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit for the Years Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016

     F-5  

Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December  31, 2017 and 2016

     F-6  

Notes to Financial Statements

     F-7  
Unaudited interim financial statements   

Condensed Balance Sheets

     F-39  

Condensed Statements of Operations

     F-40  

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

     F-41  

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements

     F-42  

 

F-1


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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors of Avedro, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Avedro, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related statements of operations, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company has recurring losses from operations and has stated that substantial doubt exists about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s evaluation of the events and conditions and management’s plans regarding these matters are also described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

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.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017.

Boston, Massachusetts

September 28, 2018

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Balance Sheets

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     December 31,  
     2017     2016  

ASSETS

    

Current assets:

    

Cash

   $ 8,850     $ 12,658  

Accounts receivable (including $445 and $1 from related parties as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, net of allowance of $120 and $123, respectively)

     3,239       1,993  

Inventories

     5,151       3,236  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     2,169       1,038  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     19,409       18,925  

Equipment and furniture, net

     1,640       1,025  

Restricted cash

     551       488  

Other assets

     96       1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 21,696     $ 20,439  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

LIABILITIES, CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

    

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 2,880     $ 1,435  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     2,778       3,308  

Current portion of long-term debt obligations

     —         1,412  

Current portion of asset purchase obligation (Note 7)

     122       117  

Current portion of license obligation (Note 7)

     250       829  

Deferred revenue

     872       1,446  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     6,902       8,547  

Deferred revenue, net of current portion

     77       70  

Long-term debt obligations, net of current portion

     19,319       8,212  

Derivative and warrant liability

     839       260  

Long-term asset purchase obligation, net of current portion (Note 7)

     28       129  

Other non-current liabilities

     51       436  

Deferred rent

     359       241  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

   $ 27,575     $ 17,895  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)

    

Convertible preferred stock:

    

Series AA convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 32,650,000 and 32,300,000 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively; issued and outstanding shares 31,869,753 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively; liquidation preference of $31,870 at December 31, 2017

     31,852       31,852  

Series BB convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 5,950,000 and 0 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively; issued and outstanding shares 5,930,584 and 0 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively; liquidation preference of $12,000 at December 31, 2017

     11,789       —    

Stockholders’ deficit:

    

Common stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 54,000,000 and 48,000,000 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively; issued and outstanding shares 6,065,836 and 5,363,729 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively

     2       2  

Additional paid-in capital

     107,478       106,413  

Accumulated deficit

     (157,000     (135,723
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (49,520     (29,308
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 21,696     $ 20,439  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2017     2016  

Revenue (including related party activity of $1,868 and $979 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively)

   $ 20,154     $ 14,910  

Cost of goods sold (including related party activity of $355 and $182 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively)

     9,850       7,144  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

     10,304       7,766  

Operating expenses:

    

Selling, general and administrative

     18,991       12,640  

Research and development

     10,286       10,047  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     29,277       22,687  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (18,973     (14,921

Other income (expense):

    

Interest income

     26       13  

Interest expense

     (2,144     (1,365

Other (expense) income, net

     (186     (104
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income, net

     (2,304     (1,456
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (21,277   $ (16,377
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per share of common stock, basic and diluted

   $ (3.62   $ (3.26
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average shares of common stock used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted

     5,872,202       5,025,155  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Proforma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted (unaudited)

     (0.51  
  

 

 

   

Proforma weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted (unaudited)

     41,933,984    
  

 

 

   

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

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    Convertible Preferred Stock
$0.00001 Par Value
   

 

   

Common Stock

$0.00001 Par Value

    Additional    

 

    Total
Stockholders’
 
    Series AA     Series BB    

 

   

 

    Paid-In     Accumulated  
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

Shares

   

Amount

   

 

    Shares    

Amount

   

Capital

   

Deficit

   

Deficit

 

Balance at December 31, 2015

    16,567,894     $ 16,568       —       $ —             4,220,319     $ 2     $ 105,129     $ (119,346   $ (14,215
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Issuance of Series AA convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

    15,301,859       15,284       —         —             —         —         —         —         —    

Exercise of common stock, options

    —         —         —         —             1,943       —         8       —         8  

Vesting of restricted stock

    —         —         —         —             1,141,467       —         —         —         —    

Share-based compensation

    —         —         —         —             —         —         1,276       —         1,276  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —             —         —         —         (16,377     (16,377
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2016

    31,869,753     $ 31,852       —       $ —             5,363,729     $ 2     $ 106,413     $ (135,723   $ (29,308
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Issuance of Series BB convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

        5,930,584       11,789           —         —         —         —         —    

Exercise of common stock, options

    —         —         —         —             668,375       —         207       —         207  

Exercise of common stock warrant

    —         —         —         —             33,732       —         —         —         —    

Share-based compensation

    —         —         —         —             —         —         858       —         858  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —             —         —         —         (21,277     (21,277
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2017

    31,869,753     $ 31,852       5,930,584     $ 11,789           6,065,836     $ 2     $ 107,478     $ (157,000   $ (49,520
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Statements of Cash Flows

(In thousands)

 

     Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2017     2016  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net loss

   $ (21,277   $ (16,377

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

    

Depreciation

     563       628  

Noncash interest expense

     349       134  

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     230       —    

Change in assets and liabilities held at fair value (Note 11)

     (108     50  

Bad debt expense

     —         118  

Share-based compensation

     858       1,276  

Loss on disposal of equipment and furniture

     11       53  

Asset purchase and royalty obligation

     43       (61

Gain on foreign currency transactions

     12       (10

Changes in assets and liabilities:

    

Accounts receivable

     (1,247     (140

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     (1,131     (375

Inventories

     (2,248     (1,421

Restricted cash

     (63     (199

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

     914       2,367  

Deferred revenue

     (567     949  

Long-term accrued interest

     (355     127  

Other non-current assets and liabilities

     21       68  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

     (23,995     (12,813
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Purchase of equipment and furniture

     (818     (442
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (818     (442
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net proceeds from issuance of Series AA convertible preferred stock

     —         15,284  

Net proceeds from issuance of Series BB convertible preferred stock

     11,789       —    

Proceeds from the exercise of common stock options

     207       8  

Proceeds from debt financing

     20,000       —    

Principal payments on long-term debt obligation

     (9,777     (2,723

Payment for asset purchase & license obligation

     (762     (728

Payments for debt extinguishment costs

     (108     —    

Principal payments on capital lease obligation

     (34     (20

Loan issuance costs

     (310     (65
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     21,005       11,756  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

   $ (3,808   $ (1,499
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash—Beginning of period

   $ 12,658     $ 14,157  

Cash—End of period

   $ 8,850     $ 12,658  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest

   $ 1,850     $ 1,120  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities

    

Purchase of property and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued expenses

   $ 29     $ 51  

Office equipment acquired under capital lease

   $ 9     $ 132  

Net value of medical devices used for internal purposes transferred from inventory

   $ 333     $ 697  

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

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Notes to Financial Statements

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

1. NATURE OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Organization

Avedro, Inc. (“Avedro” or the “Company”) was incorporated in Delaware on November 6, 2002. The Company is an ophthalmic pharmaceutical and medical device company developing and commercializing a suite of products based on its proprietary corneal collagen cross-linking technology platform (the “Avedro Cross-Linking Platform”) to address a wide variety of ophthalmic disorders and conditions, primarily associated with corneal weakness. The primary components of the Avedro Cross-Linking Platform are proprietary pharmaceutical formulations of riboflavin (vitamin B2), a “single dose pharmaceutical,” sold primarily in conjunction with the Company’s innovative devices for the delivery of metered doses of UVA light, a “medical device”. The technological advances that the Company has made with the Avedro Cross-Linking Platform have enabled the Company to expand the use of corneal cross-linking beyond the traditional areas in which it has been historically applied. In April 2016, the Company received United States Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) clearance for the single dose pharmaceuticals Photrexa Viscous and Photrexa, and the KXL System medical device. The Company sells these products in the United States through a direct sales force and distributes its products outside of the United States through international medical device distributors.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company has devoted the majority of its efforts to business planning, research and development, starting up production, developing markets, raising capital, recruiting management and technical staff and commercializing its newly approved products in the United States.

Basis of Accounting

The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

Going Concern

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, the Company had cash of $8,850 and $12,658, positive net working capital of $12,507 and $10,378, and an accumulated deficit of $157,000 and $135,723. The Company had a net loss of $21,277 and $16,377 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The Company has funded these losses principally through the sale of common stock, preferred stock, and the incurrence of indebtedness.

The Company expects to continue to incur operating losses and net cash outflows until such time it generates a level of revenue that is sufficient to support its cost structure. The Company is subject to a number of risks similar to other newly commercial life science companies, including, but not limited to commercially launching the Company’s products, development and market acceptance of the Company’s product candidates, development by its competitors of new technological innovations, protection of proprietary technology, and raising additional capital.

Having obtained clearance from the FDA and a CE mark in Europe to market the KXL System, the Company has incurred significant commercialization expenses related to product sales, marketing, manufacturing and distribution. In addition, the Company anticipates costs and expenses to increase as the Company continues

 

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to develop other product candidates and improve existing products. The Company may seek to fund its operations through equity or debt financings, as well as other sources. However, the Company may be unable to raise additional funds or enter into such other arrangements when needed on favorable terms or at all.

During 2018, the Company raised $24,782 in net proceeds from the sale of its Series CC convertible preferred stock. However as of the date of this report, the Company does not have sufficient existing cash to support operations for at least the next year following the date that the financial statements are issued.

The conditions in the preceding paragraph raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. Management’s plans to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern include raising funding through the possible sales of the Company’s common or preferred stock and deferring or terminating planned research projects in order to reduce expenses.

There can be no assurance, however, that the Company will receive cash proceeds from any of these potential resources or reduce its operating expenses. Furthermore, to the extent cash proceeds are received or expenses are reduced, there can be no assurance that those proceeds or reductions in expenses would be sufficient to support the Company’s operations for at least the next year following the date that the financial statements are issued. Management has concluded that the likelihood that its plans to obtain sufficient funding from one or more of these sources will be successful or its plans to reduce its operating expenses is less than probable. Accordingly, management has concluded that substantial doubt exists regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. The financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might result from the outcome of the uncertainties described above.

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that impact the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in the Company’s financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant assumptions used in the financial statements are the underlying assumptions used in valuing share-based compensation including the fair value of the common stock, allowance for bad debts, the net realizable value of inventories, the value of the warrant liability, the value of embedded derivatives and the estimated useful lives of equipment and furniture. The Company bases estimates and assumptions on historical experience when available and on various factors that it determined to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. The Company’s actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Foreign Currency Transactions

The Company’s functional currency is the United States dollar. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are recorded in the statements of operations. Net foreign exchange (losses) gains of $(54) and $1 were recorded in other (expense) income in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Segment and Geographic Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate discrete information is available for evaluation by the chief operating decision maker, or decision-making group, in

 

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deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker is the Chief Executive Officer. The Company views its operations and manages its business in one operating segment, which is the business of developing and launching commercially its products. The Company views its operations and manages its business in one operating segment.

Information about the Company’s operations in different geographic regions, based on the location of the revenue generating customer, is presented in the table below:

Revenue:

 

     For Year Ended
December 31,
 
     2017      2016  

United States

   $ 10,846      $ 8,562  

Asia

     4,534        2,381  

Europe

     2,348        1,619  

Americas (outside the United States)

     874        1,121  

Middle East

     1,293        995  

Other

     259        232  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 20,154      $ 14,910  

Fair Value Measurements

The carrying amounts reported in the Company’s financial statements for cash, accounts receivable, net of allowance, prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate their respective fair values because of the short-term nature of these accounts. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt (see Note 9, “Long-Term Debt”) is determined using Level 3 inputs using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the balance sheet dates and assessment of the credit rating of the Company. The carrying value of the Company’s long-term debt approximates fair value because the Company’s interest rate yield is near current market rates. The Company’s warrant liability, derivative liability and long-term debt are considered Level 3 liabilities within the fair value hierarchy described below.

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received if selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Fair value measurements for assets and liabilities where there exists limited or no observable market data are based primarily upon estimates, and often are calculated based on the economic and competitive environment, the characteristics of the asset and liability and other factors. Therefore, the results cannot be determined with precision and may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset or liability. Additionally, there may be inherent weaknesses in any valuation technique, and changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates and estimates of future cash flows, that could significantly affect the results of current or future values.

The Company’s financial assets are classified within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of inputs that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy, and its applicability to the Company’s financial assets, are described as follows:

Level  1 : Unadjusted quoted prices of identical, unrestricted assets in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date.

Level  2 : Quoted prices for similar assets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term through corroboration with observable market data.

 

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Level  3 : Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets, that is, inputs that reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets.

There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2, and 3 during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.

The Company has liabilities classified as Level 3 that are measured by management at fair value on a quarterly basis as described in Note 9, “Long-Term Debt,” and Note 10, “Warrants,” respectively. See Note 11, “Fair Value Measurements,” for additional information.

Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers

Cash and accounts receivable are financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk. At December 31, 2017, substantially all of the Company’s cash were in checking and savings accounts at financial institutions which management believes to have a high credit standing. The Company sells its products through its direct sales organization in the United States and primarily through established distributors outside of the United States. To minimize credit risk, ongoing credit evaluations of customers’ financial condition are performed and upfront customer deposits are received prior to shipment whenever deemed necessary. The Company has not experienced any significant losses in such accounts and management believes that the Company is not exposed to significant credit risk due to the financial position of the depository institutions in which those deposits are held. The Company has no financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk of loss.

During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not recognize revenue from one single customer over 10% of total revenues. The Company’s accounts receivable, net at December 31, 2017 and 2016 include amounts due to the Company from the below significant customer:

 

    

Percentage of Total

Accounts Receivable

Balance as of

 
     December 31,  
    

            2017             

   

            2016             

 

Customer A

     14     10

Cash

Cash includes cash in highly liquid checking and savings accounts.

The Company maintains its cash balances at major financial institutions, in amounts which at times during the year may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes it is not exposed to any significant credit risk.

The 2016 cash flow presentation has been revised to reflect payments made related to a prior business combination and asset purchase and license as a cash outflow related to financing activities. In the prior year it was presented as a cash outflow related to investing activities.

Restricted Cash

The Company has restricted cash of $551 and $488 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The amounts are generally related to two irrevocable standby letters of credit in relation to the Company’s office lease agreements. Each letter of credit names the lessor as the beneficiary and is required to fulfill lease requirements in the event the Company should default on office lease obligations. See Note 7, “Commitments and Contingencies.” At December 31, 2017, the restricted cash for these letters of credit was $351. At December 31, 2017, the Company also held restricted cash of $200 to collateralize its credit card.

 

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Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable are stated at the amount management expects to collect from outstanding balances. An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided for those accounts receivable which management estimates may be uncollectible, based on historical experience and management’s evaluation of outstanding accounts receivable at the end of the year. Uncollectible amounts are written off against the allowance after all collection efforts have been exhausted.

Inventories

The Company states inventories at the lower of first-in, first-out cost, or net realizable value. The Company adjusts its cost basis for excess, expired and obsolete inventories primarily on estimates of forecasted net sales.

The Company capitalizes inventories in preparation for sales of products when the related product candidates are considered to have a high likelihood of regulatory clearance and the related costs are expected to be recoverable through sales of the inventories. In addition, the Company capitalizes inventories related to the manufacture of instruments that have a high likelihood of regulatory clearance and will be retained as the Company’s assets upon determination that the instrument has alternative future uses. In determining whether or not to capitalize such inventories, the Company evaluates, among other factors, information regarding the product candidate’s status of regulatory submissions and communications with regulatory authorities, the outlook for commercial sales and alternative future uses of the product candidate. Costs associated with development products prior to satisfying the inventory capitalization criteria are charged to research and development expense as incurred.

The Company classifies amounts related to instruments that are Company-owned and used in the Company’s operations, as a component of property and equipment. The cost of these commercially sellable devices is capitalized as inventory until such time the Company determines the instrument will be used for internal purposes.

Equipment and Furniture

Equipment and furniture are recorded at historical cost, less accumulated depreciation. Costs for capital assets not yet placed into service are capitalized as construction in progress, and will be depreciated in accordance with the below guidelines once placed into service. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Costs which materially improve or extend the lives of existing assets are capitalized. Equipment subject to capital lease is depreciated over the lesser of the useful life of the asset or the life of the lease. The Company records depreciation using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets, which are as follows:

 

Asset Category

  

Estimated Useful Lives

Machinery and lab equipment    5 years
Medical devices used for internal purposes    3 years
Computer hardware and software    3 years
Office furniture and equipment    5 years
Leasehold improvements    Shorter of the remaining lease term or estimated useful life

Upon retirement or sale, the cost of assets disposed and the related accumulated depreciation is removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is recorded in the statements of operations.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company reviews its long-lived assets 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

 

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is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. 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 exceed the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. There were no impairment losses recognized during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Deferred Rent

The Company accounts for rent expense related to operating leases by determining total minimum rent payments on the leases over their respective periods and recognizing the rent expense on a straight-line basis. The difference between the actual amount paid and the amount recorded as rent expense in each period presented is recorded as an adjustment to an other non-current liability, deferred rent, in the balance sheet.

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company recorded its convertible preferred stock at fair value on the dates of issuance, net of issuance costs. A deemed liquidation event will only occur upon a greater than 50% change in control or a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company and will be a redemption event subject to election by the holders of at least 70% of the then outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis. As the redemption event is outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been presented outside of permanent equity. Further, the Company has also elected not to adjust the carrying values of the convertible preferred stock to the redemption value of such shares, since it is uncertain whether or when a redemption event will occur. Subsequent adjustments to increase the carrying value to the redemption values will be made when it becomes probable that such redemption will occur. As of December 31, 2017, it was not probable that such redemption would occur.

Guarantees and Indemnifications

As permitted under Delaware law, the Company has agreements whereby it indemnifies its investors, stockholders, officers and directors (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties”) for certain events or occurrences while the Indemnified Parties are, or were, serving at its request in such capacity. The term of the indemnification period is for the Indemnified Parties’ lifetimes. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is unlimited; however, the Company has a directors and officers insurance policy which mitigates its exposure and enables it to recover a portion of any future amounts paid. The Company has not incurred costs to date to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements. As a result, the Company determined the estimated fair value of these agreements is de minimis. Accordingly, the Company has no liabilities recorded for these agreements as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.

Revenue Recognition

The Company derives its revenue principally from sales of its medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals. The Company recognizes revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence that an agreement exists; (2) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (3) the selling price is fixed or determinable; and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

Product Revenue

U.S. Product Revenue

The Company, through its direct sales force, sells medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals directly to customers, which are typically physician clinics, or hospitals. In each arrangement,

 

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the Company is responsible for installation and calibration of the medical devices and initial user training, which are deemed essential to the functionality of the medical device. Each medical device is sold with a standard one year warranty from the date of shipment, which provides that the medical device will function as intended during that one year period or the Company will either replace the product, or a portion thereof, or provide the necessary repair service during the Company’s normal service hours. The related single dose pharmaceuticals are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to twelve months.

U.S. Multiple Element Arrangements

The Company generally enters into multiple element arrangements with its new customers, which include the sale of a medical device with an initial order of related single dose pharmaceuticals, and may include an extended warranty. Medical devices sold in the United States do not have standalone value since they can only be used in conjunction with the single dose pharmaceuticals sold by the Company. Therefore, the Company recognizes device and single dose pharmaceutical revenue when the initial order of the related single dose pharmaceuticals is delivered, user training is completed, and the medical device is delivered, installed and accepted by the end user customer. The total selling price of these arrangements is allocated amongst deliverables based on their relative selling price. If extended warranties are included in these multiple element arrangements, they are treated as separate deliverables and, are deferred and recognized over the term of the extended warranty period based on the separately stated contractual price. The customers have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions.

Subsequent single dose pharmaceuticals orders are typically not part of a multiple element arrangement. Through June 30, 2017, the Company recognized revenue of subsequent single dose pharmaceuticals orders upon shipment as all four revenue criteria are met. In July 2017, the Company began offering extended payment terms to their customers in which a portion of the single dose pharmaceutical would be payable in 30 days and the remainder payable in 180 days. Under these new payment terms, the Company was not able to reasonably assure the fees are fixed or determinable or collectability is reasonably assured on the shipment date. Therefore, the Company recognizes revenue on the single dose pharmaceuticals when the payment becomes due from the customer and collectability is reasonably assured, which is generally 30 to 180 days from the invoice date. Although the amounts charged per treatment are invoiced to the customer on the shipment date, the Company does not record deferred revenue or accounts receivable for the amounts charged under extended payment terms since collectability cannot be reasonably assured. The Company has a program to offer a future discount on purchases subject to the customer meeting certain requirements, specifically related to the application for insurance reimbursement. The Company concluded that this may result in a significant and incremental discount and has accounted for the future discount as a separate deliverable in its revenue transactions. The Company allocates consideration to the pharmaceutical and future discount based on the best estimate of the selling prices on the relative selling price method. At December 31, 2017, $2,371 of single dose pharmaceutical amounts were invoiced to customers under extended payment terms and were excluded from the Company’s balance sheet.

U.S. Shipping and Handling Revenue

Shipping and handling revenue coincides with the recognition of revenue from the sale of the product.

Outside the U.S. Product Revenue

The Company has established distributor agreements with various distributors throughout the world. Inventory title transfers to the distributor at the time of shipment. The payment from the distributor is due in accordance with the Company’s standard payment terms. These payments are not contingent upon the distributor’s sale of products to its customers. The distributors have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions. Medical devices sold are generally covered by a warranty of 15 months following shipment or 12 months following installation at the end-customer site. The related single dose pharmaceuticals are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to twelve months. The term of the distributor agreements is typically two years, with each option of renewal not exceeding one year.

 

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Outside the U.S. Multiple Element Arrangements

As noted above, the Company established distributor agreements and is not responsible for installation, calibration or initial user training of medical devices sold outside the United States. In addition, customers outside the United States are able to use medical devices in conjunction with single dose pharmaceuticals purchased from suppliers other than the Company. As such, medical devices sold outside of the United States have standalone value and are separate deliverables within multiple-deliverable arrangements outside of the Unites States. Single dose pharmaceuticals that may also be part of the multiple-deliverable arrangement are also accounted for as separate deliverables. The total selling price of these arrangements is allocated amongst these deliverables based on their relative selling price. As the Company has no further obligation (except for the warranty provision as discussion below) after shipment of these deliverables, the recognition of revenue and cost of revenue generally occurs upon shipment of each deliverable assuming all revenue recognition criteria are met.

Outside the U.S. Shipping and Handling Revenue

In the normal course of business, the Company does not derive revenue from charging customers shipping and handling costs as the Company delivers its products ex-works. In instances where a customer requests the Company to ship the products, the associated shipping costs are passed through to the customer and are recorded as revenue.

Product Warranty

Medical devices sold are covered by a standard warranty which outside the U.S. is for 15 months following shipment or 12 months following installation at the end-customer site, and inside the U.S. is 12 months following installation. The Company records its estimated contractual obligations at the time of shipment since installations are generally within 30 days of shipment and returns are not accepted. The Company considers the 12-month rolling average of actual warranty claims associated with its medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals when determining the warranty accrual estimate.

Changes in the product warranty accrual, included as part of accrued expenses, during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of the following:

 

     December 31,  
         2017              2016      

Beginning balance

   $ 235      $ 66  

Accruals for warranties issued during the period

     169        226  

(Settlements/reversals)

     (235      (57
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ending balance

   $ 169      $ 235  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost of Goods Sold

Cost of goods sold consists primarily of manufacturing overhead costs, material costs and direct labor. A significant portion of the Company’s cost of goods sold currently consists of manufacturing overhead costs. These overhead costs include the cost of quality assurance, material procurement, inventory control, facilities, equipment, operations supervision and management, depreciation expense for production equipment, amortization of leasehold improvements, shipping costs and royalty expense payable in connection with sales of certain products.

Research and Development Costs

Research and development are expensed as incurred and primarily consist of costs to develop and manufacture prototypes and clinical materials, clinical site payments and other research and clinical expenses related to employee compensation and benefits, supplies and depreciation.

 

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Advertising Expense

Expenditures for advertising are charged to operations as incurred. Advertising expenses were $520 and $228 during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Commissions

The Company recognizes commission expense related to product revenue in the period in which the product is shipped.

License Agreements and Patent Costs

Costs associated with licenses of technology are included in research and development expense to the extent they are pre-commercial technology or pre-commercial milestones. Costs associated with patent costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company has a stock-based compensation plan which is more fully described in Note 13. The Company records stock-based compensation for share based awards granted to employees and to members of the board of directors for their services on the board of directors, based on the grant date fair value of awards issued, and the expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the applicable service period, which is generally four years. The Company accounts for non-employee stock-based compensation arrangements based upon the fair value of the consideration received or the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The measurement date for non-employee awards is generally the date that the performance of services required for the non-employee award is complete. Stock-based compensation costs for non-employee awards is recognized as services are provided, which is generally the vesting period, on a straight-line basis.

The Company expenses restricted stock awards based on the fair value of the award on the date of issuance, on a straight-line basis over the associated service period of the award.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options. The use of the Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires management to make assumptions with respect to the expected term of the option, the expected volatility of the common stock consistent with the expected life of the option, risk-free interest rates and expected dividend yields of the common stock. The expected term was determined according to the simplified method, which is the average of the vesting tranche dates and the contractual term. Due to the lack of company specific historical and implied volatility data resulting from being a private company, the Company has based its estimate of expected volatility primarily on the historical volatility of a group of similar companies that are publicly traded. For these analyses, companies with comparable characteristics are selected, including enterprise value and position within the industry, and with historical share price information sufficient to meet the expected term of the stock-based awards. The Company computes the historical volatility data using the daily closing prices for the selected companies’ shares during the equivalent period of the calculated expected term of its stock-based awards. The risk-free interest rate is determined by reference to U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with remaining maturities similar to the expected term of the options. The Company has not paid, and does not anticipate paying, cash dividends on shares of preferred and common stock; therefore, the expected dividend yield is assumed to be zero. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company was required to estimate forfeitures at the time of grant and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Effective January 1, 2016, the Company early adopted ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting”, and has elected to account for forfeitures as incurred and therefore no forfeiture estimate is utilized in the twelve months ended December 31, 2017 or 2016. See section “Accounting Standard adopted during the years ended 2017 and 2016” for further details.

 

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The fair value of the underlying common stock was determined by the Company’s board of directors, with input from its management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining the equity value of the Company and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of the Company’s equity was then allocated to various securities within the Company’s capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

The Company recognizes net deferred tax assets to the extent that the Company believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If management determines that the Company would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future, in excess of its net recorded amount, management would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) management determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold, management recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within income tax expense. Any accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability.

Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per share attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period, without consideration for potentially dilutive securities. Diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the period determined using the treasury-stock and if-converted methods. For purposes of the diluted net loss per share calculation, convertible preferred stock, stock options and warrants considered to be potentially dilutive securities, but were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive and therefore basic and diluted net loss per share were the same for all periods presented.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Standards Adopted During 2017 and 2016

In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern: Disclosure of Uncertainties

 

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about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern”. This guidance clarifies that an entity’s management should evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. The amendments in this update are effective for annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2016, and annual and interim periods thereafter, and early application is permitted. Note 1 incorporates the disclosure requirements from the adoption of ASU 2014-15.

In July 2015, the FASB issued Update No. 2015-11, “Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory.” Under ASU 2015-11, inventory should be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Subsequent measurement is unchanged for inventory measured using LIFO or the retail inventory method. ASU 2015-11 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods thereafter. The adoption of ASU 2015-11 did not have a material impact on its financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting”, which simplifies share-based payment accounting through a variety of amendments. The Company elected to early adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2016, and has elected to account for forfeitures as incurred and therefore no forfeiture estimate is utilized in the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. The change in forfeiture recognition resulted in an immaterial cumulative effect adjustment recorded to opening retained earnings. Early adoption of ASU 2016-09 did not have a material impact on the financial statements.

Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which provides guidance for revenue recognition. The standard’s core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Per ASU 2015-14, “Deferral of Effective Date,” this guidance will be effective for the Company for the annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for the annual reporting period beginning after December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the effect ASU 2014-09 will have on its financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)”, which requires an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising from a lease for both financing and operating leases. The ASU will also require new qualitative and quantitative disclosures to help investors and other financial statement users better understand the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect ASU 2016-02 will have on its financial statements.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows: Restricted Cash”. The amendments in this update require that amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents be included within cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. ASU 2016-18 will likely have an impact on the Company’s operating cash outflows.

In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, “Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” The new standard simplifies the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments to employees, with certain exceptions. The new standard will be effective beginning after December 15, 2019 and early adoption is permitted, but no earlier than an entity’s adoption date of ASU 2014-09. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact ASU 2018-07 may have on its results of operations upon adoption.

 

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Unaudited Pro Forma Presentation

The unaudited pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding after giving effect to the assumed conversion of all the outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock immediately prior to the closing of the initial public offering (the “IPO”) had occurred. For purposes of pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been treated as though they have been converted to common stock at the later of the issuance date or on January 1, 2017. The pro forma net loss per share does not include the shares expected to be sold and related proceeds to be received from the IPO.

3. INVENTORIES

Inventories consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Raw materials

   $ 2,300      $ 1,667  

Finished goods

     2,851        1,569  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total inventories

   $ 5,151      $ 3,236  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

4. PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Prepaid suppliers

   $ 872      $ 211  

Prepaid rent

     102        81  

Prepaid other

     387        375  

Prepaid Prescription Drug User Fee

     456        243  

Prepaid license fees

     209        127  

Prepaid clinical study

     143        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total prepaid expenses and other current assets

   $ 2,169      $ 1,038  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

5. EQUIPMENT AND FURNITURE, NET

Equipment and furniture, net consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Machinery and lab equipment

   $ 1,527      $ 1,123  

Medical devices used for internal purposes

     748        566  

Computer software

     155        107  

Office furniture and equipment

     423        371  

Computer hardware

     306        230  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total equipment and furniture

     3,159        2,397  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (1,519      (1,372
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equipment and furniture, net

   $ 1,640      $ 1,025  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Depreciation expense related to equipment and furniture, including amortization of assets recorded under capital leases, amounted to $563 and $628 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

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During the year ended December 31, 2017, $333 of medical devices to be used for internal purposes were transferred from inventory, and $143 were written off as they were no longer in use. The total loss on disposal of these write-off was $3.

At December 31, 2017 and 2016, office equipment under a capital lease was $88 and $113, net of accumulated amortization.

6. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following:

 

     As of December 31,  
         2017              2016      

Accrued compensation

   $ 1,559      $ 1,963  

Accrued warranty

     169        235  

Accrued inventory

     147        205  

Accrued professional services

     274        180  

Accrued sales tax

     99        355  

Accrued other

     493        306  

Other current liabilities

     37        64  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities

   $ 2,778      $ 3,308  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Operating Lease Commitments

As of December 31, 2017, the Company has two leased facilities under operating lease agreements. The Company entered into an 84-month lease in November 2015, effective February 26, 2016, for a facility with office and lab space. The Company entered into a 72-month lease on November 4, 2016, effective February 25, 2017, for production and office space in a second facility. In March 2017, the Company amended the second lease to add additional office and lab space that will run co-terminously with the original lease through February 2023. Rental payments on operating leases are charged to expense on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. The lease agreements require the Company to pay executory costs such as real estate taxes, insurance and repairs, and includes renewal and escalation clauses.

As described in Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” the Company has restricted cash in the form of an irrevocable letter of credit related to the lease agreements in the amount of $351.

Aggregate minimum annual lease commitments of the Company under its non-cancellable operating leases as of December 31, 2017:

 

Year Ending December 31,

  

Amount

 

2018

   $ 1,101  

2019

     1,157  

2020

     1,240  

2021

     1,328  

2022

     1,370  

2023

     229  
  

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 6,425  
  

 

 

 

Rent expense under the operating leases was $1,184 and $1,254 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

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License Agreements

From time to time, the Company enters into various licensing agreements whereby the Company may use certain technologies in conjunction with its product research and development.

Rostock

In December 2013, the Company entered into an exclusive license agreement with the University of Rostock in Germany, for its inventions and any licensed patents which may arise from such inventions under which the Company had the right to make, have made, import, use, sell, and commercialize the developed technology. Under the license agreement, the Company paid a $28 non-refundable license issue fee in 2013 and agreed to pay fixed non-refundable minimum royalties in the amount of 190 € (approximately $244) from 2015 through 2019. The amount in U.S. dollars was calculated using the foreign exchange rate as of December 31, 2013. During 2016, the Company commenced a process to terminate the agreement, and in September 2017 entered into a Mutual Termination and Release Agreement that terminated the exclusive license agreement for a final payment of $32, which was made in October 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the Company recorded $32 in other current liabilities for the termination payment due under the Mutual Termination and Release Agreement, which represents the total remaining liability at that date. At December 31, 2017, there are no future commitments, royalties or payments due under the Rostock license agreement.

CalTech

In March 2015, the Company entered into an exclusive license agreement (the “CalTech Agreement”) with the California Institute of Technology (“CalTech”) for the exclusive license in the United States to certain patent rights granting Avedro the right to make, have made, import, use, sell, and offer for sale any product, device, system, article of manufacture, machine, composition of matter, or process or service covered under the licensed patents.

Under the CalTech Agreement, the Company agreed to pay CalTech certain royalties on net revenues from the sale of cross-linking agents for performing cross-linking procedures with corneal surgically invasive corrective procedures, including, but not limited to, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis or photorefractive keratectomy (the “Royalty Products”) following FDA approval of the Company’s application for the Royalty Products. Additionally, the Company has agreed to pay CalTech milestone payments upon the occurrence of specified events. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had not achieved such milestone events, so no liability has been recorded.

In July 2017, the Company entered into an amended and restated license agreement (the “Amended CalTech Agreement”) with the California Institute of Technology (“CalTech”) for the exclusive license in the United States to certain patent rights granting Avedro the right to make, have made, import, use, sell, and offer for sale any product, device, system, article of manufacture, machine, composition of matter, or process or service covered under the licensed patents. Under the Amended CalTech Agreement, the Company agreed to pay CalTech additional certain flat-fee royalties per treatment on the sale of cross-linking agents for corneal cross-linking procedures for the treatment of Keratoconus on or after July 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2017, $2 of such payments have been made.

IROC

In August 2014, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement with IROC Innocross AG (“IROC”) to acquire assets and a license from IROC to enhance its existing platform of cross-linking technology. The total fair value of the acquisition was derived from determining the fair value of all assets acquired. The Company made an upfront payment and the asset purchase obligation represents the remaining payments, which have been discounted to take into account the time value of money. The applicable discount rate used was 12.0%.

 

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This obligation is also adjusted to reflect changes in the exchange rates. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company’s current portion of the asset purchase obligation was $122 and $117, respectively, and the long-term asset purchase obligation was $28 and $129, respectively, both reflecting changes in the exchange rate as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.

In April 2015, the Company entered into a patent license and purchase agreement with IROC (the “IROC Agreement”), under which the Company acquired certain technology and intellectual property rights relating to ophthalmic cross-linking and is the owner of such technology and intellectual property. Additionally, the IROC Agreement broadened the scope of the license to the intellectual property rights under a prior asset purchase agreement dated August 2014 to include all products and to transfer all patents covered under the prior asset purchase agreement to the Company subject to the payments and the terms and conditions described in the prior asset purchase agreement.

As consideration, the Company agreed to pay IROC an initial payment of $50 and up to $1,700 in milestone payments within a specified number of days of the occurrence of each milestone event. The Company determined that the milestone events were probable as of the execution of the IROC Agreement and recorded a liability for the total $1,700 at that date. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, $250 and $829 of payments remained due under the agreement, respectively.

Supplier Agreements

Medio-Haus

In June 2014, the Company entered into an exclusive supplier agreement with Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH (“Medio-Haus”) with a term of 15 years (the “Medio-Haus Supplier Agreement”). Under the terms of the agreement, the Company must provide Medio-Haus with a rolling forecast of the quantities expected to be ordered during that time period. The quantities stipulated in the forecast constitute a binding commitment. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had $1,043 of orders committed for the year ended December 31, 2018. During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company made $1,492 and $717 of purchases, respectively, under the Medio-Haus Supplier Agreement.

Althea

In December 2014, the Company entered into a commercial services agreement with Ajinmoto Althea, Inc. (“Althea”). Unless terminated sooner, the agreement shall automatically renew thereafter for successive periods. The agreement created an arrangement through which Althea acts as a third-party manufacturer to provide fill/finish services of Althea’s active pharmaceutical ingredient. The Company provides Althea with a rolling forecast of the quantities they expect to order during that time period. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had $1,489 of orders committed for the year ended December 31, 2018. During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company made $2,477 and $928 of purchases, respectively, under the agreement. Of the purchases made during the year ended December 31, 2017, $867 worth of purchases are included in the prepaid expenses and other current assets on the Company’s balance sheet at December 31, 2017.

Sharp

In September 2016, the Company entered into a two-year packaging and supply agreement with the Sharp Corporation (“Sharp”). The agreement engages Sharp to store, package and label the Company’s single dose pharmaceuticals. Under the terms of the agreement, at the start of each calendar quarter the Company provides a rolling 12 month forecast of estimated quantity and completion date requirements for the single dose pharmaceuticals. Only the quantities stipulated in the forecast for the first calendar quarter constitutes a binding commitment. At December 31, 2017, the Company had $66 of orders committed to be purchased through February 28, 2018. During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company made $581 and $51 of purchases, respectively, under the agreement.

 

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Manufacturing Agreement

Phillips-Medsize

In June 2017, the Company entered into a three-year manufacturing agreement with Phillips-Medisize, LLC. The agreement requires the Company to provide a rolling 12-month forecast of estimated quantity and completion date requirement, however only the quantities stipulated in the forecast for the first calendar quarter constitutes a binding commitment. At December 31, 2017, the Company had $83 of orders committed to be purchased through December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company made $208 of purchases under the agreement.

Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Company may be subject to legal proceedings, claims and litigation as the Company operates in an industry susceptible to patent legal claims. The Company accounts for estimated losses with respect to legal proceedings and claims when such losses are probable and estimable. Legal costs associated with these matters are expensed when incurred. The Company is not currently a party to any legal proceedings.

8. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company has a customer that is also a stockholder. During the years ended December 31, 2017, and 2016, the Company recorded revenue related to this customer of $1,841 and $969, respectively. The accounts receivable balance from this customer as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $442 and $1, respectively.

The Company has a customer that is also a stockholder and employee. During the years ended December 31, 2017, and 2016, the Company recorded revenue related to this customer of $27 and $10, respectively. The accounts receivable balance from this customer as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $3 and $0, respectively.

The Company also entered into a lending arrangement in March 2017 with a lender who is affiliated with a stockholder. See Note 9, “Long-term Debt” for further details.

9. LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt, net, is comprised of the following:

 

     December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Principal amount outstanding

   $ 20,000      $ 9,772  

PIK Interest

     201        —    

Unamortized discount

     (608      (114

Unamortized issue costs

     (274      (34
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net carrying amount

   $ 19,319      $ 9,624  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

2014 Loan Agreement

In September 2014, the Company entered into a loan and security agreement (the “2014 Loan Agreement”) with an outside lender for $12,500, maturing on December 1, 2017. Borrowings under the 2014 Loan Agreement were collateralized by substantially all assets of the Company. The first draw of $7,500 (“2014 Tranche 1”) was issued during September 2014, and the second draw of $5,000 was issued during March 2015 as the Company met the milestones defined in the agreement.

 

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Additionally, the Company exercised the following options:

 

   

Extend the 2014 Loan Agreement maturity date by six months from December 1, 2017 to June 1, 2018;

 

   

Extend the interest only period by six months through January 1, 2016; and

 

   

Reduce the interest rate from 11.5% per annum to 9.25% per annum.

Following the extension of the 2014 Loan Agreement maturity date, the debt issuance costs and debt discount were being amortized over the new term of the loan using the effective interest method.

The 2014 Tranche 1 was payable in 39 monthly installments, comprised of interest only monthly payments for the first nine months followed by 30 months of principal and interest payments. An end of term charge of $438 is payable at maturity, including in the event of any prepayment, and was being accrued as interest expense over the term of the loan using the effective interest method. Debt issuance costs of approximately $57 was being amortized over the term of the loan using the effective interest method.

2017 Credit Agreement

In March 2017, the Company entered into a credit agreement (the “2017 Credit Agreement”) with a lender who is affiliated with a stockholder for $30,000, maturing on March 20, 2022 (the “Maturity Date”). The loan is available in two draws. The first draw of $20,000 was issued during March 2017. The second draw of $10,000, was available through December 31, 2017, based on a revenue milestone. The loans require payment of interest only until maturity at the rate of 10% per annum (“Applicable Margin”). Additional interest (“PIK”) interest accrues at the per annum rate equal to the higher of (i) the three-month LIBOR rate and (ii) 1.00%. Such PIK interest is added to the outstanding principal amount of the loans until the maturity date. The outstanding loan balance plus accrued PIK interest is due in one lump sum payment on the loan maturity date.

During March 2017, the Company repaid the 2014 Loan Agreement in full with the proceeds from the 2017 Credit Agreement. As the Company repaid the term loans prior to maturity, a prepayment fee equating to 0.50% of the portion of principal prepaid under the 2014 Loan Agreement was incurred. The prepayment fee, unamortized end for term charge, unamortized debt discount and unamortized debt issuance costs related to the 2014 Loan Agreement at the time of repayment totaled $230, which the Company recorded as a loss on extinguishment of debt in the other (expense) income line of the statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017.

The portion of the 2014 Loan Agreement outstanding at December 31, 2016 that was repaid with proceeds from the 2017 Credit Agreement was classified as long-term in the Company’s balance sheet at December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the Company had recorded a current portion of the long-term debt obligation of $1,412, net of debt discount of $86 and issuance costs of $35, and a long-term debt obligation of $8,212, net of debt discount of $28 and issuance costs of $0, related to the 2014 Loan Agreement. Amortization of the debt discount, which was recorded as interest expense in the statements of operations, was $81 for the year ended December 31, 2016.

The 2017 Credit Agreement includes customary events of default, affirmative and negative covenants, including with respect to a change in control transaction, investments, distributions and dividends, and the incurrence of additional debt.

Upon the occurrence of an event of default and continuing until such event of default is no longer continuing, the Applicable Margin would increase by 3.00% per annum.

 

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If the Company repays all or a portion of the borrowings under the 2017 Credit Agreement prior to the Maturity Date, it will be required to pay the lender a prepayment fee as follows: for amounts repaid on or prior to March 20, 2018, 14% of the portion of principal repaid; for amounts repaid after March 20, 2018 but on or prior to March 20, 2019, 9% of the portion of principal repaid; for amounts repaid after March 20, 2019 but on or prior to March 20, 2020, 5% of the portion of principal repaid; and for amounts repaid after March 20, 2020 but on or prior to March 20, 2021, 3% of the portion of the principal repaid. No prepayment fee will be required for amounts repaid after March 20, 2021 but prior to the Maturity Date.

The Company’s obligations under the 2017 Credit Agreement are secured by a security interest in substantially all of its assets. Other than a Minimum Liquidity requirement of $3,000, there are no financial covenants contained in the 2017 Credit Agreement and the Company was in compliance with the affirmative and restrictive covenants as of December 31, 2017.

In association with the 2017 Credit Agreement and in conjunction with the close of the first draw in March 2017, the Company issued the lender warrants to purchase 474,446 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share (the “2017 Preferred Warrants”). Each warrant is exercisable for a period of 10 years from the date of issuance and may be exercised on a cashless basis in whole or in part. Using the Black-Scholes valuation model, management estimated the fair value of these warrants to be $434 at issuance of the warrant. The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value: expected volatility of 67%, risk-free interest rate of 2.47%, and expected term of 10 years. These warrants were considered to be costs incurred as part of the credit facility and were recorded as a debt discount which was offset against the loan, and were to be amortized over the life of the original credit facility based on the effective interest method to interest expense. See Note 10, “Warrants,” for further description of the warrants. The 2017 Preferred Warrants are remeasured at fair value at each reporting date, with changes in fair value being recorded as other income (expense) in the statements of operations (see Note 11, “Fair Value Measurements”).

The 2017 Credit Agreement contained features that are contingent on the following future events: (i) interest rate upon a non-creditworthy event of default; (ii) a put option upon an event of default; and (iii) a put option upon the lenders request of net casualty proceeds. These features meet the criteria of a derivative and as such the Company has bifurcated these features and recorded them at fair value. The derivative will be revalued at the end of each reporting period. Any change in the fair value will be recorded as a gain or loss in the income statement in other income (expense).

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had an outstanding total obligation from the derivative liability of $409. The derivative and warrant liabilities are presented on the balance sheet under non-current liabilities.

The Company did not draw the remaining amount and the amount is no longer available to be drawn on under the 2017 Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had borrowed and had outstanding $20,000 of debt under the 2017 Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had recorded a long-term debt obligation of $19,319 on its balance sheet, which includes borrowings outstanding of $20,000 and accrued PIK interest of $201, net of debt discount of $882. Amortization of the debt discount, which was recorded as interest expense in the statements of operations, was $116 for the year ended December 31, 2017.

 

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10. WARRANTS

Summary of Outstanding Warrants

The following represents a summary of the warrants outstanding at each of the dates identified:

 

              

 

   Outstanding at  
    

Issued

  

Classification

  

Exercisable for

  

December 31, 2017

    

December 31, 2016

 

1

   2015    Equity            Common stock      128,868        162,600  

2

   2015    Liability    Series AA convertible preferred stock      300,000        300,000  

3

   2017    Liability    Series AA convertible preferred stock      474,446        —    

 

1

These warrants, exercisable into shares of common stock are exercisable through November 5, 2021 at $0.01 per share.

2

These warrants, exercisable into Series AA convertible preferred stock are exercisable through September 11, 2024 or five years from the date of an Initial Public Offering if completed on or before September 11, 2024, at $1.00 per share.

3

These warrants, exercisable into Series AA convertible preferred stock are exercisable through March 20, 2027, at $1.00 per share.

11. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement” (“ASC 820”), establishes a fair value hierarchy for instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and the Company’s own assumptions (unobservable inputs). Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, and are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.

ASC 820 identifies fair value as the exchange price, or 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 a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, ASC 820 establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between the following:

Level 1 : inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 : inputs are inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and

Level 3 : inputs are unobservable inputs that reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

To the extent that the valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Company in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

The carrying amount reflected on the balance sheets for cash, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximated their fair values, due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying value of the long-term debt approximates its fair value as the debt arrangement is based on interest rates the Company believes it could obtain for borrowings with similar terms.

 

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Recurring Fair Value Measurements

The following tables set forth the Company’s assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

Description

  

Total

    

Quoted

prices in

active
markets

(Level 1)

    

Significant

other

observable
inputs

(Level 2)

    

Significant

unobservable

inputs

(Level 3)

 

December 31, 2017

           

Liabilities

           

Warrant liability

   $     430      $     —        $     —        $     430  

Derivative liability

   $ 409        —          —          409  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 839      $ —        $ —        $ 839  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

December 31, 2016

           

Liabilities

           

Warrant liability

   $ 260      $ —        $ —        $ 260  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 260      $ —        $ —        $ 260  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Warrant Liability

The warrant liability represents the liability for warrants to purchase shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock issued in connection with the Company’s long-term debt. See Note 9, “Long-Term Debt.”

2015 and 2017 Preferred Warrants

The fair value of the 2015 and 2017 Preferred Warrants was determined using the Black-Scholes model, a form of an option pricing model.

The weighted-average assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of the warrants were as follows:

 

    Year Ended December 31,
    2017   2016

Risk-free interest rate

  2.3% - 2.4%   2.3%

Expected volatility

  58.8% - 65.0%   75.0%

Expected term (in years)

  6.7 - 92   7.00

Expected dividend yield

  0.0%   0.0%

Risk-free Interest Rate. The Company estimated the risk-free interest rate in reference to yield on U.S. Treasury securities with a maturity date commensurate with the expected term of the associated warrant.

Expected Volatility. Due to the Company’s limited operating history and lack of company-specific historical or implied volatility, the expected volatility assumption is based on historical volatilities of a peer group of similar companies whose share prices are publicly available over a period commensurate with the warrant’s expected term. The peer group was developed based on companies in the biotechnology and medical device industries.

Expected Term. The expected term represents the period of time that warrants are expected to be outstanding.

 

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Expected Dividend Yield. The expected dividend yield assumption is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends and has no present intention to pay cash dividends.

Fair Value of Underlying Convertible Preferred Shares. The fair value of the underlying convertible preferred stock was determined by the board of directors, with input from management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining the equity value of the Company and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of the Company’s equity value was then allocated to various securities within the Company’s capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security.

Accordingly, the valuation of the components of the warrant liability was determined using Level 3 inputs.

Changes in the fair value of the warrant liability, for which fair value is determined using Level 3 inputs were as follows:

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
         2017              2016      

Beginning balance

   $ 260      $ 210  

Warrant issuance

     434        —    

Change in fair value

     (264      50  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ending balance

   $ 430      $ 260  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivative Liability

The derivative liability represents features bifurcated from the 2017 Credit Agreement liability and recorded at fair value. See Note 9, “Long-Term Debt.” Under certain change in control events, as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement, a prepayment fee and the entire outstanding obligation may be due and payable. The Company concluded that these features, including (i) interest rate upon a non-creditworthy event of default; (ii) a put option upon an event of default; and (iii) a put option upon the lenders request of net casualty proceeds, are not clearly and closely related to the host instrument, and represent a single compound derivative and is required to be re-measured at fair value.

The estimated fair value of the derivative liability was determined using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model that includes the principal, prepayment fees and interest payments under scenarios of a change in control, other than a qualified initial public offering prior to the debt maturity. The following inputs were estimated by management: (i) the probability of a change of control event; (ii) the timing of a change of control event; and (iii) the discount rate. At December 31, 2017, the Company assumed a 12% discount rate, and a 11%, 20% and 10% probability for a change in control event during the twelve months ended March 19, 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively.

 

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Changes in the fair value of the derivative liability, for which fair value is determined using Level 3 inputs were as follows:

 

     December 31,
2017
 

Beginning balance

   $             —    

Debt issuance

     253  

Change in fair value

     156  
  

 

 

 

Ending balance

   $ 409  
  

 

 

 

12. CAPITAL STOCK

Common Stock

The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of shares of common stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of shares of preferred stock. Common stock has the following characteristics:

Voting

The holders of shares of common stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock held at all meetings of stockholders and written actions in lieu of meetings provided, however, that except as otherwise required by law, holders of common stock shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to the corporation’s certificate of incorporation that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of preferred stock. The common stock as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect two directors of the Company.

Dividends

Only after payment of such dividends distributed among preferred stock holders shall dividends be distributed among common stock holders.

Liquidation

After payment of all preferential amounts required to be paid to the holders of shares of Series BB convertible preferred stock and Series AA convertible preferred stock, the remaining assets of the Company available for distribution to its stockholders shall be distributed among the holders of shares of common stock, pro rata based on the number of shares held by each such holder.

Reserved for future issuance

The Company has reserved for future issuance the following number of shares of common stock on a fully diluted and as-converted basis:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock

     31,869,753        31,869,753  

Conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock

     5,930,584        —    

Options to purchase common stock

     8,598,807        9,274,158  

Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock

     774,446        300,000  

Warrants to purchase common stock

     128,868        162,600  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     47,302,458        41,606,511  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Convertible Preferred Stock

In November 2015, the Company entered into a Series AA Stock Purchase Agreement to issue 15,266,975 shares of its Series AA convertible preferred stock at a price of $1.00 per share for aggregate proceeds of $15,267 from new and existing investors. The agreement allowed for subsequent initial closings (“Initial Closing Rights Offering”) from each former holder of its previously issued preferred stock (except those who already purchased shares at the initial closing), following the initial closing for up to an additional 200,014 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock. In December 2015, the Company closed the first rights offering, in which it received $35 for the issuance of 34,884 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock.

In May 2016, the Company notified the Series AA stockholders of the second tranche closing of Series AA convertible preferred stock, as referenced in the Series AA Stock Purchase Agreement. The second tranche milestone event was achieved in April 2016 upon final FDA approval for the Company’s Photrexa Viscous, Photrexa and the KXL System. The second tranche closing date occurred on June 1, 2016, at which time 15,301,859 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock were purchased for an aggregate purchase price of $15,302.

In April 2017, the Company entered into a Series BB Stock Purchase Agreement to issue 5,930,584 shares of its Series BB convertible preferred stock at a price of $2.023410 per share for aggregate proceeds of $12,000 from new and existing investors.

In conjunction with the Series BB Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company increased its authorized shares to 92,600,000 from 80,300,000, of which 54,000,000 are designated as common stock and 38,600,000 are designated as convertible preferred stock.

In April 2018, the Company entered into a Series CC Stock Purchase Agreement to issue 9,529,571 shares of its Series CC convertible preferred stock at a price of $2.623410 per share for aggregate proceeds of $25,000 from new and existing investors. See Note 17, “Subsequent Events” for further details.

The Company records its convertible preferred stock at fair value on the dates of issuance, net of issuance costs. A deemed liquidation event will only occur upon a greater than 50% change in control or sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company and will be a redemption event subject to election by holders of at least 70% of the then outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis. As the redemption event is outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been presented outside of permanent equity. Further, the Company has also elected not to adjust the carrying values of the convertible preferred stock to the redemption value of such shares, since it is uncertain whether or when a redemption event will occur. Subsequent adjustments to increase the carrying value to the redemption values will be made when it becomes probable that such redemption will occur. As of December 31, 2017, it was not probable that such redemption would occur.

The Company’s convertible preferred stock has the following rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions:

Dividend Rights

The holders of the convertible preferred stock and common stock had the following ranking of preference based on series held with respect to dividends, liquidation or redemption: Series BB convertible preferred stock, Series AA convertible preferred stock and common stock. The holders of convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive, when and as declared by the board of directors, cash dividends at the following rates based on series held based on preference noted above and shall be payable only when, as and if declared by the board of directors and shall be non-cumulative:

 

Series

  

Cash Dividend Rate

 

Convertible Preferred Stock

     8.000 %  

 

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Voting Rights

Holders of the convertible preferred stock vote equally together with the holders of common stock as a single class. Each holder of the convertible preferred stock is entitled to one vote for each number of shares of common stock into which the holder’s convertible preferred stock is convertible. In addition to the common stock voting as a separate class to elect two directors of the Company, the Series AA convertible preferred stock as a separate class, is entitled to elect two directors of the Company. The holders of record of the shares of common stock and of any other class or series of voting stock (including the convertible preferred stock), exclusively and voting as a single class on an as-converted basis, shall be entitled to elect the balance of the total number of directors of the Company.

Liquidation Rights

Upon any liquidation, dissolution, or winding-up of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary, before any distribution or payment shall be made to the holders of any convertible preferred stock other than Series BB convertible preferred stock and Series AA convertible preferred stock, and subject to the rights of any series of preferred stock that may from time to time come into existence, the holders of the Series BB convertible preferred stock followed by the holders of the Series AA convertible preferred stock are entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Company an amount per share of such preferred stock equal to the original issue price plus all declared and unpaid dividends (if any) on such preferred stock (as adjusted for any stock dividends, combinations, stock splits, recapitalizations or other similar event affecting the preferred stock) for each share of such preferred stock held by them.

As of December 31, 2017, if any of the Company’s remaining assets were available to be distributed, after the payment of the full liquidation preference of all preferred stockholders, such assets would distributed to the holders of the preferred and common stock pro rata based on the number of shares of common stock held by each stockholder assuming full conversion of all convertible preferred stock immediately prior to such liquidation event.

Conversion Rights

Each share of convertible preferred stock is convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time and from time to time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such number of fully paid and nonassessable shares of common stock as is determined by dividing the applicable original issue price of the applicable series of convertible preferred stock by the Conversion Price (as defined below) for such series (the conversion rate for a series of convertible preferred stock into common stock is referred to herein as the “Conversion Rate” for such series), in effect at the time of conversion. As of December 31, 2017, “Conversion Price” shall initially be $2.023410 and $1.00 per share for the Series BB convertible preferred stock and Series AA convertible preferred stock, respectively.

As of December 31, 2017, each share of convertible preferred stock would automatically be converted into shares of common stock at the applicable conversion rate in effect at the time for each series of convertible preferred stock immediately upon the earlier of (1) the Company’s sale of its common stock in a firm commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), the public offering price of which was not less than $6.070230 per share and which results in at least $50,000 of gross proceeds to this corporation or (2) the date specified by the vote or written consent of at least 70% of the then outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis.

 

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13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

2003 Stock Plan

During 2003, the Company adopted the 2003 Stock Plan (the “2003 Plan”), which allowed for the granting of awards in the form of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, and stock grants, which may include restricted stock, for up to 334,615 shares of common stock to eligible employees, outside directors and consultants of the Company. The number of shares of common stock under the 2003 Plan was reduced to 276,763 on October 5, 2012, upon adoption of the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”). Awards granted under the 2003 Plan are subject to terms and conditions as determined by the board of directors, except that no incentive stock option may be issued at less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant, or have a term in excess of ten years. Option grants may be exercised as specified in the individual grant. Typically, incentive stock options vest 25% of such shares on the first anniversary of the effective date of the option grant and 1/36th of such remaining shares each month thereafter. Unless otherwise indicated, grants contain an acceleration clause whereby options become exercisable in full if the Company is subject to a change in control, as defined therein, before the grantee’s service terminates. Options cancelled subsequent to the adoption of the 2012 Plan in October 2012 were no longer returned to the pool of shares reserved for issuance under the 2003 Plan. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, there were 32,247 and 39,399 shares outstanding that were issued from the 2003 Plan.

2012 Equity Incentive Plan

On October 5, 2012 the Company adopted the 2012 Plan, which allowed for the granting of awards in the form of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options and stock grants, which may include restricted stock, for 623,797 shares of common stock to eligible employees, outside directors and consultants of the Company. In November 2015, the board of directors approved an increase to the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2012 Plan from 623,797 to 10,461,292 shares, of which 4,390,795 are available for grant as of December 31, 2017. Awards granted under the 2012 Plan are subject to terms and conditions as determined by the board of directors, except that no incentive stock option may be issued at less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant, or have a term in excess of ten years. Option grants may be exercised as specified in the individual grant. Typically, stock options vest (1) 25% of such shares on the first anniversary of the effective date of the option grant and 1/36th of such remaining shares each month thereafter or (2) in 48 equal installments.

In determining the exercise prices for options granted, the Company’s board of directors considered the fair value of the common stock as of the measurement date. The fair value of the underlying common stock was determined by the board of directors, with input from management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining the equity value of the Company and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of the Company’s equity value was then allocated to various securities within the Company’s capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security. The dates of the Company’s contemporaneous valuations have not always coincided with the dates of the Company’s stock option grants. If the Company had made different assumptions, its stock-based compensation expense, net loss could have been materially different.

 

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Stock option activity under the 2003 Plan and 2012 Plan is summarized as follows:

 

   

Number

of Options

   

Average

Exercise

Price

   

Remaining

Contractual

Term
(in years)

   

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2016

    6,301,942     $ 0.60       9.2     $ 1,557  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Granted

    1,795,901     $ 0.60      

Exercised

    (668,375   $ 0.31      

Forfeited/cancelled

    (3,221,456   $ 0.57      
 

 

 

       

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

    4,208,012     $ 0.67       8.5     $ 400  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2017

    4,208,012     $ 0.67       8.5     $ 400  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Exercisable at December 31, 2017

    1,639,210     $ 0.85       8.0     $ 243  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding options was $565 and $977, respectively, and is expected to be recognized as expense over approximately 2.9 years and 2.9 years, respectively. The fair value of options vested in the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $468 and $650, respectively.

The following table summarizes information relating to stock options granted and exercised:

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    

    2017    

    

    2016    

 

Weighted-average grant date fair value per share of option grants

   $ 0.34      $ 0.22  

Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised

     195        —    

Cash received upon exercise of options

     207        8  

The aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the fair value at exercise and the exercise price paid by the employee.

No restricted stock or restricted stock units were issued during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. In November 2015, the Company entered into an employment agreement with its then President and Chief Executive Officer with terms that awarded 1,141,467 shares of performance-based restricted stock, all of which would vest upon the FDA’s grant of final approval of the KXL system in the United States. This performance condition was met in April 2016 and resulted in the recognition of $571 of compensation cost and the full unvested share balance to vest immediately. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards was $0.

Share-Based Compensation Expense

The Company granted stock options to employees and non-employees for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. The Company estimates the fair value of stock options as of the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and restricted stock based on the fair value of the award. For stock option awards granted to non-employees, compensation expense is recognized over the period during which services are rendered by such non-employees until completed. At the end of each financial reporting period prior to the completion of the service, the fair value of these awards is re-measured using the then-current fair value of our common stock and updated assumption inputs in the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.

 

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The following table presents stock-based compensation expense included in the Company’s statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    

    2017    

    

    2016    

 

Cost of goods sold

   $ 50      $ 41  

Selling, general and administrative

     618        1,081  

Research and development

     190        154  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 858      $ 1,276  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In December 2017, the Company cancelled certain awards granted to its President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer during the year ended December 31, 2016, and as a result recognized $424 of compensation cost.

The weighted-average assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of all stock options granted in the period were as follows:

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    

    2017    

   

    2016    

 

Risk-free interest rate

     2.0     1.5

Expected volatility

     59.7     54.5

Expected term (in years)

     6.2       6.1  

Expected dividend yield

     0.0     0.0

Risk-free Interest Rate. The Company estimated the risk-free interest rate in reference to yield on U.S. Treasury securities with a maturity date commensurate with the expected term of the associated award.

Expected Volatility. Due to the Company’s limited operating history and lack of company-specific historical or implied volatility, the expected volatility assumption is based on historical volatilities of a peer group of similar companies whose share prices are publicly available over a period commensurate with the option’s expected term. The peer group was developed based on companies in the biotechnology and medical device industries.

Expected Term. The expected term represents the period of time that options are expected to be outstanding. Because the Company does not have historical exercise behavior, through December 31, 2017 it determined the expected life assumption for employees using the simplified method, which is an average of the contractual term of the option and its vesting period. For non-employees, the Company determined the expected life to be the contractual term of the option.

Expected Dividend Yield. The expected dividend yield assumption is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends and has no present intention to pay cash dividends.

14. INCOME TAXES

2017 U.S. Tax Reform

On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”) was signed into United States law. The TCJA includes a number of changes to existing tax law, including, among other things, a permanent reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective as of January 1, 2018, as well as limitation of the deduction for net operating losses to 80% of current year taxable income and elimination of net operating loss carrybacks, in each case, for losses arising in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 (though any such

 

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net operating losses may be carried forward indefinitely). The tax rate change resulted in (i) a reduction in the gross amount of the Company’s deferred tax assets recorded as of December 31, 2017, without an impact on the net amount of its deferred tax assets, which are recorded with a full valuation allowance, and (ii) no income tax expense or benefit being recognized as of the enactment date of the TCJA.

The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 to address the application of U.S. GAAP in situations when a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for certain income tax effects of the TCJA. In connection with the initial analysis of the impact of the TCJA, the Company remeasured its deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is generally 21% for federal tax purposes. The remeasurement of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities was offset by a change in the valuation allowance.

The Company is still in the process of analyzing the impact to the Company of the TCJA and its analysis is not yet complete. Where the Company has been able to make reasonable estimates of the effects related to the TCJA, the Company has recorded provisional amounts. The ultimate impact to the Company’s financial statements of the TCJA may differ from the provisional amounts.

Income Taxes

For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not record a current or deferred income tax expense or benefit due to current and historical losses incurred by the Company.

The components of loss before income taxes were as follows:

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
         2017              2016      

U.S

   $ 21,277      $ 16,377  

Foreign

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 21,277      $ 16,377  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

A reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) computed at the statutory federal income tax rate to income taxes as reflected in the financial statements is as follows:

 

         Year Ended December 31,  
         2017         2016  

Provision for income taxes at statutory rate

   $ (7,476      (35 )%    $ (5,732      (35 )% 

Permanent differences

     281        1.3       291        1.8  

State taxes—net of federal tax benefit

     (1,087      (5.1     (801      (4.9

Valuation allowances

     (9,012      (42.5     6,749        41.2  

Federal and state rate change

     17,711        83.2       (169      (1.0

Research credits

     (412      (1.9     (373      (2.3

Other, net

     (5      0.0       35        0.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Reported income tax provision

   $ —          0.0   $ —          0.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Deferred taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the basis of assets and liabilities for financial statement and income tax purposes. The significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised of the following:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Deferred tax assets

     

Accruals and reserves

   $ 326      $ 407  

Net operating losses

     31,006        40,055  

Research credits

     17,607        16,666  

Stock compensation

     97        91  

Fixed assets

     —          98  

Capitalized license fees

     1,110        1,792  

Capitalized research costs

     283        578  

Deferred revenue

     849        568  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Subtotal deferred tax assets

     51,278        60,255  

Valuation allowance

     (51,246      (60,255
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred asset

   $ 32      $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

     

Fixed assets

     32        —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred liabilities

   $ 32      $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company has evaluated the positive and negative evidence bearing upon the realizability of its deferred tax assets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, based on the Company’s history of operating losses, the Company has concluded that it is not more likely than not that the benefit of its deferred tax assets will be realized. Accordingly, the Company has provided a full valuation allowance for deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016. The valuation allowance decreased $9,009 during the year ended December 31, 2017 due primarily to a change in the federal corporate tax rate as noted above. The valuation allowance increased $6,746 during the year ended December 31, 2016, due primarily to net operating losses and research credits generated.

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had U.S. federal NOL carryforwards of $125,268 and $105,753, respectively, which may be available to offset future income tax liabilities and expire at various dates through 2037. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company also had U.S. state NOL carryforwards of $75,735 and $59,494, respectively, which may be available to offset future income tax liabilities and expire at various dates through 2037. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had U.S. federal research credits carryforwards of $15,869 and $15,456, respectively, that expire at various dates through 2037. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, $14,825 and $14,825, respectively, of the federal research credits previously listed are related to the Orphan Drug Credit. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company also had Massachusetts research credits of $2,201 and $1,861, respectively, which may be available to offset future income tax liabilities and expire at various dates through 2032.

The Company has not, as of yet, conducted a study of its research and development credit carryforwards. Such a study might result in an adjustment to the Company’s research and development credit carryforwards, however, until a study is completed and any adjustment is known, no amounts are being presented as an uncertain tax position under ASC 740-10. A full valuation allowance has been provided against the Company’s research and development credits and, if an adjustment is required, this adjustment would be offset by an adjustment to the valuation allowance. Thus, there would be no impact to the statements of operations if an adjustment was required.

 

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Utilization of the NOL and research and development credit carryforwards may be subject to a substantial annual limitation due to ownership change limitations that have occurred or that could occur in the future, as required by Section 382 and Section 383 of the Code, as well as similar state and foreign provisions. These ownership changes may limit the amount of NOL and research and development credit carryforwards that can be utilized annually to offset future taxable income and tax, respectively. In general, an “ownership change” as defined by Section 382 of U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) results from a transaction or series of transactions over a three-year period resulting in an ownership change of more than 50 percentage points of the outstanding stock of a company by certain stockholders. The Company has completed a study through 2014 to assess whether an ownership change has occurred or whether there have been multiple ownership changes since its formation. The results of this study indicated that the Company experienced ownership changes as defined by Section 382 of the Code. The Company has not recorded NOLs that, as a result of these restrictions, will expire unused. Accordingly, the Company has NOL carryforwards net of the limitation, which are approximately $125,268 and $105,753 in 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The Company’s reserves related to taxes and its accounting for uncertain tax positions are based on a determination of whether and how much of a tax benefit taken by the Company in its tax filings or positions is more-likely-than-not to be realized following resolution of any potential contingencies related to the tax benefit.

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $0.

The Company will recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had no accrued interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions and no amounts have been recognized in the Company’s statements of operations.

The Company files income tax returns in the United States and various states. The federal and state income tax returns are generally subject to tax examinations for the tax years ended December 31, 2015, through December 31, 2017. To the extent the Company has tax attribute carryforwards, the tax years in which the attribute was generated may still be adjusted upon examination by the Internal Revenue Service, state or foreign tax authorities to the extent utilized in a future period.

15. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted a defined contribution 401(k) plan for all employees. Employees are eligible to participate in the plan beginning on the first day of their hire. Under the terms of the plan, employees may make voluntary contributions as a percent of compensation and effective January 1, 2016, the Company provided a matching contribution to all qualified employees. During the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company contributed $384 and $262, respectively, to the plan.

16. NET LOSS PER SHARE

Under the two-class method, for periods with net income, basic net income per common share is computed by dividing the net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Net income attributable to common stockholders is computed by subtracting from net income the portion of current year earnings that participating securities would have been entitled to receive pursuant to their dividend rights had all of the year’s earnings been distributed. No such adjustment to earnings is made during periods with a net loss as the holders of the participating securities have no obligation to fund losses. Diluted net loss per common share is computed under the two-class method by using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding plus, for periods with net income attributable to common stockholders, the potential dilutive effects of stock options and warrants. In addition, the Company analyzes the potential dilutive effect of the outstanding participating securities under the if-converted method when calculating diluted earnings per share in which it is assumed that the outstanding participating securities convert into common stock at the beginning of the period. The Company reports the more dilutive of

 

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the approaches (two-class or if-converted) as its diluted net income per share during the period. Due to the existence of net losses for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, basic and diluted loss per share were the same, as the effect of potentially dilutive securities would have been anti-dilutive.

The following potentially dilutive securities outstanding have been excluded from the computations of diluted weighted average shares outstanding because such securities have an antidilutive impact due to losses reported:

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2017      2016  

Series AA convertible preferred stock

     31,869,753        31,869,753  

Series BB convertible preferred stock

     5,930,584        —    

Outstanding stock options

     4,208,012        6,301,942  

Outstanding Series AA convertible preferred stock warrants

     774,446        300,000  

Outstanding common stock warrants

     128,868        162,600  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     42,911,663        38,634,295  

Holders of the Company’s convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive dividends based on dividends declared to common stockholders, thereby giving the preferred stockholders the right to participate in undistributed earnings of the Company above the stated dividend rate. However, preferred stockholders did not have a contractual obligation to share in the net losses of the Company and no dividends were declared.

Unaudited Pro Forma Net Loss Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of the unaudited pro forma basic and diluted net loss per

share attributable to common stockholders:

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
2017
 
Numerator    (Unaudited)  

Pro forma loss attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

   $ (21,277
  

 

 

 

Denominator

  

Weighted-average shares used in computing net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

     5,872,202  

Weighted-average shares of common stock issued upon assumed conversion of convertible preferred stock in an initial public offering

     36,061,782  
  

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares used in computing pro forma net loss per share

     41,933,984  
  

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

   $ (0.51
  

 

 

 

17. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

The Company has completed an evaluation of all subsequent events through September 28, 2018, the date these financial statements were available to be issued. Except as described below, the Company has concluded that no additional subsequent events have occurred that require disclosure:

In April 2018, the Company issued and sold 9,529,571 shares of Series CC convertible preferred stock at a price of $2.623410 per share for aggregate proceeds of $25,000 from new and existing investors.

The rights and preferences of the Series CC convertible preferred stock are similar to all other series of the Company’s convertible preferred stock, except for (i) in the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation

 

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event, dissolution, winding up of the Company or deemed liquidation event, holders of the then outstanding Series CC convertible preferred stock have priority and preference to all other classes of convertible preferred stock and common stock; and (ii) the Series AA convertible preferred stock as a separate class, is entitled to elect two directors of the Company. The Series CC and BB convertible preferred stock, each as a separate class, shall each be entitled to elect one director of the Company. The original issue price and Conversion Price of the Series CC convertible preferred stock is $2.623410 per share, and each share of Series CC convertible preferred stock is convertible into common stock on a one-for-one bases.

In conjunction with the Series CC Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company amended and restated its certificate of incorporation to increase the total number of authorized shares of all classes of capital stock to 115,034,571 from 92,600,000, of which 66,905,000 are designated as common stock and 48,129,571 are designated as convertible preferred stock.

In July 2018, the Company amended the 2012 Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance from 10,461,292 to 13,736,292 shares.

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Condensed Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

   

December 31,
2017

   

September 30,
2018

   

Pro Forma
Balance Sheet
as of September 30,
2018

 
   

(Unaudited)

 

ASSETS

     

Current assets:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 8,850     $ 16,932     $ 16,932  

Accounts receivable (including $445 and $454 from related parties as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, net of allowance of $120 and $124, respectively)

    3,239       4,631       4,631  

Inventories

    5,151       5,307       5,307  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    2,169       1,762       1,762  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

    19,409       28,632       28,632  

Property and equipment, net

    1,640       1,615       1,615  

Restricted cash

    551       551       551  

Other assets

    96       364       364  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

  $ 21,696     $ 31,162     $ 31,162  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

LIABILITIES, CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

     

Current liabilities:

     

Accounts payable

  $ 2,880     $ 1,266     $ 1,266  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    2,778       6,074       6,074  

Current portion of asset purchase obligation

    122       62       62  

Current portion of license obligation

    250       250       250  

Deferred revenue

    872       1,137       1,137  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

    6,902       8,789       8,789  

Deferred revenue, net of current portion

    77       28       28  

Long-term debt obligations, net of current portion

    19,319       19,769       19,769  

Derivative and warrant liability

    839       1,121       485  

Long-term asset purchase obligation, net of current portion

    28       —         —    

Other non-current liabilities

    51       22       22  

Deferred rent

    359       415       415  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

  $ 27,575     $ 30,144     $ 29,508  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 6)

     

Convertible preferred stock:

     

Series AA convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 32,650,000 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018; issued and outstanding shares 31,869,753 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018; liquidation preference of $31,870 at September 30, 2018; no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma

    31,852       31,852       —    

Series BB convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 5,950,000 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018; issued and outstanding shares 5,930,584 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018; liquidation preference of $12,000 at September 30, 2018; no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma

    11,789       11,789       —    

Series CC convertible preferred stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares zero and 9,529,571 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively; issued and outstanding shares zero and 9,529,571 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively; liquidation preference of $25,000 at September 30, 2018; no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma

    —         24,782       —    

Stockholders’ deficit:

     

Common stock, $0.00001 par value; authorized shares 54,000,000 and 66,905,000 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively; issued and outstanding shares 6,065,836 and 6,269,940 at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively; 69,749,500 shares authorized, 53,651,366 shares issued and outstanding, pro forma

    2       2       2  

Additional paid-in capital

    107,478       108,303       177,387  

Accumulated deficit

    (157,000     (175,710     (175,735
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

    (49,520     (67,405     1,654  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

  $ 21,696     $ 31,162     $ 31,162  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Condensed Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

    

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
    

        2017         

    

        2018         

 
     (Unaudited)  

Revenue (including related party activity of $1,403 and $1,452 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, respectively)

   $ 15,645      $ 19,467  

Cost of goods sold (including related party activity of $216 and $404 for

the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, respectively)

     7,157        8,223  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

     8,488        11,244  

Operating expenses:

     

Selling, general and administrative

     14,009        18,995  

Research and development

     7,525        8,826  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     21,534        27,821  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (13,046      (16,577

Other income (expense):

     

Interest income

     19        144  

Interest expense

     (1,525      (1,975

Other (expense) income, net

     (48      (302
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income, net

     (1,554      (2,133
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss

   $ (14,600    $ (18,710
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss per common share, basic and diluted

   $ (2.50    $ (3.02
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted

     5,828,582        6,203,348  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

        (0.39
     

 

 

 

Pro forma weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted

        48,142,064  
     

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

 

     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
             2017                     2018          
     (Unaudited)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net loss

   $ (14,600   $ (18,710

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

    

Depreciation

     405       498  

Noncash interest expense

     240       450  

Loss on extinguishment of debt

     230       —    

Change in assets and liabilities held at fair value (Note 4)

     (228     282  

Bad debt expense

     —         13  

Share-based compensation

     328       762  

Asset purchase and royalty obligation

     39       9  

Gain on foreign currency transactions

     13       —    

Changes in assets and liabilities:

    

Accounts receivable

     (572     (1,405

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     (767     407  

Inventories

     (2,294     (276

Restricted cash

     (63     —    

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

     539       1,460  

Deferred revenue

     96       216  

Long-term accrued interest

     (355     —    

Other non-current assets and liabilities

     9       (89
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

     (16,980     (16,383
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Purchase of equipment and furniture

     (738     (256
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (738     (256
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net proceeds from issuance of Series BB convertible preferred stock

     11,789       —    

Net proceeds from issuance of Series CC convertible preferred stock

     —         24,782  

Proceeds from the exercise of common stock options

     165       63  

Proceeds from debt financing

     20,000       —    

Principal payments on long-term debt obligation

     (9,777     —    

Payment for asset purchase & license obligation

     (695     (97

Payments for debt extinguishment costs

     (109     —    

Principal payments on capital lease obligation

     (25     (27

Loan issuance costs

     (310     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     21,038       24,721  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

   $ 3,320     $ 8,082  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents —Beginning of period

   $ 12,658     $ 8,850  

Cash and cash equivalents —End of period

   $ 15,978     $ 16,932  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest

   $ 1,341     $ 1,523  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities

    

Purchase of property and equipment included in accounts payable and

accrued expenses

   $ 65     $ 126  

Net value of medical devices used for internal purposes transferred from

inventory

   $ 388     $ 120  

Deferred offering costs included in accounts payable and accrued expenses

   $ —       $ 125  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

 

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Avedro, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

1. Organization

Description of Business

Avedro, Inc. (“Avedro” or the “Company”) was incorporated in Delaware on November 6, 2002. The Company is an ophthalmic pharmaceutical and medical device company developing and commercializing a suite of products based on its proprietary corneal collagen cross-linking technology platform (the “Avedro Cross-Linking Platform”) to address a wide variety of ophthalmic disorders and conditions, primarily associated with corneal weakness. The primary components of the Avedro Cross-Linking Platform are proprietary pharmaceutical formulations of riboflavin (vitamin B2), a “single dose pharmaceutical,” sold primarily in conjunction with the Company’s innovative devices for the delivery of metered doses of UVA light, a “medical device”. The technological advances that the Company has made with the Avedro Cross-Linking Platform have enabled the Company to expand the use of corneal cross-linking beyond the traditional areas in which it has been historically applied. In April 2016, the Company received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) clearance for the single dose pharmaceuticals Photrexa Viscous and Photrexa, and the KXL System medical device. The Company sells these products in the United States through a direct sales force and distributes its products outside of the United States through international medical device distributors.

As of September 30, 2018, the Company has devoted the majority of its efforts to business planning, research and development, starting up production, developing markets, raising capital, recruiting management and technical staff and commercializing its newly approved products in the United States.

Going Concern

As of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $8,850 and $16,932, positive net working capital of $12,507 and $19,843, and an accumulated deficit of $157,000 and $175,710, respectively. The Company had a net loss of $14,600 and $18,710 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, respectively.

The Company has funded these losses principally through the sale of preferred stock, the incurrence of indebtedness and sales of its products.

The Company expects to continue to incur operating losses and net cash outflows until such time it generates a level of revenue that is sufficient to support its cost structure. The Company is subject to a number of risks similar to other newly commercial life science companies, including, but not limited to commercially launching the Company’s products, development and market acceptance of the Company’s product candidates, development by its competitors of new technological innovations, protection of proprietary technology, and raising additional capital.

Having obtained clearance from the FDA and a CE mark in Europe to market the KXL System, the Company has incurred significant commercialization expenses related to product sales, marketing, manufacturing and distribution. In addition, the Company anticipates costs and expenses to increase as the Company continues to develop other product candidates and improve existing products. The Company may seek to fund its operations through equity or debt financings, as well as other sources. However, the Company may be unable to raise additional funds or enter into such other arrangements when needed on favorable terms or at all.

 

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During 2018 the Company raised $24,782 in net proceeds from the sale of Series CC convertible preferred stock. However, as of the date of this report, the Company does not have sufficient existing cash to support operations for at least the next year following the date that the financial statements are issued.

The conditions in the preceding paragraph raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. Management’s plans to alleviate the conditions that raise substantial doubt regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern include raising funding through the possible sales of the Company’s common stock or convertible preferred stock and deferring or terminating planned research projects in order to reduce expenses.

There can be no assurance, however, that the Company will receive cash proceeds from any of these potential resources or reduce its operating expenses. Furthermore, to the extent cash proceeds are received or expenses are reduced, there can be no assurance that those proceeds or reductions in expenses would be sufficient to support the Company’s operations for at least the next year following the date that the financial statements are issued. Management has concluded that the likelihood that its plans to obtain sufficient funding from one or more of these sources will be successful or its plans to reduce its operating expenses is less than probable. Accordingly, management has concluded that substantial doubt exists regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. The financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might result from the outcome of the uncertainties described above.

2. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Unaudited Interim Condensed Financial Statements

The accompanying unaudited interim condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. These unaudited interim condensed financial statements include only normal and recurring adjustments that the Company believes are necessary to fairly state the Company’s financial position and the results of operations and cash flows. Interim-period results are not necessarily indicative of results of operations or cash flows for a full year or any subsequent interim period. The condensed balance sheet at December 31, 2017 has been derived from audited financial statements at that date, but does not include all disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. Because all of the disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements are not included herein, these unaudited interim condensed financial statements and the notes accompanying them should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this registration statement.

Unaudited Pro Forma Presentation

The unaudited pro forma balance sheet as of September 30, 2018 reflects the assumed conversion of all the Company’s outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into shares of common stock, the issuance of common stock upon settlement of outstanding restricted stock units and the conversion of all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s convertible preferred stock into warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The pro forma balance sheet assumes that the completion of the initial public offering (the “IPO”) had occurred as of September 30, 2018 and excludes shares of common stock issued in such IPO and any related net proceeds.

 

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Unaudited pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding after giving effect to the assumed conversion of all the outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock immediately prior to the closing of the IPO and settlement of restricted stock units for which the Company expects the liquidity event-related performance vesting condition to be satisfied upon effectiveness of the IPO. For purposes of pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been treated as though they have been converted to common stock at the later of the issuance date or on January 1, 2018. The pro forma net loss per share does not include the shares expected to be sold and related proceeds to be received from the IPO.

Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per share attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period, without consideration for potentially dilutive securities. Diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the period determined using the treasury-stock and if-converted methods. For purposes of the diluted net loss per share calculation, convertible preferred stock, stock options and warrants are considered to be potentially dilutive securities, but were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive and therefore basic and diluted net loss per share were the same for all periods presented.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that impact the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in the Company’s financial statements and accompanying notes. The most significant assumptions used in the financial statements are the underlying assumptions used in valuing share-based compensation including the fair value of the common stock, allowance for bad debts, the net realizable value of inventories, the value of the warrant liability, the value of embedded derivatives and the estimated useful lives of equipment and furniture. The Company bases estimates and assumptions on historical experience when available and on various factors that it determined to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. The Company’s actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received if selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Fair value measurements for assets and liabilities where there exists limited or no observable market data are based primarily upon estimates, and often are calculated based on the economic and competitive environment, the characteristics of the asset and liability and other factors. Therefore, the results cannot be determined with precision and may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset or liability. Additionally, there may be inherent weaknesses in any valuation technique, and changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates and estimates of future cash flows, that could significantly affect the results of current or future values.

The Company’s financial assets are classified within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of inputs that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy, and its applicability to the Company’s financial assets, are described as follows:

Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices of identical, unrestricted assets in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date.

 

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Level 2: Quoted prices for similar assets, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term through corroboration with observable market data.

Level 3: Pricing inputs are unobservable for the assets, that is, inputs that reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets.

The Company has liabilities classified as Level 3 that are measured by management at fair value on a quarterly basis, see Note 4, “Fair Value Measurements,” for additional information.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash consists of highly liquid checking and savings accounts and cash equivalents consist of money market funds. The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are carried at cost, which approximates their fair value. The Company did not hold any cash equivalents at December 31, 2017. At September 30, 2018, the Company held $14,096 of cash equivalents, all of which were invested in money market funds.

Restricted Cash

The Company has restricted cash in the form of two irrevocable standby letters of credit in relation to the Company’s office lease agreements. Each letter of credit names the lessor as the beneficiary and is required to fulfill lease requirements in the event the Company should default on office lease obligations. At September 30, 2018, the restricted cash for these letters of credit was $351. At September 30, 2018, the Company also held restricted cash of $200 to collateralize its credit card.

Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers

Cash, cash equivalents and accounts receivable are financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk.

At December 31, 2017, substantially all of the Company’s cash were in checking and savings accounts at a financial institution which management believes to have a high credit standing. At September 30, 2018, the Company invested its excess cash in money market funds through a United States bank with high credit ratings. The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of a default by the financial institution holding its cash and cash equivalents to the extent recorded on the balance sheet. The Company has no financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk of loss. The Company has not experienced any significant losses in such accounts and management believes that the Company is not exposed to significant credit risk due to the financial position of the depository institutions in which those deposits are held.

The Company is also subject to credit risk from its accounts receivable. The Company sells its products through its direct sales organization in the United States and primarily through established distributors outside of the United States. To minimize credit risk, ongoing credit evaluations of customers’ financial condition are performed and upfront customer deposits are received prior to shipment whenever deemed necessary. The Company has not experienced any material losses related to receivables from individual customers, or groups of customers.

During the periods ended September 30, 2017 and 2018, the Company did not recognize revenue from one single customer over 10% of total revenues. The Company’s accounts receivable, net, at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018 include amounts due to the Company from the below significant customer:

 

    

Percentage of Total

Accounts Receivable

Balances as of

    

December 31, 2017

Customer A

   14%

 

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Percentage of Total

Accounts Receivable

Balances as of

    

September 30, 2018

Customer D

   11%

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company recorded its convertible preferred stock at fair value on the dates of issuance, net of issuance costs. A deemed liquidation event will only occur upon a greater than 50% change in control or a sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company and will be a redemption event subject to election by the holders of at least 70% of the then outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis. As the redemption event is outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been presented outside of permanent equity. Further, the Company has also elected not to adjust the carrying values of the convertible preferred stock to the redemption value of such shares, since it is uncertain whether or when a redemption event will occur. Subsequent adjustments to increase the carrying value to the redemption values will be made when it becomes probable that such redemption will occur. As of September 30, 2018, it was not probable that such redemption would occur.

Revenue Recognition

The Company derives its revenue principally from sales of its medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals. The Company recognizes revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence that an agreement exists; (2) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (3) the selling price is fixed or determinable; and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

Product Revenue

U.S. Product Revenue

The Company, through its direct sales force, sells medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals directly to customers, which are typically physician clinics, or hospitals. In each arrangement, the Company is responsible for installation and calibration of the medical devices and initial user training, which are deemed essential to the functionality of the medical device. Each medical device is sold with a standard one-year warranty from the date of shipment, which provides that the medical device will function as intended during that one-year period or the Company will either replace the product, or a portion thereof, or provide the necessary repair service during the Company’s normal service hours. The related single dose pharmaceuticals are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to twelve months.

U. S. Multiple Element Arrangements

The Company generally enters into multiple element arrangements with its new customers, which include the sale of a medical device with an initial order of related single dose pharmaceuticals, and may include an extended warranty. Medical devices sold in the United States do not have standalone value since they can only be used in conjunction with the single dose pharmaceuticals sold by the Company. Therefore, the Company recognizes device and single dose pharmaceutical revenue when the initial order of the related single dose pharmaceuticals is delivered, user training is completed, and the medical device is delivered, installed and accepted by the end user customer. The total selling price of these arrangements is allocated amongst deliverables based on their relative selling price. If extended warranties are included in these multiple element arrangements, they are treated as separate deliverables and, are deferred and recognized over the term of the extended warranty period based on the separately stated contractual price. The customers have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions.

 

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Subsequent single dose pharmaceuticals orders are typically not part of a multiple element arrangement. Through June 30, 2017, the Company recognized revenue of subsequent single dose pharmaceuticals orders upon shipment as all four revenue criteria are met. In July 2017, the Company began offering extended payment terms to their customers in which a portion of the single dose pharmaceutical would be payable in 30 days and the remainder payable in 180 days. Under these new payment terms, the Company was not able to reasonably assure the fees are fixed or determinable or collectability is reasonably assured on the shipment date. Therefore, the Company recognizes revenue on the single dose pharmaceuticals when the payment becomes due from the customer and collectability is reasonably assured, which is generally 30 to 180 days from the invoice date. Although the amounts charged per treatment are invoiced to the customer on the shipment date, the Company does not record deferred revenue or accounts receivable for the amounts charged under extended payment terms since collectability cannot be reasonably assured. The Company has a program to offer a future discount on purchases subject to the customer meeting certain requirements, specifically related to the application for insurance reimbursement. The Company concluded that this may result in a significant and incremental discount and has accounted for the future discount as a separate deliverable in its revenue transactions. The Company allocates consideration to the pharmaceutical and future discount based on the best estimate of the selling prices on the relative selling price method. $2,371 and $5,030 of single dose pharmaceutical amounts were invoiced to customers under extended payment terms, subject to the future discount program, and were excluded from the Company’s balance sheet at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, respectively.

Shipping and Handling Revenue

Shipping and handling revenue coincides with the recognition of revenue from the sale of the product.

Outside the U.S. Product Revenue

The Company has established distributor agreements with various distributors throughout the world. Inventory title transfers to the distributor at the time of shipment. The payment from the distributor is due in accordance with the Company’s standard payment terms. These payments are not contingent upon the distributor’s sale of products to its customers. The distributors have no right of return or inventory swap-out provisions. Medical devices sold are generally covered by a warranty of 15 months following shipment or 12 months following installation at the end-customer site. The related single dose pharmaceuticals are shipped with a minimum shelf life remaining until their sterility expiration, which is generally six to twelve months. The term of the distributor agreements is typically two years, with each option of renewal not exceeding one year.

Outside the U.S. Multiple Element Arrangements

As noted above, the Company established distributor agreements and is not responsible for installation, calibration or initial user training of medical devices sold outside the United States. In addition, customers outside the United States are able to use medical devices in conjunction with single dose pharmaceuticals purchased from suppliers other than the Company. As such, medical devices sold outside of the United States have standalone value and are separate deliverables within multiple-deliverable arrangements outside of the Unites States. Single dose pharmaceuticals that may also be part of the multiple-deliverable arrangement are also accounted for as separate deliverables. The total selling price of these arrangements is allocated amongst these deliverables based on their relative selling price. As the Company has no further obligation (except for the warranty provision as discussion below) after shipment of these deliverables, the recognition of revenue and cost of revenue generally occurs upon shipment of each deliverable assuming all revenue recognition criteria are met.

Outside the U.S. Shipping and Handling Revenue

In the normal course of business, the Company does not derive revenue from charging customers shipping and handling costs as the Company delivers its products ex-works. In instances where a customer requests the Company to ship the products, the associated shipping costs are passed through to the customer and are recorded as revenue.

 

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Product Warranty

Medical devices sold are covered by a standard warranty which outside the United States is for 15 months following shipment or 12 months following installation at the end-customer site, and inside the United States is for 12 months following installation. The Company records its estimated contractual obligations at the time of shipment since installations are generally within 30 days of shipment and returns are not accepted. The Company considers the 12-month rolling average of actual warranty claims associated with its medical devices and related single dose pharmaceuticals when determining the warranty accrual estimate. The estimates and assumptions used in developing the accrual estimate as of September 30, 2018 are consistent with prior periods.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the change in product warranty liabilities from December 31, 2017 through September 30, 2018:

 

Balance at December 31, 2017

   $ 169  

Accruals for warranties issued during the period

     264  

(Settlements/reversals)

     (283
  

 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2018

   $ 150  
  

 

 

 

Deferred Offering Costs

Deferred offering costs consist of fees and expenses incurred in connection with the anticipated sale of the Company’s common stock in the IPO, including the legal, accounting, printing and other IPO-related costs. Deferred offering costs of $125 are capitalized and classified within noncurrent assets on the condensed balance sheet as of September 30, 2018. There were no deferred offering costs as of December 31, 2017. The deferred offering costs will be offset against proceeds from the IPO upon the consummation of the IPO. In the event the IPO is terminated, all capitalized deferred offering costs will be expensed.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company records stock-based compensation for share based awards granted to employees and to members of the board of directors for their services on the board of directors, based on the grant date fair value of awards issued, and the expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the applicable service period, which is generally four years. The Company accounts for non-employee stock-based compensation arrangements based upon the fair value of the consideration received or the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The measurement date for non-employee awards is generally the date that the performance of services required for the non-employee award is complete. Stock-based compensation costs for non-employee awards is recognized as services are provided, which is generally the vesting period, on a straight-line basis.

The Company expenses restricted stock awards based on the fair value of the award on the date of issuance, on a straight-line basis over the associated service period of the award.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options. The use of the Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires management to make assumptions with respect to the expected term of the option, the expected volatility of the common stock consistent with the expected life of the option, risk-free interest rates and expected dividend yields of the common stock. The expected term was determined according to the simplified method, which is the average of the vesting tranche dates and the contractual term. Due to the lack of company specific historical and implied volatility data resulting from being a private company, the Company has based its estimate of expected volatility primarily on the historical volatility of a group of similar companies that are publicly traded. For these analyses, companies with comparable characteristics are selected, including enterprise value and position within the industry, and with historical share price information sufficient to meet the expected term of the stock-based awards. The Company computes the

 

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historical volatility data using the daily closing prices for the selected companies’ shares during the equivalent period of the calculated expected term of its stock-based awards. The risk-free interest rate is determined by reference to U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with remaining maturities similar to the expected term of the options. The Company has not paid, and does not anticipate paying, cash dividends on shares of preferred and common stock; therefore, the expected dividend yield is assumed to be zero.

The fair value of the underlying common stock was determined by the board of directors, with input from management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining the equity value of the Company and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of the Company’s equity was then allocated to various securities within the Company’s capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which provides guidance for revenue recognition. The standard’s core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Per ASU 2015-14, “Deferral of Effective Date,” this guidance will be effective for the Company for the annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for the annual reporting period beginning after December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the effect ASU 2014-09 will have on its financial statements

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)”, which requires an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising from a lease for both financing and operating leases. The ASU will also require new qualitative and quantitative disclosures to help investors and other financial statement users better understand the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect ASU 2016-02 will have on its financial statements.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows: Restricted Cash.” The amendments in this update require that amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents be included within cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. ASU 2016-18 will likely have an impact on the Company’s operating cash outflows.

In December 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”) was signed into United States law. The TCJA includes a number of changes to existing tax law, including, among other things, a permanent reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective as of January 1, 2018, as well as limitation of the deduction for net operating losses to 80% of current year taxable income and elimination of net operating loss carrybacks. The Company is still in the process of analyzing the impact to the Company of the TCJA and its analysis is not yet complete. Where the Company has been able to make reasonable estimates of the effects related to the TCJA, the Company has recorded provisional amounts. The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 to address the application of U.S. GAAP in situations when a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for certain income tax effects of the TCJA. The

 

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Company has not updated the provisional amounts and expects to complete the final assessment of the impact within the measurement period. The ultimate impact to the Company’s financial statements of the TCJA may differ from the provisional amounts. In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, “Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” The new standard simplifies the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments to employees, with certain exceptions. The new standard will be effective beginning after December 15, 2019 and early adoption is permitted, but no earlier than an entity’s adoption date of ASU 2014-09. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact ASU 2018-07 may have on its results of operations upon adoption.

In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-07, “Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” The new standard simplifies the accounting for share-based payments to nonemployees by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments to employees, with certain exceptions. The new standard will be effective beginning after December 15, 2019 and early adoption is permitted, but no earlier than an entity’s adoption date of ASU 2014-09. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact ASU 2018-07 may have on its results of operations upon adoption.

3. Condensed Balance Sheet Components

Inventories

Inventories consisted of the following:

 

     December 31,      September 30,  
     2017      2018  

Raw materials

   $ 2,300      $ 2,736  

Finished goods

     2,851        2,571  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total inventories

   $      5,151      $      5,307  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets

Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:

 

     December 31,      September 30,  
     2017      2018  

Prepaid suppliers

   $ 872      $ 347  

Prepaid rent

     102        107  

Prepaid other

     387        441  

Prepaid Prescription Drug User Fee

     456        620  

Prepaid license fees

     209        154  

Prepaid clinical study

     143        93  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total prepaid expenses and other current assets

   $      2,169      $      1,762  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Property and Equipment, Net

Property and equipment, net consist of the following:

 

     December 31,      September 30,  
     2017      2018  

Machinery and lab equipment

   $ 1,527      $ 1,692  

Medical devices used for internal purposes

     748        839  

Computer software

     155        227  

Office furniture and equipment

     423        423  

Computer hardware

     306        422  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total property and furniture

     3,159        3,603  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (1,519      (1,988
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Property and furniture, net

   $      1,640      $      1,615  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Depreciation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018 was $405 and $498, respectively.

Accrued Expenses

Accrued expenses consist of the following:

 

    

December 31,
2017

    

September 30,
2018

 

Accrued compensation

   $       1,559      $       2,319  

Accrued warranty

     169        150  

Accrued inventory

     147        440  

Accrued professional services

     274        1,203  

Accrued sales tax

     99        62  

Accrued other

     493        1,862  

Other current liabilities

     37        38  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities

   $ 2,778      $ 6,074  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

4. Fair Value Measurements

The carrying amount reflected on the balance sheets for cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, prepaid expenses and other current assets, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximated their fair values, due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying value of the long-term debt approximates its fair value as the debt arrangement is based on interest rates the Company believes it could obtain for borrowings with similar terms.

 

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Recurring Fair Value Measurements

The following tables set forth the Company’s assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018:

 

     Fair Value Measurements Using  
     Amounts
at Fair
Value
     Quoted
prices in
active
markets

(Level 1)
     Significant
other
observable
inputs

(Level 2)
     Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
 

December 31, 2017

           

Liabilities

           

Warrant liability

   $ 430      $ —        $ —        $ 430  

Derivative liability

     409        —          —          409  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 839      $ —        $ —        $ 839  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

September 30, 2018

           

Assets

           

Cash equivalents—money market funds

   $ 14,096      $ 14,096      $      —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 14,096      $ 14,096      $ —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities

           

Warrant liability

   $ 636      $ —        $ —        $ 636  

Derivative liability

     485        —          —          485  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 1,121      $ —        $ —        $   1,121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company measures the fair value of money market funds based on quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2, and 3 during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018.

Warrant Liability

The warrant liability represents the liability for warrants to purchase shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock issued in connection with the Company’s long-term debt (see Note 8, “Warrants”). The fair value of the Series AA convertible preferred stock warrants was determined using the Black-Scholes model, a form of an option pricing model.

The weighted-average assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of the warrants were as follows:

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30,
     2017    2018

Risk-free interest rate

   2.2% - 2.3%    2.9% - 3.0%

Expected Volatility

   58.5% - 65.8%    57.9% - 58.7%

Expected term (in years)

   7.0 -  9.5    6.0 - 8.5

Expected dividend yield

   0.0%    0.0%

Risk-free Interest Rate. The Company estimated the risk-free interest rate in reference to yield on U.S. Treasury securities with a maturity date commensurate with the expected term of the associated warrant.

 

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Expected Volatility. Due to the Company’s limited operating history and lack of company-specific historical or implied volatility, the expected volatility assumption is based on historical volatilities of a peer group of similar companies whose share prices are publicly available over a period commensurate with the warrant’s expected term. The peer group was developed based on companies in the biotechnology and medical device industries.

Expected Term. The expected term represents the period of time that warrants are expected to be outstanding.

Expected Dividend Yield. The expected dividend yield assumption is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends and has no present intention to pay cash dividends.

Fair Value of Underlying Convertible Preferred Stock. The fair value of the underlying convertible preferred stock was determined by the board of directors, with input from management and the assistance of a third-party valuation specialist, by determining the equity value of the Company and then allocating this value among the different classes of equity securities based on their respective rights and individual characteristics. The equity value was determined using two different methods, which includes back-solving overall equity value to the price paid by recent financing transactions, and also using a combination of the market-based approach and the income approach. The fair value of the Company’s equity value was then allocated to various securities within the Company’s capital structure by applying an option pricing method. The option pricing method estimates the fair value of each class of security based on the potential to profit from the upside of the business, while taking into account the unique characteristics of each class of security.

Accordingly, the valuation of the components of the warrant liability was determined using Level 3 inputs.

The following table presents a summary of the changes in the fair value of the Company’s Level 3 warrant liability for the nine months ended September 30, 2018:

 

Balance at December 31, 2017

   $ 430  

Change in fair value

     206  
  

 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2018

   $ 636  
  

 

 

 

Derivative Liability

The derivative liability represents features bifurcated from the Company’s credit agreement (the “2017 Credit Agreement”) liability and recorded at fair value. Under certain change in control events, as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement, a prepayment fee and the entire outstanding obligation may be due and payable. The Company concluded that these features, including (i) interest rate upon a non-creditworthy event of default; (ii) a put option upon an event of default; and (iii) a put option upon the lenders request of net casualty proceeds, are not clearly and closely related to the host instrument, and represent a single compound derivative and is required to be re-measured at fair value.

The estimated fair value of the derivative liability was determined using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model that includes the principal, prepayment fees and interest payments under scenarios of a change in control, other than a qualified initial public offering prior to the debt maturity. The following inputs were estimated by management: (i) the probability of a change of control event; (ii) the timing of a change of control event; and (iii) the discount rate. At September 30, 2018, the Company assumed a 14% discount rate, and a 6%, 10% and 15% probability for a change in control event during the twelve months ended March 19, 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively.

 

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The following table presents a summary of the changes in the fair value of the Company’s Level 3 derivative liability for the nine months ended September 30, 2018:

 

Balance at December 31, 2017

   $ 409  

Change in fair value

     76  
  

 

 

 

Balance at September 30, 2018

   $ 485  
  

 

 

 

5. Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt, net, is comprised of the following:

 

    

December 31,
2017

    

September 30,
2018

 

Principal amount outstanding

   $ 20,000      $ 20,000  

PIK Interest

     201        530  

Unamortized discount

     (608      (525

Unamortized issue costs

     (274      (236
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net carrying amount

   $ 19,319      $ 19,769  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018, the Company had borrowed and had outstanding $20,000 of debt under the 2017 Credit Agreement, maturing on March 20, 2022 (the “Maturity Date”). The 2017 Credit Agreement requires payment of interest only until maturity at the rate of 10% per annum (the “Applicable Margin”). Additional interest (“PIK”) accrues at the per annum rate equal to the higher of (i) the three-month LIBOR rate and (ii) 1.00%. Such PIK interest is added to the outstanding principal amount of the loans until the maturity date. The outstanding loan balance plus accrued PIK interest is due in one lump sum payment on the Maturity Date.

The Company’s obligations under the 2017 Credit Agreement are secured by a security interest in substantially all of its assets. Other than a minimum liquidity requirement of $3,000, there are no financial covenants contained in the 2017 Credit Agreement and the Company is in compliance with the affirmative and restrictive covenants as of September 30, 2018.

 

6.

Commitments and Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Company may be subject to legal proceedings, claims and litigation as the Company operates in an industry susceptible to patent legal claims. The Company accounts for estimated losses with respect to legal proceedings and claims when such losses are probable and estimable. Legal costs associated with these matters are expensed when incurred. The Company is not currently a party to any legal proceedings.

7. Capitalization

Reserved for future issuance

In July 2018, the Company amended its 2012 Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance from 10,461,292 to 13,736,292 shares.

 

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The Company has reserved for future issuance the following number of shares of common stock on a fully diluted and as-converted basis:

 

    

December 31,
2017

    

September 30,
2018

 

Conversion of Series AA convertible preferred stock

     31,869,753        31,869,753  

Conversion of Series BB convertible preferred stock

     5,930,584        5,930,584  

Conversion of Series CC convertible preferred stock

            9,529,571  

Options to purchase common stock

     4,208,012        11,153,162  

Vesting of restricted stock units to common stock

            82,428  

Remaining shares available for issuance

     4,390,795        412,898  

Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock

     774,446        774,446  

Warrants to purchase common stock

     128,868        128,868  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     47,302,458        59,881,710  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Series CC Convertible Preferred Stock Issuance

In April 2018, the Company entered into a Series CC Stock Purchase Agreement to issue 9,529,571 shares of Series CC convertible preferred stock at a price of $2.623410 per share for aggregate proceeds of $25,000 from new and existing investors.

The Company recorded its convertible preferred stock at fair value on the dates of issuance, net of issuance costs. A deemed liquidation event will only occur upon a greater than 50% change in control or sale of substantially all of the assets of the Company and will be a redemption event subject to election by holders of at least 70% of the then outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis. As the redemption event is outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock have been presented outside of permanent equity. Further, the Company has also elected not to adjust the carrying values of the convertible preferred stock to the redemption value of such shares, since it is uncertain whether or when a redemption event will occur. Subsequent adjustments to increase the carrying value to the redemption values will be made when it becomes probable that such redemption will occur. As of September 30, 2018, it was not probable that such redemption would occur. The rights and preferences of the Series CC convertible preferred stock are similar to all other series of the Company’s convertible preferred stock, except for (i) in the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation event, dissolution, winding up of the Company or deemed liquidation event, holders of the then outstanding Series CC convertible preferred stock have priority and preference to all other classes of convertible preferred stock and common stock; and (ii) the Series AA convertible preferred stock as a separate class, is entitled to elect two directors of the Company. The Series CC convertible preferred stock and series BB convertible preferred stock, each as a separate class, are each entitled to elect one director of the Company. Each share of Series CC convertible preferred stock is convertible to common stock, at the option of the holder, at any time after the date of issuance, in the number of shares of common stock determined by dividing the original issue price for the Series CC convertible preferred stock by the conversion price of the Series CC convertible preferred stock. At the time the Series CC convertible preferred stock was issued, both the original issue price and the conversion price for the Series CC convertible preferred stock was $2.623410 per share.

In conjunction with the Series CC Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company amended and restated its certificate of incorporation to increase the total number of authorized shares of all classes of capital stock to 115,034,571 from 92,600,000, of which 66,905,000 are designated as common stock and 48,129,571 are designated as convertible preferred stock, and to designate the terms of the Series CC convertible preferred stock. The amended and restated certificate of incorporation also provides that all shares of the Company’s convertible preferred stock will automatically convert into shares of the Company’s common stock upon either (a) the closing of the sale of shares of the Company’s common stock to the public at a price of at least $6.558525 per share in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the

 

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Securities Act resulting in at least $50,000 in gross proceeds to the Company or (b) the date or time specified by vote or written consent of holders of at least 70% of the Company’s outstanding convertible preferred stock, including holders of at least 70% of the Series CC convertible preferred stock.

8. Warrants

Summary of Outstanding Warrants

The following represents a summary of the warrants outstanding at each of the dates identified:

 

    

Issued

  

Classification

  

Exercisable for

  

December 31,
2017

    

September 30,
2018

 

1

   2015    Equity    Common stock      128,868        128,868  

2

   2015    Liability    Series AA convertible preferred stock      300,000        300,000  

3

   2017    Liability    Series AA convertible preferred stock      474,446        474,446  

 

1

These warrants, exercisable into shares of common stock are exercisable through November 5, 2021 at $0.01 per share.

2

These warrants, exercisable into Series AA convertible preferred stock are exercisable through September 11, 2024 or five years from the date of an initial public offering if completed on or before September 11, 2024, at $1.00 per share.

3

These warrants, exercisable into Series AA convertible preferred stock are exercisable through March 20, 2027, at $1.00 per share.

9. Share-Based Compensation

Stock Option Activity

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity under the 2012 Plan and related information is as follows:

 

   

Number

of Options

   

Average

Exercise

Price

   

Remaining

Contractual

Term (in
years)

   

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

    4,208,012     $ 0.67       8.5     $ 400  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Granted

    7,530,635     $ 0.66      

Exercised

    (204,104   $ 0.31      

Forfeited/cancelled

    (381,381   $ 1.62      
 

 

 

       

Outstanding at September 30, 2018

    11,153,162     $ 0.64       9.0     $ 2,726  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2018

    11,153,162     $ 0.64       9.0     $ 2,726  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Exercisable at September 30, 2018

    4,127,633     $ 0.58       8.4     $ 1,585  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the estimated fair value of the underlying common stock and the exercise price of outstanding, in-the-money options. The total intrinsic value of the options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018 was $155 and $38, respectively.

The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2018 was $0.34 and $0.36 per share, respectively.

Future stock-based compensation for unvested options granted to employees as of September 30, 2018 was $2,484, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.1 years.

 

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Restricted Stock Units

In January 2018, the Company granted restricted stock units covering a total of 82,428 shares of common stock to certain executives. These restricted stock units have both a liquidity event and service-based vesting term. The liquidity event requirement must occur before January 2025, and will be satisfied on the first to occur of: (1) a change in control within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code Section 409A or (2) the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act for the sale of the Company’s common stock. The service-based requirement vests 50% of the grant on February 1, 2018, with the reminder vesting in eight quarterly equal installments over a two-year period for each quarter of continuous service thereafter. The Company has not recorded stock-based compensation expense for these restricted stock units during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 since the liquidity event requirement has not been satisfied.

Share-Based Compensation Expense

The following table presents the effect of employee and non-employee option-related stock-based compensation expense:

 

     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2017        2018  

Cost of goods sold

   $ 38        $ 30  

Selling, general and administrative

     175          597  

Research and development

     115          135  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation expense

   $ 328        $ 762  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Valuation of Stock Options

The grant date fair value of employee stock options was estimated using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2017     2018  

Expected term (in years)

     6.2       5.7  

Expected volatility

     59.7 %       57.8 %  

Risk-free interest rate

     2.0 %       2.7 %  

Expected dividend yield

     0.0 %       0.0 %  

The determination of the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model is affected by the estimated fair value of the Company’s common stock, as well as assumptions regarding a number of variables that are complex, subjective and generally require significant judgment to determine. The valuation assumptions were determined as follows:

Risk-Free Interest Rate

The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury rate, with maturities similar to the expected term of the stock options.

Expected Volatility

The Company derived the expected volatility from the average historical volatilities over a period approximately equal to the expected term of comparable publicly traded companies within its peer group that

 

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were deemed to be representative of future stock price trends as the Company does not have any trading history for its common stock. The Company will continue to apply this process until a sufficient amount of historical information regarding the volatility of its own stock price becomes available.

Expected Term

The expected term represents the period that the options granted are expected to be outstanding and is determined using the simplified method (based on the mid-point between the vesting date and the end of the contractual term) as the Company has concluded that its stock option exercise history does not provide a reasonable basis upon which to estimate expected term.

Expected Dividend Yield

The Company does not anticipate paying any dividends in the foreseeable future and, therefore, uses an expected dividend yield of zero.

10. Net Loss Per Share and Pro Forma Net Loss Per Share

The following potentially dilutive securities outstanding have been excluded from the computations of diluted weighted average shares outstanding because such securities have an antidilutive impact due to losses reported:

 

     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2017      2018  

Series AA convertible preferred stock

     31,869,753        31,869,753  

Series BB convertible preferred stock

     5,930,584        5,930,584  

Series CC convertible preferred stock

     —          9,529,571  

Outstanding stock options

     6,926,548        11,153,162  

Unvested restricted stock units

     —          82,428  

Outstanding Series AA convertible preferred warrants

     774,446        774,446  

Outstanding common stock warrants

     162,600        128,868  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     45,663,931        59,468,812  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Unaudited Pro Forma Net Loss Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of the unaudited pro forma basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders:

 

     Nine Months
Ended

September 30, 2018
 

Numerator

  

Net loss attributable to common stockholders

   $ (18,710

Share-based compensation expense for stock-based award with vesting conditions contingent upon an initial public offering

     (25
  

 

 

 

Pro forma loss attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

   $ (18,735
  

 

 

 

Denominator

  

Weighted-average shares used in computing net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

     6,203,348  

Weighted-average shares of common stock issued upon assumed conversion of convertible preferred stock in an initial public offering

     41,899,358  

Pro forma adjustment for the vesting of stock-based award with vesting conditions contingent upon an initial public offering

     39,358  
  

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares used in computing pro forma net loss per share

     48,142,064  
  

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted

   $ (0.39
  

 

 

 

 

11.

Related Party Transactions

The Company has a customer that is also a stockholder. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, and 2018, the Company recorded revenue related to this customer of $1,357 and $1,393, respectively. The accounts receivable balance from this customer as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018 was $442 and $448, respectively.

The Company has a customer that is also a stockholder and an employee. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, and 2018, the Company recorded revenue related to this customer of $46 and $59, respectively. The accounts receivable balance from this customer as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2018 was $3 and $6, respectively.

The Company’s 2017 Credit Agreement is with a lender who is affiliated with a stockholder. See Note 5, “Long-Term Debt” for further details.

12. Subsequent Events

For purposes of the condensed financial statements as of September 30, 2018 and the nine months then ended, the Company has evaluated subsequent events through November 15, 2018 and concluded that no subsequent event has occurred that requires disclosure.

Subsequent to the original issuance of these financial statements, in January 2019, the Company amended and restated its certificate of incorporation to increase the total number of authorized shares of all classes of capital stock to 117,879,071 from 115,034,571, of which 69,749,500 are designated as common stock

 

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and 48,129,571 are designated as convertible preferred stock. Also in January 2019, the Company amended the 2012 Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance from 13,736,292 to 16,580,792 shares.

 

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Through and including                     , 2019 (the 25th day after the date of this prospectus), all dealers effecting transactions in the common stock, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This delivery requirement is in addition to a dealer’s obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.

                     Shares

 

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

PROSPECTUS

 

BofA Merrill Lynch

J.P. Morgan

Cowen

Guggenheim Securities

SVB Leerink

                    , 2019

 

 

 


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PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13.

Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.

The following table sets forth all costs and expenses, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, payable by us in connection with the sale of the common stock being registered. All amounts shown are estimates except for the SEC registration fee and the FINRA filing fee.

 

    

Amount to
be Paid

 

SEC registration fee

   $ 10,454  

FINRA filing fee

     13,438  

Nasdaq Global Market initial listing fee

     *  

Blue sky fees and expenses

     *  

Printing and engraving

     *  

Legal fees and expenses

     *  

Accounting fees and expenses

     *  

Transfer agent and registrar fees

     *  

Miscellaneous fees and expenses

     *  
  

 

 

 

Total

                 *  
  

 

 

 

 

*

To be filed by amendment.

 

Item 14.

Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides that a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, other than an action by or in the right of the corporation, by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation or is or was serving at the corporation’s request as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with the action, suit or proceeding if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe the person’s conduct was unlawful. The power to indemnify applies to actions brought by or in the right of the corporation as well, but only to the extent of expenses, including attorneys’ fees but excluding judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement, actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with the defense or settlement of the action or suit if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that a court of competent jurisdiction shall determine that such indemnity is proper.

Section 145(g) of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides that a corporation shall have the power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of its officers, directors, employees and agents, against any liability asserted against and incurred by such persons in any such capacity.

Section 102(b)(7) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware provides that a corporation may eliminate or limit the personal liability of a director to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, provided that such provision shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director (i) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law,


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(iii) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. No such provision shall eliminate or limit the liability of a director for any act or omission occurring prior to the date when such provision becomes effective.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that our directors shall not be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except to the extent that the exculpation from liabilities is not permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law as in effect at the time such liability is determined. In addition, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that we may indemnify our directors, officers and other agents of the company to the fullest extent permitted by the laws of the State of Delaware and our amended and restated bylaws provide that we are required to indemnify our directors and executive officers to the fullest extent not prohibited by Delaware General Corporate Law. We have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and officers. These indemnification agreements provide, among other things, that we will indemnify our directors and officers for certain expenses, including damages, judgments, fines, penalties, settlements and costs and attorneys’ fees and disbursements, incurred by a director or officer in any claim, action or proceeding arising in his or her capacity as a director or officer of our company or in connection with service at our request for another corporation or entity. The indemnification agreements also provide for procedures that will apply in the event that a director or officer makes a claim for indemnification. We expect to enter into a similar agreement with any new directors or officers.

Our amended and restated bylaws provide that we may purchase and maintain insurance policies on behalf of our directors and officers against specified liabilities for actions taken in their capacities as such, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act. We have obtained directors’ and officers’ liability insurance to cover liabilities our directors and officers may incur in connection with their services to us, and plan to expand such coverage to include matters arising under the securities laws prior to the completion of this offering.

In addition, the underwriting agreement related to this offering will provide for indemnification by the underwriters of us and our officers and directors for certain liabilities arising under the Securities Act or otherwise.

 

Item 15.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.

The following list sets forth information regarding all unregistered securities issued by us since January 1, 2015 through the date of the prospectus that is a part of this registration statement:

Issuances of Common Stock and Options to Purchase Common Stock

From January 1, 2015 through the date of this registration statement, we granted stock options under our 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, to purchase up to an aggregate of 14,777,692 shares (net of expirations and cancellations) of our common stock to our employees, directors, and consultants, at a weighted average exercise price of $1.02 per share. From January 1, 2015 through the date of this registration statement, 887,090 shares of our common stock were issued upon the exercise of these options and the payment of $279,110.

The offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in the preceding paragraph were deemed to be exempt from registration under the Securities Act in reliance on Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act, or Rule 701, as transactions under compensatory benefit plans and contracts relating to compensation or Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act as transactions by an issuer not involving a public offering. The recipients of such securities were our employees, directors or consultants and received the securities under our equity incentive plans. Appropriate legends were affixed to the securities issued in these transactions.

Issuances of Preferred Stock and Warrants

In June 2016, we issued and sold an aggregate of 15,301,859 shares of Series AA convertible preferred stock to 30 accredited investors at $1.00 per share for an aggregate consideration of approximately $15.3 million.


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In March 2017, we issued a warrant to purchase up to 474,446 shares of our Series AA convertible preferred stock to OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP. in connection with a debt financing.

In April 2017, we issued and sold an aggregate of 5,930,584 shares of Series BB convertible preferred stock to 14 accredited investors at $2.023410 per share for an aggregate consideration of approximately $12.0 million.

In April 2018, we issued and sold an aggregate of 9,529,571 shares of Series CC convertible preferred stock to 19 accredited investors at $2.623410 per share for an aggregate consideration of approximately $25.0 million.

The offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in the preceding paragraphs were deemed to be exempt from registration under the Securities Act in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act or Rule 506 of Regulation D promulgated thereunder as a transaction by an issuer not involving a public offering. The recipients of securities in each of these transactions acquired the securities for investment only and not with a view to or for sale in connection with any distribution thereof, and appropriate legends were affixed to the securities issued in these transactions. Each of the recipients of securities in these transactions was either an accredited investor within the meaning of Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act or had adequate access, through employment, business or other relationships, to information about us.

Issuances of Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Common Stock

From January 1, 2015 through the date of this registration statement, we granted restricted stock units under our 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, to acquire up to an aggregate of 82,428 shares, net of expirations and cancellations, of our common stock to two executive officers.

From January 1, 2015 through the date of this registration statement, we granted under our 2012 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, an aggregate of 1,223,000 shares, net of expirations and cancellations, of restricted common stock to a former executive officer.

The offers, sales and issuances of the securities described in the preceding paragraph were deemed to be exempt from registration either under Rule 701, in that the transactions were under compensatory benefit plans and contracts relating to compensation. The recipients of such securities were our employees, directors or consultants and received the securities under our equity incentive plans. Appropriate legends were affixed to the securities issued in these transactions.

None of the foregoing transactions involved any underwriters, underwriting discounts or commissions or any public offering.


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Item 16.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

Exhibits

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

1.1*    Form of Underwriting Agreement.
3.1    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended and as presently in effect.
3.2*    Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, to be in effect upon closing of this offering.
3.3    Amended and Restated Bylaws, as presently in effect.
3.4*    Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws, to be in effect upon closing of this offering.
4.1    Seventh Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement by and among the registrant and certain of its stockholders, dated as of April 26, 2018.
4.2*    Form of Common Stock Certificate.
4.3    Form of Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant, dated as of November 5, 2014.
4.4    Warrant to Purchase Shares of Convertible Preferred Stock issued by the registrant to Hercules Technology III, L.P., dated as of December 22, 2015.
4.5    Warrant to Purchase Shares of Convertible Preferred Stock issued by the registrant to OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP, dated as of March 20, 2017.
5.1*    Opinion of Cooley LLP.
10.1*    Form of Indemnity Agreement between the registrant and its directors and officers.
10.2+    2003 Stock Plan, as amended.
10.3+    Forms of Notice of Stock Option Grant, Stock Option Agreement and Notice of Exercise for 2003 Stock Plan.
10.4+    2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.
10.5+    Forms of Stock Option Grant Notice and Option Agreement for the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan.
10.6+    2019 Equity Incentive Plan.
10.7+    Forms of Stock Option Grant Notice, Option Agreement, Notice of Exercise, Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice and Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for the 2019 Equity Incentive Plan.
10.8+    2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
10.9+    Employment Agreement by and between the registrant and Reza Zadno, dated as of September 23, 2016.
10.10+    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the registrant and Reza Zadno dated as of January 17, 2019.
10.11+    Form of Executive Employment Agreement.
10.12+    Form of Amended and Restated Executive Employment Agreement.
10.13    Northwest Park Office Lease by and between the registrant and NWP Building 32 LLC, dated as of November 4, 2016.
10.14    First Amendment to Northwest Park Office Lease by and between the registrant and NWP Building 32 LLC, dated as of March 27, 2017.
10.15    Credit Agreement by and between the registrant and OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP, dated as of March 20, 2017.
10.16†    Amended and Restated License Agreement by and between the registrant and the California Institute of Technology, dated as of July 31, 2017.
10.17†    Second Amendment to License Agreement by and between the registrant and the California Institute of Technology, dated as of October 19, 2017.
10.18†    Framework Agreement by and between the registrant and Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH, dated as of June 12, 2014 (English translation).


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Exhibit
No.

  

Description

10.19†    Amendment No. 1 to Framework Agreement by and between the registrant and Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH, dated as of June 30, 2014 (English translation).
10.20†    Master Services Agreement by and between the registrant and Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals (which was acquired by Albany Molecular Research Inc.), dated as of November 27, 2012.
10.21†    Commercial Supply Agreement by and between the registrant and Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals (which was acquired by Albany Molecular Research Inc.), dated as of March 26, 2014.
10.22†    Commercial Manufacturing Agreement by and between the registrant and Ajinomoto Althea, dated as of December 19, 2014.
10.23†    Patent License and Purchase Agreement by and between the registrant and IROC Innocross AG, dated as of April 4, 2015.
23.1    Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
23.2*    Consent of Cooley LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1)
24.1    Power of Attorney (see signature page to the registration statement).

 

*

To be filed by amendment.

+

Indicates management contract or compensatory plan.

Confidential treatment has been requested with respect to certain portions of this exhibit. Omitted portions have been submitted separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Item 17.

Undertakings.

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriters at the closing specified in the Underwriting Agreement, certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:

(1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.


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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in Waltham, Massachusetts, on the 18th day of January, 2019.

 

AVEDRO, INC.
By:   

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Name:   Reza Zadno, Ph.D.
  Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints Reza Zadno, Ph.D. and Thomas E. Griffin, and each of them, his true and lawful agent, proxy and attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to (1) act on, sign and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement together with all schedules and exhibits thereto and any subsequent registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, together with all schedules and exhibits thereto, (2) act on, sign and file such certificates, instruments, agreements and other documents as may be necessary or appropriate in connection therewith, (3) act on and file any supplement to any prospectus included in this registration statement or any such amendment or any subsequent registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and (4) take any and all actions which may be necessary or appropriate to be done, as fully for all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby approving, ratifying and confirming all that such agent, proxy and attorney-in-fact or any of his substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Name

  

Position

 

Date

/s/ Reza Zadno

Reza Zadno, Ph.D.

  

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director ( Principal Executive Officer )

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Thomas E. Griffin

Thomas E. Griffin

  

Chief Financial Officer ( Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer )

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Thomas W. Burns

Thomas W. Burns

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Gilbert H. Kliman

Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D.

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Garheng Kong

Garheng Kong, M.D., Ph.D.

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Hongbo Lu

Hongbo Lu, Ph.D.

  

Director

  January 18, 2019


Table of Contents

Name

  

Position

 

Date

/s/ Robert J. Palmisano

Robert J. Palmisano

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Jonathan Silverstein

Jonathan Silverstein

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

/s/ Donald J. Zurbay

Donald J. Zurbay

  

Director

  January 18, 2019

Exhibit 3.1

NINTH AMENDED AND RESTATED

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

AVEDRO, INC.

(Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the

General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware)

AVEDRO, INC. , a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “ General Corporation Law ”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

FIRST: That the name of this corporation is Avedro, Inc. and that this corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the General Corporation Law on November 6, 2002 under the name ThermalVision, Inc.

SECOND: That this corporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware its original Certificate of Incorporation on November 6, 2002 (the “ Original Certificate ”). The Original Certificate was amended and restated by the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 21, 2003, the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on October 13, 2005, the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 17, 2008, the Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 29, 2009, the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on June 30, 2011, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February 6, 2012, the Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 1, 2013, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on September 11, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 5, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 5, 2015, the Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 13, 2015, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 20, 2017, and the Eighth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 17, 2017 (the “ Eighth Restated Certificate ”).

THIRD: That the Board of Directors duly adopted resolutions proposing to amend and restate the Eighth Restated Certificate, declaring said amendment and restatement to be advisable and in the best interests of this corporation and its stockholders, and authorizing the appropriate officers of this corporation to solicit the consent of the stockholders therefor, which resolution setting forth the proposed amendment and restatement is as follows (hereinafter the “ Restated Certificate ”):

ARTICLE I

The name of this corporation (the “ Corporation ”) is Avedro, Inc.


ARTICLE II

The address of the registered office of this corporation in the State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware 19801. The name of its registered agent at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.

ARTICLE III

The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law.

ARTICLE IV

A.     AUTHORIZED SHARES .

The Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock to be designated, respectively, “Common Stock” and “Preferred Stock. The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue is 111,759,571 shares, of which (i)  63,630,000 shares are Common Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share (“ Common Stock ”), and (ii) 48,129,571 shares shall be Preferred Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share, of which 32,650,000 shares are designated as “ Series AA Preferred Stock ”, 5,950,000 shares are designated as “ Series BB Preferred Stock ” and 9,529,571 shares are designated as “ Series CC Preferred Stock ”, and together with the Series AA Preferred Stock and the Series BB Preferred Stock, the “ Preferred Stock ”.

The following is a statement of the designations and the powers, privileges and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof in respect of each class of capital stock of the Corporation.

B.     COMMON STOCK

1.     General . The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of the Preferred Stock set forth herein.

2.     Voting . The holders of the Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held at all meetings of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings); provided , however , that, except as otherwise required by law, holders of Common Stock, as such, shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to the certificate of incorporation that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series are entitled, either separately or together with the holders of one or more other such series, to vote thereon pursuant to the certificate of incorporation or pursuant to the General Corporation Law. There shall be no cumulative voting. The number of authorized


shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by (in addition to any vote of the holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock that may be required by the terms of the certificate of incorporation) the affirmative vote of the holders of shares of capital stock of the Corporation representing a majority of the votes represented by all outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.

C.     PREFERRED STOCK

The rights, preferences, powers, privileges and restrictions, qualifications and limitations relating to the Preferred Stock are as follows. Unless otherwise indicated, references to “sections” or “subsections” in this Part C of this ARTICLE IV refer to sections and subsections of Part C of this ARTICLE IV .

1.     Dividends .

The Corporation shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends on shares of any other class or series of capital stock of the Corporation (other than dividends on shares of Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock) unless (in addition to the obtaining of any consents required elsewhere in this Restated Certificate) the holders of the Series CC Preferred Stock then outstanding shall (in their capacities as such) first receive, or simultaneously receive, on a pari passu basis, a dividend on each outstanding share of Series CC Preferred Stock in an amount at least equal to the greater of (i) the Series CC Dividend Rate (as defined below) per share of Series CC Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization affecting such shares) per year from and after the date of issuance of any shares of such Series CC Preferred Stock (to the extent not previously paid) and (ii) (A) in the case of a dividend on Common Stock or any class or series that is convertible into Common Stock, that dividend per share of Series CC Preferred Stock as would equal the product of (1) the dividend payable on each share of such class or series determined, if applicable, as if all shares of such class or series had been converted into Common Stock and (2) the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of Series CC Preferred Stock, in each case calculated on the record date for determination of holders entitled to receive such dividend or (B) in the case of a dividend on any class or series that is not convertible into Common Stock, at a rate per share of Series CC Preferred Stock determined by (1) dividing the amount of the dividend payable on each share of such class or series of capital stock by the original issuance price of such class or series of capital stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to such class or series) and (2) multiplying such fraction by an amount equal to the Series CC Original Issue Price (as defined below); provided that if the Corporation declares, pays or sets aside, on the same date, a dividend on shares of more than one class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, the dividend payable to the holders of shares of the Series CC Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section  1 shall be calculated based upon the dividend on the class or series of capital stock that would result in the highest dividend to Series CC Preferred Stock. Subject to the immediately-preceding sentence, the Corporation shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends on shares of any other class or series of capital stock of the Corporation (other than Series CC Preferred Stock or dividends on


shares of Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock) unless (in addition to the obtaining of any consents required elsewhere in this Restated Certificate) the holders of the Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock then outstanding shall (in their capacities as such) first receive, or simultaneously receive, on a pari passu basis, a dividend on each outstanding share of Series AA Preferred Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock in an amount at least equal to the greater of (i) the applicable Dividend Rate (as defined below) per share of Series AA Preferred Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization affecting such shares) per year from and after the date of issuance of any shares of such Preferred Stock (to the extent not previously paid) and (ii) (A) in the case of a dividend on Common Stock or any class or series that is convertible into Common Stock, that dividend per share of Series AA Preferred Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock as would equal the product of (1) the dividend payable on each share of such class or series determined, if applicable, as if all shares of such class or series had been converted into Common Stock and (2) the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of such Preferred Stock, in each case calculated on the record date for determination of holders entitled to receive such dividend or (B) in the case of a dividend on any class or series that is not convertible into Common Stock, at a rate per share of Series AA Preferred Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock determined by (1) dividing the amount of the dividend payable on each share of such class or series of capital stock by the original issuance price of such class or series of capital stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to such class or series) and (2) multiplying such fraction by an amount equal to the applicable Original Issue Price (as defined below); provided that if the Corporation declares, pays or sets aside, on the same date, a dividend on shares of more than one class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, the dividend payable to the holders of shares of the Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section  1 shall be calculated based upon the dividend on the class or series of capital stock that would result in the highest dividend to Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock. The foregoing dividends shall not be cumulative. The “ Series CC Original Issue Price ” shall mean $2.623410 per share and the Series CC Dividend Rate shall mean $0.20987 per share, per year, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series CC Preferred Stock. “ Series BB Original Issue Price ” shall mean $2.023410 per share and the “ Series BB Dividend Rate ” shall mean $0.161873 per share, per year, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series BB Preferred Stock. The “ Series AA Original Issue Price ” shall mean $1.00 per share and the “ Series AA Dividend Rate ” shall mean $0.08 per share, per year, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series AA Preferred Stock. “ Dividend Rate ” shall mean the Series AA Dividend Rate, as applies to the Series AA Preferred Stock, or the Series BB Dividend Rate, as applies to the Series BB Preferred Stock.

2.     Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up; Certain Mergers, Consolidations and Asset Sales .

2.1     Preferential Payments to Holders of Series CC Preferred Stock . In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the


Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), the holders of shares of Series CC Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders or, in the case of a Deemed Liquidation Event, the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or the Available Proceeds (defined below) before any payment shall be made to the holders of Series BB Preferred Stock, Series AA Preferred Stock or Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the greater of (i) one (1) times the Series CC Original Issue Price, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, or (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of Series CC Preferred Stock been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section  4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to as the “ Series CC Liquidation Amount ”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Series CC Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Subsection  2.1 , the holders of shares of Series CC Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.

2.2     Preferential Payments to Holders of Series BB Preferred Stock . After the payment of the Series CC Liquidation Amount and before any distribution or payment shall be made to the holders of Series AA Preferred Stock or Common Stock, upon such voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the holders of shares of Series BB Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders or, in the case of a Deemed Liquidation Event, the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or the Available Proceeds before any payment shall be made to the holders of Series AA Preferred Stock and Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the greater of (i) one (1) times the Series BB Original Issue Price, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, or (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of Series BB Preferred Stock been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section  4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to as the “ Series BB Liquidation Amount ”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Series BB Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Subsection  2.2 , the holders of shares of Series BB Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.

2.3     Preferential Payments to Holders of Series AA Preferred Stock . After the payment of the Series CC Liquidation Amount and the Series BB Liquidation Amount and before any distribution or payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock, upon such voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or


Deemed Liquidation Event, the holders of shares of Series AA Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders or, in the case of a Deemed Liquidation Event, the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or the Available Proceeds before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to the greater of (i) one (1) times the Series AA Original Issue Price, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, or (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of Series AA Preferred Stock been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section  4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to as the “ Series AA Liquidation Amount ”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Series AA Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Subsection  2.3 , the holders of shares of Series AA Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.

2.4     Payments to Holders of Common Stock . In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, after the payment of all preferential amounts required to be paid to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock, the remaining assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be distributed among the holders of shares of Common Stock, pro rata based on the number of shares held by each such holder.

2.5     Deemed Liquidation Events .

2.5.1     Definition . Each of the following events shall be considered a “ Deemed Liquidation Event ” unless the holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the then outstanding shares of Series CC Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis (the “ Requisite Holders ”), elect otherwise by written notice sent to the Corporation at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of any such event:

(a)    a merger or consolidation in which

(i)    the Corporation is a constituent party or

(ii)    a subsidiary of the Corporation is a constituent party and the Corporation issues shares of its capital stock pursuant to such merger or consolidation,

except any such merger or consolidation involving the Corporation or a subsidiary in which the shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continue to represent, or are converted into or exchanged for shares of capital stock that represent, immediately following such merger or consolidation, at least a majority, by voting


power, of the capital stock of (1) the surviving or resulting corporation; or (2) if the surviving or resulting corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of another corporation immediately following such merger or consolidation, the parent corporation of such surviving or resulting corporation; or

(b)    the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, by the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation of all or substantially all the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, or the sale or disposition (whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise and whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of one or more subsidiaries of the Corporation if substantially all of the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole are held by such subsidiary or subsidiaries, except where such sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition is to a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation.

2.5.2     Effecting a Deemed Liquidation Event .

(a)    The Corporation shall not have the power to effect a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Subsection 2.5.1(a)( i ) unless the agreement or plan of merger or consolidation for such transaction (the “ Merger Agreement ”) provides that the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Subsections 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 and 2.4 .

(b)    In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Subsection 2.5.1(a)(ii) , 2.5.1(b) or 2.5.1(c) , if the Corporation does not effect a dissolution of the Corporation under the General Corporation Law within ninety (90) days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, then (i) the Corporation shall send a written notice to each holder of Preferred Stock no later than the ninetieth (90 th ) day after the Deemed Liquidation Event advising such holders of their right (and the requirements to be met to secure such right) pursuant to the terms of the following clause (ii) to require the redemption of such shares of Preferred Stock, and (ii) if the Requisite Holders so request in a written instrument delivered to the Corporation not later than one hundred twenty (120) days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, the Corporation shall use the consideration received by the Corporation for such Deemed Liquidation Event (net of any retained liabilities associated with the assets sold or technology licensed, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation) , together with any other assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, all to the extent permitted by Delaware law governing distributions to stockholders (the “ Available Proceeds ”), on the one hundred fiftieth (150 th ) day after such Deemed Liquidation Event, to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock at a price per share equal to the Series CC Liquidation Amount, Series BB Liquidation Amount or Series AA Liquidation Amount, as applicable. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a redemption pursuant to the preceding sentence, if the Available Proceeds are not sufficient to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred


Stock, the Corporation shall ratably redeem each holder’s shares of Series CC Preferred Stock to the fullest extent of such Available Proceeds, then shall ratably redeem each holder’s shares of Series BB Preferred Stock to the fullest extent of such Available Proceeds, then shall ratably redeem each holder’s shares of Series AA Preferred Stock to the fullest extent of such Available Proceeds, and shall redeem the remaining shares as soon as it may lawfully do so under Delaware law governing distributions to stockholders in accordance with a procedure determined by the Corporation’s Board of Directors. Prior to the distribution or redemption provided for in this Subsection 2.5.2(b) , the Corporation shall not expend or dissipate the consideration received for such Deemed Liquidation Event, except to discharge expenses incurred in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event.

2.5.3     Amount Deemed Paid or Distributed . If the amount deemed paid or distributed under this Subsection 2.5 is made in property other than in cash, the value of such distribution shall be the fair market value of such property, determined as follows:

(a)    For securities not subject to investment letters or other similar restrictions on free marketability,

(i)    if traded on a securities exchange, the value shall be deemed to be the average of the closing prices of the securities on such exchange or market over the thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days prior to the closing of such transaction;

(ii)    if actively traded over-the-counter, the value shall be deemed to be the average of the closing bid prices over the thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days prior to the closing of such transaction; or

(iii)    if there is no active public market, the value shall be the fair market value thereof, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

(b)    The method of valuation of securities subject to investment letters or other similar restrictions on free marketability (other than restrictions arising solely by virtue of a stockholder’s status as an affiliate or former affiliate) shall take into account an appropriate discount (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation) from the market value as determined pursuant to clause (a) above so as to reflect the approximate fair market value thereof.

2.5.4     Allocation of Escrow and Contingent Consideration . In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event pursuant to Subsection 2.5.1(a)( i ) , if any portion of the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation is payable only upon satisfaction of contingencies (the “ Additional Consideration ”), the Merger Agreement


shall provide that (a) the portion of such consideration that is not Additional Consideration (such portion, the “ Initial Consideration ”) shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Subsections 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 and 2.4 as if the Initial Consideration were the only consideration payable in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event; and (b) any Additional Consideration which becomes payable to the stockholders of the Corporation upon satisfaction of such contingencies shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Subsections 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 and 2.4 after taking into account the previous payment of the Initial Consideration as part of the same transaction. For the purposes of this Subsection 2.5.4 , consideration placed into escrow or retained as holdback to be available for satisfaction of indemnification or similar obligations in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be deemed to be Additional Consideration.

3.     Voting .

3.1     General . On any matter presented to the stockholders of the Corporation for their action or consideration at any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation (or by written consent of stockholders in lieu of meeting), each holder of outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to cast the number of votes equal to the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which the shares of Preferred Stock held by such holder are convertible as of the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote on such matter. Except as provided by law or by the other provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Series Preferred Stock shall vote together with the holders of Common Stock as a single class.

3.2     Election of Directors . The holders of record of the shares of Series CC Preferred Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one (1) director of the Corporation (the “ Series CC Director ”), the holders of record of the shares of Series BB Preferred Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one (1) director of the Corporation (the “ Series BB Director ”), the holders of record of the shares of Series AA Preferred Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect two (2) directors of the Corporation (the “ Series AA Directors ” and together with the Series CC Director and the Series BB Director, the “ Preferred Directors ”) and the holders of record of the shares of Common Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect two (2) directors. Any director elected as provided in the preceding sentence may be removed without cause by, and only by, the affirmative vote of the holders of the shares of the class or series of capital stock entitled to elect such director or directors, given either at a special meeting of such stockholders duly called for that purpose or pursuant to a written consent of stockholders. If the holders of shares of Series CC Preferred Stock, Series BB Preferred Stock, Series AA Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, fail to elect a sufficient number of directors to fill all directorships for which they are entitled to elect directors, voting exclusively and as a separate class, pursuant to the first sentence of this Subsection  3.2 , then any directorship not so filled shall remain vacant until such time as the holders of the Series CC Preferred Stock, Series BB Preferred Stock, Series AA Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, elect a person to fill such directorship by vote or written consent in lieu of a meeting; and no such directorship may be filled by stockholders of the Corporation other than by the stockholders of the Corporation that are entitled to elect a person to fill such directorship, voting exclusively and as a separate class. The holders of record of the shares of Common Stock and of any other class or


series of voting stock (including the Preferred Stock), exclusively and voting together as a single class on an as-converted basis, shall be entitled to elect the balance of the total number of directors of the Corporation. At any meeting held for the purpose of electing a director, the presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class or series entitled to elect such director shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing such director. Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection  3.2 , a vacancy in any directorship filled by the holders of any class or series shall be filled only by vote or written consent in lieu of a meeting of the holders of such class or series or by any remaining director or directors elected by the holders of such class or series pursuant to this Subsection  3.2 .

3.3     Preferred Stock Protective Provisions . At any time when at least 11,832,477 shares of Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Preferred Stock) are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation or otherwise, do any of the following without (in addition to any other vote required by law or the certificate of incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the then outstanding Preferred Stock (the “ Preferred Majority ”), and any such act or transaction entered into without such consent or vote shall be null and void ab initio , and of no force or effect.

3.3.1    liquidate, dissolve or wind-up the business and affairs of the Corporation, effect any merger or consolidation or any other Deemed Liquidation Event, or consent to any of the foregoing;

3.3.2    amend, alter, repeal or waive any provision of the certificate of incorporation or Bylaws of the Corporation;

3.3.3    create, or authorize the creation of, or issue or obligate itself to issue shares of, any additional class or series of capital stock unless the same ranks junior to the existing series of Preferred Stock with respect to the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends and rights of redemption, or increase the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock or any series thereof or increase the authorized number of shares of any additional class or series of capital stock;

3.3.4    (i) reclassify, alter or amend any existing security of the Corporation that is pari passu with any existing series of Preferred Stock in respect of the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends or rights of redemption, if such reclassification, alteration or amendment would render such other security senior to any such series of Preferred Stock in respect of any such right, preference, or privilege or (ii) reclassify, alter or amend any existing security of the Corporation that is junior to any existing series of Preferred Stock in respect of the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends or rights of redemption, if such reclassification, alteration or amendment would render such other security senior to or pari passu with any such series of Preferred Stock in respect of any such right, preference or privilege;


3.3.5    purchase or redeem (or permit any subsidiary to purchase or redeem) or pay or declare any dividend or make any distribution on, any shares of capital stock of the Corporation other than (i) redemptions of or dividends or distributions on the Preferred Stock as expressly authorized herein, (ii) dividends or other distributions payable on the Common Stock solely in the form of additional shares of Common Stock and (iii) repurchases of stock from former employees, officers, directors, consultants or other persons who performed services for the Corporation or any subsidiary in connection with the cessation of such employment or service at the lower of the original purchase price or the then-current fair market value thereof;

3.3.6    create, or hold capital stock in, any subsidiary that is not wholly owned (either directly or through one or more other subsidiaries) by the Corporation, or sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any capital stock of any direct or indirect subsidiary of the Corporation, or permit any direct or indirect subsidiary to sell, lease, transfer, exclusively license or otherwise dispose (in a single transaction or series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of such subsidiary;

3.3.7    increase or decrease the authorized number of directors constituting the Board of Directors;

3.3.8    take any action that alters or changes the rights, preferences or privileges of the holders of Series AA Preferred Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock unless approved by the Preferred Majority;

3.3.9    increase or decrease the number of authorized shares of Common Stock or Preferred Stock or any series thereof.

3.4     Series BB Preferred Stock Protective Provisions . At any time when at least 1,500,000 shares of Series BB Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series BB Preferred Stock) are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation or otherwise, do any of the following without (in addition to any other vote required by law or the certificate of incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the holders of at least 70% of the outstanding Series BB Preferred Stock, and any such act or transaction entered into without such consent or vote shall be null and void ab initio , and of no force or effect.

3.4.1    amend, alter, repeal or waive any provision of the certificate of incorporation of the Corporation in a manner that adversely affects the rights of the Series BB Preferred Stock;

3.4.2    any waiver of the treatment of an event as a Deemed Liquidation Event so as to waive the rights of the Series BB Preferred Stock to the preferential payments set forth in Subsection 2.2 in connection with such event.

3.5     Series CC Preferred Stock Protective Provisions . At any time when at least 1,500,000 shares of Series CC Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with


respect to the Series CC Preferred Stock) are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation or otherwise, do any of the following without (in addition to any other vote required by law or the certificate of incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders, and any such act or transaction entered into without such consent or vote shall be null and void ab initio , and of no force or effect.

3.5.1    liquidate, dissolve or wind-up the business and affairs of the Corporation, effect any merger or consolidation or any other Deemed Liquidation Event, or consent to any of the foregoing, if (i) the consummation of such transaction occurs prior to the one year anniversary of the Series CC Original Issue Date, and (ii) if the consideration payable to the holders of Series CC Preferred Stock in connection with such proposed liquidation, dissolution, winding-up, merger, consolidation or Deemed Liquidation Event is less than $4.684660 per share of Series CC Preferred Stock;

3.5.2    amend, alter, repeal or waive any provision of the certificate of incorporation of the Corporation in a manner that adversely affects the rights of the Series CC Preferred Stock;

3.5.3    any waiver of the treatment of an event as a Deemed Liquidation Event so as to waive the rights of the Series CC Preferred Stock to the preferential payments set forth in Subsection 2.1 in connection with such event.

3.6     General Corporation Law . For the avoidance of doubt, the written consent or affirmative vote of the holders of at least 70% of the outstanding shares of Series BB Preferred Stock, with respect to Subsection 3.4.1 , and the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders, with respect to Subsection 3.5.2 , shall not be required unless the alteration, repeal or waiver of the powers, preferences or special rights of the Series BB Preferred Stock or Series CC Preferred Stock, as applicable, would require a separate vote of such series of Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law as it exists on the filing date hereof.

4.     Optional Conversion .

The holders of the Preferred Stock shall have conversion rights as follows (the “ Conversion Rights ”):

4.1     Right to Convert .

4.1.1     Conversion Ratio . Each series of Preferred Stock shall be convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time and from time to time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock as is determined by dividing the applicable Original Issue Price by the applicable Conversion Price (as defined below) in effect at the time of conversion. The “ Series CC Conversion Price ” shall initially be equal to $2.623410. The “ Series BB Conversion Price ” shall initially be equal to $2.023410. The “ Series AA Conversion Price ” shall initially be equal to $1.00. The Series AA Conversion Price, the Series BB Conversion Price and the Series CC


Conversion Price shall be referred to together as the “ Conversion Prices ” and individually as a “ Conversion Price ” or the “applicable Conversion Price”. Such initial Conversion Prices, and the rate at which shares of Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of Common Stock, shall be subject to adjustment as provided below.

4.1.2     Termination of Conversion Rights . In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or a Deemed Liquidation Event, the Conversion Rights shall terminate at the close of business on the last full day preceding the date fixed for the payment of any such amounts distributable on such event to the holders of Preferred Stock.

4.2     Fractional Shares . No fractional shares of Common Stock shall be issued upon conversion of the Preferred Stock. In lieu of any fractional shares to which the holder would otherwise be entitled, the Corporation shall pay cash equal to such fraction multiplied by the fair market value of a share of Common Stock as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Whether or not fractional shares would be issuable upon such conversion shall be determined on the basis of the total number of shares of Preferred Stock the holder is at the time converting into Common Stock and the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon such conversion.

4.3     Mechanics of Conversion .

4.3.1     Notice of Conversion . In order for a holder of Preferred Stock to voluntarily convert shares of Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock, such holder shall (a) provide written notice to the Corporation’s transfer agent at the office of the transfer agent for the Preferred Stock (or at the principal office of the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent) that such holder elects to convert all or any number of such holder’s shares of Preferred Stock and, if applicable, any event on which such conversion is contingent and (b), if such holder’s shares are certificated, surrender the certificate or certificates for such shares of Preferred Stock (or, if such registered holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate), at the office of the transfer agent for the Preferred Stock (or at the principal office of the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent). Such notice shall state such holder’s name or the names of the nominees in which such holder wishes the shares of Common Stock to be issued. If required by the Corporation, any certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by a written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. The close of business on the date of receipt by the transfer agent (or by the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent) of such notice and, if applicable, certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) shall be the time of conversion (the “ Conversion Time ”), and the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the specified shares shall be deemed to be outstanding of record as of such date. The Corporation shall, as soon as practicable after the Conversion Time (i) issue and deliver to such holder of Preferred Stock, or to his, her or


its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable upon such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof and a certificate for the number (if any) of the shares of Preferred Stock represented by the surrendered certificate that were not converted into Common Stock, (ii) pay in cash such amount as provided in Subsection  4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and (iii) pay all declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted.

4.3.2     Reservation of Shares . The Corporation shall at all times when the Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then outstanding shares of the Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation. Before taking any action which would cause an adjustment reducing a Conversion Price below the then par value of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a series of Preferred Stock, the Corporation will take any corporate action which may, in the opinion of its counsel, be necessary in order that the Corporation may validly and legally issue fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock at such adjusted Conversion Price.

4.3.3     Effect of Conversion . All shares of Preferred Stock which shall have been surrendered for conversion as herein provided shall no longer be deemed to be outstanding and all rights with respect to such shares shall immediately cease and terminate at the Conversion Time, except only the right of the holders thereof to receive shares of Common Stock in exchange therefor, to receive payment in lieu of any fraction of a share otherwise issuable upon such conversion as provided in Subsection  4.2 and to receive payment of any dividends declared but unpaid thereon. Any shares of Preferred Stock so converted shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and the Corporation may thereafter take such appropriate action (without the need for stockholder action) as may be necessary to reduce the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock accordingly.

4.3.4     No Further Adjustment . Upon any such conversion, no adjustment to any Conversion Price shall be made for any declared but unpaid dividends on the Preferred Stock surrendered for conversion or on the Common Stock delivered upon conversion.

4.3.5     Taxes . The Corporation shall pay any and all issue and other similar taxes that may be payable in respect of any issuance or delivery of shares of Common Stock upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section  4. The Corporation shall not, however, be required to pay any tax which may be payable in


respect of any transfer involved in the issuance and delivery of shares of Common Stock in a name other than that in which the shares of Preferred Stock so converted were registered, and no such issuance or delivery shall be made unless and until the person or entity requesting such issuance has paid to the Corporation the amount of any such tax or has established, to the satisfaction of the Corporation, that such tax has been paid.

4.4     Adjustments to Preferred Stock Conversion Prices for Diluting Issues .

4.4.1     Special Definitions . For purposes of this ARTICLE IV , the following definitions shall apply:

(a)    “ Option ” shall mean rights, options or warrants to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire Common Stock or Convertible Securities.

(b)    “ Series CC Original Issue Date ” shall mean the date on which the first share of Series CC Preferred Stock was issued.

(c)    “ Convertible Securities ” shall mean any evidences of indebtedness, shares or other securities directly or indirectly convertible into or exchangeable for Common Stock, but excluding Options.

(d)    “ Additional Shares of Common Stock ” shall mean all shares of Common Stock issued (or, pursuant to Subsection  4.4.3 below, deemed to be issued) by the Corporation after the Series CC Original Issue Date, other than (1) the following shares of Common Stock and (2) shares of Common Stock deemed issued pursuant to the following Options and Convertible Securities (clauses (1) and (2), collectively, “ Exempted Securities ”):

(i)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued as a dividend or distribution on Preferred Stock;

(ii)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued by reason of a dividend, stock split, split-up or other distribution on shares of Common Stock that is covered by Subsection 4.5 , 4.6 , 4.7 or 4.8 ;

(iii)    shares of Common Stock or Options issued to employees or directors of, or consultants or advisors to, the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries pursuant to a plan, agreement or arrangement approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office;

(iv)    shares of Common Stock or Convertible Securities actually issued upon the exercise of Options or shares of Common Stock actually issued upon the conversion or exchange of Convertible Securities, in each case provided such issuance is pursuant to the terms of such Option or Convertible Security;


(v)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued to banks, equipment lessors or other financial institutions, or to real property lessors, pursuant to a debt financing, equipment leasing or real property leasing transaction approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office;

(vi)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued to suppliers or third party service providers in connection with the provision of goods or services pursuant to transactions approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office;

(vii)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued pursuant to the acquisition of another corporation by the Corporation by merger, purchase of substantially all of the assets or other reorganization or to a joint venture agreement, provided that such issuances are approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office; or

(viii)    shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued in connection with sponsored research, collaboration, technology license, development, OEM, marketing or other similar agreements or strategic partnerships approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office.

4.4.2     No Adjustment of Conversion Price . No adjustment in any Conversion Price shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock if the Corporation receives written notice from (i) the Preferred Majority in respect of an adjustment with respect to the Conversion Price of the Series AA Stock or Series BB Preferred Stock, or (ii) the Requisite Holders in respect of an adjustment with respect to the Conversion Price of the Series CC Preferred Stock agreeing that no such adjustment shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of such Additional Shares of Common Stock.

4.4.3     Deemed Issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock .

(a)    If the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Series CC Original Issue Date shall issue any Options or Convertible Securities (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities) or shall fix a record date for the determination of holders of any class of securities entitled to receive any such Options or Convertible


Securities, then the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instrument relating thereto, assuming the satisfaction of any conditions to exercisability, convertibility or exchangeability but without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or, in the case of Convertible Securities and Options therefor, the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, shall be deemed to be Additional Shares of Common Stock issued as of the time of such issue or, in case such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date.

(b)    If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security, the issuance of which resulted in an adjustment to any Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4 , are revised as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to provide for either (1) any increase or decrease in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security or (2) any increase or decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, then, effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective, the applicable Conversion Price computed upon the original issue of such Option or Convertible Security (or upon the occurrence of a record date with respect thereto) shall be readjusted to such Conversion Price as would have obtained had such revised terms been in effect upon the original date of issuance of such Option or Convertible Security. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no readjustment pursuant to this clause (b) shall have the effect of increasing the applicable Conversion Price to an amount which exceeds the lower of (i) the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the original adjustment made as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security, or (ii) the applicable Conversion Price that would have resulted from any issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock (other than deemed issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security) between the original adjustment date and such readjustment date.

(c)    If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities), the issuance of which did not result in an adjustment to the applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4 (either because the consideration per share (determined pursuant to Subsection 4.4.5 ) of the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto was equal to or greater than the applicable Conversion Price then in effect, or because such Option or Convertible Security was issued before the Series CC Original Issue Date), are revised after the Series CC Original Issue Date as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to


provide for either (1) any increase in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security or (2) any decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion or exchange, then such Option or Convertible Security, as so amended or adjusted, and the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto (determined in the manner provided in Subsection  4.4.3(a) shall be deemed to have been issued effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective.

(d)    Upon the expiration or termination of any unexercised Option or unconverted or unexchanged Convertible Security (or portion thereof) which resulted (either upon its original issuance or upon a revision of its terms) in an adjustment to any Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection  4.4.4 , the applicable Conversion Price shall be readjusted to such Conversion Price as would have obtained had such Option or Convertible Security (or portion thereof) never been issued.

(e)    If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, is calculable at the time such Option or Convertible Security is issued or amended but is subject to adjustment based upon subsequent events, any adjustment to any Conversion Price provided for in this Subsection  4.4.3 shall be effected at the time of such issuance or amendment based on such number of shares or amount of consideration without regard to any provisions for subsequent adjustments (and any subsequent adjustments shall be treated as provided in clauses (b) and (c) of this Subsection  4.4.3 ). If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, cannot be calculated at all at the time such Option or Convertible Security is issued or amended, any adjustment to the applicable Conversion Price that would result under the terms of this Subsection  4.4.3 at the time of such issuance or amendment shall instead be effected at the time such number of shares and/or amount of consideration is first calculable (even if subject to subsequent adjustments), assuming for purposes of calculating such adjustment to the applicable Conversion Price that such issuance or amendment took place at the time such calculation can first be made.

4.4.4     Adjustment of Conversion Price Upon Issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock . In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the Series CC Original Issue Date issue Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Subsection  4.4.3 ), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than the applicable Conversion Price of any series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately prior to such issue, then the applicable Conversion Price of such series of Preferred Stock shall be reduced, concurrently with such issue, to a price (calculated to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent) determined in accordance with the following formula:

CP 2 = CP 1 * (A + B) ÷ (A + C).


For purposes of the foregoing formula, the following definitions shall apply:

(a)    “CP 2 ” shall mean the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately after such issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock

(b)    “CP 1 ” shall mean the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock;

(c)    “A” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to such issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock (treating for this purpose as outstanding all shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Options outstanding immediately prior to such issue or upon conversion or exchange of Convertible Securities (including the Preferred Stock) outstanding (assuming exercise of any outstanding Options therefor) immediately prior to such issue);

(d)    “B” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issued if such Additional Shares of Common Stock had been issued at a price per share equal to CP 1 (determined by dividing the aggregate consideration received by the Corporation in respect of such issue by CP 1 ); and

(e)    “C” shall mean the number of such Additional Shares of Common Stock issued in such transaction.

4.4.5     Determination of Consideration . For purposes of this Subsection 4.4 , the consideration received by the Corporation for the issue of any Additional Shares of Common Stock shall be computed as follows:

(a)     Cash and Property : Such consideration shall:

(i)    insofar as it consists of cash, be computed at the aggregate amount of cash received by the Corporation, excluding amounts paid or payable for accrued interest;

(ii)    insofar as it consists of property other than cash, be computed at the fair market value thereof at the time of such issue, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation; and

(iii)    in the event Additional Shares of Common Stock are issued together with other shares or securities or other assets of the Corporation for consideration which covers both, be the proportion of such consideration so received, computed as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) above, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation.


(b)     Options and Convertible Securities . The consideration per share received by the Corporation for Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to have been issued pursuant to Subsection  4.4.3 , relating to Options and Convertible Securities, shall be determined by dividing:

(i)    The total amount, if any, received or receivable by the Corporation as consideration for the issue of such Options or Convertible Securities, plus the minimum aggregate amount of additional consideration (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such consideration) payable to the Corporation upon the exercise of such Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, by

(ii)    the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities.

4.4.6     Multiple Closing Dates . In the event the Corporation shall issue on more than one date Additional Shares of Common Stock that are a part of one transaction or a series of related transactions and that would result in an adjustment to the applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4 , and such issuance dates occur within a period of no more than ninety (90) days from the first such issuance to the final such issuance, then, upon the final such issuance, the applicable Conversion Price shall be readjusted to give effect to all such issuances as if they occurred on the date of the first such issuance (and without giving effect to any additional adjustments as a result of any such subsequent issuances within such period).

4.5     Adjustment for Stock Splits and Combinations . If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Series CC Original Issue Date effect a subdivision of the outstanding Common Stock, the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately before that subdivision shall be proportionately decreased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such applicable series of Preferred Stock shall be increased in proportion to such increase in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Series CC Original Issue Date combine the outstanding shares of Common Stock, the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately before the combination shall be proportionately


increased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such applicable series of Preferred Stock shall be decreased in proportion to such decrease in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. Any adjustment under this subsection shall become effective at the close of business on the date the subdivision or combination becomes effective.

4.6     Adjustment for Certain Dividends and Distributions . In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Series CC Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable on the Common Stock in additional shares of Common Stock, then and in each such event the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately before such event shall be decreased as of the time of such issuance or, in the event such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date, by multiplying the applicable Conversion Price then in effect by a fraction:

(1)    the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date, and

(2)    the denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date plus the number of shares of Common Stock issuable in payment of such dividend or distribution.

Notwithstanding the foregoing (a) if such record date shall have been fixed and such dividend is not fully paid or if such distribution is not fully made on the date fixed therefor, the applicable Conversion Price shall be recomputed accordingly as of the close of business on such record date and thereafter the applicable Conversion Price shall be adjusted pursuant to this subsection as of the time of actual payment of such dividends or distributions; and (b) that no such adjustment shall be made if the holders of the applicable series of Preferred Stock simultaneously receive a dividend or other distribution of shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the number of shares of Common Stock as they would have received if all outstanding shares of the applicable series of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event.

4.7     Adjustments for Other Dividends and Distributions . In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Series CC Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable in securities of the Corporation (other than a distribution of shares of Common Stock in respect of outstanding shares of Common Stock) or in other property and the provisions of Section  1 do not apply to such dividend or distribution, then and in each such event the holders of Preferred Stock shall receive, simultaneously with the distribution to the holders of Common Stock, a dividend or other distribution of such securities or other property in an amount equal to the amount of such securities or other property as they would have received if all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event.


4.8     Adjustment for Merger or Reorganization, etc . Subject to the provisions of Subsection 2.5 , if there shall occur any reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger involving the Corporation in which the Common Stock (but not the Preferred Stock) is converted into or exchanged for securities, cash or other property (other than a transaction covered by Subsections 4.4 , 4.6 or 4.7 ), then, following any such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger, each share of Preferred Stock shall thereafter be convertible in lieu of the Common Stock into which it was convertible prior to such event into the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock of the Corporation issuable upon conversion of one share of Preferred Stock immediately prior to such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger would have been entitled to receive pursuant to such transaction; and, in such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation) shall be made in the application of the provisions in this Section  4 with respect to the rights and interests thereafter of the holders of each series of Preferred Stock, to the end that the provisions set forth in this Section  4 (including provisions with respect to changes in and other adjustments of the Conversion Prices) shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any securities or other property thereafter deliverable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock. For the avoidance of doubt, nothing in this Subsection 4.8 shall be construed as preventing the holders of Preferred Stock from seeking any appraisal rights to which they are otherwise entitled under the DGCL in connection with a merger triggering an adjustment hereunder, nor shall this Subsection 4.8 be deemed conclusive evidence of the fair value of the shares of Preferred Stock in any such appraisal proceeding.

4.9     Certificate as to Adjustments . Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of the applicable Conversion Price pursuant to this Section  4 , the Corporation at its expense shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable but in any event not later than ten (10) days thereafter, compute such adjustment or readjustment in accordance with the terms hereof and furnish to each holder of the applicable series of Preferred Stock a certificate setting forth such adjustment or readjustment (including the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property into which the applicable series of Preferred Stock is convertible) and showing in detail the facts upon which such adjustment or readjustment is based. The Corporation shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable after the written request at any time of any holder of Preferred Stock (but in any event not later than ten (10) days thereafter), furnish or cause to be furnished to such holder a certificate setting forth (i) the applicable Conversion Price then in effect, and (ii) the number of shares of Common Stock and the amount, if any, of other securities, cash or property which then would be received upon the conversion of the applicable series of Preferred Stock.

4.10     Notice of Record Date . In the event:

(a)    the Corporation shall take a record of the holders of its Common Stock (or other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock) for the purpose of entitling or enabling them to receive any dividend or other distribution, or to receive any right to subscribe for or purchase any shares of capital stock of any class or any other securities, or to receive any other security; or


(b)    of any capital reorganization of the Corporation, any reclassification of the Common Stock of the Corporation, or any Deemed Liquidation Event; or

(c)    of the voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Corporation,

then, and in each such case, the Corporation will send or cause to be sent to the holders of the Preferred Stock a notice specifying, as the case may be, (i) the record date for such dividend, distribution or right, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, or (ii) the effective date on which such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up is proposed to take place, and the time, if any is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock) shall be entitled to exchange their shares of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities) for securities or other property deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, and the amount per share and character of such exchange applicable to the Preferred Stock and the Common Stock. Such notice shall be sent at least ten (10) days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice.

5.     Mandatory Conversion .

5.1     Trigger Events .

5.1.1    Upon the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Requisite Holders, all outstanding shares of Series CC Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate as calculated pursuant to Subsection 4.1.1. and such shares may not be reissued by the Corporation.

5.1.2    Upon the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as converted basis, all outstanding shares of Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate as calculated pursuant to Subsection 4.1.1. and such shares may not be reissued by the Corporation.

5.1.3    Upon either (a) the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public at a price of at least $6.558525 per share (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Common Stock), in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, resulting in at least $50,000,000 of gross proceeds to the Corporation before deduction of underwriters’ commission and expenses (a “ Qualified IPO ”) or (b) the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Preferred Majority, which must include the Requisite Holders; provided, however that


if such conversion is in connection with a Deemed Liquidation Event, any conversion of the Series BB Preferred Stock shall also require the vote or written consent of the holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the then outstanding shares of Series BB Preferred Stock, voting together as a single series (the time of such closing or the date and time specified or the time of the event specified in such vote or written consent is referred to herein as the “ Mandatory Conversion Time ”), then (i) all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate as calculated pursuant to Subsection 4.1.1. and (ii) such shares may not be reissued by the Corporation.

5.2     Procedural Requirements . All holders of record of shares of Preferred Stock shall be sent written notice of the Mandatory Conversion Time and the place designated for mandatory conversion of all such shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section  5 . Such notice need not be sent in advance of the occurrence of the Mandatory Conversion Time. Upon receipt of such notice, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock in certificated form shall surrender his, her or its certificate or certificates for all such shares (or, if such holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate) to the Corporation at the place designated in such notice. If so required by the Corporation, any certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or by his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. All rights with respect to the Preferred Stock converted pursuant to Subsection 5.1 , including the rights, if any, to receive notices and vote (other than as a holder of Common Stock), will terminate at the Mandatory Conversion Time (notwithstanding the failure of the holder or holders thereof to surrender any certificates at or prior to such time), except only the rights of the holders thereof, upon surrender of any certificate or certificates of such holders (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) therefor, to receive the items provided for in the next sentence of this Subsection 5.2 . As soon as practicable after the Mandatory Conversion Time and, if applicable, the surrender of any certificate or certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) for Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall (a) issue and deliver to such holder, or to his, her or its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable on such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof and (b) pay cash as provided in Subsection  4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and the payment of any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted. Such converted Preferred Stock shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and the Corporation may thereafter take such appropriate action (without the need for stockholder action) as may be necessary to reduce the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock accordingly.

ARTICLE V

Subject to any additional vote required by the Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws, in furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to make, repeal, alter, amend and rescind any or all of the Bylaws of the Corporation.


ARTICLE VI

Subject to any additional vote required by the Certificate of Incorporation, the number of directors of the Corporation shall be determined in the manner set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

ARTICLE VII

Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide.

ARTICLE VIII

Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

ARTICLE IX

To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director. If the General Corporation Law or any other law of the State of Delaware is amended after approval by the stockholders of this ARTICLE IX to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law as so amended.

Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this ARTICLE IX by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of, or increase the liability of any director of the Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to, such repeal or modification.

ARTICLE X

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) directors, officers and agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which General Corporation Law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through Bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by Section  145 of the General Corporation Law.

Any amendment, repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this ARTICLE X shall not adversely affect any right or protection of any director, officer or other agent of the Corporation existing at the time of such amendment, repeal or modification or increase the liability of any director of the Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director, officer or agent occurring prior to, such amendment, repeal or modification.


ARTICLE XI

The Corporation renounces, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, any Excluded Opportunity. An “ Excluded Opportunity ” is any matter, transaction or interest that is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or which otherwise comes into the possession of (i) any director of the Corporation who is not an employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) any holder of Preferred Stock or any partner, member, director, stockholder, employee or agent of any such holder, other than someone who is an employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries (collectively, “ Covered Persons ”), unless such matter, transaction or interest is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or otherwise comes into the possession of, a Covered Person expressly and solely in such Covered Person’s capacity as a director of the Corporation while such Covered Person is performing services in such capacity. Any repeal or modification of this Article XI will only be prospective and will not affect the rights under this Article XI in effect at the time of the occurrence of any actions or omissions to act giving rise to liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained elsewhere in this Restated Certificate, the affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders will be required to amend or repeal, or to adopt any provisions inconsistent with this Article XI .

ARTICLE XII

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for any stockholder (including a beneficial owner) to bring (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation, its directors, officers or employees arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law or the Corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws or (iv) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation, its directors, officers or employees governed by the internal affairs doctrine, except for, as to each of (i) through (iv) above, any claim as to which the Court of Chancery determines that there is an indispensable party not subject to the jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery (and the indispensable party does not consent to the personal jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery within ten days following such determination), which is vested in the exclusive jurisdiction of a court or forum other than the Court of Chancery, or for which the Court of Chancery does not have subject matter jurisdiction. If any provision or provisions of this ARTICLE XII shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any person or entity or circumstance for any reason whatsoever, then, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this ARTICLE XII (including, without limitation, each portion of any sentence of this ARTICLE XII containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) and the application of such provision to other persons or entities and circumstances shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.


FOURTH: The foregoing amendment and restatement was approved by the holders of the requisite number of shares of said corporation in accordance with Section 228 of the General Corporation Law.

FIFTH: That this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which restates and integrates and further amends the provisions of this Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation, has been duly adopted in accordance with Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation has been executed by a duly authorized officer of this corporation on this 25th day of April, 2018.

 

By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Reza Zadno
  Chief Executive Officer


CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT

OF

NINTH AMENDED AND RESTATED

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

AVEDRO, INC.

AVEDRO, INC. , a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “ General Corporation Law ”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

FIRST: That the name of this corporation is Avedro, Inc. and that this corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the General Corporation Law on November 6, 2002 under the name ThermalVision, Inc.

SECOND: That this corporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware its original Certificate of Incorporation on November 6, 2002 (the “ Original Certificate ”). The Original Certificate was amended and restated by the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 21, 2003, the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on October 13, 2005, the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 17, 2008, the Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 29, 2009, the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on June 30, 2011, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February 6, 2012, the Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 1, 2013, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on September 11, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 5, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 5, 2015, the Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 13, 2015, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 20, 2017, the Eighth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 17, 2017, and the Ninth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 25, 2018 (the “ Ninth Restated Certificate ”).


THIRD: That the Board of Directors duly adopted resolutions proposing to amend the Ninth Restated Certificate, declaring said amendment to be advisable and in the best interests of this corporation and its stockholders, and authorizing the appropriate officers of this corporation to solicit the consent of the stockholders therefor, which resolution setting forth the proposed amendment is as follows:

 

  1.

To amend and restate the first paragraph of Article IV, Part B to read in its entirety:

“The Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock to be designated, respectively, “Common Stock” and “Preferred Stock. The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue is 115,034,571 shares, of which (i)  66,905,000 shares are Common Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share (“ Common Stock ”), and (ii) 48,129,571 shares shall be Preferred Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share, of which 32,650,000 shares are designated as “ Series AA Preferred Stock ”, 5,950,000 shares are designated as “ Series BB Preferred Stock ” and 9,529,571 shares are designated as “ Series CC Preferred Stock ”, and together with the Series AA Preferred Stock and the Series BB Preferred Stock, the “ Preferred Stock ”.”

FOURTH : The foregoing amendment was approved by the holders of the requisite number of shares of said corporation in accordance with Section 228 of the General Corporation Law.

FIFTH : That this Certificate of Amendment, which amends the provisions of the Ninth Restated Certificate, has been duly adopted in accordance with Section 242 of the General Corporation Law.

[This Space Intentionally Left Blank]


I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment of the Ninth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed by a duly authorized officer on this 18th day of July, 2018.

 

By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Reza Zadno
  Chief Executive Officer


CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT

OF

NINTH AMENDED AND RESTATED

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

AVEDRO, INC.

AVEDRO, INC. , a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “ General Corporation Law ”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

FIRST: That the name of this corporation is Avedro, Inc. and that this corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the General Corporation Law on November 6, 2002 under the name ThermalVision, Inc.

SECOND: That this corporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware its original Certificate of Incorporation on November 6, 2002 (the “ Original Certificate ”). The Original Certificate was amended and restated by the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 21, 2003, the Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on October 13, 2005, the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on January 17, 2008, the Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 29, 2009, the Fifth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on June 30, 2011, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February 6, 2012, the Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 1, 2013, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on September 11, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 5, 2014, as further amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 5, 2015, the Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 13, 2015, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 20, 2017, the Eighth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 17, 2017, and the Ninth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 25, 2018, as amended by a Certificate of Amendment filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on July 18, 2018 (the “ Ninth Restated Certificate ”).

THIRD: That the Board of Directors duly adopted resolutions proposing to amend the Ninth Restated Certificate, declaring said amendment to be advisable and in the best interests of this corporation and its stockholders, and authorizing the appropriate officers of this corporation to solicit the consent of the stockholders therefor, which resolution setting forth the proposed amendment is as follows:


  1.

To amend and restate the first paragraph of Article IV, Part B to read in its entirety:

“The Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock to be designated, respectively, “Common Stock” and “Preferred Stock. The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue is 117,879,071 shares, of which (i)  69,749,500 shares are Common Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share (“ Common Stock ”), and (ii) 48,129,571 shares shall be Preferred Stock, having a par value of $0.00001 per share, of which 32,650,000 shares are designated as “ Series AA Preferred Stock ”, 5,950,000 shares are designated as “ Series BB Preferred Stock ” and 9,529,571 shares are designated as “ Series CC Preferred Stock ”, and together with the Series AA Preferred Stock and the Series BB Preferred Stock, the “ Preferred Stock ”.”

FOURTH : The foregoing amendment was approved by the holders of the requisite number of shares of said corporation in accordance with Section 228 of the General Corporation Law.

FIFTH : That this Certificate of Amendment, which amends the provisions of the Ninth Restated Certificate, has been duly adopted in accordance with Section 242 of the General Corporation Law.

[This Space Intentionally Left Blank]


I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment of the Ninth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed by a duly authorized officer on this 9 th day of January, 2019.

 

By:   /s/ Reza Zadno
 

Reza Zadno

Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 3.3

AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS OF

AVEDRO, INC.

(A DELAWARE CORPORATION)


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

         Page  

ARTICLE I

 

OFFICES

     1  

1.1

 

Registered Office

     1  

1.2

 

Offices

     1  

ARTICLE II

 

MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

     1  

2.1

 

Location

     1  

2.2

 

Timing

     1  

2.3

 

Notice of Meeting

     1  

2.4

 

Stockholders Records

     1  

2.5

 

Special Meetings

     2  

2.6

 

Notice of Meeting

     2  

2.7

 

Business Transacted at Special Meeting

     2  

2.8

 

Quorum; Meeting Adjournment; Presence by Remote Means

     2  

2.9

 

Voting Thresholds

     3  

2.10

 

Number of Votes Per Share

     3  

2.11

 

Action by Written Consent of Stockholders; Electronic Consent; Notice of Action

     3  

ARTICLE III

 

DIRECTORS

     4  

3.1

 

Authorized Directors

     4  

3.2

 

Vacancies

     4  

3.3

 

Board Authority

     5  

3.4

 

Location of Meetings

     5  

3.5

 

First Meeting

     5  

3.6

 

Regular Meetings

     5  

3.7

 

Special Meetings

     5  

3.8

 

Quorum

     6  

3.9

 

Action Without a Meeting

     6  

3.10

 

Telephonic Meetings

     6  

3.11

 

Committees

     6  

3.12

 

Minutes of Meetings

     6  

3.13

 

Compensation of Directors

     7  

3.14

 

Removal of Directors

     7  

 

i


ARTICLE IV

 

NOTICES

     7  

4.1

 

Notice

     7  

4.2

 

Waiver of Notice

     7  

4.3

 

Electronic Notice

     8  

ARTICLE V

 

OFFICERS

     8  

5.1

 

Required and Permitted Officers

     8  

5.2

 

Appointment of Required Officers

     8  

5.3

 

Appointment of Permitted Officers

     9  

5.4

 

Officer Compensation

     9  

5.5

 

Term of Office; Vacancies

     9  

5.6

 

Chairman Presides

     9  

5.7

 

Absence of Chairman

     9  

5.8

 

Powers of President

     9  

5.9

 

President’s Signature Authority

     9  

5.10

 

Absence of President

     9  

5.11

 

Duties of Secretary

     10  

5.12

 

Duties of Assistant Secretary

     10  

5.13

 

Duties of Treasurer

     10  

5.14

 

Disbursements and Financial Reports

     10  

5.15

 

Treasurer’s Bond

     10  

5.16

 

Duties of Assistant Treasurer

     10  

ARTICLE VI

 

CERTIFICATE OF STOCK

     11  

6.1

 

Stock Certificates

     11  

6.2

 

Facsimile Signatures

     11  

6.3

 

Lost Certificates

     11  

6.4

 

Transfer of Stock

     12  

6.5

 

Fixing a Record Date

     12  

6.6

 

Registered Stockholders

     12  

ARTICLE VII

 

GENERAL PROVISIONS

     12  

7.1

 

Dividends

     12  

7.2

 

Reserve for Dividends

     12  

7.3

 

Checks

     12  

 

ii


7.4

 

Fiscal Year

     13  

7.5

 

Corporate Seal

     13  

7.6

 

Indemnification

     13  

7.7

 

Conflicts with Certificate of Incorporation

     14  

ARTICLE VIII

 

AMENDMENTS

     14  

ARTICLE IX

 

LOANS TO OFFICERS

     14  

 

iii


AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS

OF

AVEDRO, INC.

ARTICLE I

OFFICES

1.1     Registered Office . The registered office shall be in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, State of Delaware.

1.2     Offices . The corporation may also have offices at such other places both within and without the State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the corporation may require.

ARTICLE II

MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

2.1     Location . All meetings of the stockholders for the election of directors shall be held in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, State of Delaware, at such place as may be fixed from time to time by the Board of Directors, or at such other place either within or without the State of Delaware as shall be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, determine that the meeting shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as authorized by Section 211 of the Delaware General Corporations Law (“DGCL”). Meetings of stockholders for any other purpose may be held at such time and place, if any, within or without the State of Delaware, as shall be stated in the notice of the meeting or in a duly executed waiver of notice thereof, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice.

2.2     Timing . Annual meetings of stockholders, commencing with the year 2003, shall be held at such date and time as shall be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of the meeting, at which they shall elect by a plurality vote a Board of Directors, and transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting.

2.3     Notice of Meeting . Written notice of any stockholder meeting stating the place, if any, date and hour of the meeting, the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, shall be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting not fewer than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting.

2.4     Stockholders Records . The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the corporation shall prepare and make, at least ten (10) days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address (but not the electronic address or other electronic contact information) of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each

 

1


stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least 10 days prior to the meeting: (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours, at the principal place of business of the corporation. In the event that the corporation determines to make the list available on an electronic network, the corporation may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then the list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting.

2.5     Special Meetings . Special meetings of the stockholders, for any purpose or purposes, unless otherwise prescribed by statute or by the certificate of incorporation, may be called by the president and shall be called by the president or secretary at the request in writing of a majority of the Board of Directors, or at the request in writing of stockholders owning at least ten percent (10%) in amount of the entire capital stock of the corporation issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the proposed meeting.

2.6     Notice of Meeting . Written notice of a special meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called, shall be given not fewer than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting, to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting. The means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting shall also be provided in the notice.

2.7     Business Transacted at Special Meeting . Business transacted at any special meeting of stockholders shall be limited to the purposes stated in the notice.

2.8     Quorum; Meeting Adjournment; Presence by Remote Means .

(a)     Quorum; Meeting Adjournment . The holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum at all meetings of the stockholders for the transaction of business except as otherwise provided by statute or by the certificate of incorporation. If, however, such quorum shall not be present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, the stockholders entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present or represented, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified. If the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting.

 

2


(b)     Presence by Remote Means . If authorized by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion, and subject to such guidelines and procedures as the Board of Directors may adopt, stockholders and proxyholders not physically present at a meeting of stockholders may, by means of remote communication:

(1)    participate in a meeting of stockholders; and

(2)    be deemed present in person and vote at a meeting of stockholders whether such meeting is to be held at a designated place or solely by means of remote communication, provided that (i) the corporation shall implement reasonable measures to verify that each person deemed present and permitted to vote at the meeting by means of remote communication is a stockholder or proxyholder, (ii) the corporation shall implement reasonable measures to provide such stockholders and proxyholders a reasonable opportunity to participate in the meeting and to vote on matters submitted to the stockholders, including an opportunity to read or hear the proceedings of the meeting substantially concurrently with such proceedings, and (iii) if any stockholder or proxyholder votes or takes other action at the meeting by means of remote communication, a record of such vote or other action shall be maintained by the corporation.

2.9     Voting Thresholds . When a quorum is present at any meeting, the vote of the holders of a majority of the stock having voting power present in person or represented by proxy shall decide any question brought before such meeting, unless the question is one upon which by express provision of the statutes or of the certificate of incorporation, a different vote is required, in which case such express provision shall govern and control the decision of such question.

2.10     Number of Votes Per Share . Unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation, each stockholder shall at every meeting of the stockholders be entitled to one vote by such stockholder or by proxy for each share of the capital stock having voting power held by such stockholder, but no proxy shall be voted on after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period.

2.11     Action by Written Consent of Stockholders; Electronic Consent; Notice of Action .

(a)     Action by Written Consent of Stockholders . Unless otherwise provided by the certificate of incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken at any annual or special meeting of the stockholders may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent in writing setting forth the action so taken, is signed in a manner permitted by law by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. Written stockholder consents shall bear the date of signature of each stockholder who signs the consent in the manner permitted by law and shall be delivered to the corporation as provided in subsection (b) below. No written consent shall be effective to take the action set forth therein unless, within sixty (60) days of the earliest dated consent delivered to the corporation in the manner provided above, written consents signed by a sufficient number of stockholders to take the action set forth therein are delivered to the corporation in the manner provided above.

 

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(b)     Electronic consent . A telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission consenting to an action to be taken and transmitted by a stockholder or proxyholder, or a person or persons authorized to act for a stockholder or proxyholder, shall be deemed to be written, signed and dated for the purposes of this section, provided that any such telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission sets forth or is delivered with information from which the corporation can determine (1) that the telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission was transmitted by the stockholder or proxyholder or by a person or persons authorized to act for the stockholder or proxyholder and (2) the date on which such stockholder or proxyholder or authorized person or persons transmitted such telegram, cablegram or electronic transmission. The date on which such telegram, cablegram or electronic transmission is transmitted shall be deemed to be the date on which such consent was signed. No consent given by telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission shall be deemed to have been delivered until such consent is reproduced in paper form and until such paper form is delivered to the corporation by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business or an officer or agent of the corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. Delivery made to a corporation’s registered office shall be made by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. Notwithstanding the foregoing limitations on delivery, consents given by telegram, cablegram or other electronic transmission may be otherwise delivered to the principal place of business of the corporation or to an officer or agent of the corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded if, to the extent and in the manner provided by resolution of the Board of Directors of the corporation.

(c)     Notice of Action . Prompt notice of any action taken pursuant to this Section 2.11 shall be provided to the stockholders in accordance with Section 228(e) of the DGCL.

ARTICLE III

DIRECTORS

3.1     Authorized Directors . The number of directors that shall constitute the whole Board of Directors shall be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors or by the stockholders at the annual meeting of the stockholders, except as provided in Section 3.2 of this Article, and each director elected shall hold office until his successor is elected and qualified. Directors need not be stockholders.

3.2     Vacancies . Unless otherwise provided in the corporation’s certificate of incorporation, as it may be amended, vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by a majority of the directors then in office, though less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director, and the directors so chosen shall hold office until the next annual election and until their successors are duly elected and shall qualify, unless sooner displaced. If there are no directors in office, then an election of directors may be held in the manner provided by statute. If, at the time of filling any vacancy or any newly created directorship, the directors then in office shall constitute less than a majority of

 

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the whole Board of Directors (as constituted immediately prior to any such increase), the Court of Chancery may, upon application of any stockholder or stockholders holding at least ten percent (10%) of the total number of the shares at the time outstanding having the right to vote for such directors, summarily order an election to be held to fill any such vacancies or newly created directorships, or to replace the directors chosen by the directors then in office.

3.3     Board Authority . The business of the corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of its Board of Directors, which may exercise all such powers of the corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by statute or by the certificate of incorporation or by these bylaws directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders.

3.4     Location of Meetings . The Board of Directors of the corporation may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or without the State of Delaware.

3.5     First Meeting . The first meeting of each newly elected Board of Directors shall be held at such time and place as shall be fixed by the vote of the stockholders at the annual meeting and no notice of such meeting shall be necessary to the newly elected directors in order to legally constitute the meeting, provided a quorum shall be present. In the event of the failure of the stockholders to fix the time or place of such first meeting of the newly elected Board of Directors, or in the event such meeting is not held at the time and place so fixed by the stockholders, the meeting may be held at such time and place as shall be specified in a notice given as hereinafter provided for special meetings of the Board of Directors, or as shall be specified in a written waiver signed by all of the directors.

3.6     Regular Meetings . Regular meetings of the Board of Directors may be held without notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the Board of Directors.

3.7     Special Meetings . Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the president upon notice to each director; special meetings shall be called by the president or secretary in like manner and on like notice on the written request of two (2) directors unless the Board of Directors consists of only one director, in which case special meetings shall be called by the president or secretary in like manner and on like notice on the written request of the sole director. Notice of any special meeting shall be given to each director at his business or residence in writing, or by telegram, facsimile transmission, telephone communication or electronic transmission (provided, with respect to electronic transmission, that the director has consented to receive the form of transmission at the address to which it is directed). If mailed, such notice shall be deemed adequately delivered when deposited in the United States mails so addressed, with postage thereon prepaid, at least five (5) days before such meeting. If by telegram, such notice shall be deemed adequately delivered when the telegram is delivered to the telegraph company at least twenty-four (24) hours before such meeting. If by facsimile transmission or other electronic transmission, such notice shall be transmitted at least twenty-four (24) hours before such meeting. If by telephone, the notice shall be given at least twelve (12) hours prior to the time set for the meeting. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors need be specified in the notice of such meeting, except for amendments to these Bylaws as provided under Section 8.1 of

 

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Article VIII hereof. A meeting may be held at any time without notice if all the directors are present (except as otherwise provided by law) or if those not present waive notice of the meeting in writing, either before or after such meeting.

3.8     Quorum . At all meetings of the Board of Directors a majority of the directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business and any act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be an act of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute or by the certificate of incorporation. If a quorum is not present at any meeting of the Board of Directors, the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.

3.9     Action Without a Meeting . Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and the writing, writings, electronic transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board of Directors or committee.

3.10     Telephonic Meetings . Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, members of the Board of Directors or any committee designated by the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors or any committee, by means of conference telephone or other means of communication by which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

3.11     Committees . The Board of Directors may designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the corporation. The Board of Directors may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee.

In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he or she or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member.

Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the corporation, and may authorize the seal of the corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it, but no such committee shall have the power or authority in reference to the following matters: (i) approving or adopting, or recommending to the stockholders, any action or matter expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for approval or (ii) adopting, amending or repealing any provision of these bylaws.

3.12     Minutes of Meetings . Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the Board of Directors when required.

 

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3.13     Compensation of Directors . Unless otherwise restricted by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, the Board of Directors shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors. The directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors and may be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors or a stated salary as director. No such payment shall preclude any director from serving the corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of special or standing committees may be allowed like compensation for attending committee meetings.

3.14     Removal of Directors . Unless otherwise provided by the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws, any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of shares entitled to vote at an election of directors.

ARTICLE IV

NOTICES

4.1     Notice . Unless otherwise provided in these bylaws, whenever, under the provisions of the statutes or of the certificate of incorporation or of these bylaws, notice is required to be given to any director or stockholder, it shall not be construed to mean personal notice, but such notice may be given in writing, by mail, addressed to such director or stockholder, at his address as it appears on the records of the corporation, with postage thereon prepaid, and such notice shall be deemed to be given at the time when the same shall be deposited in the United States mail. Notice to directors may also be given by telegram.

4.2     Waiver of Notice . Whenever any notice is required to be given under the provisions of the statutes or of the certificate of incorporation or of these bylaws, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto.

 

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4.3     Electronic Notice .

(a)     Electronic Transmission . Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders and directors, any notice to stockholders or directors given by the corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws shall be effective if given by a form of electronic transmission consented to by the stockholder or director to whom the notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder or director by written notice to the corporation. Any such consent shall be deemed revoked if (1) the corporation is unable to deliver by electronic transmission two consecutive notices given by the corporation in accordance with such consent and (2) such inability becomes known to the secretary or an assistant secretary of the corporation or to the transfer agent, or other person responsible for the giving of notice; provided, however, the inadvertent failure to treat such inability as a revocation shall not invalidate any meeting or other action.

(b)     Effective Date of Notice . Notice given pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall be deemed given: (1) if by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the stockholder or director has consented to receive notice; (2) if by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the stockholder or director has consented to receive notice; (3) if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate notice to the stockholder or director of such specific posting, upon the later of (i) such posting and (ii) the giving of such separate notice; and (4) if by any other form of electronic transmission, when directed to the stockholder or director. An affidavit of the secretary or an assistant secretary or of the transfer agent or other agent of the corporation that the notice has been given by a form of electronic transmission shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

(c)     Form of Electronic Transmission . For purposes of these bylaws, “electronic transmission” means any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved, and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process.

ARTICLE V

OFFICERS

5.1     Required and Permitted Officers . The officers of the corporation shall be chosen by the Board of Directors and shall be a president, treasurer and a secretary. The Board of Directors may elect from among its members a Chairman of the Board and a Vice-Chairman of the Board. The Board of Directors may also choose one or more vice-presidents, assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers. Any number of offices may be held by the same person, unless the certificate of incorporation or these bylaws otherwise provide.

5.2     Appointment of Required Officers . The Board of Directors at its first meeting after each annual meeting of stockholders shall choose a president, a treasurer, and a secretary and may choose vice-presidents.

 

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5.3     Appointment of Permitted Officers . The Board of Directors may appoint such other officers and agents as it shall deem necessary who shall hold their offices for such terms and shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as shall be determined from time to time by the Board of Directors.

5.4     Officer Compensation . The salaries of all officers and agents of the corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors.

5.5     Term of Office; Vacancies . The officers of the corporation shall hold office until their successors are chosen and qualify. Any officer elected or appointed by the Board of Directors may be removed at any time by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board of Directors. Any vacancy occurring in any office of the corporation shall be filled by the Board of Directors.

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

5.6     Chairman Presides . The Chairman of the Board, if any, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the stockholders at which he or she shall be present. He or she shall have and may exercise such powers as are, from time to time, assigned to him by the Board of Directors and as may be provided by law.

5.7     Absence of Chairman . In the absence of the Chairman of the Board, the Vice-Chairman of the Board, if any, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the stockholders at which he or she shall be present. He or she shall have and may exercise such powers as are, from time to time, assigned to him by the Board of Directors and as may be provided by law.

THE PRESIDENT AND VICE-PRESIDENTS

5.8     Powers of President . The president shall be the chief executive officer of the corporation; in the absence of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board he or she shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and the Board of Directors; he or she shall have general and active management of the business of the corporation and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors are carried into effect.

5.9     President s Signature Authority . The president shall execute bonds, mortgages and other contracts requiring a seal, under the seal of the corporation, except where required or permitted by law to be otherwise signed and executed and except where the signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors to some other officer or agent of the corporation.

5.10     Absence of President . In the absence of the president or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, the vice-president, if any, (or in the event there be more than one vice-president, the vice-presidents in the order designated by the directors, or in the absence of any designation, then in the order of their election) shall perform the duties of the president, and when so acting, shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the president. The vice-presidents shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

 

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THE SECRETARY AND ASSISTANT SECRETARY

5.11     Duties of Secretary . The secretary shall attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and all meetings of the stockholders and record all the proceedings of the meetings of the corporation and of the Board of Directors in a book to be kept for that purpose and shall perform like duties for the standing committees when required. he or she shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the stockholders and special meetings of the Board of Directors, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors or president, under whose supervision he or she shall be. he or she shall have custody of the corporate seal of the corporation and he or she, or an assistant secretary, shall have authority to affix the same to any instrument requiring it and when so affixed, it may be attested by his signature or by the signature of such assistant secretary. The Board of Directors may give general authority to any other officer to affix the seal of the corporation and to attest the affixing by his signature.

5.12     Duties of Assistant Secretary . The assistant secretary, or if there be more than one, the assistant secretaries in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the secretary or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the secretary and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

THE TREASURER AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS

5.13     Duties of Treasurer . The treasurer shall have the custody of the corporate funds and securities and shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the corporation and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors.

5.14     Disbursements and Financial Reports . He or she shall disburse the funds of the corporation as may be ordered by the Board of Directors, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the president and the Board of Directors, at its regular meetings or when the Board of Directors so requires, an account of all his or her transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the corporation.

5.15     Treasurer s Bond . If required by the Board of Directors, the treasurer shall give the corporation a bond (which shall be renewed every six years) in such sum and with such surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to the Board of Directors for the faithful performance of the duties of his office and for the restoration to the corporation, in case of his death, resignation, retirement or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in his possession or under his control belonging to the corporation.

5.16     Duties of Assistant Treasurer . The assistant treasurer, or if there shall be more than one, the assistant treasurers in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the

 

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treasurer or in the event of the treasurer’s inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the treasurer and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.

ARTICLE VI

CERTIFICATE OF STOCK

6.1     Stock Certificates . Every holder of stock in the corporation shall be entitled to have a certificate, signed by or in the name of the corporation by, the Chairman or Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors, or the president or a vice-president and the treasurer or an assistant treasurer, or the secretary or an assistant secretary of the corporation, certifying the number of shares owned by him in the corporation.

Certificates may be issued for partly paid shares and in such case upon the face or back of the certificates issued to represent any such partly paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor, and the amount paid thereon shall be specified.

If the corporation shall be authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, the powers, designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualification, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate which the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, provided that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the DGCL, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate which the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, a statement that the corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests 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.

6.2     Facsimile Signatures . Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be facsimile. In the event that any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, the certificate may be issued by the corporation with the same effect as if such officer, transfer agent or registrar were still acting as such at the date of issue.

6.3     Lost Certificates . The Board of Directors may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the corporation alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming the certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed. When authorizing such issuance of a new certificate or certificates, the Board of Directors may, in its discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed certificate or certificates, or his legal representative, to advertise the same in such manner as it shall require and/or to give the corporation a bond in such sum as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the corporation with respect to the certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.

 

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6.4     Transfer of Stock . Upon surrender to the corporation or the transfer agent of the corporation of a certificate for shares duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation or authority to transfer, it shall be the duty of the corporation to issue a new certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and record the transaction upon its books.

6.5     Fixing a Record Date . In order that the corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, or to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix a record date which shall not be more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty (60) days prior to any other action. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.

6.6     Registered Stockholders . The corporation shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends, to vote as such owner, to hold liable for calls and assessments a person registered on its books as the owner of shares and shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware.

ARTICLE VII

GENERAL PROVISIONS

7.1     Dividends . Dividends upon the capital stock of the corporation, if any, subject to the provisions of the certificate of incorporation, may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting, pursuant to law. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property or in shares of the capital stock, subject to the provisions of the certificate of incorporation.

7.2     Reserve for Dividends . Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds of the corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the directors from time to time, in their sole discretion, think proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the corporation, or for such other purposes as the directors think conducive to the interests of the corporation, and the directors may modify or abolish any such reserve in the manner in which it was created.

7.3     Checks . All checks or demands for money and notes of the corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers or such other person or persons as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.

 

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7.4     Fiscal Year . The fiscal year of the corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors.

7.5     Corporate Seal . The Board of Directors may adopt a corporate seal having inscribed thereon the name of the corporation, the year of its organization and the words “Corporate Seal, Delaware.” The seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or otherwise reproduced.

7.6     Indemnification . The corporation shall, to the fullest extent authorized under the laws of the State of Delaware, as those laws may be amended and supplemented from time to time, indemnify any director made, or threatened to be made, a party to an action or proceeding, whether criminal, civil, administrative or investigative, by reason of being a director of the corporation or a predecessor corporation or, at the corporation’s request, a director or officer of another corporation; provided, however, that the corporation shall indemnify any such agent in connection with a proceeding initiated by such agent only if such proceeding was authorized by the Board of Directors of the corporation. The indemnification provided for in this Section 7.6 shall: (i) not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled under these bylaws, agreement or vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in their official capacities and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, (ii) continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, and (iii) inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of a person who has ceased to be a director. The corporation’s obligation to provide indemnification under this Section 7.6 shall be offset to the extent of any other source of indemnification or any otherwise applicable insurance coverage under a policy maintained by the corporation or any other person.

Expenses incurred by a director of the corporation in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director of the corporation (or was serving at the corporation’s request as a director or officer of another corporation) shall be paid by the corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such director to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that he or she is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation as authorized by relevant sections of the DGCL. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the corporation shall not be required to advance such expenses to an agent who is a party to an action, suit or proceeding brought by the corporation and approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of the corporation that alleges willful misappropriation of corporate assets by such agent, disclosure of confidential information in violation of such agent’s fiduciary or contractual obligations to the corporation or any other willful and deliberate breach in bad faith of such agent’s duty to the corporation or its stockholders.

The foregoing provisions of this Section 7.6 shall be deemed to be a contract between the corporation and each director who serves in such capacity at any time while this bylaw is in effect, and any repeal or modification thereof shall not affect any rights or obligations then existing with respect to any state of facts then or theretofore existing or any action, suit or proceeding theretofore or thereafter brought based in whole or in part upon any such state of facts.

 

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The Board of Directors in its sole discretion shall have power on behalf of the corporation to indemnify any person, other than a director, made a party to any action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she, his testator or intestate, is or was an officer or employee of the corporation.

To assure indemnification under this Section 7.6 of all directors, officers and employees who are determined by the corporation or otherwise to be or to have been “fiduciaries” of any employee benefit plan of the corporation that may exist from time to time, Section 145 of the DGCL shall, for the purposes of this Section 7.6, be interpreted as follows: an “other enterprise” shall be deemed to include such an employee benefit plan, including without limitation, any plan of the corporation that is governed by the Act of Congress entitled “Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974,” as amended from time to time; the corporation shall be deemed to have requested a person to serve the corporation for purposes of Section 145 of the DGCL, as administrator of an employee benefit plan where the performance by such person of his duties to the corporation also imposes duties on, or otherwise involves services by, such person to the plan or participants or beneficiaries of the plan; excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan pursuant to such Act of Congress shall be deemed “fines.”

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION GOVERNS

7.7     Conflicts with Certificate of Incorporation . In the event of any conflict between the provisions of the corporation’s certificate of incorporation and these bylaws, the provisions of the certificate of incorporation shall govern.

ARTICLE VIII

AMENDMENTS

VIII.1    These bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed, or new bylaws may be adopted by the stockholders or by the Board of Directors, when such power is conferred upon the Board of Directors by the certificate of incorporation at any regular meeting of the stockholders or of the Board of Directors or at any special meeting of the stockholders or of the Board of Directors if notice of such alteration, amendment, repeal or adoption of new bylaws be contained in the notice of such special meeting. If the power to adopt, amend or repeal bylaws is conferred upon the Board of Directors by the certificate of incorporation, it shall not divest or limit the power of the stockholders to adopt, amend or repeal bylaws.

ARTICLE IX

LOANS TO OFFICERS

IX.1    The corporation may lend money to, or guarantee any obligation of or otherwise assist any officer or other employee of the corporation or of its subsidiaries, including any officer or employee who is a director of the corporation or its subsidiaries, whenever, in the judgment of the Board of Directors, such loan, guarantee or assistance may reasonably be expected to benefit the corporation. The loan, guarantee or other assistance may be with or without interest and may be unsecured or secured in such manner as the Board of Directors shall approve, including, without limitation, a pledge of shares of stock of the corporation. Nothing in these bylaws shall be deemed to deny, limit or restrict the powers of guaranty or warranty of the corporation at common law or under any statute.

 

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Exhibit 4.1

AVEDRO, INC.

SEVENTH AMENDED AND RESTATED INVESTORS’ RIGHTS AGREEMENT

THIS SEVENTH AMENDED AND RESTATED INVESTORS’ RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), is made as of the 26th day of April, 2018, by and among Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”) and each holder of the Company’s Series AA Preferred Stock, $0.00001 par value per share (the “ Series AA Preferred Stock ”) and Series BB Preferred Stock, $0.00001 par value per share (the “ Series BB Preferred Stock ”) and Series CC Preferred Stock, $0.00001 par value per share (the “ Series CC Preferred Stock ” and together with the Series AA Preferred Stock and Series BB Preferred Stock, the “ Preferred Stock ”) listed on Schedule A hereto, each of which is referred to in this Agreement as an “ Investor ”, and any additional party that becomes a party to this Agreement in accordance with Section  6.9 hereof.

RECITALS

WHEREAS , certain of the Investors are purchasing shares of Series CC Preferred Stock, pursuant to, and subject to the terms of, that certain Series CC Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “ Purchase Agreement ”) of even date herewith (the “ Financing ”);

WHEREAS , certain of the Investors (the “ Existing Investors ”) hold shares of the Company’s Series AA Preferred Stock, Series BB Preferred Stock and/or shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion thereof and possess registration rights, information rights, rights of first offer, and other rights pursuant to that certain Sixth Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement dated as of April 17, 2017 by and among the Company, such Investors and the other parties thereto (the “ Prior Agreement ”); and

WHEREAS , the Existing Investors are holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the Registrable Securities of the Company (as defined in the Prior Agreement), and desire to amend and restate the Prior Agreement in its entirety and to accept the rights created pursuant to this Agreement in lieu of the rights granted to them under the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE , the Existing Investors and the Company hereby agree that the Prior Agreement shall be amended and restated in its entirety by this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement further agree as follows:

 

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Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

1.1    “ Affiliate ” means, with respect to any specified Person, any other Person who, directly or indirectly, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with such Person, including without limitation any general or limited partner, managing member, officer or director of such Person or any venture capital fund now or hereafter existing that is controlled by one or more general partners (or member thereof) or managing members (or member thereof) of, or shares the same management company (or member thereof) with, such Person or any general or limited partner, managing member, officer or director of any such fund.


1.2    “ Common Stock ” means shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.00001 per share.

1.3    “ Competitor ” means, as of any date, a Person engaged, directly or indirectly (including through any partnership, limited liability company, corporation, joint venture or similar arrangement (whether now existing or formed hereafter)), in the business conducted or proposed to be conducted by the Company on such date, but shall not include any financial investment firm or collective investment vehicle that, together with its Affiliates, holds less than twenty percent (20)% of the outstanding equity of any Competitor and does not, nor do any of its Affiliates, have a right to designate any members of the Board of any Competitor.

1.4    “ Damages ” means any loss, damage, claim or liability (joint or several) to which a party hereto may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, or other federal or state law, insofar as such loss, damage, claim or liability (or any action in respect thereof) arises out of or is based upon: (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any registration statement of the Company, including any preliminary prospectus or final prospectus contained therein or any amendments or supplements thereto; (ii) an omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein, or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; or (iii) any violation or alleged violation by the indemnifying party (or any of its agents or Affiliates) of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, any state securities law, or any rule or regulation promulgated under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, or any state securities law.

1.5    “ Derivative Securities ” means any securities or rights convertible into, or exercisable or exchangeable for (in each case, directly or indirectly), Common Stock, including options and warrants.

1.6    “ Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

1.7    “ Excluded Registration ” means (i) a registration relating to the sale of securities to employees of the Company or a subsidiary pursuant to a stock option, stock purchase, or similar plan; (ii) a registration relating to an SEC Rule 145 transaction; (iii) a registration on any form that does not include substantially the same information as would be required to be included in a registration statement covering the sale of the Registrable Securities; or (iv) a registration in which the only Common Stock being registered is Common Stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered.

1.8    “ FOIA Party ” means a Person that, in the determination of the Board of Directors, may be subject to, and thereby required to disclose non-public information furnished by or relating to the Company under, the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552 (“ FOIA ”), any state public records access law, any state or other jurisdiction’s laws similar in intent or effect to FOIA, or any other similar statutory or regulatory requirement.

1.9    “ Form S-1 ” means such form under the Securities Act as in effect on the date hereof or any successor registration form under the Securities Act subsequently adopted by the SEC.

 

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1.10    “ Form S-3 ” means such form under the Securities Act as in effect on the date hereof or any registration form under the Securities Act subsequently adopted by the SEC that permits incorporation of substantial information by reference to other documents filed by the Company with the SEC.

1.11    “ GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.

1.12    “ Holder ” means any holder of Registrable Securities who is a party to this Agreement.

1.13    “ Immediate Family Member ” means a child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, including, adoptive relationships, of a natural person referred to herein.

1.14    “ Initiating Holders ” means, collectively, Holders who properly initiate a registration request under this Agreement.

1.15    “ IPO ” means the Company’s first underwritten public offering of its Common Stock under the Securities Act.

1.16    “ Key Employee ” means any executive-level employee (including, division director and vice president-level positions) as well as any employee who, either alone or in concert with others, develops, invents, programs, or designs any Company Intellectual Property (as defined in the Purchase Agreement).

1.17    “ Major Investor ” means any Investor that, individually or together with such Investor’s Affiliates, holds at least 1,500,000 shares of Registrable Securities (as adjusted for any stock split, stock dividend, combination, or other recapitalization or reclassification effected after the date hereof).

1.18    “ New Securities ” means, collectively, equity securities of the Company, whether or not currently authorized, as well as rights, options, or warrants to purchase such equity securities, or securities of any type whatsoever that are, or may become, convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for such equity securities.

1.19    “ Person ” means any individual, corporation, partnership, trust, limited liability company, association or other entity.

1.20    “ Preferred Directors ” means the Series AA Directors, Series BB Directors and Series CC Directors, collectively.

1.21    “ Registrable Securities ” means (i) the Common Stock issuable or issued upon conversion of the Preferred Stock; (ii) any Common Stock, or any Common Stock issued or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise of any other securities of the Company, acquired by the Investors after the date hereof; (iii) solely for purposes of Section 2 , any Common Stock, or any Common Stock issued or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon

 

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conversion and/or exercise of any other securities of the Company, held by the Investors as of the date hereof; and (iv) any Common Stock issued as (or issuable upon the conversion or exercise of any warrant, right, or other security that is issued as) a dividend or other distribution with respect to, or in exchange for or in replacement of, the shares referenced in clauses (i) (ii) and (iii) above; excluding in all cases, however, any Registrable Securities sold by a Person in a transaction in which the applicable rights under this Agreement are not assigned pursuant to Subsection 6.1 , and excluding for purposes of Section 2 any shares for which registration rights have terminated pursuant to Subsection 2.13 of this Agreement.

1.22    “ Registrable Securities then outstanding ” means the number of shares determined by adding the number of shares of outstanding Common Stock that are Registrable Securities and the number of shares of Common Stock issuable (directly or indirectly) pursuant to then exercisable and/or convertible securities that are Registrable Securities.

1.23    “ Restricted Securities ” means the securities of the Company required to be notated with the legend set forth in Subsection 2.12(b) hereof.

1.24    “ SEC ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

1.25    “ SEC Rule 144 ” means Rule 144 promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act.

1.26    “ SEC Rule 145 ” means Rule 145 promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act.

1.27    “ Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

1.28    “ Selling Expenses ” means all underwriting discounts, selling commissions, and stock transfer taxes applicable to the sale of Registrable Securities, and fees and disbursements of counsel for any Holder, except for the fees and disbursements of the Selling Holder Counsel borne and paid by the Company as provided in Subsection 2.6.

1.29    “ Series AA Director ” means any director of the Company that the holders of record of the Series AA Preferred Stock are entitled to elect pursuant to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation.

1.30    “ Series BB Director ” means any director of the Company that the holders of record of the Series BB Preferred Stock are entitled to elect pursuant to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation.

1.31    “ Series CC Director ” means any director of the Company that the holders of record of the Series CC Preferred Stock are entitled to elect pursuant to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation.

 

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  2.

Registration Rights . The Company covenants and agrees as follows:

2.1     Demand Registration .

(a)     Form S-1 Demand . If at any time after the earlier of (i) five (5) years after the date of this Agreement or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) days after the effective date of the registration statement for the IPO, the Company receives a request from Holders of at least forty percent (40%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding that the Company file a Form S-1 registration statement with respect to at least forty percent (40%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding (or a lesser percent if the anticipated aggregate offering price, net of Selling Expenses, would exceed $10 million), then the Company shall (x) within ten (10) days after the date such request is given, give notice thereof (the “ Demand Notice ”) to all Holders other than the Initiating Holders; and (y) as soon as practicable, and in any event within sixty (60) days after the date such request is given by the Initiating Holders, file a Form S-1 registration statement under the Securities Act covering all Registrable Securities that the Initiating Holders requested to be registered and any additional Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by any other Holders, as specified by notice given by each such Holder to the Company within twenty (20) days of the date the Demand Notice is given, and in each case, subject to the limitations of Subsections 2.1(c) and 2.3 .

(b)     Form S-3 Demand . If at any time when it is eligible to use a Form S-3 registration statement, the Company receives a request from Holders of at least twenty percent (20%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding that the Company file a Form S-3 registration statement with respect to outstanding Registrable Securities of such Holders having an anticipated aggregate offering price, net of Selling Expenses, of at least $5 million, then the Company shall (i) within ten (10) days after the date such request is given, give a Demand Notice to all Holders other than the Initiating Holders; and (ii) as soon as practicable, and in any event within forty-five (45) days after the date such request is given by the Initiating Holders, file a Form S-3 registration statement under the Securities Act covering all Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by any other Holders, as specified by notice given by each such Holder to the Company within twenty (20) days of the date the Demand Notice is given, and in each case, subject to the limitations of Subsections 2.1(c) and 2.3.

(c)    Notwithstanding the foregoing obligations, if the Company furnishes to Holders requesting a registration pursuant to this Subsection 2.1 a certificate signed by the Company’s chief executive officer stating that in the good faith judgment of the Company’s Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) it would be materially detrimental to the Company and its stockholders for such registration statement to either become effective or remain effective for as long as such registration statement otherwise would be required to remain effective, because such action would (i) materially interfere with a significant acquisition, corporate reorganization, or other similar transaction involving the Company; (ii) require premature disclosure of material information that the Company has a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential; or (iii) render the Company unable to comply with requirements under the Securities Act or Exchange Act, then the Company shall have the right to defer taking action with respect to such filing, and any time periods with respect to filing or effectiveness thereof shall be tolled correspondingly, for a period of not more than ninety (90) days after the request of the Initiating Holders is given; provided , however , that the Company may not invoke this right more than once in any twelve (12) month period; and provided further that the Company shall not register any securities for its own account or that of any other stockholder during such ninety (90) day period other than pursuant to a registration relating to the sale of securities to employees of the Company or a subsidiary pursuant to a stock option, stock

 

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purchase, or similar plan; a registration on any form that does not include substantially the same information as would be required to be included in a registration statement covering the sale of the Registrable Securities; or a registration in which the only Common Stock being registered is Common Stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered.

(d)    The Company shall not be obligated to effect, or to take any action to effect, any registration pursuant to Subsection 2.1(a)  (i) during the period that is sixty (60) days before the Company’s good faith estimate of the date of filing of, and ending on a date that is one hundred eighty (180) days after the effective date of, a Company-initiated registration, provided that the Company is actively employing in good faith commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective; (ii) after the Company has effected two registrations pursuant to Subsection 2.1(a) ; or (iii) if the Initiating Holders propose to dispose of shares of Registrable Securities that may be immediately registered on Form S-3 pursuant to a request made pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b) . The Company shall not be obligated to effect, or to take any action to effect, any registration pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b)  (i) during the period that is thirty (30) days before the Company’s good faith estimate of the date of filing of, and ending on a date that is ninety (90) days after the effective date of, a Company-initiated registration, provided that the Company is actively employing in good faith commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective; or (ii) if the Company has effected two registrations pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b) within the twelve (12) month period immediately preceding the date of such request. A registration shall not be counted as “effected” for purposes of this Subsection 2.1(d) until such time as the applicable registration statement has been declared effective by the SEC, unless the Initiating Holders withdraw their request for such registration, elect not to pay the registration expenses therefor, and forfeit their right to one demand registration statement pursuant to Subsection 2.6 , in which case such withdrawn registration statement shall be counted as “effected” for purposes of this Subsection 2.1(d).

2.2     Company Registration . If the Company proposes to register (including, for this purpose, a registration effected by the Company for stockholders other than the Holders) any of its Common Stock under the Securities Act in connection with the public offering of such securities solely for cash (other than in an Excluded Registration), the Company shall, at such time, promptly give each Holder notice of such registration. Upon the request of each Holder given within twenty (20) days after such notice is given by the Company, the Company shall, subject to the provisions of Subsection 2.3 , cause to be registered all of the Registrable Securities that each such Holder has requested to be included in such registration. The Company shall have the right to terminate or withdraw any registration initiated by it under this Subsection 2.2 before the effective date of such registration, whether or not any Holder has elected to include Registrable Securities in such registration. The expenses (other than Selling Expenses) of such withdrawn registration shall be borne by the Company in accordance with Subsection 2.6.

2.3     Underwriting Requirements .

(a)    If, pursuant to Subsection 2.1 , the Initiating Holders intend to distribute the Registrable Securities covered by their request by means of an underwriting, they shall so advise the Company as a part of their request made pursuant to Subsection 2.1 , and the Company shall include such information in the Demand Notice. The underwriter(s) will be selected by the Company and shall be reasonably acceptable to a majority in interest of the

 

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Initiating Holders. In such event, the right of any Holder to include such Holder’s Registrable Securities in such registration shall be conditioned upon such Holder’s participation in such underwriting and the inclusion of such Holder’s Registrable Securities in the underwriting to the extent provided herein. All Holders proposing to distribute their securities through such underwriting shall (together with the Company as provided in Subsection 2.4(e) ) enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such underwriting. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Subsection 2.3 , if the managing underwriter(s) advise(s) the Initiating Holders in writing that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares to be underwritten, then the Initiating Holders shall so advise all Holders of Registrable Securities that otherwise would be underwritten pursuant hereto, and the number of Registrable Securities that may be included in the underwriting shall be allocated among such Holders of Registrable Securities, including the Initiating Holders, in proportion (as nearly as practicable) to the number of Registrable Securities owned by each Holder or in such other proportion as shall mutually be agreed to by all such selling Holders; provided , however , that the number of Registrable Securities held by the Holders to be included in such underwriting shall not be reduced unless all other securities are first entirely excluded from the underwriting. To facilitate the allocation of shares in accordance with the above provisions, the Company or the underwriters may round the number of shares allocated to any Holder to the nearest one hundred (100) shares.

(b)    In connection with any offering involving an underwriting of shares of the Company’s capital stock pursuant to Subsection 2.2 , the Company shall not be required to include any of the Holders’ Registrable Securities in such underwriting unless the Holders accept the terms of the underwriting as agreed upon between the Company and its underwriters, and then only in such quantity as the underwriters in their sole discretion determine will not jeopardize the success of the offering by the Company. If the total number of securities, including Registrable Securities, requested by stockholders to be included in such offering exceeds the number of securities to be sold (other than by the Company) that the underwriters in their reasonable discretion determine is compatible with the success of the offering, then the Company shall be required to include in the offering only that number of such securities, including Registrable Securities, which the underwriters and the Company in their sole discretion determine will not jeopardize the success of the offering. If the underwriters determine that less than all of the Registrable Securities requested to be registered can be included in such offering, then the Registrable Securities that are included in such offering shall be allocated among the selling Holders in proportion (as nearly as practicable to) the number of Registrable Securities owned by each selling Holder or in such other proportions as shall mutually be agreed to by all such selling Holders. To facilitate the allocation of shares in accordance with the above provisions, the Company or the underwriters may round the number of shares allocated to any Holder to the nearest one hundred (100) shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall (i) the number of Registrable Securities included in the offering be reduced unless all other securities (other than securities to be sold by the Company) are first entirely excluded from the offering, or (ii) the number of Registrable Securities included in the offering be reduced below twenty-five percent (25%) of the total number of securities included in such offering, unless such offering is the IPO, in which case the selling Holders may be excluded further if the underwriters make the determination described above and no other stockholder’s securities are included in such offering. For purposes of the provision in this Subsection 2.3(b) concerning apportionment, for any selling Holder that is a partnership, limited liability company, or corporation, the

 

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partners, members, retired partners, retired members, stockholders, and Affiliates of such Holder, or the estates and Immediate Family Members of any such partners, retired partners, members, and retired members and any trusts for the benefit of any of the foregoing Persons, shall be deemed to be a single “selling Holder,” and any pro rata reduction with respect to such “selling Holder” shall be based upon the aggregate number of Registrable Securities owned by all Persons included in such “selling Holder,” as defined in this sentence.

(c)    For purposes of Subsection 2.1 , a registration shall not be counted as “effected” if, as a result of an exercise of the underwriter’s cutback provisions in Subsection 2.3(a) , fewer than twenty-five (25%) of the total number of Registrable Securities that Holders have requested to be included in such registration statement are actually included.

2.4     Obligations of the Company . Whenever required under this Section 2 to effect the registration of any Registrable Securities, the Company shall, as expeditiously as reasonably possible:

(a)    prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement with respect to such Registrable Securities and use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective and, upon the request of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities registered thereunder, keep such registration statement effective for a period of up to one hundred twenty (120) days or, if earlier, until the distribution contemplated in the registration statement has been completed; provided , however , that (i) such one hundred twenty (120) day period shall be extended for a period of time equal to the period the Holder refrains, at the request of an underwriter of Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company, from selling any securities included in such registration, and (ii) in the case of any registration of Registrable Securities on Form S-3 that are intended to be offered on a continuous or delayed basis, subject to compliance with applicable SEC rules, such one hundred twenty (120) day period shall be extended for up to sixty (60) days, if necessary, to keep the registration statement effective until all such Registrable Securities are sold;

(b)    prepare and file with the SEC such amendments and supplements to such registration statement, and the prospectus used in connection with such registration statement, as may be necessary to comply with the Securities Act in order to enable the disposition of all securities covered by such registration statement;

(c)    furnish to the selling Holders such numbers of copies of a prospectus, including a preliminary prospectus, as required by the Securities Act, and such other documents as the Holders may reasonably request in order to facilitate their disposition of their Registrable Securities;

(d)    use its commercially reasonable efforts to register and qualify the securities covered by such registration statement under such other securities or blue-sky laws of such jurisdictions as shall be reasonably requested by the selling Holders; provided that the Company shall not be required to qualify to do business or to file a general consent to service of process in any such states or jurisdictions, unless the Company is already subject to service in such jurisdiction and except as may be required by the Securities Act;

 

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(e)    in the event of any underwritten public offering, enter into and perform its obligations under an underwriting agreement, in usual and customary form, with the underwriter(s) of such offering;

(f)    use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause all such Registrable Securities covered by such registration statement to be listed on a national securities exchange or trading system and each securities exchange and trading system (if any) on which similar securities issued by the Company are then listed;

(g)    provide a transfer agent and registrar for all Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Agreement and provide a CUSIP number for all such Registrable Securities, in each case not later than the effective date of such registration;

(h)    promptly make available for inspection by the selling Holders, any managing underwriter(s) participating in any disposition pursuant to such registration statement, and any attorney or accountant or other agent retained by any such underwriter or selected by the selling Holders, all financial and other records, pertinent corporate documents, and properties of the Company, and cause the Company’s officers, directors, employees, and independent accountants to supply all information reasonably requested by any such seller, underwriter, attorney, accountant, or agent, in each case, as necessary or advisable to verify the accuracy of the information in such registration statement and to conduct appropriate due diligence in connection therewith;

(i)    notify each selling Holder, promptly after the Company receives notice thereof, of the time when such registration statement has been declared effective or a supplement to any prospectus forming a part of such registration statement has been filed; and

(j)    after such registration statement becomes effective, notify each selling Holder of any request by the SEC that the Company amend or supplement such registration statement or prospectus.

In addition, the Company shall ensure that, at all times after any registration statement covering a public offering of securities of the Company under the Securities Act shall have become effective, its insider trading policy shall provide that the Company’s directors may implement a trading program under Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act.

2.5     Furnish Information . It shall be a condition precedent to the obligations of the Company to take any action pursuant to this Section 2 with respect to the Registrable Securities of any selling Holder that such Holder shall furnish to the Company such information regarding itself, the Registrable Securities held by it, and the intended method of disposition of such securities as is reasonably required to effect the registration of such Holder’s Registrable Securities.

2.6     Expenses of Registration . All expenses (other than Selling Expenses) incurred in connection with registrations, filings, or qualifications pursuant to Section 2 , including all registration, filing, and qualification fees; printers’ and accounting fees; fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company; and the reasonable fees and disbursements of one counsel for the selling Holders selected by the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities

 

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to be registered (“ Selling Holder Counsel ”), shall be borne and paid by the Company; provided , however , that the Company shall not be required to pay for any expenses of any registration proceeding begun pursuant to Subsection 2.1 if the registration request is subsequently withdrawn at the request of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities to be registered (in which case all selling Holders shall bear such expenses pro rata based upon the number of Registrable Securities that were to be included in the withdrawn registration), unless the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities agree to forfeit their right to one registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1(a) or 2.1(b) , as the case may be; provided further that if, at the time of such withdrawal, the Holders shall have learned of a material adverse change in the condition, business, or prospects of the Company from that known to the Holders at the time of their request and have withdrawn the request with reasonable promptness after learning of such information then the Holders shall not be required to pay any of such expenses and shall not forfeit their right to one registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1(a) or 2.1(b) . All Selling Expenses relating to Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Section 2 shall be borne and paid by the Holders pro rata on the basis of the number of Registrable Securities registered on their behalf.

2.7     Delay of Registration . No Holder shall have any right to obtain or seek an injunction restraining or otherwise delaying any registration pursuant to this Agreement as the result of any controversy that might arise with respect to the interpretation or implementation of this Section 2.

2.8     Indemnification . If any Registrable Securities are included in a registration statement under this Section 2 :

(a)    To the extent permitted by law, the Company will indemnify and hold harmless each selling Holder, and the partners, members, officers, directors, and stockholders of each such Holder; legal counsel and accountants for each such Holder; any underwriter (as defined in the Securities Act) for each such Holder; and each Person, if any, who controls such Holder or underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, against any Damages, and the Company will pay to each such Holder, underwriter, controlling Person, or other aforementioned Person any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred thereby in connection with investigating or defending any claim or proceeding from which Damages may result, as such expenses are incurred; provided , however , that the indemnity agreement contained in this Subsection 2.8(a) shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any such claim or proceeding if such settlement is effected without the consent of the Company, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, nor shall the Company be liable for any Damages to the extent that they arise out of or are based upon actions or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by or on behalf of any such Holder, underwriter, controlling Person, or other aforementioned Person expressly for use in connection with such registration.

(b)    To the extent permitted by law, each selling Holder, severally and not jointly, will indemnify and hold harmless the Company, and each of its directors, each of its officers who has signed the registration statement, each Person (if any), who controls the Company within the meaning of the Securities Act, legal counsel and accountants for the Company, any underwriter (as defined in the Securities Act), any other Holder selling securities

 

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in such registration statement, and any controlling Person of any such underwriter or other Holder, against any Damages, in each case only to the extent that such Damages arise out of or are based upon actions or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by or on behalf of such selling Holder expressly for use in connection with such registration; and each such selling Holder will pay to the Company and each other aforementioned Person any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred thereby in connection with investigating or defending any claim or proceeding from which Damages may result, as such expenses are incurred; provided , however , that the indemnity agreement contained in this Subsection 2.8(b) shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any such claim or proceeding if such settlement is effected without the consent of the Holder, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; and provided further that in no event shall the aggregate amounts payable by any Holder by way of indemnity or contribution under Subsections 2.8(b) and 2.8(d) exceed the proceeds from the offering received by such Holder (net of any Selling Expenses paid by such Holder), except in the case of fraud or willful misconduct by such Holder.

(c)    Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Subsection 2.8 of notice of the commencement of any action (including any governmental action) for which a party may be entitled to indemnification hereunder, such indemnified party will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against any indemnifying party under this Subsection 2.8 , give the indemnifying party notice of the commencement thereof. The indemnifying party shall have the right to participate in such action and, to the extent the indemnifying party so desires, participate jointly with any other indemnifying party to which notice has been given, and to assume the defense thereof with counsel mutually satisfactory to the parties; provided , however , that an indemnified party (together with all other indemnified parties that may be represented without conflict by one counsel) shall have the right to retain one separate counsel, with the fees and expenses to be paid by the indemnifying party, if representation of such indemnified party by the counsel retained by the indemnifying party would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between such indemnified party and any other party represented by such counsel in such action. The failure to give notice to the indemnifying party within a reasonable time of the commencement of any such action shall relieve such indemnifying party of any liability to the indemnified party under this Subsection 2.8 , to the extent that such failure materially prejudices the indemnifying party’s ability to defend such action. The failure to give notice to the indemnifying party will not relieve it of any liability that it may have to any indemnified party otherwise than under this Subsection 2.8 .

(d)    To provide for just and equitable contribution to joint liability under the Securities Act in any case in which either: (i) any party otherwise entitled to indemnification hereunder makes a claim for indemnification pursuant to this Subsection 2.8 but it is judicially determined (by the entry of a final judgment or decree by a court of competent jurisdiction and the expiration of time to appeal or the denial of the last right of appeal) that such indemnification may not be enforced in such case, notwithstanding the fact that this Subsection 2.8 provides for indemnification in such case, or (ii) contribution under the Securities Act may be required on the part of any party hereto for which indemnification is provided under this Subsection 2.8 , then, and in each such case, such parties will contribute to the aggregate losses, claims, damages, liabilities, or expenses to which they may be subject (after contribution from others) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of each of the

 

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indemnifying party and the indemnified party in connection with the statements, omissions, or other actions that resulted in such loss, claim, damage, liability, or expense, as well as to reflect any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the indemnifying party and of the indemnified party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or allegedly untrue statement of a material fact, or the omission or alleged omission of a material fact, relates to information supplied by the indemnifying party or by the indemnified party and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information, and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission; provided , however , that, in any such case (x) no Holder will be required to contribute any amount in excess of the public offering price of all such Registrable Securities offered and sold by such Holder pursuant to such registration statement, and (y) no Person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) will be entitled to contribution from any Person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation; and provided further that in no event shall a Holder’s liability pursuant to this Subsection 2.8(d) , when combined with the amounts paid or payable by such Holder pursuant to Subsection 2.8(b) , exceed the proceeds from the offering received by such Holder (net of any Selling Expenses paid by such Holder), except in the case of willful misconduct or fraud by such Holder.

(e)    Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that the provisions on indemnification and contribution contained in the underwriting agreement entered into in connection with the underwritten public offering are in conflict with the foregoing provisions, the provisions in the underwriting agreement shall control.

(f)    Unless otherwise superseded by an underwriting agreement entered into in connection with the underwritten public offering, the obligations of the Company and Holders under this Subsection 2.8 shall survive the completion of any offering of Registrable Securities in a registration under this Section 2 , and otherwise shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

2.9     Reports Under Exchange Act . With a view to making available to the Holders the benefits of SEC Rule 144 and any other rule or regulation of the SEC that may at any time permit a Holder to sell securities of the Company to the public without registration or pursuant to a registration on Form S 3, the Company shall:

(a)    make and keep available adequate current public information, as those terms are understood and defined in SEC Rule 144, at all times after the effective date of the registration statement filed by the Company for the IPO;

(b)    use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the SEC in a timely manner all reports and other documents required of the Company under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act (at any time after the Company has become subject to such reporting requirements); and

(c)    furnish to any Holder, so long as the Holder owns any Registrable Securities, forthwith upon request (i) to the extent accurate, a written statement by the Company that it has complied with the reporting requirements of SEC Rule 144 (at any time after ninety (90) days after the effective date of the registration statement filed by the Company for the IPO),

 

12


the Securities Act, and the Exchange Act (at any time after the Company has become subject to such reporting requirements), or that it qualifies as a registrant whose securities may be resold pursuant to Form S 3 (at any time after the Company so qualifies); (ii) a copy of the most recent annual or quarterly report of the Company and such other reports and documents so filed by the Company; and (iii) such other information as may be reasonably requested in availing any Holder of any rule or regulation of the SEC that permits the selling of any such securities without registration (at any time after the Company has become subject to the reporting requirements under the Exchange Act) or pursuant to Form S 3 (at any time after the Company so qualifies to use such form).

2.10     Limitations on Subsequent Registration Rights . From and after the date of this Agreement, the Company shall not, without the prior written consent of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities then outstanding, enter into any agreement with any holder or prospective holder of any securities of the Company that would allow such holder or prospective holder (i) to include such securities in any registration unless, under the terms of such agreement, such holder or prospective holder may include such securities in any such registration only to the extent that the inclusion of such securities will not reduce the number of the Registrable Securities of the Holders that are included, or (ii) allow such holder or prospective holder to initiate a demand for registration of any securities held by such holder or prospective holder; provided that this limitation shall not apply to any additional Investor who becomes a party to this Agreement in accordance with Subsection 6.9 .

2.11     “Market Stand-off” Agreement . Each Holder hereby agrees that it will not, without the prior written consent of the managing underwriter, during the period commencing on the date of the final prospectus relating to the registration by the Company of shares of its Common Stock or any other equity securities under the Securities Act on a registration statement on Form S-1 or Form S-3, and ending on the date specified by the Company and the managing underwriter (such period not to exceed (x) one hundred eighty (180) days in the case of the IPO, or such other period as may be requested by the Company or an underwriter to accommodate regulatory restrictions on (1) the publication or other distribution of research reports, and (2) analyst recommendations and opinions, including, but not limited to, the restrictions contained in FINRA Rule 2711(f)(4) or NYSE Rule 472(f)(4), or any successor provisions or amendments thereto), or (y) ninety (90) days in the case of any registration other than the IPO, or such other period as may be requested by the Company or an underwriter to accommodate regulatory restrictions on (1) the publication or other distribution of research reports and (2) analyst recommendations and opinions, including, but not limited to, the restrictions contained in FINRA Rule 2711(f)(4) or NYSE Rule 472(f)(4), or any successor provisions or amendments thereto), (i) lend; offer; pledge; sell; contract to sell; sell any option or contract to purchase; purchase any option or contract to sell; grant any option, right, or warrant to purchase; or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable (directly or indirectly) for Common Stock held immediately before the effective date of the registration statement for such offering or (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of such securities, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of Common Stock or other securities, in cash, or otherwise. The foregoing provisions of this Subsection 2.11 shall not apply to the sale of any shares to an underwriter pursuant to an underwriting agreement, or the

 

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transfer of any shares to any trust for the direct or indirect benefit of the Holder or the immediate family of the Holder, provided that the trustee of the trust agrees to be bound in writing by the restrictions set forth herein, and provided further that any such transfer shall not involve a disposition for value, and shall be applicable to the Holders only if all officers and directors are subject to the same restrictions and the Company uses commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a similar agreement from all stockholders individually owning more than one percent (1%) of the Company’s outstanding Common Stock (after giving effect to conversion into Common Stock of all outstanding Preferred Stock). The underwriters in connection with such registration are intended third party beneficiaries of this Subsection 2.11 and shall have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions hereof as though they were a party hereto. Each Holder further agrees to execute such agreements as may be reasonably requested by the underwriters in connection with such registration that are consistent with this Subsection 2.11 or that are necessary to give further effect thereto. Any discretionary waiver or termination of the restrictions of any or all of such agreements by the Company or the underwriters shall apply pro rata to all Holders subject to such agreements, based on the number of shares subject to such agreements.

2.12     Restrictions on Transfer .

(a)    The Preferred Stock and the Registrable Securities shall not be sold, pledged, or otherwise transferred, and the Company shall not recognize and shall issue stop-transfer instructions to its transfer agent with respect to any such sale, pledge, or transfer, except upon the conditions specified in this Agreement, which conditions are intended to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act. A transferring Holder will cause any proposed purchaser, pledgee, or transferee of the Preferred Stock and the Registrable Securities held by such Holder to agree to take and hold such securities subject to the provisions and upon the conditions specified in this Agreement.

(b)    Each certificate, instrument, or book entry representing (i) the Preferred Stock, (ii) the Registrable Securities, and (iii) any other securities issued in respect of the securities referenced in clauses (i) and (ii), upon any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, or similar event, shall (unless otherwise permitted by the provisions of Subsection 2.12(c) ) be notated with a legend substantially in the following form:

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED FOR INVESTMENT AND HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED. SUCH SHARES MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, OR TRANSFERRED IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR A VALID EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION AND PROSPECTUS DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS OF SAID ACT.

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY MAY BE TRANSFERRED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE STOCKHOLDER, A COPY OF WHICH IS ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY.

 

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The Holders consent to the Company making a notation in its records and giving instructions to any transfer agent of the Restricted Securities in order to implement the restrictions on transfer set forth in this Subsection 2.12 .

(c)    The holder of such Restricted Securities, by acceptance of ownership thereof, agrees to comply in all respects with the provisions of this Section 2 . Before any proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of any Restricted Securities, unless there is in effect a registration statement under the Securities Act covering the proposed transaction, the Holder thereof shall give notice to the Company of such Holder’s intention to effect such sale, pledge, or transfer. Each such notice shall describe the manner and circumstances of the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer in sufficient detail and, if reasonably requested by the Company, shall be accompanied at such Holder’s expense by either (i) a written opinion of legal counsel who shall, and whose legal opinion shall, be reasonably satisfactory to the Company, addressed to the Company, to the effect that the proposed transaction may be effected without registration under the Securities Act; (ii) a “no action” letter from the SEC to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of such Restricted Securities without registration will not result in a recommendation by the staff of the SEC that action be taken with respect thereto; or (iii) any other evidence reasonably satisfactory to counsel to the Company to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of the Restricted Securities may be effected without registration under the Securities Act, whereupon the Holder of such Restricted Securities shall be entitled to sell, pledge, or transfer such Restricted Securities in accordance with the terms of the notice given by the Holder to the Company. The Company will not require such a legal opinion or “no action” letter (x) in any transaction in compliance with SEC Rule 144; or (y) in any transaction in which such Holder distributes Restricted Securities to an Affiliate of such Holder for no consideration; provided that each transferee agrees in writing to be subject to the terms of this Subsection 2.12 . Each certificate, instrument, or book entry representing the Restricted Securities transferred as above provided shall be notated with, except if such transfer is made pursuant to SEC Rule 144, the appropriate restrictive legend set forth in Subsection 2.12(b) , except that such certificate instrument, or book entry shall not be notated with such restrictive legend if, in the opinion of counsel for such Holder and the Company, such legend is not required in order to establish compliance with any provisions of the Securities Act.

2.13     Termination of Registration Rights . The right of any Holder to request registration or inclusion of Registrable Securities in any registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1 or 2.2 shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of:

(a)    the closing of a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation;

(b)    such time as Rule 144 or another similar exemption under the Securities Act is available for the sale of all of such Holder’s shares without limitation during a three-month period without registration; and

(c)    the seven (7) year anniversary of the IPO.

 

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  3.

Information and Observer Rights .

3.1     Delivery of Financial Statements . The Company shall deliver to each Major Investor, provided that the Board has not reasonably determined that such Major Investor is a Competitor of the Company:

(a)    as soon as practicable, but in any event within one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company (i) a balance sheet as of the end of such year, (ii) statements of income and of cash flows for such year, and a comparison between (x) the actual amounts as of and for such fiscal year and (y) the comparable amounts for the prior year and as included in the Budget (as defined in Subsection 3.1(e) ) for such year, with an explanation of any material differences between such amounts and a schedule as to the sources and applications of funds for such year, and (iii) a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such year, all such financial statements audited and certified by independent public accountants selected by the Board;

(b)    as soon as practicable, but in any event within forty five (45) days after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters of each fiscal year of the Company, unaudited statements of income and cash flows for such fiscal quarter, and an unaudited balance sheet and a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such fiscal quarter, all prepared in accordance with GAAP (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year- end audit adjustments; and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP);

(c)    as soon as practicable, but in any event within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters of each fiscal year of the Company, a statement showing the number of shares of each class and series of capital stock and securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of capital stock outstanding at the end of the period, the Common Stock issuable upon conversion or exercise of any outstanding securities convertible or exercisable for Common Stock and the exchange ratio or exercise price applicable thereto, and the number of shares of issued stock options and stock options not yet issued but reserved for issuance, if any, all in sufficient detail as to permit the Major Investors to calculate their respective percentage equity ownership in the Company, and certified by the chief financial officer or chief executive officer of the Company as being true, complete, and correct;

(d)    as soon as practicable, but in any event within thirty (30) days of the end of each month, an unaudited income statement and statement of cash flows for such month, and an unaudited balance sheet and statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such month, all prepared in accordance with GAAP (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year-end audit adjustments and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP);

(e)    as soon as practicable, but in any event thirty (30) days before the end of each fiscal year, a budget and business plan for the next fiscal year (collectively, the “ Budget ”), approved by the Board and prepared on a monthly basis, including balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flow for such months and, promptly after prepared, any other budgets or revised budgets prepared by the Company;

 

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(f)    such other information relating to the financial condition, business, prospects, or corporate affairs of the Company as any Major Investor may from time to time reasonably request; provided , however , that the Company shall not be obligated under this Subsection 3.1 to provide information (i) that the Company reasonably determines in good faith to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in a form acceptable to the Company); or (ii) the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel.

If, for any period, the Company has any subsidiary whose accounts are consolidated with those of the Company, then in respect of such period the financial statements delivered pursuant to the foregoing sections shall be the consolidated and consolidating financial statements of the Company and all such consolidated subsidiaries.

Notwithstanding anything else in this Subsection 3.1 to the contrary, the Company may cease providing the information set forth in this Subsection 3.1 during the period starting with the date sixty (60) days before the Company’s good-faith estimate of the date of filing of a registration statement if it reasonably concludes it must do so to comply with the SEC rules applicable to such registration statement and related offering; provided that the Company’s covenants under this Subsection 3.1 shall be reinstated at such time as the Company is no longer actively employing its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective.

3.2     Inspection . The Company shall permit each Major Investor ( provided that the Board has not reasonably determined that such Major Investor is a Competitor of the Company), at such Major Investor’s expense, to visit and inspect the Company’s properties; examine its books of account and records; and discuss the Company’s affairs, finances, and accounts with its officers, during normal business hours of the Company as may be reasonably requested by the Major Investor; provided , however , that the Company shall not be obligated pursuant to this Subsection 3.2 to provide access to any information that it reasonably and in good faith considers to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in form acceptable to the Company) or the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel.

3.3     Observer Rights . The Company shall invite a representative (each a “ Board Observer ”) of each of InterWest Partners X, LP and its affiliates (“ Interwest ”), OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP and its affiliates (“ OrbiMed ”), HealthQuest Partners II, L.P. and its affiliates (“ HealthQuest ”) and LAV Agile Limited and its affiliates (“ LAV ”) (such LAV observer and HealthQuest observer shall be collectively referred to as the “ New Observers ”) to attend all meetings of its Board of Directors in a nonvoting observer capacity and, in this respect, shall give the Board Observers copies of all notices, minutes, consents, and other materials that it provides to its directors at the same time and in the same manner as provided to such directors; provided , however , that the Board Observers shall agree to hold in confidence and trust and to act in a fiduciary manner with respect to all information so provided; provided further , that the Company reserves the right to withhold any information and to exclude the Board Observers from any meeting or portion thereof if access to such information or attendance at such meeting could adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel or result in disclosure of trade secrets or a conflict of interest, or if such

 

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Investors or their Board Observers are a Competitor of the Company; and provided further , that, without the Company’s consent, the New Observers shall be permitted to attend any meeting of the Board of Directors via teleconference only.

3.4     Termination of Information and Observer Rights . The covenants set forth in Subsections 3.1 , 3.2 and 3.3 shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

3.5     Confidentiality . Each Investor agrees that such Investor will keep confidential and will not disclose, divulge, or use for any purpose (other than to monitor its investment in the Company) any confidential information obtained from the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement (including notice of the Company’s intention to file a registration statement), unless such confidential information (a) is known or becomes known to the public in general (other than as a result of a breach of this Subsection 3.5 by such Investor), (b) is or has been independently developed or conceived by the Investor without use of the Company’s confidential information, or (c) is or has been made known or disclosed to the Investor by a third party without a breach of any obligation of confidentiality such third party may have to the Company; provided , however , that an Investor may disclose confidential information (i) to its attorneys, accountants, consultants, and other professionals to the extent necessary to obtain their services in connection with monitoring its investment in the Company; (ii) to any prospective purchaser of any Registrable Securities from such Investor, if such prospective purchaser agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Subsection 3.5 ; (iii) to any existing or prospective Affiliate, partner, member, stockholder, or wholly owned subsidiary of such Investor in the ordinary course of business, provided that such Investor informs such Person that such information is confidential and directs such Person to maintain the confidentiality of such information; or (iv) as may otherwise be required by law, provided that the Investor promptly notifies the Company of such disclosure and takes reasonable steps to minimize the extent of any such required disclosure.

 

  4.

Rights to Future Stock Issuances .

4.1     Right of First Offer . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Subsection 4.1 and applicable securities laws, if the Company proposes to offer or sell any New Securities, the Company shall first offer such New Securities to each Major Investor. A Major Investor shall be entitled to apportion the right of first offer hereby granted to it, in such proportions as it deems appropriate, among (i) itself, (ii) its Affiliates and (iii) its beneficial interest holders, such as limited partners, members or any other Person having “beneficial ownership,” as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, of such Major Investor (“ Investor Beneficial Owners ”); provided that each such Affiliate or Investor Beneficial Owner (x) is not a Competitor or FOIA Party, unless such party’s purchase of New Securities is otherwise consented to by the Board of Directors, (y) agrees to enter into this Agreement and each of the Seventh Amended and Restated Voting Agreement and Ninth Amended and Restated Stockholders’ Agreement of even date herewith among the Company, the Investors and the other parties named therein, as an “ Investor ” under each such agreement

 

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( provided that any Competitor or FOIA Party shall not be entitled to any rights as a Major Investor under Subsections 3.1 , 3.2 and 4.1 hereof), and (z) agrees to purchase at least such number of New Securities as are allocable hereunder to the Major Investor holding the fewest number of Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities.

(a)    The Company shall give notice (the “ Offer Notice ”) to each Major Investor, stating (i) its bona fide intention to offer such New Securities, (ii) the number of such New Securities to be offered, and (iii) the price and terms, if any, upon which it proposes to offer such New Securities.

(b)    By notification to the Company within twenty (20) days after the Offer Notice is given, each Major Investor may elect to purchase or otherwise acquire, at the price and on the terms specified in the Offer Notice, up to that portion of such New Securities which equals the proportion that the Common Stock then held by such Major Investor (including all shares of Common Stock then issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of the Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held by such Major Investor) bears to the total Common Stock of the Company then outstanding (assuming full conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of all Preferred Stock and other Derivative Securities). At the expiration of such twenty (20) day period, the Company shall promptly notify each Major Investor that elects to purchase or acquire all the shares available to it (each, a “ Fully Exercising Investor ”) of any other Major Investor’s failure to do likewise. During the ten (10) day period commencing after the Company has given such notice, each Fully Exercising Investor may, by giving notice to the Company, elect to purchase or acquire, in addition to the number of shares specified above, up to that portion of the New Securities for which Major Investors were entitled to subscribe but that were not subscribed for by the Major Investors which is equal to the proportion that the Common Stock issued and held, or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held, by such Fully Exercising Investor bears to the Common Stock issued and held, or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of the Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held, by all Fully Exercising Investors who wish to purchase such unsubscribed shares. The closing of any sale pursuant to this Subsection 4.1(b) shall occur within the later of ninety (90) days of the date that the Offer Notice is given and the date of initial sale of New Securities pursuant to Subsection 4.1(c) .

(c)    If all New Securities referred to in the Offer Notice are not elected to be purchased or acquired as provided in Subsection4.1(b) , the Company may, during the ninety (90) day period following the expiration of the periods provided in Subsection 4.1(b) , offer and sell the remaining unsubscribed portion of such New Securities to any Person or Persons at a price not less than, and upon terms no more favorable to the offeree than, those specified in the Offer Notice. If the Company does not enter into an agreement for the sale of the New Securities within such period, or if such agreement is not consummated within thirty (30) days of the execution thereof, the right provided hereunder shall be deemed to be revived and such New Securities shall not be offered unless first reoffered to the Major Investors in accordance with this Subsection 4.1 .

 

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(d)    The right of first offer in this Subsection 4.1 (including Subsection 4.1(e) ) shall not be applicable to (i) Exempted Securities (as defined in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation); (ii) shares of Common Stock issued in the IPO; and (iii) the issuance of shares of Series CC Preferred Stock pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.

4.2     Termination . The covenants set forth in Subsection 4.1 shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

 

  5.

Additional Covenants .

5.1     Insurance . The Company shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause its current Directors and Officers liability insurance policy to be maintained until such time as the Board determines that such insurance should be discontinued. The policy shall not be cancelable by the Company without prior approval by the Board, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1 to the contrary, for so long as a Preferred Director is serving on the Board, the Company shall not cease to maintain a Directors and Officers liability insurance policy in an amount of at least $5 million unless approved by at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office, and the Company shall annually, within one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, deliver to the Investors a certification that such a Directors and Officers liability insurance policy remains in effect.

5.2     Employee Agreements . The Company will cause (i) each person now or hereafter employed by it or by any subsidiary (or engaged by the Company or any subsidiary as a consultant/independent contractor) with access to confidential information and/or trade secrets to enter into a nondisclosure and proprietary rights assignment agreement; and (ii) each Key Employee to enter into a one (1) year noncompetition and nonsolicitation agreement, substantially in the form approved by the Board. In addition, the Company shall not amend, modify, terminate, waive, or otherwise alter, in whole or in part, any of the above-referenced agreements or any restricted stock agreement between the Company and any employee, without the consent of the Board, including at least one of the Preferred Directors.

5.3     Employee Stock . Unless otherwise approved by the Board, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office, all future employees and consultants of the Company who purchase, receive options to purchase, or receive awards of shares of the Company’s capital stock after the date hereof shall be required to execute restricted stock or option agreements, as applicable, providing for (i) vesting of shares over a four (4) year period, with the first twenty-five percent (25%) of such shares vesting following twelve (12) months of continued employment or service, and the remaining shares vesting in equal monthly installments over the following thirty-six (36) months, and (ii) a market stand-off provision substantially similar to that in Subsection 2.11 . In addition, unless otherwise approved by the Board, including at least two of the Preferred Directors then in office, the Company shall retain a “right of first refusal” on employee transfers until the Company’s IPO and shall have the right torepurchase unvested shares at cost upon termination of employment of a holder of restricted stock.

 

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5.4     Qualified Small Business Stock . The Company shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shares of Preferred Stock issued pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, as well as any shares into which such shares are converted, within the meaning of Section 1202(f) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “ Code ”), to constitute “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code; provided , however , that such requirement shall not be applicable if the Board determines, in its good-faith business judgment, that such qualification is inconsistent with the best interests of the Company. The Company shall submit to its stockholders (including the Investors) and to the Internal Revenue Service any reports that may be required under Section 1202(d)(1)(C) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder. In addition, within twenty (20) business days after any Investor’s written request therefor, the Company shall, at its option, either (i) deliver to such Investor a written statement indicating whether (and what portion of) such Investor’s interest in the Company constitutes “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code or (ii) deliver to such Investor such factual information in the Company’s possession as is reasonably necessary to enable such Investor to determine whether (and what portion of) such Investor’s interest in the Company constitutes “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code.

5.5     Board Matters . The Company shall reimburse the directors and Board Observers (other than the New Observers) for all reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses incurred in connection with attending meetings of the Board and other meetings or events attended on behalf of the Company or at the Company’s request.

5.6     Successor Indemnification . If the Company or any of its successors or assignees consolidates with or merges into any other Person and is not the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or merger, then to the extent necessary, proper provision shall be made so that the successors and assignees of the Company assume the obligations of the Company with respect to indemnification of members of the Board as in effect immediately before such transaction, whether such obligations are contained in the Company’s By-laws, its Certificate of Incorporation, or elsewhere, as the case may be.

5.7     Indemnification Matters . The Company hereby acknowledges that one (1) or more of the directors nominated to serve on the Board of Directors by the Investors (each a “ Fund Director ”) may have certain rights to indemnification, advancement of expenses and/or insurance provided by one or more of the Investors and certain of their affiliates (collectively, the “ Fund Indemnitors ”). The Company hereby agrees (a) that it is the indemnitor of first resort ( i.e. , its obligations to any such Fund Director are primary and any obligation of the Fund Indemnitors to advance expenses or to provide indemnification for the same expenses or liabilities incurred by such Fund Director are secondary), (b) that it shall be required to advance the full amount of expenses incurred by such Fund Director and shall be liable for the full amount of all expenses, judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement by or on behalf of any such Fund Director to the extent legally permitted and as required by the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws of the Company (or any agreement between the Company and such Fund Director), without regard to any rights such Fund Director may

 

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have against the Fund Indemnitors, and, (c) that it irrevocably waives, relinquishes and releases the Fund Indemnitors from any and all claims against the Fund Indemnitors for contribution, subrogation or any other recovery of any kind in respect thereof. The Company further agrees that no advancement or payment by the Fund Indemnitors on behalf of any such Fund Director with respect to any claim for which such Fund Director has sought indemnification from the Company shall affect the foregoing and the Fund Indemnitors shall have a right of contribution and/or be subrogated to the extent of such advancement or payment to all of the rights of recovery of such Fund Director against the Company. The Fund Directors and the Fund Indemnitors are intended third party beneficiaries of this Subsection 5.7 and shall have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions of this Subsection 5.7 as though they were a party to this Agreement.

5.8     Right to Conduct Activities . The Company hereby agrees and acknowledges that each of InterWest and LAV is a professional investment fund, and as such invests in numerous portfolio companies, some of which may be deemed competitive with the Company’s business (as currently conducted or as currently propose to be conducted). The Company hereby agrees that, to the extent permitted under applicable law, each of InterWest and LAV shall not be liable to the Company for any claim arising out of, or based upon, (i) the investment by InterWest or LAV, respectively, in any entity competitive with the Company, or (ii) actions taken by any partner, officer or other representative of InterWest or LAV, respectively, to assist any such competitive company, whether or not such action was taken as a member of the board of directors of such competitive company or otherwise, and whether or not such action has a detrimental effect on the Company; provided , however , that the foregoing shall not relieve (x) any of the Investors from liability associated with the unauthorized disclosure of the Company’s confidential information obtained pursuant to this Agreement, or (y) any director or officer of the Company from any liability associated with his or her fiduciary duties to the Company.

5.9     Tax Reporting . The Company will comply with any obligation imposed on the Company to make any filing (including any filing on Internal Revenue Service Form 5471) as a result of any interest that the Company holds in a non-U.S. Person or any activities that the Company conducts outside of the U.S. and shall include in such filing any information necessary to obviate (to the extent possible) any similar obligation to which any shareholder would otherwise be subject with respect to such interest or such activity. The Company shall promptly provide each Investor with a copy of any such filing.

5.10     FCPA . The Company represents that it shall not (and shall not permit any of its subsidiaries or affiliates or any of its or their respective directors, officers, managers, employees, independent contractors, representatives or agents to) promise, authorize or make any payment to, or otherwise contribute any item of value to, directly or indirectly, to any third party, including any Non-U.S. Official (as (as such term is defined in the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended (the “ FCPA ”)), in each case, in violation of the FCPA, the U.K. Bribery Act, or any other applicable anti-bribery or anti-corruption law. The Company further represents that it shall (and shall cause each of its subsidiaries and affiliates to) cease all of its or their respective activities, as well as remediate any actions taken by the Company, its subsidiaries or affiliates, or any of their respective directors, officers, managers, employees, independent contractors, representatives or agents in violation of the FCPA, the U.K. Bribery

 

22


Act, or any other applicable anti-bribery or anti-corruption law. The Company further represents that it shall (and shall cause each of its subsidiaries and affiliates to) maintain systems of internal controls (including, but not limited to, accounting systems, purchasing systems and billing systems) to ensure compliance with the FCPA, the U.K. Bribery Act, or any other applicable anti-bribery or anti-corruption law. Upon request, the Company agrees to provide responsive information and/or certifications concerning its compliance with applicable anti-corruption laws. The Company shall promptly notify each Investor if the Company becomes aware of any Enforcement Action (as defined in the Purchase Agreement). The Company shall, and shall cause any direct or indirect subsidiary or entity controlled by it, whether now in existence or formed in the future, to comply with the FCPA. The Company shall use its best efforts to cause any direct or indirect subsidiary, whether now in existence or formed in the future, to comply in all material respects with all applicable laws.

5.11     Sanctions . The Company shall, and shall adopt appropriate policies for its directors, officers, employees and agents to, comply with the Sanctions (as defined below) and not knowingly engage in any activity that would reasonably be expected to result in the Company or Company’s directors, officers, employees or agents being designated as a Sanctioned Person (as defined below). The Company will not engage in any unauthorized business or transactions with (i) any person or entity listed in any Sanctions-related list of designated persons and entities maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Treasury Department or the U.S. Department of State, or the European Union or Her Majesty’s Treasury of the United Kingdom, or (ii) any person or entity operating, organized or resident in a country or region which is itself the subject or target of any Sanctions (“ Sanctioned Country ”), or any entity owned or controlled by any person or entity, or persons or entities, specified in (i) or (ii) above or otherwise the target of Sanctions (together “ Sanctioned Persons ”) or in any manner that would result in the violation of Sanctions by any person or entity, including the Investors. As used herein, “ Sanctions ” means economic or financial sanctions or trade embargoes imposed, administered or enforced from time to time by (a) the U.S. government, including those administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Department of the Treasury or the U.S. Department of State, or (b) the European Union or Her Majesty’s Treasury of the United Kingdom.

5.12     Termination of Covenants . The covenants set forth in this Section 5 , except for Subsections 5.6 , 5.7 and 5.8 , shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

 

  6.

Miscellaneous .

6.1     Successors and Assigns . The rights under this Agreement may be assigned (but only with all related obligations) by a Holder to a transferee of Registrable Securities that (i) is an Affiliate of a Holder; (ii) is a Holder’s Immediate Family Member or trust for the benefit of an individual Holder or one or more of such Holder’s Immediate Family Members; or (iii) after such transfer, holds at least 100,000 shares of Registrable Securities (subject to appropriate adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations, and other

 

23


recapitalizations); provided , however , that (x) the Company is, within a reasonable time after such transfer, furnished with written notice of the name and address of such transferee and the Registrable Securities with respect to which such rights are being transferred; and (y) such transferee agrees in a written instrument delivered to the Company to be bound by and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including the provisions of Subsection 2.11 . For the purposes of determining the number of shares of Registrable Securities held by a transferee, the holdings of a transferee (1) that is an Affiliate or stockholder of a Holder; (2) who is a Holder’s Immediate Family Member; or (3) that is a trust for the benefit of an individual Holder or such Holder’s Immediate Family Member shall be aggregated together and with those of the transferring Holder; provided further that all transferees who would not qualify individually for assignment of rights shall have a single attorney-in-fact for the purpose of exercising any rights, receiving notices, or taking any action under this Agreement. The terms and conditions of this Agreement inure to the benefit of and are binding upon the respective successors and permitted assignees of the parties. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any party other than the parties hereto or their respective successors and permitted assignees any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement, except as expressly provided herein.

6.2     Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by the internal law of the State of Delaware.

6.3     Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two (2) or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Counterparts may be delivered via facsimile, electronic mail (including pdf or any electronic signature complying with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000, e.g. , www.docusign.com) or other transmission method and any counterpart so delivered shall be deemed to have been duly and validly delivered and be valid and effective for all purposes.

6.4     Titles and Subtitles . The titles and subtitles used in this Agreement are for convenience only and are not to be considered in construing or interpreting this Agreement.

6.5     Notices . All notices and other communications given or made pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effectively given upon the earlier of actual receipt or (i) personal delivery to the party to be notified; (ii) when sent, if sent by electronic mail or facsimile during the recipient’s normal business hours, and if not sent during normal business hours, then on the recipient’s next business day; (iii) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid; or (iv) one (1) business day after the business day of deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, freight prepaid, specifying next-day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the respective parties at their addresses as set forth on Schedule A or Schedule B (as applicable) hereto or such parties signature page hereto, or to the principal office of the Company and to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer, in the case of the Company, or to such email address, facsimile number, or address as subsequently modified by written notice given in accordance with this Subsection 6.5 . If notice is given to the Company, a copy (which shall not constitute notice) shall also be sent to Marc Recht, Cooley LLP, 500 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 (email: mrecht@cooley.com: fax: 617-937-2400).

 

24


6.6     Amendments and Waivers . Any term of this Agreement may be amended and the observance of any term of this Agreement may be waived (either generally or in a particular instance, and either retroactively or prospectively) only with the written consent of the Company and the holders of at least seventy percent (70%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding; provided that the Company may in its sole discretion waive compliance with Subsection 2.12(c) (and the Company’s failure to object promptly in writing after notification of a proposed assignment allegedly in violation of Subsection 2.12(c) shall be deemed to be a waiver); and provided further that any provision hereof may be waived by any waiving party on such party’s own behalf, without the consent of any other party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement may not be amended or terminated and the observance of any term hereof may not be waived with respect to any Investor without the written consent of such Investor, unless such amendment, termination, or waiver applies to all Investors in the same fashion (it being agreed that a waiver of the provisions of Section 4 with respect to a particular transaction shall be deemed to apply to all Investors in the same fashion if such waiver does so by its terms, notwithstanding the fact that certain Investors may nonetheless, by agreement with the Company, purchase securities in such transaction); provided that (a) any amendment or waiver of Subsection 3.3 that adversely affects the rights of HealthQuest shall require the written consent of HealthQuest for so long as HealthQuest owns any shares of Series BB Preferred Stock or Common Stock issued upon the conversion thereof, and (b) any amendment or waiver of Subsection 3.3 that adversely affects the rights of LAV shall require the written consent of LAV for so long as LAV owns any shares of Series CC Preferred Stock or Common Stock issued upon the conversion thereof. The Company shall give prompt notice of any amendment or termination hereof or waiver hereunder to any party hereto that did not consent in writing to such amendment, termination, or waiver. Any amendment, termination, or waiver effected in accordance with this Subsection 6.6 shall be binding on all parties hereto, regardless of whether any such party has consented thereto. No waivers of or exceptions to any term, condition, or provision of this Agreement, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be or construed as a further or continuing waiver of any such term, condition, or provision.

6.7     Severability . In case any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement is for any reason held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of this Agreement, and such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision shall be reformed and construed so that it will be valid, legal, and enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by law.

6.8     Aggregation of Stock . All shares of Registrable Securities held or acquired by Affiliates shall be aggregated together for the purpose of determining the availability of any rights under this Agreement and such Affiliated persons may apportion such rights as among themselves in any manner they deem appropriate.

6.9     Additional Investors . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, if the Company issues additional shares of the Company’s Preferred Stock after the date hereof, whether pursuant to the Purchase Agreement or otherwise, any purchaser of such shares of Preferred Stock may become a party to this Agreement by executing and delivering an additional counterpart signature page to this Agreement, and thereafter shall be deemed an “Investor” for all purposes hereunder. No action or consent by the Investors shall be required for such joinder to this Agreement by such additional Investor, so long as such additional Investor has agreed in writing to be bound by all of the obligations as an “Investor” hereunder.

 

25


6.10     Entire Agreement . This Agreement (including any Schedules and Exhibits hereto) constitutes the full and entire understanding and agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and any other written or oral agreement relating to the subject matter hereof existing between the parties is expressly canceled. Upon the effectiveness of this Agreement, the Prior Agreement shall be deemed amended and restated and superseded and replaced in its entirety by this Agreement, and shall be of no further force or effect.

6.11     Dispute Resolution . Any unresolved controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, except as (i) otherwise provided in this Agreement, or (ii) any such controversies or claims arising out of either party’s intellectual property rights for which a provisional remedy or equitable relief is sought, shall be submitted to arbitration by one arbitrator mutually agreed upon by the parties, and if no agreement can be reached within thirty (30) days after names of potential arbitrators have been proposed by the American Arbitration Association (the “ AAA ”), then by one arbitrator having reasonable experience in corporate finance transactions of the type provided for in this Agreement and who is chosen by the AAA. The arbitration shall take place in Boston, MA or Wilmington, DE, in accordance with the AAA rules then in effect, and judgment upon any award rendered in such arbitration will be binding and may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. There shall be limited discovery prior to the arbitration hearing as follows: (a) exchange of witness lists and copies of documentary evidence and documents relating to or arising out of the issues to be arbitrated, (b) depositions of all party witnesses, and (c) such other depositions as may be allowed by the arbitrators upon a showing of good cause. Depositions shall be conducted in accordance with the Delaware Code of Civil Procedure, the arbitrator shall be required to provide in writing to the parties the basis for the award or order of such arbitrator, and a court reporter shall record all hearings, with such record constituting the official transcript of such proceedings. Each party will bear its own costs in respect of any disputes arising under this Agreement. Each of the parties to this Agreement consents to personal jurisdiction for any equitable action sought in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware or the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware.

WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL: EACH PARTY HEREBY WAIVES ITS RIGHTS TO A JURY TRIAL OF ANY CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION BASED UPON OR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE OTHER TRANSACTION DOCUMENTS, THE SECURITIES OR THE SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF OR THEREOF. THE SCOPE OF THIS WAIVER IS INTENDED TO BE ALL-ENCOMPASSING OF ANY AND ALL DISPUTES THAT MAY BE FILED IN ANY COURT AND THAT RELATE TO THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THIS TRANSACTION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, CONTRACT CLAIMS, TORT CLAIMS (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), BREACH OF DUTY CLAIMS, AND ALL OTHER COMMON LAW AND STATUTORY CLAIMS. THIS SECTION HAS BEEN FULLY DISCUSSED BY EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO AND THESE PROVISIONS WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO ANY EXCEPTIONS. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY FURTHER WARRANTS AND REPRESENTS THAT SUCH PARTY HAS REVIEWED THIS WAIVER WITH ITS LEGAL COUNSEL, AND THAT SUCH PARTY KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY WAIVES ITS JURY TRIAL RIGHTS FOLLOWING CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL.

 

26


6.12     Delays or Omissions . No delay or omission to exercise any right, power, or remedy accruing to any party under this Agreement, upon any breach or default of any other party under this Agreement, shall impair any such right, power, or remedy of such nonbreaching or nondefaulting party, nor shall it be construed to be a waiver of or acquiescence to any such breach or default, or to any similar breach or default thereafter occurring, nor shall any waiver of any single breach or default be deemed a waiver of any other breach or default theretofore or thereafter occurring. All remedies, whether under this Agreement or by law or otherwise afforded to any party, shall be cumulative and not alternative.

6.13     Further Assurances . At any time or from time to time after the date hereof, the parties agree to cooperate with each other, and at the request of any other party, to execute and deliver any further instruments or documents and to take all such further action as the other party may reasonably request in order to evidence or effectuate the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and to otherwise carry out the intent of the parties hereunder.

6.14     Acknowledgment . The Company acknowledges that the Investors are in the business of venture capital investing and therefore review the business plans and related proprietary information of many enterprises, including enterprises which may have products or services which compete directly or indirectly with those of the Company. Nothing in this Agreement shall preclude or in any way restrict the Investors from investing or participating in any particular enterprise whether or not such enterprise has products or services which compete with those of the Company.

[ Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank ]

 

27


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

COMPANY:
AVEDRO, INC. , a Delaware corporation
By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Name:   Reza Zadno
  Title:   President
  Address: 201 Jones Road
       Waltham, MA 02451

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Interwest Partners X, L.P.
By:   InterWest Management Partners X, LLC,
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Gilbert H. Kliman

Name:   Gilbert H. Kliman
Title:   Managing Director
Address:
     

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
BV Opportunities Fund, L.P.
By:   Borealis Capital Partners II, LLC
  its General Partner
By:   Borealis Venture Management II, LLC
  its Manager
By:  

/s/ Philip J. Ferneau

Name:   Philip J. Ferneau
Title:   Managing Director
BV Opportunities Fund II, L.P.
By:   Borealis Capital Partners II, LLC
  its General Partner
By:   Borealis Venture Management II, LLC
  its Manager
By:  

/s/ Philip J. Ferneau

Name:   Philip J. Ferneau
Title:   Managing Director
Address:
     

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
De Novo Ventures III, L.P.
By:   De Novo Management III, LLC
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Joseph Mandato

Name:   Joseph Mandato
Title:   Managing Director
Address:  

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Echelon Ventures, LP
By: Echelon Ventures, LLC, its General Partner

/s/ Alfred S. Woodworth

Alfred S. Woodworth, Manager

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Echelon Ventures II, LP
By: Echelon Ventures, LLC, its General Partner

/s/ Alfred S. Woodworth

Alfred S. Woodworth, Manager

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Echelon Ventures Special Limited Partners I, LP
By: Echelon Ventures, LLC, its General Partner

/s/ Alfred S. Woodworth

Alfred S. Woodworth, Manager

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Lewis Wharf Partners

/s/ Alfred S. Woodworth

Alfred S. Woodworth, Managing General Partner

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
New Echelon Ventures Management Company, LLC

/s/ Alfred S. Woodworth

Alfred S. Woodworth, Managing Member

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Eye-Lens Pte Ltd
By:  

/s/ Nir Ellebogen

Name:   Nir Ellenbogen
Title:   Managing Director
Address:  
 
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Healthquest Partners II, L.P.
By:   HealthQuest Venture Management II, L.L.C.,
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Garheng Kong

Name:   Garheng Kong
Title:   Managing Member
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust
By:  

/s/ Robert J. Palmisano

Name:   Robert J. Palmisano
Title:   Trustee
Address:  
 
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:

/s/ Rajesh Rajpal

Rajesh Rajpal

/s/ Apra Rajpal

Apra Rajpal
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Orbimed Private Investments VI, LP
By:   OrbiMed Capital GP VI LLC,
  its General Partner
By:   OrbiMed Advisors LLC,
  its Managing Member
By:  

/s/ Jonathan Silverstein

Name:   Jonathan Silverstein
Title:   Member
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Aperture Venture Partners II, L.P.,
By:   Aperture Ventures II Management, LLC,
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Eric Sillman

Name:   Eric Sillman
Title:   Member
Aperture Venture Partners II-A, L.P.,
By:   Aperture Ventures II Management, LLC,
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Eric Sillman

Name:   Eric Sillman
Title:   Member
Aperture Venture Partners II-B, L.P.,
By:   Aperture Ventures II Management, LLC,
  its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Eric Sillman

Name:   Eric Sillman
Title:   Member
Address:  
 
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Venture Lending & Leasing VI, LLC
By:   Westech Investments Advisors LLC,
  its Managing Member
By:  

/s/ Martin Eng

Name:   Martin Eng
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:

/s/ Hajime Watahiki

Hajime Watahiki
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
LAV AGILE LIMITED
By:  

/s/ Yu Luo

Name:   Yu Luo
Title:   Authorized Signatory
Address:  
 

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
Industry Ventures Healthcare II, LLC
By:  

/s/ Victor Hwang

Name:   Victor Hwang
Title:   Managing Director

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO A VEDRO , I NC .

S EVENTH A MENDED A ND R ESTATED I NVESTORS ’ R IGHTS A GREEMENT


SCHEDULE A

Investors

Name (and Address, if applicable)

LAV Agile Limited

HealthQuest Partners II, L.P.

InterWest Partners X, L.P.

OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP

Abingworth Bioventures V Co-Invest Growth Equity Fund LP

Abingworth Bioventures VI LP

Aperture Venture Partners II, LP

Aperture Venture Partners II-A, LP

Aperture Venture Partners II-B, LP

BV Opportunities Fund, L.P.

BV Opportunities Fund II, L.P.

De Novo Ventures III, L.P.

Echelon Ventures, L.P.

Echelon Ventures II, L.P.

Echelon Ventures Special Limited Partners I, L.P.

Eye-Lens Pte Ltd

Hajime Watahiki

Lewis Wharf Partners

Robert J. Palmisano 2010 Trust

Venture Lending & Leasing VI, LLC

Michael Raizman

Rajesh Rajpal & Apra Rajpal

GC&H Investments

Jean-Jacques Degroof

Charline Gauthier

GC&H Investments, LLC

New Echelon Ventures Management Company, LLC

Industry Ventures Healthcare II, LLC

Exhibit 4.3

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “ ACT ”) AND HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED FOR INVESTMENT AND NOT WITH A VIEW TO, OR IN CONNECTION WITH, THE SALE OR DISTRIBUTION THEREOF. NO SUCH SALE OR DISTRIBUTION MAY BE EFFECTED WITHOUT AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATED THERETO OR AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IN A FORM SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED UNDER THE ACT.

 

Warrant No.        Date of Issuance: November 5, 2014

Void After November 5, 2021

AVEDRO, INC.

Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant

This Preferred Stock Purchase Warrant (this “ Warrant ”) is issued to [                    ] (the “ Registered Holder ”) by Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”), for value received, pursuant to the terms of that certain Convertible Note and Warrant Purchase Agreement dated November 5, 2014 (the “ Purchase Agreement ”), in connection with the Company’s issuance to the Registered Holder and other purchasers of Convertible Promissory Notes (each, a “ Note ”).

1.     Definitions .

(a)    “ Exercise Price ” shall mean $0.01 per share of Warrant Stock.

(b)    “ Next Equity Financing ” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in the Notes.

(c)    “ Purchase Price ” shall mean:

(i)    If the Warrant Stock is the equity securities issued in the Next Equity Financing, then the Purchase Price shall mean the lowest price per share paid by any investor (in any form other than cancellation of indebtedness) for the equity securities in the Next Equity Financing;

(ii)    If the Warrant Stock is the Senior Stock (as such term is defined in the Notes) or a New Security (as such term is defined in the Notes) of the Company, then the Purchase Price shall mean the original issue price for each share of the Senior Stock or New Security, as applicable (subject to appropriate adjustment, without duplication, in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Senior Stock or the New Security, as applicable); or

(iii)    If the Warrant Stock is the Series D Stock, then the Purchase Price shall mean the original issue price for each share of Series D Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment, without duplication, in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series D Stock).


(d)    “ Series D Stock ” shall mean the Series D Preferred Stock, par value $0.00001 per share, of the Company.

(e)    “ Warrant Coverage Amount ” shall mean 30% of the original principal amount of any and all Notes issued to the Registered Holder pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.

(f)    “ Warrant Stock ” shall mean either:

(i)    if the Notes have converted pursuant to the terms of the Notes (the “ Note Conversion ”), the class and/or series of capital stock of the Company issued upon conversion of the Notes; or

(ii)    if this Warrant is exercised prior to any Note Conversion, the Series D Stock.

2.     Purchase of Shares . Subject to the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth and set forth in the Purchase Agreement, the Registered Holder is entitled, upon surrender of this Warrant at the principal office of the Company (or at such other place as the Company shall notify the Registered Holder in writing), at any time after the date hereof and on or before the Expiration Date (as defined in Section 7 below), to purchase from the Company up to the number of fully paid and nonassessable shares of Warrant Stock that equals the quotient of (a) the Warrant Coverage Amount divided by (b) the Purchase Price (as adjusted to date).

3.     Exercise .

(a)     Manner of Exercise . This Warrant may be exercised by the Registered Holder, in whole or in part, by surrendering this Warrant, with the purchase/exercise form appended hereto as Exhibit  A (the “ Purchase Form ”) duly executed by such Registered Holder or by such Registered Holder’s duly authorized attorney, at the principal office of the Company, or at such other office or agency as the Company may designate, accompanied by payment in full of the Exercise Price payable in respect of the number of shares of Warrant Stock purchased upon such exercise. The Exercise Price may be paid by cash, check, wire transfer, or by the surrender of promissory notes or other instruments representing indebtedness of the Company to the Registered Holder.

(b)     Effective Time of Exercise . Each exercise of this Warrant shall be deemed to have been effected immediately prior to the close of business on the day on which this Warrant shall have been surrendered to the Company together with (i) the Exercise Price payable in respect of the number of shares of Warrant Stock purchased upon such exercise and (i) the duly executed Purchase Form as provided in Section 3(a) above. At such time, the person or persons in whose name or names any certificates for Warrant Stock shall be issuable upon such exercise as provided in Section 3(d) below shall be deemed to have become the holder or holders of record of the Warrant Stock represented by such certificates.

 

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(c)     Net Issue Exercise .

(i)    In lieu of exercising this Warrant in the manner provided above in Section 3(a), the Registered Holder may elect to receive shares equal to the value of this Warrant (or the portion thereof being canceled) by surrender of this Warrant at the principal office of the Company together with the Purchase Form duly executed by such Registered Holder or such Registered Holder’s duly authorized attorney, in which event the Company shall issue to such Holder a number of shares of Warrant Stock computed using the following formula:

X =     Y (A - B)

                A

 

Where        X =   The number of shares of Warrant Stock to be issued to the Registered Holder.
       Y =   The number of shares of Warrant Stock purchasable under this Warrant or, if only a portion of this Warrant is being exercised, that portion of the Warrant being cancelled (at the date of such calculation).
       A =   The fair market value of one share of Warrant Stock (at the date of such calculation).
       B =   The Exercise Price.

(ii)    For purposes of this Section 3(c), the fair market value of Warrant Stock on the date of calculation shall mean with respect to each share of Warrant Stock:

(A)    if the exercise is in connection with an initial public offering of the Company’s Common Stock, and if the Company’s Registration Statement relating to such public offering has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission, then the fair market value shall be the product of (x) the initial “Price to Public” per share specified in the final prospectus with respect to the offering and (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Warrant Stock is convertible, at time of such exercise, provided that if the Warrant Stock is Common Stock, each share of Warrant Stock shall be deemed convertible into one share of Common Stock;

(B)    if this Warrant is exercised after, and not in connection with, the Company’s initial public offering, and if the Company’s Common Stock is traded on a national securities exchange or actively traded over-the-counter:

(1)    if the Company’s Common Stock is traded on a national securities exchange, the fair market value shall be deemed to be the product of (x) the average of the closing prices over a thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days before date of calculation and (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Warrant Stock is convertible on such date, provided that if the Warrant Stock is Common Stock, each share of Warrant Stock shall be deemed convertible into one share of Common Stock; or

(2)    if the Company’s Common Stock is actively traded over-the-counter, the fair market value shall be deemed to be the product of (x) the average of

 

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the closing bid or sales price (whichever is applicable) over the thirty (30) day period ending three (3) days before the date of calculation and (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Warrant Stock is convertible on such date, provided that if the Warrant Stock is Common Stock, each share of Warrant Stock shall be deemed convertible into one share of Common Stock; or

(C)    if neither (A) nor (B) is applicable, the fair market value of Warrant Stock shall be determined in good faith by the Board of Directors; provided, however , that if Company is at such time subject to an acquisition as described in Section 7(b) below, then the fair market value of Warrant Stock shall be deemed to be the value received by the holders of such stock pursuant to such acquisition.

(d)     Delivery to Holder . As soon as practicable after the exercise of this Warrant in whole or in part, and in any event within ten (10) business days thereafter, the Company at its expense will cause to be issued in the name of, and delivered to, the Registered Holder, or as such Holder (upon payment by such Holder of any applicable transfer taxes) may direct:

(i)    a certificate or certificates for the number of shares of Warrant Stock to which such Registered Holder shall be entitled; and

(ii)    in case such exercise is in part only, a new warrant or warrants (dated the date hereof) of like tenor, calling in the aggregate on the face or faces thereof for the number of shares of Warrant Stock equal (without giving effect to any adjustment therein) to the number of such shares subject to this Warrant (as determined under Section 2 above) minus the number of such shares purchased by the Registered Holder upon such exercise as provided in Section 3(a) or 3(c) above.

4.     Adjustments . The following provisions of this Section 4 shall apply only if the Warrant Stock is Preferred Stock of the Company; provided, that in the event of any conflict between the following provisions and any like provisions included in the Company’s Sixth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended (the “ Restated Certificate ”), the terms of the Restated Certificate will take precedence:

(a)     Conversion of Preferred Stock . If all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock comprising the Warrant Stock are converted into shares of Common Stock in accordance with the terms of the Restated Certificate, then this Warrant shall automatically become exercisable for that number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been received if this Warrant had been exercised in full and the shares of Preferred Stock received thereupon had been simultaneously converted into shares of Common Stock immediately prior to such conversion, and the Purchase Price shall be automatically adjusted to equal the number obtained by dividing (i) the Purchase Price in effect immediately prior to such conversion, by (ii) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of such Preferred Stock was converted.

(b)     Stock Splits and Dividends . If the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock comprising the Warrant Stock is subdivided into a greater number of shares or a dividend in

 

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Preferred Stock shall be paid in respect of such Preferred Stock, the Purchase Price in effect immediately prior to such subdivision or at the record date of such dividend shall simultaneously with the effectiveness of such subdivision or immediately after the record date of such dividend be proportionately reduced. If the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock comprising the Warrant Stock shall be combined into a smaller number of shares, the Purchase Price in effect immediately prior to such combination shall, simultaneously with the effectiveness of such combination, be proportionately increased. When any adjustment is required to be made in the Purchase Price, the number of shares of Warrant Stock purchasable upon the exercise of this Warrant shall be changed to the number determined by dividing (i) the product of (X) the number of shares of Warrant Stock issuable upon the exercise of this Warrant immediately prior to such adjustment, multiplied by (Y) the Purchase Price in effect immediately prior to such adjustment, by (ii) the Purchase Price in effect immediately after such adjustment.

(c)     Reclassification, Etc . In case there occurs any reclassification or change of the outstanding securities of the Company or of any reorganization of the Company (or any other corporation the stock or securities of which are at the time receivable upon the exercise of this Warrant) or any similar corporate reorganization on or after the date hereof, then and in each such case the Registered Holder, upon the exercise hereof at any time after the consummation of such reclassification, change, or reorganization shall be entitled to receive, in lieu of the stock or other securities and property receivable upon the exercise hereof prior to such consummation, the stock or other securities or property to which such Registered Holder would have been entitled upon such consummation if such Registered Holder had exercised this Warrant immediately prior thereto, all subject to further adjustment pursuant to the provisions of this Section 4.

(d)     Adjustment Certificate . When any adjustment is required to be made in the Warrant Stock or the Purchase Price pursuant to this Section 4, the Company shall promptly mail to the Registered Holder a certificate setting forth (i) a brief statement of the facts requiring such adjustment, (ii) the Purchase Price after such adjustment and (iii) the kind and amount of stock or other securities or property into which this Warrant shall be exercisable after such adjustment.

(e)     Acknowledgement . In order to avoid doubt, it is acknowledged that the holder of this Warrant shall be entitled to the benefit of all adjustments in the number of shares of Common Stock of the Company issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock comprising the Warrant Stock which occur prior to the exercise of this Warrant, including without limitation, any increase in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion as a result of a dilutive issuance of capital stock.

5.     Transfers .

(a)     Restrictions on Disposition . Each holder of this Warrant acknowledges that this Warrant, the Warrant Stock and the Common Stock of the Company have not been registered under the Act, and agrees not to sell, pledge, distribute, offer for sale, transfer or otherwise dispose of this Warrant, any Warrant Stock issued upon its exercise or any Common Stock issued upon conversion of the Warrant Stock in any event unless and until (i) there is then in effect a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Act ”) as to this Warrant, such Warrant Stock or such Common Stock and registration or qualification of this

 

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Warrant, such Warrant Stock or such Common Stock under any applicable U.S. federal or state securities law then in effect, or (ii) the Company shall have received an opinion of counsel, satisfactory to the Company, that such disposition will not require registration or qualification of this Warrant, such Warrant Stock or such Common Stock under any applicable U.S. federal or state securities law then in effect. Each certificate or other instrument for Warrant Stock issued upon the exercise of this Warrant or Common Stock issued upon the conversion of such Warrant Stock shall bear a legend substantially to the foregoing effect.

(b)     Transferability . Subject to the provisions of Section 5(a) hereof and any other transfer restrictions set forth in any agreement or arrangement to which the Registered Holder is party, this Warrant and all rights hereunder are transferable, in whole or in part, upon surrender of the Warrant with a properly executed assignment (in the form of Exhibit  B hereto) at the principal office of the Company.

(c)     Warrant Register . The Company will maintain a register containing the names and addresses of the Registered Holders of this Warrant. Until any transfer of this Warrant is made in the warrant register, the Company may treat the Registered Holder of this Warrant as the absolute owner hereof for all purposes; provided, however , that if this Warrant is properly assigned in blank, the Company may (but shall not be required to) treat the bearer hereof as the absolute owner hereof for all purposes, notwithstanding any notice to the contrary. Any Registered Holder may change such Registered Holder’s address as shown on the warrant register by written notice to the Company requesting such change.

6.     No Impairment . The Company will not, by amendment of its charter or through reorganization, consolidation, merger, dissolution, sale of assets or any other voluntary action, avoid or seek to avoid the observance or performance of any of the terms of this Warrant, but will (subject to Section 15 below) at all times in good faith assist in the carrying out of all such terms and in the taking of all such action as may be necessary or appropriate in order to protect the rights of the holder of this Warrant against impairment.

7.     Termination . This Warrant (and the right to purchase securities upon exercise hereof) shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of the following (the “ Expiration Date ”): (a) November 5, 2021 or (b) a Liquidation Event (as defined in the Restated Certificate). The Company shall give the Registered Holder at least ten (10) days prior written notice of a Liquidation Event so that the Registered Holder will have an opportunity to exercise this Warrant in connection with (and subject to consummation of) such Liquidation Event.

8.     Notices of Certain Transactions . In case:

(a)    the Company shall take a record of the holders of its Preferred Stock (or other stock or securities at the time deliverable upon the exercise of this Warrant) for the purpose of entitling or enabling them to receive any dividend or other distribution, or to receive any right to subscribe for or purchase any shares of stock of any class or any other securities, or to receive any other right, to subscribe for or purchase any shares of stock of any class or any other securities, or to receive any other right, or

 

6


(b)    of any capital reorganization of the Company, any reclassification of the capital stock of the Company, any consolidation or merger of the Company, any consolidation or merger of the Company with or into another corporation (other than a consolidation or merger in which the Company is the surviving entity), or any transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, or

(c)    of the voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Company, or

(d)    of any redemption of the Preferred Stock or mandatory conversion of the Preferred Stock into Common Stock of the Company,

then, and in each such case, the Company will mail or cause to be mailed to the Registered Holder of this Warrant a notice specifying, as the case may be, (i) the date on which a record is to be taken for the purpose of such dividend, distribution or right, and stating the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, or (ii) the effective date on which such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation, winding-up, redemption or conversion is to take place, and the time, if any is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Preferred Stock (or such other stock or securities at the time deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation, winding-up, redemption or conversion) are to be determined. Such notice shall be mailed at least ten (10) days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice.

9.     Reservation of Stock . The Company will at all times reserve and keep available, solely for the issuance and delivery upon the exercise of this Warrant, such shares of Warrant Stock and other stock, securities and property (to the extent such securities or property, as the case may be, are then identifiable) as from time to time shall be issuable upon the exercise of this Warrant.

10.     Exchange of Warrants . Upon the surrender by the Registered Holder of any Warrant or Warrants, properly endorsed, to the Company at the principal office of the Company, the Company will, subject to the provisions of Section 5 hereof, issue and deliver to or upon the order of such Holder, at the Company’s expense, a new Warrant or Warrants of like tenor, in the name of such Registered Holder or as such Registered Holder (upon payment by such Registered Holder of any applicable transfer taxes) may direct, calling in the aggregate on the face or faces thereof for the number of shares of Preferred Stock called for on the face or faces of the Warrant or Warrants so surrendered, or (if applicable) calculated in accordance with Section 2 above.

11.     Replacement of Warrants . Upon receipt of evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Company of the loss, theft, destruction or mutilation of this Warrant and (in the case of loss, theft or destruction) upon delivery of an indemnity agreement in an amount reasonably satisfactory to the Company, or (in the case of mutilation) upon surrender and cancellation of this Warrant, the Company will issue, in lieu thereof, a new Warrant of like tenor.

12.     Mailing of Notices . Any notice required or permitted pursuant to this Warrant shall be in writing and shall be deemed effectively given: (a) upon receipt, when delivered

 

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personally or sent by courier (b) one (1) day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt, (c) when sent by confirmed electronic mail or facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, if not, then on the next business day, or (d) forty-eight (48) hours after being deposited in the regular mail, as certified or registered mail (airmail if sent internationally). All communications shall be sent to the Company or the Registered Holder at the addresses, facsimile numbers or email addresses listed on the signature page hereto, or at such other address, facsimile number or email address as the Company or the Registered Holder may designate by ten (10) days advance written notice to the other parties hereto.

13.     No Rights as Shareholder . Until the exercise of this Warrant, the Registered Holder of this Warrant shall not have or exercise any rights by virtue hereof as a shareholder of the Company.

14.     No Fractional Shares . No fractional shares of Warrant Stock will be issued in connection with any exercise hereunder. In lieu of any fractional shares which would otherwise be issuable, the Company shall pay cash equal to the product of such fraction multiplied by the fair market value of one share of Warrant Stock on the date of exercise, as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors.

15.     Amendment or Waiver . Any term of this Warrant may be amended or waived upon written consent of the Company and the holders of at least 2/3 of the Warrant Stock issuable upon exercise of all outstanding warrants purchased pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. By acceptance hereof, the Registered Holder acknowledges that in the event the required consent is obtained, any term of this Warrant may be amended or waived with or without the consent of the Registered Holder; provided, however , that any amendment hereof that would materially adversely affect the Registered Holder in a manner different from the holders of the remaining warrants issued pursuant to the Purchase Agreement shall also require the consent of Registered Holder.

16.     Headings . The headings in this Warrant are for purposes of reference only and shall not limit or otherwise affect the meaning of any provision of this Warrant.

17.     Governing Law . This Warrant and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be governed, construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to principles of conflicts of law.

[ Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank ]

 

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I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the Company has caused this Warrant to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of November 5, 2014.

 

COMPANY:
AVEDRO, INC.
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

Address:

Fax:  
Email:  
AGREED TO AND ACCEPTED:
By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  
Address:  
Fax:  
Email:  

 

S IGNATURE P AGE TO W ARRANT


EXHIBIT A

PURCHASE/EXERCISE FORM

 

To:   Avedro, Inc.

                           Dated:                     

The undersigned, pursuant to the provisions set forth in the attached Warrant No. W-        , hereby irrevocably elects to (a) purchase                  shares of                      (the “ Warrant Stock ”) covered by such Warrant and herewith makes payment of $        , representing the full exercise price for such shares at the price per share provided for in such Warrant, or (b) exercise such Warrant for                  shares purchasable under the Warrant pursuant to the Net Issue Exercise provisions of Section 3(c) of such Warrant.

The undersigned acknowledges that it has reviewed the representations and warranties contained in Section 3 of the Purchase Agreement (as defined in the Warrant) and by its signature below hereby makes such representations and warranties to the Company. Defined terms contained in such representations and warranties shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Purchase Agreement, provided that the term “Purchaser” shall refer to the undersigned and the term “Securities” shall refer to the Warrant Stock and, if applicable, the Common Stock of the Company issuable upon conversion of the Warrant Stock.

The undersigned further acknowledges that it has reviewed and agrees to be bound by the market standoff provisions applicable to the Warrant Stock, and agrees that it will promptly execute and deliver to the Company all transaction documents related to the issuance of Warrant Stock to which the undersigned is not already a party.

 

Signature:                                                                  
Name (print):                                                             
Title (if applic.):                                                        
Company (if applic.):                                                


EXHIBIT B

ASSIGNMENT FORM

FOR VALUE RECEIVED,                                         hereby sells, assigns and transfers all of the rights of the undersigned under the attached Warrant with respect to the number of shares of Warrant Stock covered thereby set forth below, unto:

 

Name of Assignee

   Address/Facsimile Number      No. of Shares  
     
     
     

 

Dated:                          Signature:  

 

     

 

    Witness:  

 

Exhibit 4.4

THIS WARRANT, AND THE SECURITIES ISSUABLE UPON THE EXERCISE OF THIS WARRANT, HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “ACT”), OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS. THEY MAY NOT BE SOLD, OFFERED FOR SALE, PLEDGED, OR HYPOTHECATED IN THE ABSENCE OF AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATED THERETO OR AN OPINION OF COUNSEL (WHICH MAY BE COMPANY COUNSEL) REASONABLY SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED UNDER THE ACT, OR ANY APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS.

WARRANT AGREEMENT

To Purchase Shares of Preferred Stock of

AVEDRO, INC.

Dated as of December 22, 2015 (the “ Effective Date ”)

WHEREAS, Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation, has entered into a Loan and Security Agreement dated as of September 11, 2014 (the “ Loan Agreement ”) with Hercules Technology Growth Capital, Inc., a Maryland corporation, in its capacity as administrative agent, Hercules Technology III, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Warrantholder ”) and the other lender parties thereto;

WHEREAS, in connection with the Loan Agreement, the Company and the Warrantholder entered into a Warrant Agreement dated as of September 11, 2014 (the “ Original Warrant Agreement ”) pursuant to which the Company granted to Warrantholder the right to purchase shares of the Company’s Series D Stock or Next Preferred Round Series of Preferred Stock (each as defined in the Original Warrant Agreement);

WHEREAS, on November 13, 2015, the Company (i) underwent a recapitalization pursuant to which all of the outstanding shares of the Company’s Preferred Stock were converted to Common Stock (the “ Recapitalization ” ) (ii) adopted a Seventh Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation altering the authorized stock of the Company such that the Company is authorized to issue Common Stock and Series AA Preferred Stock; and (iii) issued and sold to investors shares of the Company’s Series AA Preferred Stock (the “ Series AA Financing ”);

WHEREAS, in connection with the Recapitalization and Series AA Financing, the Company (as defined below) and the Warrantholder desire to terminate and cancel the Original Warrant Agreement and the Company desires to grant to Warrantholder, in consideration for, among other things, the financial accommodations provided for in the Loan Agreement and the termination of the Original Warrant Agreement, the right to purchase shares of Preferred Stock (as defined below) pursuant to this Warrant Agreement (the “ Agreement ”);

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the Warrantholder providing the financial accommodations contemplated in the Loan Agreement, cancelling the Original Warrant Agreement and entering into the Warrant Agreement, and in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, the Company and Warrantholder agree as follows:

SECTION 1.     GRANT OF THE RIGHT TO PURCHASE PREFERRED STOCK.

For value received, the Company hereby grants to the Warrantholder, and the Warrantholder is entitled, upon the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, to subscribe for and purchase, from the Company, an aggregate number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of the Preferred Stock equal to the quotient derived by dividing (a) the Warrant Coverage (as defined below) by (b) the Exercise Price (as defined below). The Exercise Price of such shares is subject to adjustment as provided in Section 8. As used herein, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Company ” means Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any successor or surviving entity that assumes the obligations of the Company under this Agreement pursuant to Section 8(a).


Charter ” means the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or other constitutional document, as may be amended from time to time.

Common Stock ” means the Company’s common stock, $0.00001 par value per share.

Exercise Price ” means the Series AA Price.

Initial Public Offering ” means the initial underwritten public offering of the Company’s Common Stock pursuant to a registration statement under the Act, which public offering has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“ SEC ”).

Merger Event ” means any sale, lease or other transfer of all or substantially all assets of the Company or any merger or consolidation involving the Company in which the Company is not the surviving entity, or in which the outstanding shares of the Company’s capital stock are otherwise converted into or exchanged for shares of preferred stock, other securities or property of another entity.

Preferred Stock ” means Series AA Stock; provided , further , that, subject to provisions of Section 8(f) below, upon and after the occurrence of an event which results in the automatic or voluntary conversion, redemption or retirement of all (but not less than all) of the outstanding shares of such Preferred Stock, including, without limitation, pursuant to the consummation of an Initial Public Offering, then from and after the date upon which such outstanding shares are so converted, redeemed or retired, “Preferred Stock” shall mean the Common Stock.

Purchase Price ” means, with respect to any exercise of this Agreement, an amount equal to the Exercise Price as of the relevant time multiplied by the number of shares of Preferred Stock requested to be exercised under this Agreement pursuant to such exercise.

Series AA Stock ” means the Company’s Series AA Preferred Stock, $0.00001 par value per share, as presently constituted under the Charter, and any other class, series or other designation of security into or for which such Series AA Preferred Stock is converted, substituted or exchanged pursuant to a reorganization, reclassification, recapitalization or similar transaction.

Series AA Price ” means $1.00 per share, as may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with the provisions of the Charter.

Warrant Coverage ” means $300,000.00.

SECTION 2.     TERM OF THE AGREEMENT.

Except as otherwise provided for herein, the term of this Agreement and the right to purchase Preferred Stock as granted herein (the “ Warrant ”) shall commence on the Effective Date and shall be exercisable for a period ending upon the later to occur of (i) September 11, 2024; or (ii) if the Initial Public Offering shall be consummated on or before September 11, 2024, five (5) years after the Initial Public Offering.

SECTION 3.     EXERCISE OF THE PURCHASE RIGHTS.

(a)     Exercise . The purchase rights set forth in this Agreement are exercisable by the Warrantholder, in whole or in part, at any time, or from time to time, prior to the expiration of the term set forth in Section 2, by tendering to the Company at its principal office a notice of exercise in the form attached hereto as Exhibit I (the “ Notice of Exercise ”), duly completed and executed. Promptly upon receipt of the Notice of Exercise and the payment of the Purchase Price in accordance with the terms set forth below, and in no event later than three (3) business days thereafter, the Company shall issue to the Warrantholder a certificate for the number of shares of Preferred Stock purchased and shall execute the acknowledgment of exercise in the form attached hereto as Exhibit II (the “ Acknowledgment of Exercise ”) indicating the number of shares which remain subject to future purchases, if any.

 

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The Purchase Price may be paid at the Warrantholder’s election either (i) by cash or check, or (ii) by surrender of all or a portion of the Warrant for shares of Preferred Stock to be exercised under this Agreement and, if applicable, an amended Agreement representing the remaining number of shares purchasable hereunder, as determined below (“ Net Issuance ”). If the Warrantholder elects the Net Issuance method, the Company will issue Preferred Stock in accordance with the following formula:

 

     

X =  Y(A-B)

              A

Where:    X =    the number of shares of Preferred Stock to be issued to the Warrantholder.
   Y =    the number of shares of Preferred Stock requested to be exercised under this Agreement.
   A =    the fair market value of one (1) share of Preferred Stock at the time of issuance of such shares of Preferred Stock.
   B =    the Exercise Price.

For purposes of the above calculation, current fair market value of Preferred Stock shall mean with respect to each share of Preferred Stock:

(i)    if the exercise is in connection with an Initial Public Offering, and if the Company’s Registration Statement relating to such Initial Public Offering has been declared effective by the SEC, then the fair market value per share shall be the product of (x) the initial “Price to Public” of the Common Stock specified in the final prospectus with respect to the offering and (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Preferred Stock is convertible at the time of such exercise;

(ii)    if the exercise is after, and not in connection with an Initial Public Offering, the fair market value shall be deemed to be the product of (x) the average closing price of a share of Common Stock over the five (5) day trading period ending three (3) days prior to the date of the Warrantholder’s Notice of Exercise (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Preferred Stock is convertible at the time of such exercise

(iii)    if at any time the Common Stock is not listed on any securities exchange, the current fair market value of Preferred Stock shall be the product of (x) either (1) the fair market value of one (1) share of Preferred Stock, as determined pursuant to any third party valuation of the Preferred Stock (such as a 409A valuation or goodwill impairment valuation) regularly prepared in the ordinary course of the Company’s business (a “regularly prepared valuation”) if such regularly prepared valuation purports to value the Preferred Stock as of any date that is within twelve (12) months of the applicable date of determination or (2) if there is no such regularly prepared valuation within the immediately preceding twelve (12) months of the date of determination, any third party valuation conducted by an appraiser experienced in business valuations and chosen by the Board for the purposes of determining current fair market value of Preferred Stock under this Warrant and (y) the number of shares of Common Stock into which each share of Preferred Stock is convertible at the time of such exercise, unless the Company shall become subject to a Merger Event, in which case the fair market value of Preferred Stock shall be deemed to be the per share value of the shares of preferred stock, other securities or property of the acquiring entity received by the holders of the Company’s Preferred Stock on a common equivalent basis pursuant to such Merger Event.

Upon partial exercise by either cash or Net Issuance, the Company shall promptly issue an amended Agreement representing the remaining number of shares purchasable hereunder. All other terms and conditions of such amended Agreement shall be identical to those contained herein, including, but not limited to the Effective Date hereof.

(b)     Exercise Prior to Expiration . To the extent this Agreement is not previously exercised as to all Preferred Stock subject hereto, and if the fair market value of one share of the Preferred Stock is greater than the Exercise Price then in effect, this Agreement shall be deemed automatically

 

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exercised pursuant to Section 3(a) (even if not surrendered) immediately before its expiration. For purposes of such automatic exercise, the fair market value of one share of the Preferred Stock upon such expiration shall be determined pursuant to Section 3(a). To the extent this Agreement or any portion thereof is deemed automatically exercised pursuant to this Section 3(b), the Company agrees to promptly notify the Warrantholder of the number of shares of Preferred Stock, if any, the Warrantholder is to receive by reason of such automatic exercise.

SECTION 4.     RESERVATION OF SHARES.

During the term of this Agreement, the Company will at all times have authorized and reserved a sufficient number of shares of its Preferred Stock to provide for the exercise of the rights to purchase Preferred Stock as provided for herein, and shall have authorized and reserved a sufficient number of shares of its Common Stock to provide for the conversion of the shares of Preferred Stock issuable hereunder.

SECTION 5.     NO FRACTIONAL SHARES OR SCRIP.

No fractional shares or scrip representing fractional shares shall be issued upon the exercise of this Agreement, but in lieu of such fractional shares the Company shall make a cash payment therefor upon the basis of the then fair market value of one share of Preferred Stock (as determined in accordance with Section 3(a) above).

SECTION 6.     NO RIGHTS AS SHAREHOLDER/STOCKHOLDER.

This Agreement does not entitle the Warrantholder to any voting rights or other rights as a stockholder of the Company prior to the exercise of this Agreement.

SECTION 7.     WARRANTHOLDER REGISTRY.

The Company shall maintain a registry showing the name and address of the registered holder of this Agreement. Warrantholder’s initial address, for purposes of such registry, is set forth below Warrantholder’s signature on this Agreement. Warrantholder may change such address by giving written notice of such changed address to the Company pursuant to Section 13(d).

SECTION 8.     ADJUSTMENT RIGHTS.

The Exercise Price and the number of shares of Preferred Stock purchasable hereunder are subject to adjustment, as follows:

(a)     Merger Event . If at any time there shall be Merger Event, then, as a part of such Merger Event, lawful provision shall be made so that the Warrantholder shall thereafter be entitled to receive, upon exercise of this Agreement, the number of shares of preferred stock or other securities or property (collectively, “ Reference Property ”) that the Warrantholder would have received in connection with such Merger Event if Warrantholder had exercised this Agreement immediately prior to the Merger Event. In any such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors) shall be made in the application of the provisions of this Agreement with respect to the rights and interests of the Warrantholder after the Merger Event to the end that the provisions of this Agreement (including adjustments of the Exercise Price and adjustments to ensure that the provisions of this Section 8 shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as possible, to the purchase rights under this Agreement in relation to any Reference Property thereafter acquirable upon exercise of such purchase rights) shall continue to be applicable in their entirety, and to the greatest extent possible. Without limiting the foregoing, in connection with any Merger Event, upon the closing thereof, the successor or surviving entity shall assume the obligations of this Agreement; provided that the foregoing assumption requirement shall not apply if the consideration to be paid for or in respect of the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock in such Merger Event consists solely of cash and/or readily marketable securities and in connection with any such Merger Event in which consideration consists solely of cash and/or readily marketable securities, the Warrant will be deemed to be exercised contingent upon the closing of such Merger Event. In connection with a Merger Event and upon Warrantholder’s written election to the Company, the Company shall cause this Warrant Agreement to be exchanged for the consideration that Warrantholder would have received if Warrantholder

 

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had chosen to exercise its right to have shares issued pursuant to the Net Issuance provisions of this Warrant Agreement without actually exercising such right, acquiring such shares, and exchanging such shares for such consideration. If the successor or surviving entity in a Merger Event shall refuse to assume the obligations of the Company pursuant to this Agreement, the Company shall give the Warrantholder written notice of at least five (5) business days prior to the closing of the Merger Event of such fact and the Warrantholder shall have the option to put this Warrant to the Company for a per share amount equal to the difference between the fair market value of the Merger Event consideration (as reasonably determined by the Company’s board) payable for one share of Preferred Stock and the Exercise Price.

(b)     Reclassification of Shares . Except for Merger Events subject to Section 8(a) and subject to Section 8(f), if the Company at any time shall, by combination, reclassification, reorganization, exchange or subdivision of securities or otherwise, change any of the securities as to which purchase rights under this Agreement exist into the same or a different number of securities of any other class or classes, this Agreement shall thereafter represent the right to acquire such number and kind of securities as would have been issuable as the result of such change with respect to the securities which were subject to the purchase rights under this Agreement immediately prior to such combination, reclassification, exchange, subdivision or other change. The provisions of this Section 8(b) shall similarly apply to successive combination, reclassification, exchange, subdivision or other change.

(c)     Subdivision or Combination of Shares . If the Company at any time shall combine or subdivide its Preferred Stock, (i) in the case of a subdivision, the Exercise Price shall be proportionately decreased and the number of shares of Preferred Stock issuable hereunder shall be proportionately increased, or (ii) in the case of a combination, the Exercise Price shall be proportionately increased and the number of shares of Preferred Stock issuable hereunder shall be proportionately decreased.

(d)     Stock Dividends . If the Company at any time while this Agreement is outstanding and unexpired shall:

(i)    pay a dividend with respect to the Preferred Stock payable in Preferred Stock, then the Exercise Price shall be adjusted, from and after the date of determination of shareholders entitled to receive such dividend or distribution, to that price determined by multiplying the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such date of determination by a fraction (A) the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding immediately prior to such dividend or distribution, and (B) the denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding immediately after such dividend or distribution; or

(ii)    make any other distribution with respect to Preferred Stock (or stock into which the Preferred Stock is convertible), except any distribution specifically provided for in any other clause of this Section 8, then, in each such case, provision shall be made by the Company such that the Warrantholder shall receive upon exercise or conversion of this Warrant a proportionate share of any such distribution as though it were the holder of the Preferred Stock (or other stock for which the Preferred Stock is convertible) as of the record date fixed for the determination of the stockholders of the Company entitled to receive such distribution.

(e)     Antidilution Rights . Additional antidilution rights applicable to the Preferred Stock purchasable hereunder are as set forth in the Charter and shall be applicable with respect to the Preferred Stock issuable hereunder. The Company shall promptly provide the Warrantholder with any restatement, amendment, modification or waiver of the Charter; provided , that no such amendment, modification or waiver shall impair or reduce the antidilution rights applicable to the Preferred Stock as of the date hereof unless such amendment, modification or waiver affects the rights of Warrantholder with respect to the Preferred Stock in the same manner as it affects all other holders of such Preferred Stock. The Company shall provide Warrantholder with prior written notice of any issuance of its stock or other equity security to occur after the Effective Date of this Agreement, which notice shall include (a) the price at which such stock or security is to be sold, (b) the number of shares to be issued, and (c) such other information as necessary for Warrantholder to determine if a dilutive event has occurred. For the avoidance of doubt, there shall be no duplicate anti-dilution adjustment pursuant to the forgoing subsections (c) or (d) or this subsection (e), and the Charter.

 

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(f)     “Pay to Play” Rights . In the event that any “pay to play” terms or conditions (i.e. terms or conditions that require a holder of the Preferred Stock to purchase securities in a future round of equity financing or else lose the benefit of anti-dilution protections or other rights applicable to shares of Preferred Stock or have such shares of Preferred Stock automatically convert into Common Stock or another class or series of capital stock) in the Charter are triggered in connection with any Equity Round (a “ Trigger Event ”), then, in each such event, the purchase rights under this Agreement shall automatically adjust to provide the Warrantholder, upon the later exercise hereof, with the same securities and/or rights that the Warrantholder would have received had the Warrantholder (x) exercised this Warrant prior to such Trigger Event, and (y) participated in the applicable equity financing in an amount sufficient to be deemed to have fully participated for purposes of such “pay to play” provision.

(g)     Notice of Adjustments . If: (i) the Company shall declare any dividend or distribution upon its stock, whether in stock, cash, property or other securities; (ii) there shall be any Merger Event; (iv) there shall be an Initial Public Offering; (iii) the Company shall sell, lease, license or otherwise transfer all or substantially all of its assets; or (iv) there shall be any voluntary dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Company; then, in connection with each such event, the Company shall send to the Warrantholder: (A) at least twenty (20) days’ prior written notice of the date on which the books of the Company shall close or a record shall be taken for such dividend, distribution, subscription rights (specifying the date on which the holders of Preferred Stock shall be entitled thereto) or for determining rights to vote in respect of such Merger Event, dissolution, liquidation or winding up; (B) in the case of any such Merger Event, sale, lease, license or other transfer of all or substantially all assets, dissolution, liquidation or winding up, at least twenty (20) days’ prior written notice of the date when the same shall take place (and specifying the date on which the holders of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to exchange their Preferred Stock for securities or other property deliverable upon such Merger Event, dissolution, liquidation or winding up); and (C) in the case of an Initial Public Offering, the Company shall give the Warrantholder at least twenty (20) days’ written notice prior to the effective date thereof.

Each such written notice shall set forth, in reasonable detail, (i) the event requiring the notice, and (ii) if any adjustment is required to be made, (A) the amount of such adjustment, (B) the method by which such adjustment was calculated, (C) the adjusted Exercise Price (if the Exercise Price has been adjusted), and (D) the number of shares subject to purchase hereunder after giving effect to such adjustment, and shall be given in accordance with Section 13(g) below.

(h)     Timely Notice . Failure to timely provide such notice required by subsection (f) above shall entitle Warrantholder to retain the benefit of the applicable notice period notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in any insufficient notice received by Warrantholder. For purposes of this subsection (g), and notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 13(g), the notice period shall begin on the date Warrantholder actually receives a written notice containing all the information required to be provided in such subsection (f).

SECTION 9.     REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY.

(a)     Reservation of Preferred Stock . The Preferred Stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrantholder’s rights has been duly and validly reserved and, when issued in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable, and will be free of any taxes, liens, charges or encumbrances of any nature whatsoever; provided , that the Preferred Stock issuable pursuant to this Agreement may be subject to restrictions on transfer hereunder and under state and/or federal securities laws. The Company has made available to the Warrantholder true, correct and complete copies of its current Charter bylaws and current capitalization table. The issuance of certificates for shares of Preferred Stock upon exercise of this Agreement shall be made without charge to the Warrantholder for any issuance tax in respect thereof, or other cost incurred by the Company in connection with such exercise and the related issuance of shares of Preferred Stock; provided , that the Company shall not be required to pay any tax which may be payable in respect of any transfer and the issuance and delivery of any certificate in a name other than that of the Warrantholder.

 

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(b)     Due Authority . The execution and delivery by the Company of this Agreement and the performance of all obligations of the Company hereunder, including the issuance to Warrantholder of the right to acquire the shares of Preferred Stock and the Common Stock into which it may be converted, have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of the Company. This Agreement: (1) does not violate the Company’s Charter or current bylaws; (2) does not contravene any law or governmental rule, regulation or order applicable to it; and (3) does not and will not contravene any provision of, or constitute a default under, any indenture, mortgage, contract or other instrument to which it is a party or by which it is bound. This Agreement constitutes a legal, valid and binding agreement of the Company, enforceable in accordance with its terms.

(c)     Consents and Approvals . No consent or approval of, giving of notice to, registration with, or taking of any other action in respect of any state, federal or other governmental authority or agency is required with respect to the execution, delivery and performance by the Company of its obligations under this Agreement, except for the filing of notices pursuant to Regulation D under the Act and any filing required by applicable state securities law, which filings will be effective by the time required thereby.

(d)     Issued Securities . All issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock, Preferred Stock or any other securities of the Company have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and nonassessable. All outstanding shares of Common Stock, Preferred Stock and any other securities were issued in full compliance with all federal and state securities laws. In addition, as of the date immediately preceding the date of this Agreement:

(i)    The authorized capital of the Company consists of (A) 48,000,000 shares of Common Stock, and (B) 32,300,000 shares of Preferred Stock, all of which are Series AA Preferred Stock.

(ii)    The Company’s capitalization as of the date of this Agreement is set forth on Schedule 1 annexed hereto. The Company does not own any stock, partnership interest or other securities of any Person, except for Permitted Investments (as defined in the Loan Agreement).

(e)     Registration Rights . That certain Fifth Amended and Restated Investors Rights Agreement dated as of November 13, 2015, as hereinafter amended (the “ Investors Rights Agreement ”) provides, and the Company covenants that the Investors Rights Agreement will, during the term of the Warrant, provide, that the shares of Common Stock issued and issuable upon conversion of the shares of Preferred Stock issued and issuable upon exercise of this Warrant, and, at all times (if any) when the Preferred Stock shall be Common Stock, the shares of Preferred Stock issued and issuable upon exercise of this Warrant, shall have the “Piggyback,” and S-3 registration rights on a pari passu basis with the holders of outstanding shares of Preferred Stock who are parties thereto. The provisions set forth in the Investors Rights Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived without the prior written consent of the Warrantholder unless such amendment, modification or waiver affects the rights associated with the shares of Preferred Stock issued and issuable upon exercise hereof in the same manner as such amendment, modification, or waiver affects the rights associated with all outstanding shares of such Preferred Stock whose holders are parties thereto.

(f)     Other Commitments to Register Securities . Except as set forth in this Agreement and the Investors Rights Agreement, the Company is not, pursuant to the terms of any other agreement currently in existence, under any obligation to register under the Act any of its presently outstanding securities or any of its securities which may hereafter be issued.

(g)     Exempt Transaction . Subject to the accuracy of the Warrantholder’s representations in Section 10, the issuance of the Preferred Stock upon exercise of this Agreement, and the issuance of the Common Stock upon conversion of the Preferred Stock, will each constitute a transaction exempt from (i) the registration requirements of Section 5 of the Act, in reliance upon Section 4(2) thereof, and (ii) the qualification requirements of the applicable state securities laws.

 

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(h)     Compliance with Rule 144 . The Company shall, at all times prior to the earlier to occur of (x) the date of sale or other disposition by Warrantholder of this Warrant or all shares of Common Stock issued on exercise of this Warrant, (y) the registration pursuant to subsection (g) above of the shares issued on exercise of this Warrant, or (z) the expiration or earlier termination of this Warrant if the Warrant has not been exercised in full or in part on such date, use all commercially reasonable efforts to timely file all reports required under the 1934 Act and otherwise timely take all actions necessary to permit the Warrantholder to sell or otherwise dispose of this Warrant and the shares of Common Stock issued on exercise hereof pursuant to Rule 144 promulgated under the Act as amended and in effect from time to time, provided that the foregoing shall not apply in the event of a Merger Event following which the successor or surviving entity is not subject to the reporting requirements of the 1934 Act. If the Warrantholder proposes to sell Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of this Agreement in compliance with Rule 144, then, upon Warrantholder’s written request to the Company, the Company shall furnish to the Warrantholder, within five (5) business days after receipt of such request, a written statement confirming the Company’s compliance with the filing and other requirements of such Rule.

(i)     Information Rights . During the term of this Warrant, Warrantholder shall be entitled to the information rights contained in Section 7.1 of the Loan Agreement, and Section 7.1 of the Loan Agreement is hereby incorporated into this Agreement by this reference as though fully set forth herein for so long as any Indebtedness (as defined in the Loan Agreement) owed by the Company to Warrantholder remains outstanding. Once all Indebtedness has been repaid, the Warrantholder shall be entitled to the same information rights as it would be entitled to pursuant to the Investors Rights Agreement if it exercised the Warrant in full; and if not otherwise provided, the Company shall provide the Warrantholder with the information required to be provided pursuant to and in accordance with Section 7.1(a), (b), and (c) of the Loan Agreement.

SECTION 10.     REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS OF THE WARRANTHOLDER.

This Agreement has been entered into by the Company in reliance upon the following representations and covenants of the Warrantholder:

(a)     Investment Purpose . The right to acquire Preferred Stock is being acquired for investment and not with a view to the sale or distribution of any part thereof, and the Warrantholder has no present intention of selling or engaging in any public distribution of such rights or the Preferred Stock except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Act.

(b)     Private Issue . The Warrantholder understands (i) that the Preferred Stock issuable upon exercise of this Agreement is not registered under the Act or qualified under applicable state securities laws on the ground that the issuance contemplated by this Agreement will be exempt from the registration and qualifications requirements thereof, and (ii) that the Company’s reliance on such exemption is predicated on the representations set forth in this Section 10.

(c)     Financial Risk . The Warrantholder has such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of its investment, and has the ability to bear the economic risks of its investment.

(d)     Risk of No Registration . The Warrantholder understands that if the Company does not register with the SEC pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “ 1934 Act ”), or file reports pursuant to Section 15(d) of the 1934 Act, or if a registration statement covering the securities under the Act is not in effect when it desires to sell (i) the rights to purchase Preferred Stock pursuant to this Agreement or (ii) the Preferred Stock issuable upon exercise of the right to purchase, it may be required to hold such securities for an indefinite period. The Warrantholder also understands that any sale of (A) its rights hereunder to purchase Preferred Stock or (B) Preferred Stock issued or issuable hereunder which might be made by it in reliance upon Rule 144 under the Act may be made only in accordance with the terms and conditions of that Rule.

 

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(e)     Accredited Investor . Warrantholder is an “accredited investor” within the meaning of the Securities and Exchange Rule 501 of Regulation D, as presently in effect.

(f)     “Market Stand-Off” Agreement .

(i)    The Warrantholder hereby agrees that it will not, without the prior written consent of the managing underwriter, during the period commencing on the date of the final prospectus relating to the Company’s Initial Public Offering and ending on the date specified by the Company and the managing underwriter (such period not to exceed one hundred eighty (l80) days) (A) lend, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock (whether such shares or any such securities are then owned by the Warrantholder or are thereafter acquired, or (B) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of the Common Stock, whether any such transaction described in clause (A) or (B) above is to be settled by delivery of Common Stock or other securities, in cash or otherwise. For the avoidance of doubt, notwithstanding the foregoing, the Warrantholder may exercise the Warrant at any time in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. The foregoing provisions of this Section 10(f) shall apply only to the Company’s initial offering of equity securities, shall not apply to the sale of any shares to an underwriter pursuant to an underwriting agreement, and shall only be applicable to the Warrantholder if all officers, directors and greater than one percent (1%) stockholders of the Company enter into similar agreements. The underwriters in connection with the Company’s Initial Public Offering are intended third-party beneficiaries of this Section 10(f) and shall have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions hereof as though they were a party hereto. The Warrantholder further agrees to execute such agreements as may be reasonably requested by the underwriters in the Company’s Initial Public Offering that are consistent with this Section 10(f) or that are necessary to give further effect thereto. In addition, if (x) during the last seventeen (17) days of the one hundred eighty (180) day restricted period, the Company issues an earnings release or material news or a material event relating to the Company occurs; or (y) prior to the expiration of the one hundred eighty (180) day restricted period, the Company announces that it will release earnings results during the sixteen (16) day period beginning on the last day of the one hundred eighty (180) day period, the restrictions imposed by this Section 10(f)(i) shall continue to apply until the expiration of the eighteen (18) day period beginning on the issuance of the earnings release or the occurrence of the material news or material event.

In order to enforce the foregoing covenant, the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the securities of the Warrantholder (and the shares or securities of every other person subject to the foregoing restriction) until the end of such period.

(ii)    The Warrantholder agrees that a legend reading substantially as follows shall be placed on all certificates representing all securities of the Warrantholder (and the shares or securities of every other person subject to the restriction contained in this Section 10(f)):

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO A LOCK-UP PERIOD OF UP TO 180 DAYS AFTER THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE ISSUER’S REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, AS AMENDED, AS SET FORTH IN AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE ORIGINAL HOLDER OF THESE SECURITIES, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE ISSUER’S PRINCIPAL OFFICE. SUCH LOCK-UP PERIOD IS BINDING ON TRANSFEREES OF THESE SHARES.

 

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SECTION 11.     TRANSFERS.

Subject to compliance with applicable federal and state securities laws, this Agreement and all rights hereunder are transferable, in whole or in part, without charge to the holder hereof (except for transfer taxes) upon surrender of this Agreement properly endorsed. Each taker and holder of this Agreement, by taking or holding the same, consents and agrees that this Agreement, when endorsed in blank, shall be deemed negotiable, and that the holder hereof, when this Agreement shall have been so endorsed and its transfer recorded on the Company’s books, shall be treated by the Company and all other persons dealing with this Agreement as the absolute owner hereof for any purpose and as the person entitled to exercise the rights represented by this Agreement. The transfer of this Agreement shall be recorded on the books of the Company upon receipt by the Company of a notice of transfer in the form attached hereto as Exhibit III (the “ Transfer Notice ”), at its principal offices and the payment to the Company of all transfer taxes and other governmental charges imposed on such transfer. Until the Company receives such Transfer Notice, the Company may treat the registered owner hereof as the owner for all purposes.

SECTION 12.     Cancellation of Prior Warrant Agreement

Effective as of the date hereof, the Company and the Warrantholder hereby acknowledge and agree that, the Original Warrant Agreement is, and any rights of or remedies available to the Warrantholder under the Original Warrant Agreement are, hereby terminated in all respects.

SECTION 13.     MISCELLANEOUS.

(a)     Effective Date . The provisions of this Agreement shall be construed and shall be given effect in all respects as if it had been executed and delivered by the Company on the date hereof. This Agreement shall be binding upon any successors or assigns of the Company.

(b)     Remedies . In the event of any default hereunder, the non-defaulting party may proceed to protect and enforce its rights either by suit in equity and/or by action at law, including but not limited to an action for damages as a result of any such default, and/or an action for specific performance for any default where Warrantholder will not have an adequate remedy at law and where damages will not be readily ascertainable. The Company expressly agrees that it shall not oppose an application by the Warrantholder or any other person entitled to the benefit of this Agreement requiring specific performance of any or all provisions hereof or enjoining the Company from continuing to commit any such breach of this Agreement.

(c)     No Impairment of Rights . The Company will not, by amendment of its Charter or through any other means, avoid or seek to avoid the observance or performance of any of the terms of this Agreement, but will at all times in good faith assist in the carrying out of all such terms and in the taking of all such actions as may be necessary or appropriate in order to protect the rights of the Warrantholder against impairment.

(d)     Additional Documents . The Company, upon execution of this Agreement, shall provide the Warrantholder with certified resolutions with respect to the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in Sections 9(a) through 9(d), 9(f) and 9(g). Upon request, the Company shall also supply documentation reasonably necessary to evaluate whether to exercise (in cash or a net issuance basis) this Warrant, including without limitation, (i) any merger/purchase/asset sale agreement and related documents and estimated payout allocations to each of the respective shareholders, warrant and option holders in connection with a Merger Event, (ii) the most recent capitalization tables, 409A valuations (if any), and board determination of share value (including any waterfall or per share allocations provided to the share/unitholders), and (iii) most recent articles of incorporation or organization (as applicable).

(e)     Attorney’s Fees . In any litigation, arbitration or court proceeding between the Company and the Warrantholder relating hereto, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses and all reasonable costs of proceedings incurred in enforcing this Agreement. For the purposes of this Section 13(e), attorneys’ fees shall include without limitation fees incurred in connection with the following: (i) contempt proceedings; (ii) discovery; (iii) any motion, proceeding or

 

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other activity of any kind in connection with an insolvency proceeding; (iv) garnishment, levy, and debtor and third party examinations; and (v) post-judgment motions and proceedings of any kind, including without limitation any activity taken to collect or enforce any judgment.

(f)     Severability . In the event any one or more of the provisions of this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall be unimpaired, and the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision shall be replaced by a mutually acceptable valid, legal and enforceable provision, which comes closest to the intention of the parties underlying the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision.

(g)     Notices . Except as otherwise provided herein, any notice, demand, request, consent, approval, declaration, service of process or other communication that is required, contemplated, or permitted under this Agreement or with respect to the subject matter hereof shall be in writing, and shall be deemed to have been validly served, given, delivered, and received upon the earlier of: (i) the day of transmission by facsimile or hand delivery if transmission or delivery occurs on a business day at or before 5:00 pm in the time zone of the recipient, or, if transmission or delivery occurs on a non-business day or after such time, the first business day thereafter, or the first business day after deposit with an overnight express service or overnight mail delivery service; or (ii) the third calendar day after deposit in the United States mails, with proper first class postage prepaid, and shall be addressed to the party to be notified as follows:

If to Warrantholder:

Hercules Technology III, L.P.

Legal Department

Attention:

400 Hamilton Avenue, Suite 310

Palo Alto, California 94301

Facsimile:

Telephone:

With a copy to:

RIEMER & BRAUNSTEIN LLP

Attention: Adam W. Jacobs, Esquire

Three Center Plaza

Boston, Massachusetts 02018

Facsimile:

Telephone:

If to the Company:

AVEDRO, INC.

Attention: Chief Legal Officer

230 Third Avenue

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

Facsimile:

Telephone:

or to such other address as each party may designate for itself by like notice.

(h)     Entire Agreement; Amendments . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement and understanding of the parties hereto in respect of the subject matter hereof, and supersedes and replaces in their entirety any prior proposals, term sheets, letters, negotiations or other documents or agreements, whether written or oral, with respect to the subject matter hereof (including Warrantholder’s proposal letter dated July 23, 2014). None of the terms of this Agreement may be amended except by an instrument executed by each of the parties hereto.

 

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(i)     Headings . The various headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or any provisions hereof.

(j)     No Strict Construction . The parties hereto have participated jointly in the negotiation and drafting of this Agreement. In the event an ambiguity or question of intent or interpretation arises, this Agreement shall be construed as if drafted jointly by the parties hereto and no presumption or burden of proof shall arise favoring or disfavoring any party by virtue of the authorship of any provisions of this Agreement.

(k)     No Waiver . No omission or delay by Warrantholder at any time to enforce any right or remedy reserved to it, or to require performance of any of the terms, covenants or provisions hereof by the Company at any time designated, shall be a waiver of any such right or remedy to which Warrantholder is entitled, nor shall it in any way affect the right of Warrantholder to enforce such provisions thereafter.

(l)     Survival . All agreements, representations and warranties contained in this Agreement or in any document delivered pursuant hereto shall be for the benefit of Warrantholder and shall survive the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the expiration or other termination of this Agreement.

(m)     Governing Law . This Agreement have been negotiated and delivered to Warrantholder in the State of California, and shall have been accepted by Warrantholder in the State of California. Delivery of Preferred Stock to Warrantholder by the Company under this Agreement is due in the State of California. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of California, excluding conflict of laws principles that would cause the application of laws of any other jurisdiction.

(n)     Consent to Jurisdiction and Venue . All judicial proceedings arising in or under or related to this Agreement may be brought in any state or federal court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of California. By execution and delivery of this Agreement, each party hereto generally and unconditionally: (a) consents to personal jurisdiction in Santa Clara County, State of California; (b) waives any objection as to jurisdiction or venue in Santa Clara County, State of California; (c) agrees not to assert any defense based on lack of jurisdiction or venue in the aforesaid courts; and (d) irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment rendered thereby in connection with this Agreement. Service of process on any party hereto in any action arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be effective if given in accordance with the requirements for notice set forth in Section 13(g), and shall be deemed effective and received as set forth in Section 13(g). Nothing herein shall affect the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law or shall limit the right of either party to bring proceedings in the courts of any other jurisdiction.

(o)     Mutual Waiver of Jury Trial . Because disputes arising in connection with complex financial transactions are most quickly and economically resolved by an experienced and expert person and the parties wish applicable state and federal laws to apply (rather than arbitration rules), the parties desire that their disputes be resolved by a judge applying such applicable laws. EACH OF THE COMPANY AND WARRANTHOLDER SPECIFICALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO TRIAL BY JURY OF ANY CAUSE OF ACTION, CLAIM, CROSS-CLAIM, COUNTERCLAIM, THIRD PARTY CLAIM OR ANY OTHER CLAIM (COLLECTIVELY, “CLAIMS”) ASSERTED BY THE COMPANY AGAINST WARRANTHOLDER OR ITS ASSIGNEE OR BY WARRANTHOLDER OR ITS ASSIGNEE AGAINST THE COMPANY. This waiver extends to all such Claims, including Claims that involve Persons other than the Company and Warrantholder; Claims that arise out of or are in any way connected to the relationship between the Company and Warrantholder; and any Claims for damages, breach of contract, specific performance, or any equitable or legal relief of any kind, arising out of this Agreement.

(p)     Judicial Reference . If the waiver of jury trial set forth above is ineffective or unenforceable, the parties agree that all Claims shall be resolved by reference to a private judge sitting

 

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without a jury, pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 638, before a mutually acceptable referee or, if the parties cannot agree, a referee selected by the Presiding Judge of Santa Clara County, California. Such proceeding shall be conducted in Santa Clara County, California, with California rules of evidence and discovery applicable to such proceeding.

(q)     Prejudgment Relief . In the event Claims are to be resolved by arbitration, either party may seek from a court of competent jurisdiction identified in Section 13(n), any prejudgment order, writ or other relief and have such prejudgment order, writ or other relief enforced to the fullest extent permitted by law notwithstanding that all Claims are otherwise subject to resolution by judicial reference.

(r)     Counterparts . This Agreement and any amendments, waivers, consents or supplements hereto may be executed in any number of counterparts, and by different parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so delivered shall be deemed an original, but all of which counterparts shall constitute but one and the same instrument.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by its officers thereunto duly authorized as of the Effective Date.

 

COMPANY:     AVEDRO, INC.
    By:   /s/ Brian K. Roberts
    Name:   Brian K. Roberts
    Title:   CFO
WARRANTHOLDER:    

HERCULES TECHNOLOGY III, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

    By:   Hercules Technology SBIC Management, LLC, its General Partner
    By:  

Hercules Technology Growth Capital, Inc.,

its Manager

    By:   /s/ Ben Bang
    Name:   Ben Bang
    Title:   Senior Counsel

 

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EXHIBIT I

NOTICE OF EXERCISE

To:    AVEDRO, INC.

 

(1)

The undersigned Warrantholder hereby elects to purchase [                  ] shares of the Series AA Preferred Stock of Avedro, Inc., pursuant to the terms of the Agreement dated the [          ] day of [                      ,                       ] (the “Agreement”) between Avedro, Inc. and the Warrantholder, and [CASH PAYMENT: tenders herewith payment of the Purchase Price in full, together with all applicable transfer taxes, if any.] [NET ISSUANCE: elects pursuant to Section 3(a) of the Agreement to effect a Net Issuance.]

 

(2)

Please issue a certificate or certificates representing said shares of Series AA Preferred Stock in the name of the undersigned or in such other name as is specified below.

 

   

 

    (Name)
   

 

    (Address)
WARRANTHOLDER:    

HERCULES TECHNOLOGY III, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

    By:  

Hercules Technology SBIC Management, LLC,

its General Partner

    By:  

Hercules Technology Growth Capital, Inc.,

its Manager

    By:    
    Name:   Ben Bang
    Title:   Senior Counsel

 

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EXHIBIT II

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF EXERCISE

The undersigned [                                          ], hereby acknowledges receipt of the “Notice of Exercise” from Hercules Technology III, L.P., to purchase [                  ] shares of the Series AA Preferred Stock of Avedro, Inc., pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, and further acknowledges that [                  ] shares remain subject to purchase under the terms of the Agreement.

 

COMPANY:     Avedro, Inc.
    By:    
    Title:    
    Date:    

 

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EXHIBIT III

TRANSFER NOTICE

(To transfer or assign the foregoing Agreement execute this form and supply required information. Do not use this form to purchase shares.)

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the foregoing Agreement and all rights evidenced thereby are hereby transferred and assigned to

 

 

  
(Please Print)     
whose address is  

 

  

 

  

 

   Dated:  

 

   Holder’s Signature:  

 

   Holder’s Address:  

 

  

 

 

Signature Guaranteed:  

 

  

NOTE: The signature to this Transfer Notice must correspond with the name as it appears on the face of the Agreement, without alteration or enlargement or any change whatever. Officers of corporations and those acting in a fiduciary or other representative capacity should file proper evidence of authority to assign the foregoing Agreement.

 

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Schedule 1- Capitalization Table

 

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Exhibit 4.5

THIS WARRANT AND THE SECURITIES PURCHASABLE HEREUNDER HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, OFFERED FOR SALE, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED IN THE ABSENCE OF AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED UNDER SAID ACT AND ANY APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS, UNLESS AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE.

AVEDRO, INC.

WARRANT

dated as of March 20, 2017

THIS CERTIFIES THAT, for value received, OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP or its successors or permitted assigns (such Person and such successors and assigns each being the “ Warrant Holder ” with respect to the Warrant held by it), at any time and from time to time on any Business Day on or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time), on the Expiration Date (as herein defined), is entitled (a) to subscribe for the purchase from Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”), 474,446 Shares at a price per Share equal to the Exercise Price (as herein defined), and (b) to the other rights set forth herein; provided that the number of Shares issuable upon any exercise of this Warrant and the Exercise Price shall be adjusted and readjusted from time to time in accordance with Section 5. By accepting delivery hereof, the Warrant Holder agrees to be bound by the provisions hereof.

IN FURTHERANCE THEREOF, the Company irrevocably undertakes and agrees for the benefit of Warrant Holder as follows:

Section 1.     Definitions and Construction .

(a)     Certain Definitions . As used herein (the following definitions being applicable in both singular and plural forms):

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with such Person.

Appraised Value ” means at any time the fair market value of one (1) Share, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company as of the applicable date as of which the determination is to be made, subject to the rights of the Requisite Holders pursuant to Section 5(m), it being understood that in the event of a Corporate Reorganization in which the consideration to be paid for or in respect of each outstanding Share in such Corporate Reorganization consists solely of cash and/or readily marketable securities, the value of such Share will be equal to the amount of cash paid for such Share and/or the value of the readily marketable securities as of the last trading day immediately prior to the date of such determination and in the event of such a Corporate Reorganization, the rights of the Requisite Holders pursuant to Section 5(m) shall not apply.

Business Day ” means any day except a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York City are authorized by law to close.

Charter means the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or other constitutional document, as may be amended from time to time.

Closing Price ” means, for any trading day with respect to a Share, (a) the last reported sale price on such day on the principal national securities exchange on which the Shares are listed or admitted to trading or, if no such reported sale takes place on any such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices thereon, as reported in The Wall Street Journal , or (b) if such Shares shall not be listed or admitted to trading on a national securities exchange, the last reported sales price on the NASDAQ National

 

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Market System or, if no such reported sale takes place on any such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices thereon, as reported in The Wall Street Journal , or (c) if such Shares shall not be quoted on such National Market System nor listed or admitted to trading on a national securities exchange, then the average of the closing bid and asked prices, as reported by The Wall Street Journal for the over-the-counter market; provided that if clause (a), (b), or (c)  applies and no price is reported in The Wall Street Journal for any trading day, then the price reported in The Wall Street Journal for the most recent prior trading day shall be deemed to be the price reported for such trading day.

Commission ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other Federal agency administering the Securities Act at the time.

Common Stock ” means the Company’s currently authorized common stock, $0.00001 par value, and stock of any other class or other consideration into which such currently authorized capital stock may hereafter have been changed.

Corporate Reorganization ” means any (i) merger, consolidation or reorganization or other similar transaction or series of related transactions which results in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto representing immediately thereafter (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving or acquiring entity) less than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of or economic interests in the Company or such surviving or acquiring entity outstanding immediately after such merger, consolidation or reorganization; (ii) sale, lease, exclusive license, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; (iii) sale of shares of capital stock of the Company, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, representing at least 50% of the voting power of the voting securities of or economic interests in the Company; or (iv) the acquisition by any “person” (together with his, her or its Affiliates) or “group” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act) acquires, directly or indirectly, the beneficial ownership (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of outstanding shares of capital stock and/or other equity securities of the Company, in a single transaction or series of related transactions (including, without limitation, one or more tender offers or exchange offers), representing at least 50% of the voting power of or economic interests in the then outstanding shares of capital stock of the corporation; provided , that a “Corporate Reorganization” shall not include the sale and issuance by the Company of its capital stock to venture capital investors, for capital raising purposes, in a bona fide round of preferred stock financing.

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or any successor Federal statute, and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

Exercise Amount ” means for any number of Warrant Shares as to which this Warrant is being exercised the product of (i) such number of Warrant Shares times (ii) the Exercise Price.

Exercise Price ” means $1.00 per Share, as adjusted from time to time pursuant to Section 5.

Expiration Date ” means March 20, 2027.

Initial Holder ” means OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, LP.

IRA ” means that certain Fifth Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2015, by and among the Company, and the Investors named therein, as may be amended from time to time.

Person ” means an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an association, a trust or any other entity or organization, including a government or political subdivision or an agency or instrumentality thereof.

Requisite Holders ” means at any time holders of Warrant Shares and Warrants representing at least a majority of the Warrant Shares outstanding or issuable upon the exercise of all the outstanding Warrants.

 

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Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, or any successor Federal statute, and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect at the time.

Series AA Stock ” means the Company’s Series AA Preferred Stock, $0.00001 par value per share, as presently constituted under the Charter, and any other class, series or other designation of security into or for which such Series AA Preferred Stock is converted, substituted or exchanged pursuant to a reorganization, reclassification, recapitalization or similar transaction.

Shares ” means the Company’s currently authorized Series AA Stock; provided that, subject to provisions of Section 5(c) below, upon and after the occurrence of an event which results in the automatic or voluntary conversion of all (but not less than all) of the outstanding shares of such Shares, including, without limitation, pursuant to the consummation of an initial public offering, then from and after the date upon which such outstanding shares are so converted “Shares” shall mean the Common Stock.

Warrant ” means, as the context requires, this warrant and any successor warrant or warrants issued upon a whole or partial transfer or assignment of any such Share purchase warrant or of any such successor warrant.

Warrant Shares ” means the number of Shares issued or issuable upon exercise of this Warrant as set forth in the introduction hereto, as adjusted from time to time pursuant to Section  5 , or in the case of other Warrants, issuable upon exercise of those Warrants.

(b)     Accounting Terms and Determinations . Unless otherwise specified herein, all accounting terms used herein shall be interpreted, all accounting determinations hereunder shall be made, and all financial statements required to be delivered hereunder shall be prepared, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. When used herein, the term “financial statements” shall include the notes and schedules thereto. References to fiscal periods are to fiscal periods of the Company.

(c)     Computation of Time Periods . With respect to the computation of periods of time from a specified date to a later specified date, the word “from” means “from and including” and the words “to” and “until” each mean “to but excluding.” Periods of days shall be counted in calendar days unless otherwise stated.

(d)     Construction . Unless the context requires otherwise, references to the plural include the singular and to the singular include the plural, references to any gender include any other gender, the part includes the whole, the term “including” is not limiting, and the term “or” has, except where otherwise indicated, the inclusive meaning represented by the phrase “and/or.” The words “hereof,” “herein,” “hereby,” “hereunder,” and similar terms in this Warrant refer to this Warrant as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Warrant. Section, subsection, clause, exhibit and schedule references are to this Warrant, unless otherwise specified. Any reference to this Warrant includes any and all permitted alterations, amendments, changes, extensions, modifications, renewals, or supplements thereto or thereof, as applicable.

(e)     Exhibits and Schedules . All of the exhibits and schedules attached hereto shall be deemed incorporated herein by reference.

(f)     No Presumption Against Any Party . Neither this Warrant nor any uncertainty or ambiguity herein or therein shall be construed or resolved using any presumption against any party hereto or thereto, whether under any rule of construction or otherwise. On the contrary, this Warrant has been reviewed by each of the parties and their counsel and, in the case of any ambiguity or uncertainty, shall be construed and interpreted according to the ordinary meaning of the words used so as to fairly accomplish the purposes and intentions of all parties hereto.

 

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Section 2.     Exercise of Warrant .

(a)     Exercise and Payment . The Warrant Holder may exercise this Warrant in whole or in part, at any time or from time to time on any Business Day on or prior to the Expiration Date, by delivering to the Company a duly executed notice (a “ Notice of Exercise ”) in the form of Exhibit  A and (1) by payment to the Company of the Exercise Price per Warrant Share, at the election of the Warrant Holder, either (i) by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the account of the Company in an amount equal to the Exercise Amount, (ii) by receiving from the Company the number of Warrant Shares equal to (A) the number of Warrant Shares as to which this Warrant is being exercised minus (B) the number of Warrant Shares having a value, based on the Closing Price on the trading day immediately prior to the date of such exercise (or if there is no such Closing Price, then based on the Appraised Value as of such day), equal to the Exercise Amount, or (iii) any combination of the foregoing and (2) surrender of this Warrant in accordance with Section  2(c) . The Company acknowledges that the provisions of clause (ii) are intended, in part, to ensure that a full or partial exchange of this Warrant pursuant to such clause (ii) will qualify as a conversion, within the meaning of paragraph (d)(3)(ii) of Rule 144 under the Securities Act. At the request of any Holder, the Company will accept reasonable modifications to the exchange procedures provided for in this Section in order to accomplish such intent. For all purposes of this Warrant (other than this Section 2(a)), any reference herein to the exercise of this Warrant shall be deemed to include a reference to the exchange of this Warrant into Shares in accordance with the terms of clause (ii).

(b)     Effectiveness and Delivery . As soon as practicable but not later than five Business Days after the Company shall have received such Notice of Exercise and payment in accordance with Section  2(a) , the Company shall execute and deliver or cause to be executed and delivered, in accordance with such Notice of Exercise, a certificate or certificates representing the number of Shares specified in such Notice of Exercise, issued in the name of the Warrant Holder or in such other name or names of any Person or Persons designated in such Notice of Exercise. This Warrant shall be deemed to have been exercised and such Share certificate or certificates shall be deemed to have been issued, and the Warrant Holder or other Person or Persons designated in such Notice of Exercise shall be deemed for all purposes to have become a holder of record of Shares, all as of the date that such Notice of Exercise and payment shall have been received by the Company.

(c)     Surrender of Warrant . The Warrant Holder shall surrender this Warrant to the Company when it delivers the Notice of Exercise, and in the event of a partial exercise of the Warrant, the Company shall execute and deliver to the Warrant Holder, at the time the Company delivers the Share certificate or certificates issued pursuant to such Notice of Exercise, a new Warrant for the unexercised portion of the Warrant, but in all other respects identical to this Warrant.

(d)     Legend . Each certificate for Warrant Shares issued upon exercise of this Warrant, unless at the time of exercise such Warrant Shares are registered under the Securities Act, shall bear the following legend:

THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, OFFERED FOR SALE, PLEDGED OR HYPOTHECATED IN THE ABSENCE OF AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED UNDER SAID ACT AND ANY APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS, UNLESS AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE.

Any certificate for Warrant Shares issued at any time in exchange or substitution for any certificate bearing such legend (unless at that time such Warrant Shares are registered under the Securities Act) shall also bear such legend unless, in the advice of counsel to the Company, the Warrant Shares

 

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represented thereby need no longer be subject to restrictions on resale under the Securities Act and, if requested by the Company, shall be accompanied at Warrant Holder’s expense by either (i) a written opinion of legal counsel who shall, and whose legal opinion shall, be reasonably satisfactory to the Company, addressed to the Company, to the effect that the proposed transaction may be effected without registration under the Securities Act; (ii) a “no action” letter from the Commission to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of such Warrant Shares without registration will not result in a recommendation by the staff of the Commission that action be taken with respect thereto; or (iii) any other evidence reasonably satisfactory to counsel to the Company to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of the Warrant Shares may be effected without registration under the Securities Act, whereupon the Warrant Holder shall be entitled to sell, pledge, or transfer such Warrant Shares in accordance with the terms of the notice given by the Warrant Holder to the Company.

(e)     Fractional Shares . The Company shall not be required to issue fractions of Shares upon an exercise of the Warrant. If any fraction of a Share would, but for this restriction, be issuable upon an exercise of the Warrant, in lieu of delivering such fractional Share, the Company shall pay to the Warrant Holder, in cash, an amount equal to the same fraction times the Closing Price on the trading day immediately prior to the date of such exercise (or if there is no such Closing Price, then based on the Appraised Value as of such day).

(f)     Expenses and Taxes . The Company shall pay all expenses, taxes and owner charges payable in connection with the preparation, issuance and delivery of certificates for the Warrant Shares and any new Warrants, except that if the certificates for the Warrant Shares or the new Warrants are to be registered in a name or names other than the name of the Warrant Holder, funds sufficient to pay all transfer taxes payable as a result of such transfer shall be paid by the Warrant Holder at the time of its delivery of the Notice of Exercise or promptly upon receipt of a written request by the Company for payment.

(g)     Automatic Cashless Exercise . To the extent that there has not been an exercise by the Warrant Holder pursuant to Section 2(a) hereof, any portion of the Warrant that remains unexercised shall be exercised automatically in whole (not in part), upon the Expiration Date. Payment by the Warrant Holder upon such automatic exercise shall be in the form of the Warrant Holder receiving from the Company the number of Warrant Shares equal to (i) the number of Warrant Shares as to which this Warrant is being automatically exercised minus (ii) the number of Warrant Shares having a value, based on the Closing Price on the trading day immediately prior to the date of such automatic exercise (or if there is no such Closing Price, then based on the Appraised Value as of such day), equal to the Exercise Amount.

Section 3.     Investment Representation . By accepting the Warrant, the Warrant Holder represents:

(a)    It is acquiring the Warrant for its own account for investment purposes and not with the view to any sale or distribution, that the Warrant Holder will not offer, sell or otherwise dispose of the Warrant or the Warrant Shares except under circumstances as will not result in a violation of applicable securities laws.

(b)    It understands (i) that the Shares issuable upon exercise of this Warrant are not registered under the Securities Act or qualified under applicable state securities laws on the ground that the issuance contemplated by this Warrant will be exempt from the registration and qualifications requirements thereof, and (ii) that the Company’s reliance on such exemption is predicated on the representations set forth in this Section 3.

 

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(c)    It has such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters as to be capable of evaluating the merits and risks of its investment, has the ability to bear the economic risks of its investment, and that it is an “accredited investor” as that term is defined in Rule 501 under the Securities Act.

(d)    It understands that if the Company does not register with the Commission pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act, or file reports pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or if a registration statement covering the securities under the Securities Act is not in effect when it desires to sell (i) the rights to purchase the Shares pursuant to this Warrant or (ii) the Shares issuable upon exercise of the right to purchase, it may be required to hold such securities for an indefinite period. It also understands that any sale of (x) its rights hereunder to purchase Shares or (y) Shares issued or issuable hereunder which might be made by it in reliance upon Rule 144 under the Securities Act may be made only in accordance with the terms and conditions of such rule.

(e)    It understands that it is bound by the provisions of Section 2.11 of the IRA with respect to the Warrant Shares.

Section 4.     Validity of Warrant and Issuance of Shares .

(a)    The Company represents and warrants that this Warrant has been duly authorized, is validly issued, and constitutes the valid and binding obligation of the Company.

(b)    The Company further represents and warrants that on the date hereof it has duly authorized and reserved, and the Company hereby agrees that it will at all times until the Expiration Date have duly authorized and reserved, such number of Shares as will be sufficient to permit the exercise in full of the Warrant, and that all such Shares are and will be duly authorized and, when issued upon exercise of the Warrant in accordance with its terms, will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable, and free and clear of all security interests, claims, liens, equities and other encumbrances.

Section 5.     Antidilution Provisions . The Exercise Price in effect at any time, and the number of Warrant Shares that may be purchased upon any exercise of the Warrant, shall be subject to change or adjustment as follows:

(a)     Share Reorganization . Except in connection with a Corporate Reorganization, if the Company shall subdivide its outstanding Shares into a greater number of Shares, by way of a stock split, stock dividend or otherwise, or consolidate its outstanding Shares into a smaller number of Shares (any such event being herein called a “ Share Reorganization ”) then (i) the Exercise Price shall be adjusted, effective immediately after the effective date of such Share Reorganization, to a price determined by multiplying the Exercise Price in effect immediately prior to such effective date by a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the number of Shares outstanding on such effective date before giving effect to such Share Reorganization and the denominator of which shall be the number of Shares outstanding after giving effect to such Share Reorganization, and (ii) the number of Shares subject to purchase upon exercise of this Warrant shall be adjusted, effective at such time, to a number determined by multiplying the number of Shares subject to purchase immediately before such Share Reorganization by a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the number of Shares outstanding after giving effect to such Share Reorganization and the denominator of which shall be the number of Shares outstanding immediately before giving effect to such Share Reorganization.

(b)     Antidilution Rights . Additional antidilution rights applicable to the Shares purchasable hereunder are as set forth in the Charter and shall be applicable with respect to the Shares issuable hereunder. The Company shall promptly provide the Warrant Holder with any restatement, amendment,

 

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modification or waiver of the Charter; provided , that no such restatement, amendment, modification or waiver shall impair or reduce the antidilution rights applicable to the Shares as of the date hereof unless such restatement, amendment, modification or waiver affects the rights of the Warrant Holder with respect to the Shares in the same manner as it affects all other holders of such Shares. The Company shall provide the Warrant Holder with prior written notice of any issuance of its stock or other equity security to occur after the date hereof, which notice shall include (i) the price at which such stock or security is to be sold, (ii) the number of shares to be issued, and (iii) such other information as necessary for the Warrant Holder to determine if a dilutive event has occurred. For the avoidance of doubt, there shall be no duplicate antidilution adjustment pursuant to the foregoing subsection (a) of this Section  5 or this subsection (b), and the Charter.

(c)     “Pay to Play” Rights . In the event that any “pay to play” terms or conditions (i.e., terms or conditions that require a holder of the Shares to purchase securities in a future round of equity financing or else lose the benefit of anitdilution protections or other rights applicable to the Shares or have such Shares automatically convert into Common Stock or another class or series of capital stock) in the Charter are triggered in connection with any future round of equity financing (a “ Trigger Event ”), then, in each such event, the purchase rights under this Warrant shall automatically adjust to provide the Warrant Holder, upon the later exercise hereof, with the same securities and/or rights that the Warrant Holder would have received had the Warrant Holder (x) exercised this Warrant prior to such Trigger Event, and (y) participated in the applicable equity financing in an amount sufficient to be deemed to have fully participated for purposes of such “pay to play” provision.

(d)     Special Distributions . If the Company shall issue or distribute to any holder or holders of Shares, evidences of indebtedness, any other securities of the Company or any cash, property or other assets (excluding a Share Reorganization or a Corporate Reorganization), whether or not accompanied by a purchase, redemption or other acquisition of Shares (any such nonexcluded event being herein called a “ Special Distribution ”), then the Warrant Holder shall be entitled to a pro-rata Share of such Special Distribution as though the Warrant Holder had fully exercised this Warrant immediately prior to the record date for such Special Distribution, and the Company shall pay or distribute such pro-rata share to Warrant Holder when paid or distributed to the holders of the Shares. A reclassification of the Shares (other than a change in par value, or from par value to no par value or from no par value to par value) into shares of any other class of stock shall be deemed to be a distribution by the Company to the holders of its Shares of such class of stock and, if the outstanding Shares shall be changed into a larger or smaller number of Shares as part of such reclassification, a Share Reorganization.

(e)     Corporate Reorganization . Without limiting any of the other provisions hereof, if any Corporate Reorganization shall be effected, then the Company shall ensure that lawful and adequate provision shall be made whereby each Warrant Holder shall be entitled to receive, upon exercise of this Warrant, the number of shares of capital stock or other securities or property (collectively, “ Reference Property ”) that such Warrant Holders would have received in connection with such Corporate Reorganization if such Warrant Holders had exercised this Warrant immediately prior to the Corporate Reorganization. In any such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors) shall be made in the application of the provisions of this Warrant with respect to the rights and interests of the Warrant Holders after the Corporate Reorganization to the end that the provisions of this Warrant (including adjustments of the Exercise Price and adjustments to ensure that the provisions of this Section 5 shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as possible, to the purchase rights under this Warrant in relation to any Reference Property thereafter acquirable upon exercise of such purchase rights) shall continue to be applicable in their entirety, and to the greatest extent possible. Without limiting the foregoing, in connection with any Corporate Reorganization, upon the closing thereof, the Company shall ensure that the successor or surviving entity shall assume the obligations of this Warrant; provided that the foregoing assumption requirement shall not apply if the consideration to

 

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be paid for or in respect of the outstanding Shares in such Corporate Reorganization consists solely of cash and/or readily marketable securities. In connection with a Corporate Reorganization and upon Warrant Holder’s written election to the Company, the Company shall cause this Warrant Agreement to be exchanged for the consideration that Warrant Holder would have received if Warrant Holder had chosen to exercise its right to have Shares issued pursuant to Section 2(a)(ii) without actually exercising such right, acquiring such Shares and exchanging such Shares for such consideration. If the successor or surviving entity in a Corporate Reorganization shall refuse to assume the obligations of the Company pursuant to this Warrant, the Company shall give the Warrant Holder written notice at least five (5) Business Days prior to the closing of the Corporate Reorganization of such fact and the Warrant Holder shall have the option to either exercise this Warrant in connection with the Corporate Reorganization or put this Warrant to the Company for a per share amount in cash payable by the Company to the Warrant Holder upon the closing of such Corporate Reorganization equal to the difference between the Appraised Value and the Exercise Price.

(f)     Adjustment Rules .

(i)    Any adjustments pursuant to this Section 5 shall be made successively whenever any event referred to herein shall occur, except that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5, no adjustment shall be made to the number of Warrant Shares to be delivered to the Warrant Holder (or to the Exercise Price) if such adjustment represents less than 1% of the number of Warrant Shares previously required to be so delivered, but any lesser adjustment shall be carried forward and shall be made at the time and together with the next subsequent adjustment which together with any adjustments so carried forward shall amount to 1% or more of the number of Warrant Shares to be so delivered.

(ii)    No adjustments shall be made pursuant to this Section 5 in respect of the issuance of Warrant Shares upon exercise of the Warrant;

(iii) If the Company shall take a record of the holders of its Shares for any purpose referred to in this Section 5, then (x) such record date shall be deemed to be the date of the issuance, sale, distribution or grant in question and (y) if the Company shall legally abandon such action prior to effecting such action, no adjustment shall be made pursuant to this Section 5 in respect of such action.

(iv)    In computing adjustments under this Section 5, (A) fractional interests in Shares shall be taken into account to the nearest one-thousandth of a Share, and (B) calculations of the Exercise Price shall be carried to the nearest one-thousandth of one cent.

(g)     Proceedings Prior to Any Action Requiring Adjustment . As a condition precedent to the taking of any action which would require an adjustment pursuant to this Section  5 , the Company shall take any action which may be necessary, including obtaining regulatory approvals or exemptions, in order that the Company may thereafter validly and legally issue as fully paid and nonassessable all Shares which the Warrant Holder is entitled to receive upon exercise of the Warrant.

(h)     Notice of Adjustment . Not less than 10 days prior to the record date or effective date, as the case may be, of any action which requires or might require an adjustment or readjustment pursuant to this Section  5 , the Company shall give notice to the Warrant Holder of such event, describing such event in reasonable detail and specifying the record date or effective date, as the case may be, and, if determinable, the required adjustment and computation thereof. If the required adjustment is not determinable as the time of such notice, the Company shall give notice to the Warrant Holder of such adjustment and computation as soon as reasonably practicable after such adjustment becomes determinable.

 

8


(i)     Subsequent Warrants . Irrespective of any adjustments in the Exercise Price or the number of Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise of this Warrant, any successor or replacement warrants issued theretofore or thereafter may continue to express the same Exercise Price per Share and number and kind of Warrant Shares as are stated in this Warrant.

(j)     Disputes . Any dispute which arises between the Warrant Holder and the Company with respect to the calculation of the adjusted Exercise Price or Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise shall be determined by the independent auditors of the Company, and such determination shall be binding upon the Company and the holders of the Warrants and the Warrant Shares if made in good faith and without manifest error.

(k)     No Avoidance . The Company shall not, by amendment of its certificate of incorporation or by-laws or through any consolidation, merger, reorganization, transfer of assets, dissolution, issue or sale of securities or any other voluntary action, avoid or seek to avoid the observance or performance of any of the terms of this Warrant, but will at all times in good faith assist in the carrying out of all such terms and in the taking of all such action as may be necessary or appropriate in order to protect the rights of the holder of this Warrant against dilution or other impairment as if the holder was a shareholder of the Company entitled to the benefit of fiduciary duties afforded to shareholders under Delaware law. The foregoing notwithstanding, the Company shall not have been deemed to have avoided Warrant Holder’s rights hereunder: (i) if it amends its Certificate of Incorporation, or the holders of the Shares waive rights thereunder, in a manner that does not affect the Warrant Shares in an adversely different manner from the effect that such amendments or waivers have generally on the rights, preferences, privileges or restrictions of the other holders of Shares or (ii) if the Company, through a Corporate Reorganization (provided the Company is otherwise in compliance with this Warrant), affects the Warrant Holder’s rights hereunder in a manner that does not affect the Warrant Shares adversely different from the effect that such transactions have generally on the rights, preferences, privileges or restrictions of the other holders of Shares.

(l)     Adjustment of Par Value . If for any reason (including the operation of the adjustment provisions set forth in this Warrant), the Exercise Price on any date of exercise of this Warrant shall not be lawful and adequate consideration for the issuance of the relevant Warrant Shares, then the Company shall take such steps as are necessary (including the amendment of its certificate of incorporation so as to reduce the par value of the Shares) to cause such Exercise Price to be adequate and lawful consideration on the date the payment thereof is due, but if the Company shall fail to take such steps, then the Company acknowledges that the Warrant Holder shall have been damaged by the Company in an amount equal to an amount, which, when added to the total Exercise Price for the relevant Warrant Shares, would equal lawful and adequate consideration for the issuance of such Warrant Shares, and the Company irrevocably agrees that if the Warrant Holder shall then forgive the right to recover such damages from the Company, such forgiveness shall constitute, and Company shall accept such forgiveness as, additional lawful consideration for the issuance of the relevant Warrant Shares.

(m)     Appraisal .

(i)    If the Requisite Holders shall, for any reason whatsoever, disagree with the Company’s determination of the Appraised Value of a Share, then such holders shall by notice to the Company (an “ Appraisal Notice ”) given within sixty (60) days after the Company notifies the holders of such determination, elect to dispute such determination, and such dispute shall be resolved as set forth in clause (ii) of this Section.

(ii)    The Company shall within ten (10) days after an Appraisal Notice shall have been given, engage an independent investment bank of national repute (the “ Appraiser ”), which Appraiser is consented to by the Requisite Holders (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld,

 

9


conditioned or delayed) and retained pursuant to an engagement letter between the Company and the Appraiser with respect to such valuation in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Requisite Holders, to make an independent determination of the Appraised Value of a Share; such value shall be determined without deduction for (a) liquidity considerations, (b) minority shareholder status, or (c) any liquidation or other preference or any right of redemption in favor of any other equity securities of the Company. The costs of engagement of such investment bank for any such determination of Appraised Value shall be paid by the Company.

Section 6.     Registration Rights . The Warrant Holder shall be entitled to the benefit of the registration rights as if they were a Holder thereunder with respect to the Warrant Shares provided in Section 2 of the IRA, and any subsequent holder hereof shall be entitled to such rights. The Company represents and warrants that the written consent of holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities (as defined in the IRA) have been obtained to the grant of such rights to the Warrant Holder hereunder.

Section 7.     Transfer of Warrant . The Warrant Holder upon transfer of the Warrant must deliver to the Company a duly executed Warrant Assignment in the form of Exhibit  B and upon surrender of this Warrant to the Company, the Company shall execute and deliver a new Warrant with appropriate changes to reflect such Assignment, in the name or names of the assignee or assignees specified in the Warrant Assignment or other instrument of assignment and, if the Warrant Holder’s entire interest is not being transferred or assigned, in the name of the Warrant Holder, and upon the Company’s execution and delivery of such new Warrant, this Warrant shall promptly be cancelled; and provided that any assignee shall have all of the rights of an Initial Holder hereunder. The Warrant Holder shall pay any transfer tax imposed in connection with such assignment (if any). Any transfer or exchange of this Warrant shall be without charge to the Warrant Holder (except as provided above with respect to transfer taxes, if any) and any new Warrant issued shall be dated the date hereof.

Section 8.     Identity of Transfer Agent . The transfer agent for the Shares is the Secretary of the Company. Upon the appointment of any subsequent transfer agent for the Shares, the Company will mail to the Warrant Holder a statement setting forth the name and address of such transfer agent.

Section 9.     Covenants . The Company agrees that:

(a)     Information . So long as this Warrant remains outstanding or any Initial Holder holds any Warrant Shares, the Warrant Holder (or Initial Holder) will be deemed to be a “Major Investor” (as that term is defined in the IRA) for purposes of Sections 3.1 and 3.2 of the IRA.

(b)     Securities Filings; Rules  144 & 144A . The Company will (i) file any reports required to be filed by it under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or the rules and regulations adopted by the Commission thereunder, (ii) use reasonable efforts to cooperate with the Warrant Holder and each holder of Warrant Shares in supplying such information concerning the Company as may be necessary for the Warrant Holder or holder of Warrant Shares to complete and file any information reporting forms currently or hereafter required by the Commission as a condition to the availability of an exemption from the Securities Act for the sale of any Warrants or Warrant Shares, (iii) take such further action as the Warrant Holder may reasonably request to the extent required from time to time to enable the Warrant Holder to sell Warrant Shares without restriction and without registration under the Securities Act within the limitation of the exemptions provided by Rule 144 or 144A under the Securities Act, as such Rules may be amended from time to time, or any similar rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission, and (iv) upon the request of the Warrant Holder, deliver to the Warrant Holder a written statement as to whether it has complied with such reporting requirements; provided that this subsection (b)  shall not require the Company to make any filing under the Securities Act or Exchange Act which the Company is not otherwise obligated to make.

 

10


(c)     Obtaining of Governmental Approvals and Stock Exchange Listings . The Company will, at its own expense, (i) obtain and keep effective any and all permits, consents and approvals of governmental agencies and authorities which may from time to time be required of the Company in order to satisfy its obligations hereunder, and (ii) take all action which may be necessary so that the Warrant Shares, immediately upon their issuance upon the exercise of the Warrants, will be listed on each securities exchange, if any, on which the Shares are then listed.

(d)    [Intentionally omitted.]

(e)     Structural Dilution . So long as this Warrant remains outstanding, the Company shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries to issue, sell, distribute or otherwise grant in any manner (including by assumption) any rights to subscribe for or to purchase, or any warrants or options for the purchase of any equity securities of such Subsidiary or any securities convertible into or exchangeable for such equity securities (or any rights to subscribe for or to purchase, or any warrants or options for the purchase of any such convertible or exchangeable securities), whether or not immediately exercisable or exercisable prior to the Expiration Date or thereafter.

(f)     Notices Of Corporate Action . In the event of:

(i)    any taking by the Company of a record of the holders of any class of securities for the purpose of determining the holders thereof who are entitled to receive any distribution, or any right to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire any Shares or any other securities or property, or to receive any other right, or

(ii)    any capital reorganization of the Company, any reclassification or recapitalization of the capital stock of the Company, any consolidation or merger involving the Company and any other Person or any transfer of all or substantially all the assets of the Company to any other Person, or any Corporate Reorganization, or

(iii)    any voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Company,

the Company will mail to the Warrant Holder a notice specifying (i) the date or expected date on which any such record is to be taken for the purpose of such dividend, distribution or right, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, (ii) the date or expected date on which any such reorganization, reclassification, recapitalization, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up is to take place, (iii) the time, if any such time is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Shares (or other securities under Section 5(e)) shall be entitled to exchange their Shares (or other securities under Section 5(e)) for the securities or other property deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, recapitalization, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up and a description in reasonable detail of the transaction and (iv) the date of such issuance, together with a description of the security so issued and the consideration received by the Company therefor. Such notice shall be mailed at least thirty (30) days prior to the date therein specified.

Section 10.     Lost, Mutilated or Missing Warrants . Upon receipt by the Company of evidence reasonably satisfactory to it of the loss, theft, destruction or mutilation of any Warrant, and, in the case of loss, theft or destruction, upon receipt of indemnification satisfactory to the Company (in the case of an Initial Holder its unsecured, unbonded agreement of indemnity or affidavit of loss shall be sufficient) or, in the case of mutilation, upon surrender and cancellation of the mutilated Warrant, the Company shall execute and deliver a new Warrant of like tenor and representing the right to purchase the same aggregate number of Warrant Shares.

 

11


Section 11.     Waivers; Amendments . Any provision of this Warrant may be amended or waived with (but only with) the written consent of the Company and the Requisite Holders. Any amendment or waiver effected in compliance with this Section shall be binding upon the Company and the Warrant Holder. The Company shall give prompt notice to the Warrant Holder of any amendment or waiver effected in compliance with this Section. No failure or delay of the Company or the Warrant Holder in exercising any power or right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power, or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such a right or power, preclude any other or further exercise thereon or the exercise of any other right or power. No notice or demand on the Company in any case shall entitle the Company to any other or future notice or demand in similar or other circumstances. The rights and remedies of the Company and the Warrant Holder hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies which it would otherwise have.

Section 12.     Miscellaneous .

(a)     Shareholder Rights . The Warrant shall not entitle any Warrant Holder, prior to the exercise of the Warrant, to any voting rights as a shareholder of the Company.

(b)     Expenses . The Company shall pay all reasonable expenses of the Warrant Holder, including reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel, in connection with the preparation of the Warrant, any waiver or consent hereunder or any amendment or modification hereof (regardless of whether the same becomes effective), or the enforcement of the provisions hereof; provided that the Company shall not be required to pay any expenses of the Warrant Holder arising solely in connection with a transfer of the Warrant or the removal of any legend on the Warrant or Warrant Shares.

(c)     Successors and Assigns . All the provisions of this Warrant by or for the benefit of the Company or the Warrant Holder shall bind and inure to the benefit of their respective successors and assigns.

(d)     Severability . In case any one or more of the provisions contained in this Warrant shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.

(e)     Notices . Any notice or other communication hereunder shall be in writing and shall be sufficient if sent by first-class mail or courier, postage prepaid, and addressed as follows: (a) if to the Company, addressed to the Company at its address for notices as set forth below its signature hereon or any other address as the Company may hereafter notify to the Warrant Holder and(b) if to the Warrant Holder, addressed to such address as the Warrant Holder may hereafter from time to time notify to the Company for the purposes of notice hereunder.

(f)     Equitable Remedies . Without limiting the rights of the Company and the Warrant Holder to pursue all other legal and equitable rights available to such party for the other parties’ failure to perform its obligations hereunder, the Company and the Warrant Holder each hereto acknowledge and agree that the remedy at law for any failure to perform any obligations hereunder would be inadequate and that each shall be entitled to specific performance, injunctive relief or other equitable remedies in the event of any such failure.

 

12


(g)     Continued Effect . Rights and benefits conferred on the holders of Warrant Shares pursuant to the provisions hereof (including Section  6 ) shall continue to inure to the benefit of, and shall be enforceable by, such holders, notwithstanding the surrender of the Warrant to, and its cancellation by, the Company upon the full or partial exercise or repurchase hereof.

(h)     Confidentiality . The Warrant Holder agrees to keep confidential any proprietary information relating to the Company delivered by the Company hereunder pursuant to Section 3.5 of the IRA; provided that nothing herein or pursuant to such Section 3.5 shall prevent the Warrant Holder from disclosing such information: (i) to any holder of Warrants or Warrant Shares, (ii) in connection with the exercise of any remedy, or the resolution of any dispute hereunder, or (iii) as otherwise expressly contemplated by this Warrant.

(i)     Governing Law . THIS WARRANT SHALL BE CONSTRUED AND ENFORCED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

(j)     Section Headings . The section headings used herein are for convenience of reference only and shall not be construed in any way to affect the interpretation of any provisions of the Warrant.

 

13


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Warrant to be duly executed by its authorized signatory as of the day and year first above written.

 

AVEDRO, INC., a Delaware corporation
By           /s/ Reza Zadno
Name:           Reza Zadno
Title:           CEO
Address for Notices:

201 Jones Road

 

Waltham, MA 02451

Telephone:
Facsimile:

Signature Page to Warrant


Exhibit A to Warrant

Form of Notice of Exercise

____________________,20___

To: [________________________]

Reference is made to the Warrant dated __________. Terms defined therein are used herein as therein defined.

The undersigned, pursuant to the provisions set forth in the Warrant, hereby irrevocably elects and agrees to purchase _______ Shares, and makes payment herewith in full therefor at the Exercise Price of $_______________ in the following form: ___________________________________________________________.

[If the number of Shares as to which the Warrant is being exercised is less than all of the Shares purchasable thereunder, the undersigned hereby requests that a new Warrant representing the remaining balance of the Shares be registered in the name of ______________, whose address is: _______________________________.]

The undersigned hereby represents that it is exercising the Warrant for its own account or the account of an Affiliate for investment purposes and not with the view to any sale or distribution and that the Warrant Holder will not offer, sell or otherwise dispose of the Warrant or any underlying Warrant Shares in violation of applicable securities laws.

 

[NAME OF WARRANT HOLDER]
By    
Name:
Title:
[ADDRESS OF WARRANT HOLDER]


Exhibit B to Warrant

Form of Warrant Assignment

Reference is made to the Warrant dated ____________, issued by [_______________________]. Terms defined therein are used herein as therein defined.

FOR VALUE RECEIVED ____________________ (the “Assignor”) hereby sells, assigns and transfers all of the rights of the Assignor as set forth in such Warrant, with respect to the number of Warrant Shares covered thereby as set forth below, to the Assignee(s) as set forth below:

Number of Warrant Shares

 

     Name(s) of Assignee(s)   Address(es)   Number of Warrant Shares     
   

All notices to be given by the Company to the Assignor as Warrant Holder shall be sent to the Assignee(s) at the above listed address(es), and, if the number of Shares being hereby assigned is less than all of the Shares covered by the Warrant held by the Assignor, then also to the Assignor.

In accordance with Section 7 of the Warrant, the Assignor requests that the Company execute and deliver a new Warrant or Warrants in the name or names of the assignee or assignees, as is appropriate, or, if the number of Shares being hereby assigned is less than all of the Shares covered by the Warrant held by the Assignor, new Warrants in the name or names of the assignee or the assignees, as is appropriate, and in the name of the Assignor.

The undersigned represents that the Assignee has represented to the Assignor that the Assignee is acquiring the Warrant for its own account or the account of an Affiliate for investment purposes and not with the view to any sale or distribution, and that the Assignee will not offer, sell or otherwise dispose of the Warrant or the Warrant Shares except under circumstances as will not result in a violation of applicable securities laws.

Dated: _________________, 20___

 

[NAME OF ASSIGNOR]
By    
Name:
Title:
[ADDRESS OF ASSIGNOR]

Exhibit 10.2

A VEDRO , I NC .

(f/k/a T HERMALVISION , I NC .)

2003 S TOCK P LAN

A DOPTED ON APRIL  8, 2003

B OARD AUTHORIZED POOL INCREASE ON A PRIL  10, 2004

B OARD AUTHORIZED POOL INCREASE ON O CTOBER  13, 2005

B OARD AUTHORIZED POOL INCREASE ON J ANUARY  17, 2008


Table of Contents

 

         Page  

SECTION 1.

 

ESTABLISHMENT AND PURPOSE

     1  

SECTION 2.

 

ADMINISTRATION

     1  

(a)

 

Committees of the Board of Directors

     1  

(b)

 

Authority of the Board of Directors

     1  

SECTION 3.

 

ELIGIBILITY

     1  

(a)

 

General Rule

     1  

(b)

 

Ten-Percent Stockholders

     1  

SECTION 4.

 

STOCK SUBJECT TO PLAN

     2  

(a)

 

Basic Limitation

     2  

(b)

 

Additional Shares

     2  

SECTION 5.

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AWARDS OR SALES

     2  

(a)

 

Stock Purchase Agreement

     2  

(b)

 

Duration of Offers and Nontransferability of Rights

     2  

(c)

 

Purchase Price

     2  

(d)

 

Withholding Taxes

     3  

(e)

 

Restrictions on Transfer of Shares

     3  

SECTION 6.

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS

     3  

(a)

 

Stock Option Agreement

     3  

(b)

 

Number of Shares

     3  

(c)

 

Exercise Price

     3  

(d)

 

Exercisability

     3  

(e)

 

Accelerated Exercisability

     3  

(f)

 

Term

     4  

(g)

 

Restrictions on Transfer of Shares

     4  

(h)

 

Transferability of Options

     4  

(i)

 

Withholding Taxes

     4  

(j)

 

No Rights as a Stockholder

     4  

(k)

 

Modification, Extension and Assumption of Options

     4  

 

i


Table of Contents

(continued)

 

         Page  

SECTION 7.

 

PAYMENT FOR SHARES

     5  

(a)

 

General Rule

     5  

(b)

 

Surrender of Stock

     5  

(c)

 

Services Rendered

     5  

(d)

 

Promissory Note

     5  

(e)

 

Exercise/Sale

     5  

(f)

 

Exercise/Pledge

     5  

SECTION 8.

 

ADJUSTMENT OF SHARES

     5  

(a)

 

General

     5  

(b)

 

Mergers and Consolidations

     6  

(c)

 

Reservation of Rights

     6  

SECTION 9.

 

SECURITIES LAW REQUIREMENTS

     6  

SECTION 10.

 

NO RETENTION RIGHTS

     7  

SECTION 11.

 

DURATION AND AMENDMENTS

     7  

(a)

 

Term of the Plan

     7  

(b)

 

Right to Amend or Terminate the Plan

     7  

(c)

 

Effect of Amendment or Termination

     7  

SECTION 12.

 

DEFINITIONS

     7  

 

ii


AVEDRO, INC. 2003 STOCK PLAN

 

SECTION 1.

ESTABLISHMENT AND PURPOSE.

The purpose of the Plan is to offer selected persons an opportunity to acquire a proprietary interest in the success of the Company, or to increase such interest, by purchasing Shares of the Company’s Stock. The Plan provides both for the direct award or sale of Shares and for the grant of Options to purchase Shares. Options granted under the Plan may include Nonstatutory Options as well as ISOs intended to qualify under Section 422 of the Code.

Capitalized terms are defined in Section 12.

 

SECTION 2.

ADMINISTRATION.

(a)      Committees of the Board of Directors. The Plan may be administered by one or more Committees. Each Committee shall consist of one or more members of the Board of Directors who have been appointed by the Board of Directors. Each Committee shall have such authority and be responsible for such functions as the Board of Directors has assigned to it. If no Committee has been appointed, the entire Board of Directors shall administer the Plan. Any reference to the Board of Directors in the Plan shall be construed as a reference to the Committee (if any) to whom the Board of Directors has assigned a particular function.

(b)      Authority of the Board of Directors. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Board of Directors shall have full authority and discretion to take any actions it deems necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan. All decisions, interpretations and other actions of the Board of Directors shall be final and binding on all Purchasers, all Optionees and all persons deriving their rights from a Purchaser or Optionee.

 

SECTION 3.

ELIGIBILITY.

(a)      General Rule. Only Employees, Outside Directors and Consultants shall be eligible for the grant of Nonstatutory Options or the direct award or sale of Shares. Only Employees shall be eligible for the grant of ISOs.

(b)      Ten-Percent Stockholders. A person who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of outstanding stock of the Company, its Parent or any of its Subsidiaries shall not be eligible for the grant of an ISO unless (i) the Exercise Price is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of grant and (ii) such ISO by its terms is not exercisable after the expiration of five years from the date of grant. For purposes of this Subsection (b), in determining stock ownership, the attribution rules of Section 424(d) of the Code shall be applied.

 

1


SECTION 4.

STOCK SUBJECT TO PLAN.

(a)      Basic Limitation. Not more than 7,293,336 1 Shares may be issued under the Plan (subject to Subsection (b) below and Section 8). The number of Shares that are subject to Options or other rights outstanding at any time under the Plan shall not exceed the number of Shares that then remain available for issuance under the Plan. The Company, during the term of the Plan, shall at all times reserve and keep available sufficient Shares to satisfy the requirements of the Plan. Shares offered under the Plan may be authorized but unissued Shares or treasury Shares.

(b)      Additional Shares. In the event that Shares previously issued under the Plan are reacquired by the Company pursuant to a forfeiture provision, right of repurchase or right of first refusal, such Shares shall be added to the number of Shares then available for issuance under the Plan. However, the aggregate number of Shares issued upon the exercise of ISOs (including Shares reacquired by the Company) shall in no event exceed 200% of the number specified in Subsection (a) above. In the event that an outstanding Option or other right for any reason expires or is canceled, the Shares allocable to the unexercised portion of such Option or other right shall not reduce the number of Shares available for issuance under the Plan.

 

SECTION 5.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF AWARDS OR SALES.

(a)      Stock Purchase Agreement. Each award or sale of Shares under the Plan (other than upon exercise of an Option) shall be evidenced by a Stock Purchase Agreement between the Purchaser and the Company. Such award or sale shall be subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the Plan and may be subject to any other terms and conditions which are not inconsistent with the Plan and which the Board of Directors deems appropriate for inclusion in a Stock Purchase Agreement. The provisions of the various Stock Purchase Agreements entered into under the Plan need not be identical.

(b)      Duration of Offers and Nontransferability of Rights. Any right to acquire Shares under the Plan (other than an Option) shall automatically expire if not exercised by the Purchaser within 30 days after the grant of such right was communicated to the Purchaser by the Company. Such right shall not be transferable and shall be exercisable only by the Purchaser to whom such right was granted.

(c)      Purchase Price. The Purchase Price of Shares to be offered under the Plan, if newly issued, shall not be less than the par value of such Shares. Subject to the preceding sentence, the Board of Directors shall determine the Purchase Price at its sole discretion. The Purchase Price shall be payable in a form described in Section 7.

 

 

1

Pool increase from 57,300 to 127,300 per unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the Company on 4/10/04 and written consent of the stockholders.

Pool increase from 127,300 to 1,627,300 per unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the Company on 10/13/05 and written consent of the stockholders.

Pool increase from 1,627,300 to 7,293,336 per unanimous written consent of the Board of Directors of the Company on 1/17/08 and written consent of the stockholders.

 

2


(d)      Withholding Taxes. As a condition to the purchase of Shares, the Purchaser shall make such arrangements as the Board of Directors may require for the satisfaction of any federal, state, local or foreign withholding tax obligations that may arise in connection with such purchase.

(e)      Restrictions on Transfer of Shares. Any Shares awarded or sold under the Plan shall be subject to such special forfeiture conditions, rights of repurchase, rights of first refusal and other transfer restrictions as the Board of Directors may determine. Such restrictions shall be set forth in the applicable Stock Purchase Agreement and shall apply in addition to any restrictions that may apply to holders of Shares generally. A Stock Purchase Agreement may provide for accelerated vesting in the event of the Purchaser’s death, disability or retirement or other events.

 

SECTION 6.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OPTIONS.

(a)      Stock Option Agreement. Each grant of an Option under the Plan shall be evidenced by a Stock Option Agreement between the Optionee and the Company. Such Option shall be subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the Plan and may be subject to any other terms and conditions which are not inconsistent with the Plan and which the Board of Directors deems appropriate for inclusion in a Stock Option Agreement. The provisions of the various Stock Option Agreements entered into under the Plan need not be identical.

(b)      Number of Shares. Each Stock Option Agreement shall specify the number of Shares that are subject to the Option and shall provide for the adjustment of such number in accordance with Section 8. The Stock Option Agreement shall also specify whether the Option is an ISO or a Nonstatutory Option.

(c)      Exercise Price. Each Stock Option Agreement shall specify the Exercise Price. The Exercise Price of an ISO shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of grant, and a higher percentage may be required by Section 3(b). The Exercise Price of a Nonstatutory Option to purchase newly issued Shares shall not be less than 30% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of grant. Subject to the preceding two sentences, the Exercise Price under an Option shall be determined by the Board of Directors at its sole discretion. The Exercise Price shall be payable in a form described in Section 7.

(d)      Exercisability. Each Stock Option Agreement shall specify the date when all or any installment of the Option is to become exercisable. No Option shall be exercisable unless the Optionee has delivered an executed copy of the Stock Option Agreement to the Company. The Board of Directors shall determine the exercisability provisions of any Stock Option Agreement at its sole discretion.

(e)      Accelerated Exercisability. Unless the applicable Stock Option Agreement provides otherwise, all of an Optionee’s Options shall become exercisable in full if (i) the Company is subject to a Change in Control before the Optionee’s Service terminates, (ii) such Options do not remain outstanding, (iii) such Options are not assumed by the surviving corporation or its parent and (iv) the surviving corporation or its parent does not substitute options with substantially the same terms for such Options. A Stock Option Agreement may also provide for accelerated exercisability in the event of the Optionee’s death, disability or retirement or other events.

 

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(f)      Term. The Stock Option Agreement shall specify the term of the Option. The term shall not exceed 10 years from the date of grant, and in the case of an ISO a shorter term may be required by Section 3(b). Subject to the preceding sentence, the Board of Directors at its sole discretion shall determine when an Option is to expire. A Stock Option Agreement may provide for expiration prior to the end of its term in the event of the termination of the Optionee’s Service or death.

(g)      Restrictions on Transfer of Shares. Any Shares issued upon exercise of an Option shall be subject to such special forfeiture conditions, rights of repurchase, rights of first refusal and other transfer restrictions as the Board of Directors may determine. Such restrictions shall be set forth in the applicable Stock Option Agreement and shall apply in addition to any restrictions that may apply to holders of Shares generally.

(h)      Transferability of Options. An Option shall be transferable by the Optionee only by (i) a beneficiary designation, (ii) a will or (iii) the laws of descent and distribution, except as provided in the next sentence. If the applicable Stock Option Agreement so provides, a Nonstatutory Option shall also be transferable by the Optionee by (i) a gift to a member of the Optionee’s Immediate Family or (ii) a gift to an inter vivos or testamentary trust in which members of the Optionee’s Immediate Family have a beneficial interest of more than 50% and which provides that such Nonstatutory Option is to be transferred to the beneficiaries upon the Optionee’s death. An ISO may be exercised during the lifetime of the Optionee only by the Optionee or by the Optionee’s guardian or legal representative.

(i)      Withholding Taxes. As a condition to the exercise of an Option, the Optionee shall make such arrangements as the Board of Directors may require for the satisfaction of any federal, state, local or foreign withholding tax obligations that may arise in connection with such exercise. The Optionee shall also make such arrangements as the Board of Directors may require for the satisfaction of any federal, state, local or foreign withholding tax obligations that may arise in connection with the disposition of Shares acquired by exercising an Option.

(j)      No Rights as a Stockholder. An Optionee, or a transferee of an Optionee, shall have no rights as a stockholder with respect to any Shares covered by the Optionee’s Option until such person becomes entitled to receive such Shares by filing a notice of exercise and paying the Exercise Price pursuant to the terms of such Option.

(k)      Modification, Extension and Assumption of Options. Within the limitations of the Plan, the Board of Directors may modify, extend or assume outstanding Options or may accept the cancellation of outstanding Options (whether granted by the Company or another issuer) in return for the grant of new Options for the same or a different number of Shares and at the same or a different Exercise Price. The foregoing notwithstanding, no modification of an Option shall, without the consent of the Optionee, impair the Optionee’s rights or increase the Optionee’s obligations under such Option.

 

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SECTION 7.

PAYMENT FOR SHARES.

(a)      General Rule. The entire Purchase Price or Exercise Price of Shares issued under the Plan shall be payable in cash or cash equivalents at the time when such Shares are purchased, except as otherwise provided in this Section 7.

(b)      Surrender of Stock. To the extent that a Stock Option Agreement so provides, all or any part of the Exercise Price may be paid by surrendering, or attesting to the ownership of, Shares that are already owned by the Optionee. Such Shares shall be surrendered to the Company in good form for transfer and shall be valued at their Fair Market Value on the date when the Option is exercised. The Optionee shall not surrender, or attest to the ownership of, Shares in payment of the Exercise Price if such action would cause the Company to recognize compensation expense (or additional compensation expense) with respect to the Option for financial reporting purposes.

(c)      Services Rendered. At the discretion of the Board of Directors, Shares may be awarded under the Plan in consideration of services rendered to the Company, a Parent or a Subsidiary prior to the award.

(d)      Promissory Note. To the extent that a Stock Option Agreement or Stock Purchase Agreement so provides, all or a portion of the Exercise Price or Purchase Price (as the case may be) of Shares issued under the Plan may be paid with a full-recourse promissory note. However, the par value of the Shares, if newly issued, shall be paid in cash or cash equivalents. The Shares shall be pledged as security for payment of the principal amount of the promissory note and interest thereon. The interest rate payable under the terms of the promissory note shall not be less than the minimum rate (if any) required to avoid the imputation of additional interest under the Code. Subject to the foregoing, the Board of Directors (at its sole discretion) shall specify the term, interest rate, amortization requirements (if any) and other provisions of such note.

(e)      Exercise/Sale. To the extent that a Stock Option Agreement so provides, and if Stock is publicly traded, payment may be made all or in part by the delivery (on a form prescribed by the Company) of an irrevocable direction to a securities broker approved by the Company to sell Shares and to deliver all or part of the sales proceeds to the Company in payment of all or part of the Exercise Price and any withholding taxes.

(f)      Exercise/Pledge. To the extent that a Stock Option Agreement so provides, and if Stock is publicly traded, payment may be made all or in part by the delivery (on a form prescribed by the Company) of an irrevocable direction to pledge Shares to a securities broker or lender approved by the Company, as security for a loan, and to deliver all or part of the loan proceeds to the Company in payment of all or part of the Exercise Price and any withholding taxes.

 

SECTION 8.

ADJUSTMENT OF SHARES.

(a)      General. In the event of a subdivision of the outstanding Stock, a declaration of a dividend payable in Shares or a combination or consolidation of the outstanding Stock into a

 

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lesser number of Shares, corresponding adjustments shall automatically be made in each of (i) the number of Shares available for future grants under Section 4, (ii) the number of Shares covered by each outstanding Option and (iii) the Exercise Price under each outstanding Option. In the event of a declaration of an extraordinary dividend payable in a form other than Shares in an amount that has a material effect on the Fair Market Value of the Stock, a recapitalization, a spin-off, a reclassification or a similar occurrence, the Board of Directors at its sole discretion may make appropriate adjustments in one or more of (i) the number of Shares available for future grants under Section 4, (ii) the number of Shares covered by each outstanding Option or (iii) the Exercise Price under each outstanding Option.

(b)      Mergers and Consolidations. In the event that the Company is a party to a merger or consolidation, outstanding Options shall be subject to the agreement of merger or consolidation. Such agreement shall provide for:

(i)    The continuation of such outstanding Options by the Company (if the Company is the surviving corporation);

(ii)    The assumption of the Plan and such outstanding Options by the surviving corporation or its parent;

(iii)    The substitution by the surviving corporation or its parent of options with substantially the same terms for such outstanding Options;

(iv)    The full exercisability of such outstanding Options and full vesting of the Shares subject to such Options, followed by the cancellation of such Options; or

(v)    The settlement of the full value of such outstanding Options (whether or not then exercisable) in cash or cash equivalents, followed by the cancellation of such Options.

(c)      Reservation of Rights. Except as provided in this Section 8, an Optionee or Purchaser shall have no rights by reason of (i) any subdivision or consolidation of shares of stock of any class, (ii) the payment of any dividend or (iii) any other increase or decrease in the number of shares of stock of any class. Any issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall not affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or Exercise Price of Shares subject to an Option. The grant of an Option pursuant to the Plan shall not affect in any way the right or power of the Company to make adjustments, reclassifications, reorganizations or changes of its capital or business structure, to merge or consolidate or to dissolve, liquidate, sell or transfer all or any part of its business or assets.

 

SECTION 9.

SECURITIES LAW REQUIREMENTS.

Shares shall not be issued under the Plan unless the issuance and delivery of such Shares comply with (or are exempt from) all applicable requirements of law, including (without limitation) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, state securities laws and regulations, and the regulations of any stock exchange or other securities market on which the Company’s securities may then be traded.

 

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SECTION 10.

NO RETENTION RIGHTS.

Nothing in the Plan or in any right or Option granted under the Plan shall confer upon the Purchaser or Optionee any right to continue in Service for any period of specific duration or interfere with or otherwise restrict in any way the rights of the Company (or any Parent or Subsidiary employing or retaining the Purchaser or Optionee) or of the Purchaser or Optionee, which rights are hereby expressly reserved by each, to terminate his or her Service at any time and for any reason, with or without cause.

 

SECTION 11.

DURATION AND AMENDMENTS.

(a)      Term of the Plan . The Plan, as set forth herein, shall become effective on the date of its adoption by the Board of Directors, subject to the approval of the Company’s stockholders. If the stockholders fail to approve the Plan within 12 months after its adoption by the Board of Directors, then any grants, exercises or sales that have already occurred under the Plan shall be rescinded and no additional grants, exercises or sales shall thereafter be made under the Plan. The Plan shall terminate automatically 10 years after the later of (i) its adoption by the Board of Directors or (ii) the most recent increase in the number of Shares reserved under Section 4 that was approved by the Company’s stockholders. The Plan may be terminated on any earlier date pursuant to Subsection (b) below.

(b)      Right to Amend or Terminate the Plan . The Board of Directors may amend, suspend or terminate the Plan at any time and for any reason; provided, however, that any amendment of the Plan shall be subject to the approval of the Company’s stockholders if it (i) increases the number of Shares available for issuance under the Plan (except as provided in Section 8) or (ii) materially changes the class of persons who are eligible for the grant of ISOs. Stockholder approval shall not be required for any other amendment of the Plan. If the stockholders fail to approve an increase in the number of Shares reserved under Section 4 within 12 months after its adoption by the Board of Directors, then any grants, exercises or sales that have already occurred in reliance on such increase shall be rescinded and no additional grants, exercises or sales shall thereafter be made in reliance on such increase.

(c)      Effect of Amendment or Termination . No Shares shall be issued or sold under the Plan after the termination thereof, except upon exercise of an Option granted prior to such termination. The termination of the Plan, or any amendment thereof, shall not affect any Share previously issued or any Option previously granted under the Plan.

 

SECTION 12.

DEFINITIONS.

(a)     “ Board of Directors ” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company, as constituted from time to time.

 

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(b)     “ Change in Control ” shall mean (i) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another entity or (ii) the dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Company. The foregoing notwithstanding, a merger or consolidation of the Company shall not constitute a “Change in Control” if immediately after such merger or consolidation a majority of the voting power of the capital stock of the continuing or surviving entity, or any direct or indirect parent corporation of such continuing or surviving entity, will be owned by the persons who were the Company’s stockholders immediately prior to such merger or consolidation in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the voting power of the Company’s capital stock immediately prior to such merger or consolidation.

(c)     “ Code ” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(d)     “ Committee ” shall mean a committee of the Board of Directors, as described in Section 2(a).

(e)     “ Company ” shall mean Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

(f)     “ Consultant ” shall mean a person who performs bona fide services for the Company, a Parent or a Subsidiary as a consultant or advisor, excluding Employees and Outside Directors.

(g)     “ Employee ” shall mean any individual who is a common-law employee of the Company, a Parent or a Subsidiary.

(h)     “ Exercise Price ” shall mean the amount for which one Share may be purchased upon exercise of an Option, as specified by the Board of Directors in the applicable Stock Option Agreement.

(i)     “ Fair Market Value ” shall mean the fair market value of a Share, as determined by the Board of Directors in good faith. Such determination shall be conclusive and binding on all persons.

(j)     “ Immediate Family ” shall mean any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law and shall include adoptive relationships.

(k)     “ ISO ” shall mean an employee incentive stock option described in Section 422(b) of the Code.

(l)     “ Nonstatutory Option ” shall mean a stock option not described in Sections 422(b) or 423(b) of the Code.

(m)     “ Option ” shall mean an ISO or Nonstatutory Option granted under the Plan and entitling the holder to purchase Shares.

(n)     “ Optionee ” shall mean a person who holds an Option.

 

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(o)     “ Outside Director ” shall mean a member of the Board of Directors who is not an Employee.

(p)     “ Parent ” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of corporations ending with the Company, if each of the corporations other than the Company owns stock possessing 50% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain. A corporation that attains the status of a Parent on a date after the adoption of the Plan shall be considered a Parent commencing as of such date.

(q)     “ Plan ” shall mean this Avedro, Inc. 2003 Stock Plan.

(r)     “ Purchase Price ” shall mean the consideration for which one Share may be acquired under the Plan (other than upon exercise of an Option), as specified by the Board of Directors.

(s)     “ Purchaser ” shall mean a person to whom the Board of Directors has offered the right to acquire Shares under the Plan (other than upon exercise of an Option).

(t)     “ Service ” shall mean service as an Employee, Outside Director or Consultant.

(u)     “ Share ” shall mean one share of Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 8 (if applicable).

(v)     “ Stock ” shall mean the Common Stock of the Company, with a par value of $0.00001 per Share.

(w)     “ Stock Option Agreement ” shall mean the agreement between the Company and an Optionee that contains the terms, conditions and restrictions pertaining to the Optionee’s Option.

(x)     “ Stock Purchase Agreement ” shall mean the agreement between the Company and a Purchaser who acquires Shares under the Plan that contains the terms, conditions and restrictions pertaining to the acquisition of such Shares.

(y)     “ Subsidiary ” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of corporations beginning with the Company, if each of the corporations other than the last corporation in the unbroken chain owns stock possessing 50% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain. A corporation that attains the status of a Subsidiary on a date after the adoption of the Plan shall be considered a Subsidiary commencing as of such date.

 

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FOURTH AMENDMENT TO

AVEDRO, INC.

2003 STOCK PLAN

W HEREAS , the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) previously approved and adopted the 2003 Stock Plan, as amended (the “ Plan ”) of the Company; and

W HEREAS , the Board and the stockholders of the Company have determined that it is in the best interest of the Company to amend the Plan as set forth in this Fourth Amendment to the Plan.

N OW , T HEREFORE , the Plan is amended as follows:

1.    Section 4(a) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

(a)      Basic Limitation. Not more than 13,303,141 Shares may be issued under the Plan (subject to Subsection (b) below and Section 8). The number of Shares that are subject to Options or other rights outstanding at any time under the Plan shall not exceed the number of Shares that then remain available for issuance under the Plan. The Company, during the term of the Plan, shall at all times reserve and keep available sufficient Shares to satisfy the requirements of the Plan. Shares offered under the Plan may be authorized but unissued Shares or treasury Shares.

2.    All other terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

3.    Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan.

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS :    June 30, 2011

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS :              June 29, 2011


FIFTH AMENDMENT TO

AVEDRO, INC.

2003 STOCK PLAN

W HEREAS , the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) previously approved and adopted the 2003 Stock Plan, as amended (the “ Plan ”) of the Company; and

W HEREAS , the Board and the stockholders of the Company have determined that it is in the best interest of the Company to amend the Plan as set forth in this Fifth Amendment to the Plan.

N OW , T HEREFORE , the Plan is amended as follows:

1.    Section 4(a) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

(b)      Basic Limitation. Not more than 11,003,141 Shares may be issued under the Plan (subject to Subsection (b) below and Section 8). The number of Shares that are subject to Options or other rights outstanding at any time under the Plan shall not exceed the number of Shares that then remain available for issuance under the Plan. The Company, during the term of the Plan, shall at all times reserve and keep available sufficient Shares to satisfy the requirements of the Plan. Shares offered under the Plan may be authorized but unissued Shares or treasury Shares.

2.    All other terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

3.    Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan.

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS :     October 5, 2012

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS :                October 5, 2012

Exhibit 10.3

A VEDRO , I NC . 2003 S TOCK P LAN

N OTICE OF S TOCK O PTION G RANT

You have been granted the following option to purchase shares of the Common Stock of Avedro, Inc. (the “Company”):

 

Name of Optionee:   
Total Number of Shares:   
Type of Option:    Incentive Stock Option (ISO)
Exercise Price Per Share:    $        
Date of Grant:   
Date Exercisable:    This option may be exercised with respect to the first 25% of the Shares subject to this option when the Optionee completes 12 months of continuous Service after the Vesting Commencement Date. This option may be exercised with respect to an additional 2.0833% of the Shares subject to this option when the Optionee completes each month of continuous Service thereafter.
Vesting Commencement Date:   
Expiration Date:    Ten years from date of grant. This option expires earlier if the Optionee’s Service terminates earlier, as provided in Section 6 of the Stock Option Agreement.

By your signature and the signature of the Company’s representative below, you and the Company agree that this option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the 2003 Stock Plan and the Stock Option Agreement, both of which are attached to and made a part of this document.

 

O PTIONEE :     A VEDRO , I NC .
                                                                  By:                                                              
    Title:                                                          


THE OPTION GRANTED PURSUANT TO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE SHARES ISSUABLE UPON THE EXERCISE THEREOF HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED WITHOUT AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION THEREOF UNDER SUCH ACT OR AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY AND ITS COUNSEL, THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED.

A VEDRO , I NC . 2003 S TOCK P LAN :

S TOCK O PTION A GREEMENT

 

SECTION 1.

GRANT OF OPTION.

(a)     O ption . On the terms and conditions set forth in the Notice of Stock Option Grant and this Agreement, the Company grants to the Optionee on the Date of Grant the option to purchase at the Exercise Price the number of Shares set forth in the Notice of Stock Option Grant. The Exercise Price is agreed to be at least 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the Date of Grant (110% of Fair Market Value if this option is designated as an ISO in the Notice of Stock Option Grant and Section 3(b) of the Plan applies). This option is intended to be an ISO or an NSO, as provided in the Notice of Stock Option Grant.

(b)     $100,000 Limitation . Even if this option is designated as an ISO in the Notice of Stock Option Grant, it shall be deemed to be an NSO to the extent (and only to the extent) required by the $100,000 annual limitation under Section 422(d) of the Code.

(c)     Stock Plan and Defined Terms . This option is granted pursuant to the Plan, a copy of which the Optionee acknowledges having received. The provisions of the Plan are incorporated into this Agreement by this reference. Capitalized terms are defined in Section 13 of this Agreement.

 

SECTION 2.

RIGHT TO EXERCISE.

(a)     Exercisability . Subject to Subsection (b) below and the other conditions set forth in this Agreement, all or part of this option may be exercised prior to its expiration at the time or times set forth in the Notice of Stock Option Grant. In addition, this option shall become exercisable in full if (i) the Company is subject to a Change in Control before the Optionee’s Service terminates, (ii) this option does not remain outstanding following the Change in Control, (iii) this option is not assumed by the surviving corporation or its parent and (iv) the surviving corporation or its parent does not substitute an option with substantially the same terms for this option.

(b)     Stockholder Approval . Any other provision of this Agreement notwithstanding, no portion of this option shall be exercisable at any time prior to the approval of the Plan by the Company’s stockholders.


SECTION 3.

NO TRANSFER OR ASSIGNMENT OF OPTION.

Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, this option and the rights and privileges conferred hereby shall not be sold, pledged or otherwise transferred (whether by operation of law or otherwise) and shall not be subject to sale under execution, attachment, levy or similar process.

 

SECTION 4.

EXERCISE PROCEDURES.

(a)     Notice of Exercise . The Optionee or the Optionee’s representative may exercise this option by giving written notice to the Company pursuant to Section 12(c). The notice shall specify the election to exercise this option, the number of Shares for which it is being exercised and the form of payment. The person exercising this option shall sign the notice. In the event that this option is being exercised by the representative of the Optionee, the notice shall be accompanied by proof (satisfactory to the Company) of the representative’s right to exercise this option. The Optionee or the Optionee’s representative shall deliver to the Company, at the time of giving the notice, payment in a form permissible under Section 5 for the full amount of the Purchase Price.

(b)     Issuance of Shares . After receiving a proper notice of exercise, the Company shall cause to be issued one or more certificates evidencing the Shares for which this option has been exercised. Such Shares shall be registered (i) in the name of the person exercising this option, (ii) in the names of such person and his or her spouse as community property or as joint tenants with the right of survivorship or (iii) with the Company’s consent, in the name of a revocable trust. The Company shall cause such certificates to be delivered to or upon the order of the person exercising this option.

(c)     Withholding Taxes . In the event that the Company determines that it is required to withhold any tax as a result of the exercise of this option, the Optionee, as a condition to the exercise of this option, shall make arrangements satisfactory to the Company to enable it to satisfy all withholding requirements. The Optionee shall also make arrangements satisfactory to the Company to enable it to satisfy any withholding requirements that may arise in connection with the disposition of Shares purchased by exercising this option.

 

SECTION 5.

PAYMENT FOR STOCK.

(a)     Cash . All or part of the Purchase Price may be paid in cash or cash equivalents.

(b)     Surrender of Stock . All or any part of the Purchase Price may be paid by surrendering, or attesting to the ownership of, Shares that are already owned by the Optionee. Such Shares shall be surrendered to the Company in good form for transfer and shall be valued at their Fair Market Value on the date when this option is exercised. The Optionee shall not surrender, or attest to the ownership of, Shares in payment of the Purchase Price if such action would cause the Company to recognize compensation expense (or additional compensation expense) with respect to this option for financial reporting purposes.

 

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(c)     Exercise/Sale . All or part of the Purchase Price and any withholding taxes may be paid by the delivery (on a form prescribed by the Company) of an irrevocable direction to a securities broker approved by the Company to sell Shares and to deliver all or part of the sales proceeds to the Company. However, payment pursuant to this Subsection (c) shall be permitted only if (i) Stock then is publicly traded and (ii) such payment does not violate applicable law.

(d)     Exercise/Pledge . All or part of the Purchase Price and any withholding taxes may be paid by the delivery (on a form prescribed by the Company) of an irrevocable direction to pledge Shares to a securities broker or lender approved by the Company, as security for a loan, and to deliver all or part of the loan proceeds to the Company. However, payment pursuant to this Subsection (d) shall be permitted only if (i) Stock then is publicly traded and (ii) such payment does not violate applicable law.

 

SECTION 6.

TERM AND EXPIRATION.

(a)     Basic Term . This option shall in any event expire on the expiration date set forth in the Notice of Stock Option Grant, which date is 10 years after the Date of Grant (five years after the Date of Grant if this option is designated as an ISO in the Notice of Stock Option Grant and Section 3(b) of the Plan applies).

(b)     Termination of Service (Except by Death) . If the Optionee’s Service terminates for any reason other than death, then this option shall expire on the earliest of the following occasions:

(i)    The expiration date determined pursuant to Subsection (a) above;

(ii)    The date three months after the termination of the Optionee’s Service for any reason other than Disability; or

(iii)    The date 12 months after the termination of the Optionee’s Service by reason of Disability.

The Optionee may exercise all or part of this option at any time before its expiration under the preceding sentence, but only to the extent that this option had become exercisable before the Optionee’s Service terminated. When the Optionee’s Service terminates, this option shall expire immediately with respect to the number of Shares for which this option is not yet exercisable. In the event that the Optionee dies after termination of Service but before the expiration of this option, all or part of this option may be exercised (prior to expiration) by the executors or administrators of the Optionee’s estate or by any person who has acquired this option directly from the Optionee by beneficiary designation, bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that this option had become exercisable before the Optionee’s Service terminated.

(c)     Death of the Optionee . If the Optionee dies while in Service, then this option shall expire on the earlier of the following dates:

(i)    The expiration date determined pursuant to Subsection (a) above; or

 

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(ii)    The date 12 months after the Optionee’s death.

All or part of this option may be exercised at any time before its expiration under the preceding sentence by the executors or administrators of the Optionee’s estate or by any person who has acquired this option directly from the Optionee by beneficiary designation, bequest or inheritance, but only to the extent that this option had become exercisable before the Optionee’s death. When the Optionee dies, this option shall expire immediately with respect to the number of Shares for which this option is not yet exercisable.

(d)     Leaves of Absence . For any purpose under this Agreement, Service shall be deemed to continue while the Optionee is on a bona fide leave of absence, if such leave was approved by the Company in writing and if continued crediting of Service for such purpose is expressly required by the terms of such leave or by applicable law (as determined by the Company).

(e)     Notice Concerning ISO Treatment . Even if this option is designated as an ISO in the Notice of Stock Option Grant, it ceases to qualify for favorable tax treatment as an ISO to the extent that it is exercised:

(i)    More than three months after the date when the Optionee ceases to be an Employee for any reason other than death or Disability;

(ii)    More than 12 months after the date when the Optionee ceases to be an Employee by reason of Disability; or

(iii)    More than three months after the date when the Optionee has been on a leave of absence for 90 days, unless the Optionee’s reemployment rights following such leave were guaranteed by statute or by contract.

 

SECTION 7.

RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL.

(a)     Right of First Refusal . In the event that the Optionee proposes to sell, pledge or otherwise transfer to a third party any Shares acquired under this Agreement, or any interest in such Shares, the Company shall have the Right of First Refusal with respect to all (and not less than all) of such Shares. If the Optionee desires to transfer Shares acquired under this Agreement, the Optionee shall give a written Transfer Notice to the Company describing fully the proposed transfer, including the number of Shares proposed to be transferred, the proposed transfer price, the name and address of the proposed Transferee and proof satisfactory to the Company that the proposed sale or transfer will not violate any applicable federal or state securities laws. The Transfer Notice shall be signed both by the Optionee and by the proposed Transferee and must constitute a binding commitment of both parties to the transfer of the Shares. The Company shall have the right to purchase all, and not less than all, of the Shares on the terms of the proposal described in the Transfer Notice (subject, however, to any change in such terms permitted under Subsection (b) below) by delivery of a notice of exercise of the Right of First Refusal within 30 days after the date when the Transfer Notice was received by the Company.

 

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(b)     Transfer of Shares . If the Company fails to exercise its Right of First Refusal within 30 days after the date when it received the Transfer Notice, the Optionee may, not later than 90 days following receipt of the Transfer Notice by the Company, conclude a transfer of the Shares subject to the Transfer Notice on the terms and conditions described in the Transfer Notice, provided that any such sale is made in compliance with applicable federal and state securities laws and not in violation of any other contractual restrictions to which the Optionee is bound. Any proposed transfer on terms and conditions different from those described in the Transfer Notice, as well as any subsequent proposed transfer by the Optionee, shall again be subject to the Right of First Refusal and shall require compliance with the procedure described in Subsection (a) above. If the Company exercises its Right of First Refusal, the parties shall consummate the sale of the Shares on the terms set forth in the Transfer Notice within 60 days after the date when the Company received the Transfer Notice (or within such longer period as may have been specified in the Transfer Notice); provided, however, that in the event the Transfer Notice provided that payment for the Shares was to be made in a form other than cash or cash equivalents paid at the time of transfer, the Company shall have the option of paying for the Shares with cash or cash equivalents equal to the present value of the consideration described in the Transfer Notice.

(c)     Additional or Exchanged Securities and Property . In the event of a merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another entity, any other corporate reorganization, a stock split, the declaration of a stock dividend, the declaration of an extraordinary dividend payable in a form other than stock, a spin-off, an adjustment in conversion ratio, a recapitalization or a similar transaction affecting the Company’s outstanding securities, any securities or other property (including cash or cash equivalents) that are by reason of such transaction exchanged for, or distributed with respect to, any Shares subject to this Section 7 shall immediately be subject to the Right of First Refusal. Appropriate adjustments to reflect the exchange or distribution of such securities or property shall be made to the number and/or class of the Shares subject to this Section 7.

(d)     Termination of Right of First Refusal . Any other provision of this Section 7 notwithstanding, in the event that the Stock is readily tradable on an established securities market when the Optionee desires to transfer Shares, the Company shall have no Right of First Refusal, and the Optionee shall have no obligation to comply with the procedures prescribed by Subsections (a) and (b) above.

(e)     Permitted Transfers . This Section 7 shall not apply to (i) a transfer by beneficiary designation, will or intestate succession or (ii) a transfer to one or more members of the Optionee’s Immediate Family or to a trust established by the Optionee for the benefit of the Optionee and/or one or more members of the Optionee’s Immediate Family, provided in either case that the Transferee agrees in writing on a form prescribed by the Company to be bound by all provisions of this Agreement. If the Optionee transfers any Shares acquired under this Agreement, either under this Subsection (e) or after the Company has failed to exercise the Right of First Refusal, then this Agreement shall apply to the Transferee to the same extent as to the Optionee.

 

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(f)     Termination of Rights as Stockholder . If the Company makes available, at the time and place and in the amount and form provided in this Agreement, the consideration for the Shares to be purchased in accordance with this Section 7, then after such time the person from whom such Shares are to be purchased shall no longer have any rights as a holder of such Shares (other than the right to receive payment of such consideration in accordance with this Agreement). Such Shares shall be deemed to have been purchased in accordance with the applicable provisions hereof, whether or not the certificate(s) therefor have been delivered as required by this Agreement.

(g)     Assignment of Right of First Refusal . The Board of Directors may freely assign the Company’s Right of First Refusal, in whole or in part. Any person who accepts an assignment of the Right of First Refusal from the Company shall assume all of the Company’s rights and obligations under this Section 7.

 

SECTION 8.

LEGALITY OF INITIAL ISSUANCE.

No Shares shall be issued upon the exercise of this option unless and until the Company has determined that:

(a)    It and the Optionee have taken any actions required to register the Shares under the Securities Act or to perfect an exemption from the registration requirements thereof;

(b)    Any applicable listing requirement of any stock exchange or other securities market on which Stock is listed has been satisfied; and

(c)    Any other applicable provision of federal, state or foreign law has been satisfied.

 

SECTION 9.

NO REGISTRATION RIGHTS.

The Company may, but shall not be obligated to, register or qualify the sale of Shares under the Securities Act or any other applicable law. The Company shall not be obligated to take any affirmative action in order to cause the sale of Shares under this Agreement to comply with any law.

 

SECTION 10.

RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER.

(a)     Securities Law Restrictions . Regardless of whether the offering and sale of Shares under the Plan have been registered under the Securities Act or have been registered or qualified under the securities laws of any state, the Company at its discretion may impose restrictions upon the sale, pledge or other transfer of such Shares (including the placement of appropriate legends on stock certificates or the imposition of stop-transfer instructions) if, in the judgment of the Company, such restrictions are necessary or desirable in order to achieve compliance with the Securities Act, the securities laws of any state or any other law.

(b)     Market Stand-Off . In connection with any underwritten public offering by the Company of its equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under

 

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the Securities Act, including the Company’s initial public offering, the Optionee or a Transferee shall not directly or indirectly sell, make any short sale of, loan, hypothecate, pledge, offer, grant or sell any option or other contract for the purchase of, purchase any option or other contract for the sale of, or otherwise dispose of or transfer, or agree to engage in any of the foregoing transactions with respect to, any Shares acquired under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Company or its underwriters. Such restriction (the “Market Stand-Off”) shall be in effect for such period of time following the date of the final prospectus for the offering as may be requested by the Company or such underwriters. In no event, however, shall such period exceed 180 days. The Market Stand-Off shall in any event terminate two years after the date of the Company’s initial public offering. In the event of the declaration of a stock dividend, a spin-off, a stock split, an adjustment in conversion ratio, a recapitalization or a similar transaction affecting the Company’s outstanding securities without receipt of consideration, any new, substituted or additional securities which are by reason of such transaction distributed with respect to any Shares subject to the Market Stand-Off, or into which such Shares thereby become convertible, shall immediately be subject to the Market Stand-Off. In order to enforce the Market Stand-Off, the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the Shares acquired under this Agreement until the end of the applicable stand-off period. The Company’s underwriters shall be beneficiaries of the agreement set forth in this Subsection (b). This Subsection (b) shall not apply to Shares registered in the public offering under the Securities Act, and the Optionee or a Transferee shall be subject to this Subsection (b) only if the directors and officers of the Company are subject to similar arrangements.

(c)     Investment Intent at Grant . The Optionee represents and agrees that the Shares to be acquired upon exercising this option will be acquired for investment, and not with a view to the sale or distribution thereof.

(d)     Investment Intent at Exercise . In the event that the sale of Shares under the Plan is not registered under the Securities Act but an exemption is available which requires an investment representation or other representation, the Optionee shall represent and agree at the time of exercise that the Shares being acquired upon exercising this option are being acquired for investment, and not with a view to the sale or distribution thereof, and shall make such other representations as are deemed necessary or appropriate by the Company and its counsel.

(e)     Legends . All certificates evidencing Shares purchased under this Agreement shall bear the following legend:

“THE SHARES REPRESENTED HEREBY MAY NOT BE SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, ENCUMBERED OR IN ANY MANNER DISPOSED OF, EXCEPT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE TERMS OF A WRITTEN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE REGISTERED HOLDER OF THE SHARES (OR THE PREDECESSOR IN INTEREST TO THE SHARES). SUCH AGREEMENT GRANTS TO THE COMPANY CERTAIN RIGHTS OF FIRST REFUSAL UPON AN ATTEMPTED TRANSFER OF THE SHARES. THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY WILL UPON WRITTEN REQUEST FURNISH A COPY OF SUCH AGREEMENT TO THE HOLDER HEREOF WITHOUT CHARGE.”

 

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All certificates evidencing Shares purchased under this Agreement in an unregistered transaction shall bear the following legend (and such other restrictive legends as are required or deemed advisable under the provisions of any applicable law):

“THE SHARES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED WITHOUT AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION THEREOF UNDER SUCH ACT OR AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY AND ITS COUNSEL, THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED.”

(f)     Removal of Legends . If, in the opinion of the Company and its counsel, any legend placed on a stock certificate representing Shares sold under this Agreement is no longer required, the holder of such certificate shall be entitled to exchange such certificate for a certificate representing the same number of Shares but without such legend.

(g)     Administration . Any determination by the Company and its counsel in connection with any of the matters set forth in this Section 10 shall be conclusive and binding on the Optionee and all other persons.

 

SECTION 11.

ADJUSTMENT OF SHARES.

In the event of any transaction described in Section 8(a) of the Plan, the terms of this option (including, without limitation, the number and kind of Shares subject to this option and the Exercise Price) shall be adjusted as set forth in Section 8(a) of the Plan. In the event that the Company is a party to a merger or consolidation, this option shall be subject to the agreement of merger or consolidation, as provided in Section 8(b) of the Plan.

 

SECTION 12.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.

(a)     Rights as a Stockholder . Neither the Optionee nor the Optionee’s representative shall have any rights as a stockholder with respect to any Shares subject to this option until the Optionee or the Optionee’s representative becomes entitled to receive such Shares by filing a notice of exercise and paying the Purchase Price pursuant to Sections 4 and 5.

(b)     No Retention Rights . Nothing in this option or in the Plan shall confer upon the Optionee any right to continue in Service for any period of specific duration or interfere with or otherwise restrict in any way the rights of the Company (or any Parent or Subsidiary employing or retaining the Optionee) or of the Optionee, which rights are hereby expressly reserved by each, to terminate his or her Service at any time and for any reason, with or without cause.

(c)     Notice . Any notice required by the terms of this Agreement shall be given in writing. It shall be deemed effective upon (i) personal delivery, (ii) deposit with the United States Postal Service, by registered or certified mail, with postage and fees prepaid or (iii) deposit with Federal Express Corporation, with shipping charges prepaid. Notice shall be addressed to the Company at its principal executive office and to the Optionee at the address that he or she most recently provided to the Company in accordance with this Subsection (c).

 

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(d)     Entire Agreement . The Notice of Stock Option Grant, this Agreement and the Plan constitute the entire contract between the parties hereto with regard to the subject matter hereof. They supersede any other agreements, representations or understandings (whether oral or written and whether express or implied) which relate to the subject matter hereof.

(e)     Choice of Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware, as such laws are applied to contracts entered into and performed in such State.

 

SECTION 13.

DEFINITIONS.

(a)    “ Agreement ” shall mean this Stock Option Agreement.

(b)    “ Board of Directors ” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company, as constituted from time to time or, if a Committee has been appointed, such Committee.

(c)    “ Change in Control ” shall mean (i) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company with or into another entity or (ii) the dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the Company. The foregoing notwithstanding, a merger or consolidation of the Company shall not constitute a “Change in Control” if immediately after such merger or consolidation a majority of the voting power of the capital stock of the continuing or surviving entity, or any direct or indirect parent corporation of such continuing or surviving entity, will be owned by the persons who were the Company’s stockholders immediately prior to such merger or consolidation in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the voting power of the Company’s capital stock immediately prior to such merger or consolidation.

(d)    “ Code ” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(e)    “ Committee ” shall mean a committee of the Board of Directors, as described in Section 2 of the Plan.

(f)    “ Company ” shall mean Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

(g)    “ Consultant ” shall mean a person who performs bona fide services for the Company, a Parent or a Subsidiary as a consultant or advisor, excluding Employees and Outside Directors.

(h)    “ Date of Grant ” shall mean the date specified in the Notice of Stock Option Grant, which date shall be the later of (i) the date on which the Board of Directors resolved to grant this option or (ii) the first day of the Optionee’s Service.

(i)    “ Disability ” shall mean that the Optionee is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted, or can be expected to last, for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

(j)    “ Employee ” shall mean any individual who is a common-law employee of the Company, a Parent or a Subsidiary.

 

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(k)    “ Exercise Price ” shall mean the amount for which one Share may be purchased upon exercise of this option, as specified in the Notice of Stock Option Grant.

(l)    “ Fair Market Value ” shall mean the fair market value of a Share, as determined by the Board of Directors in good faith. Such determination shall be conclusive and binding on all persons.

(m)    “ Immediate Family ” shall mean any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law and shall include adoptive relationships.

(n)    “ ISO ” shall mean an employee incentive stock option described in Section 422(b) of the Code.

(o)    “ Notice of Stock Option Grant ” shall mean the document so entitled to which this Agreement is attached.

(p)    “ NSO ” shall mean a stock option not described in Sections 422(b) or 423(b) of the Code.

(q)    “ Optionee ” shall mean the person named in the Notice of Stock Option Grant.

(r)    “ Outside Director ” shall mean a member of the Board of Directors who is not an Employee.

(s)    “ Parent ” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of corporations ending with the Company, if each of the corporations other than the Company owns stock possessing 50% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain.

(t)    “ Plan ” shall mean the Avedro, Inc. 2003 Stock Plan, as in effect on the Date of Grant.

(u)    “ Purchase Price ” shall mean the Exercise Price multiplied by the number of Shares with respect to which this option is being exercised.

(v)    “ Right of First Refusal ” shall mean the Company’s right of first refusal described in Section 7.

(w)    “ Securities Act ” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(x)    “ Service ” shall mean service as an Employee, Outside Director or Consultant.

(y)    “ Share ” shall mean one share of Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 8 of the Plan (if applicable).

 

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(z)    “ Stock ” shall mean the Common Stock of the Company, with a par value of $0.00001 per Share.

(aa)    “ Subsidiary ” shall mean any corporation (other than the Company) in an unbroken chain of corporations beginning with the Company, if each of the corporations other than the last corporation in the unbroken chain owns stock possessing 50% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock in one of the other corporations in such chain.

(bb)    “ Transferee ” shall mean any person to whom the Optionee has directly or indirectly transferred any Share acquired under this Agreement.

(cc)    “ Transfer Notice ” shall mean the notice of a proposed transfer of Shares described in Section 7.

 

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NOTICE OF EXERCISE

 

Avedro, Inc.   
230 Third Avenue   
Waltham, MA 02451    Date of Exercise:                     

Ladies and Gentlemen:

This constitutes notice under that certain stock option agreement, dated as of                     (the “ Option ”), that I elect to purchase the number of shares of Common Stock of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) for the price set forth below.

 

Type of option (check one):

     Incentive   ☐      Nonstatutory   ☐ 

Option dated:

    

Number of shares as

to which Option is

exercised:

    

Certificates to be

issued in name of:

    

Total exercise price:

    

Cash payment delivered

herewith:

    

By this exercise, I agree (i) to provide such additional documents as you may require pursuant to the terms of the Avedro, Inc. 2003 Stock Plan, (ii) to provide for the payment by me to you (in the manner designated by you) of your withholding obligation, if any, relating to the exercise of this option, and (iii) if this exercise relates to an incentive stock option, to notify you in writing within fifteen (15) days after the date of any disposition of any of the shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of this option that occurs within two (2) years after the date of grant of this option or within one (1) year after such shares of Common Stock are issued upon exercise of this option.

I hereby make the following certifications and representations with respect to the number of shares of Common Stock of the Company listed above (the “ Shares ”), which are being acquired by me for my own account upon exercise of the Option as set forth above:

I acknowledge that the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), and are deemed to constitute “restricted securities” under Rule 701 and Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act. I warrant and represent to the Company that I have no present intention of distributing or selling said Shares, except as permitted under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.

I further acknowledge that I will not be able to resell the Shares for at least ninety days (90) after the stock of the Company becomes publicly traded ( i.e., subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) under Rule 701 and that more restrictive conditions apply to affiliates of the Company under Rule 144.

 

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I acknowledge that the Shares are subject to the Company’s Right of First Refusal as set forth in the Option.

I further acknowledge that all certificates representing any of the Shares subject to the provisions of the Option shall have endorsed thereon appropriate legends reflecting the foregoing limitations, as well as any legends reflecting restrictions pursuant to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws and/or applicable securities laws.

I further acknowledge that in connection with any underwritten public offering by the Company of its equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the Securities Act, including the Company’s initial public offering, neither I nor any permitted Transferee (as defined in the Option) shall directly or indirectly sell, make any short sale of, loan, hypothecate, pledge, offer, grant or sell any option or other contract for the purchase of, purchase any option or other contract for the sale of, or otherwise dispose of or transfer, or agree to engage in any of the foregoing transactions with respect to, any Shares without the prior written consent of the Company or its underwriters. Such restriction (the “ Market Stand-Off ”) shall be in effect for such period of time following the date of the final prospectus for the offering as may be requested by the Company or such underwriters. In no event, however, shall such period exceed one hundred eighty (180) days. The Market Stand-Off shall in any event terminate two (2) years after the date of the Company’s initial public offering.

 

Very truly yours,

 

 

Print Name

 

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Exhibit 10.4

A VEDRO , I NC .

2012 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

A DOPTED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS : O CTOBER 5, 2012

A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS : O CTOBER 5, 2012

A MENDED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS : MARCH 1, 2013

A MENDED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS : M ARCH 1, 2013

T ERMINATION D ATE : O CTOBER 5, 2022

 

1.

G ENERAL .

(a) Eligible Stock Award Recipients. Employees, Directors and Consultants are eligible to receive Stock Awards.

(b) Available Stock Awards. The Plan provides for the grant of the following types of Stock Awards: (i) Incentive Stock Options, (ii) Nonstatutory Stock Options, (iii) Stock Appreciation Rights, (iv) Restricted Stock Awards, (v) Restricted Stock Unit Awards, and (vi) Other Stock Awards.

(c) Purpose. The Plan, through the granting of Stock Awards, is intended to help the Company secure and retain the services of eligible award recipients, provides incentives for these persons to exert maximum efforts for the success of the Company and any Affiliate and provide a means by which the eligible recipients may benefit from increases in value of the Common Stock.

 

2.

A DMINISTRATION .

(a) Administration by Board. The Board will administer the Plan. The Board may delegate administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees, as provided in Section 2(c).

(b) Powers of Board. The Board will have the power, subject to, and within the limitations of, the express terms of the Plan:

(i) To determine (A) who will be granted Stock Awards; (B) when and how each Stock Award will be granted; (C) what type of Stock Award will be granted; (D) the terms of each Stock Award, which need not be identical, including when the Participant will be permitted to exercise or otherwise receive cash or Common Stock under the Stock Award; (E) the number of shares of Common Stock subject to a Stock Award; and (F) the Fair Market Value applicable to a Stock Award.

(ii) To construe and interpret the Plan and Stock Awards granted under it, and to establish, amend and revoke rules and regulations for administration of the Plan and Stock Awards. The Board, in the exercise of these powers, may correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in the Plan or in any Stock Award Agreement, in a manner and to the extent it determines necessary or expedient to make the Plan or Stock Award fully effective.

 

1.


(iii) To settle all controversies regarding the Plan and Stock Awards granted

under it.

(iv) To accelerate, in whole or in part, the time at which a Stock Award may be exercised or vest, or at which cash or shares of Common Stock may be issued.

(v) To suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or a Stock Award Agreement, suspension or termination of the Plan will not impair a Participant’s rights under his or her then-outstanding Stock Award without the Participant’s written consent except as provided in Section 2(b)(viii).

(vi) To amend the Plan in any respect the Board determines necessary or advisable, including, without limitation, by adopting amendments relating to Incentive Stock Options and nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, or to make the Plan or Stock Awards granted under the Plan exempt from or compliant with the requirements for Incentive Stock Options or nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, subject to the limitations, if any, of applicable law. However, if required by applicable law, and except as provided in Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the Company will seek stockholder approval of any amendment of the Plan that (A) materially increases the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan, (B) materially expands the class of individuals eligible to receive Stock Awards under the Plan, (C) materially increases the benefits accruing to Participants under the Plan, (D) materially reduces the price at which shares of Common Stock may be issued or purchased under the Plan, (E) materially extends the term of the Plan, or (F) materially expands the types of Stock Awards available for issuance under the Plan. Except as provided in the Plan (including Section 2(b)(viii)) or a Stock Award Agreement, no amendment of the Plan will impair a Participant’s rights under an outstanding Stock Award without the Participant’s written consent.

(vii) To submit any amendment to the Plan for stockholder approval, including, without limitation, amendments to the Plan intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 422 of the Code regarding Incentive Stock Options.

(viii) To approve forms of Stock Award Agreements for use under the Plan and to amend the terms of any one or more Stock Awards, including, without limitation, amendments to provide terms more favorable to the Participant than previously provided in the Stock Award Agreement, subject to any specified limits in the Plan that are not subject to Board discretion; provided, however , that a Participant’s rights under any Stock Award will not be impaired by any such amendment unless (A) the Company requests the affected Participant’s consent, and (B) the Participant consents in writing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (1) a Participant’s rights will not be deemed to have been impaired by any such amendment if the Board, in its sole discretion, determines that the amendment, taken as a whole, does not materially impair the Participant’s rights; and (2) subject to the limitations of applicable law, if any, the Board may amend the terms of any one or more Stock Awards without the affected Participant’s consent: (A) to maintain the

 

2.


qualified status of the Stock Award as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code; (B) to change the terms of an Incentive Stock Option, if the change results in impairment of the Stock Award solely because it impairs the qualified status of the Stock Award as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code; (C) to clarify the manner of exemption from, or to bring the Stock Award into compliance with, Section 409A of the Code; or (D) to comply with other applicable laws.

(ix) Generally, to exercise the powers and to perform the acts the Board determines necessary or expedient to promote the best interests of the Company and that are not in conflict with the terms of the Plan or Stock Awards.

(x) To adopt any procedures and sub-plans as are necessary or appropriate to permit participation in the Plan by Employees, Directors or Consultants who are foreign nationals or employed outside the United States; provided, however , that Board approval will not be necessary for immaterial modifications to the Plan or any Stock Award Agreement that are required for compliance with the laws of the relevant foreign jurisdiction.

(xi) To effect, with the consent of any adversely affected Participant, (A) the reduction of the exercise, purchase or strike price of any outstanding Stock Award; (B) the cancellation of any outstanding Stock Award and the grant in substitution therefor of (1) an Option or SAR, (2) a Restricted Stock Award, (3) a Restricted Stock Unit Award, (4) an Other Stock Award, (5) cash, or (6) other valuable consideration determined by the Board, in its sole discretion, with any substituted award (x) covering the same or a different number of shares of Common Stock as the cancelled Stock Award, and (y) granted under the Plan or another equity or compensatory plan of the Company; or (C) any other action that is treated as a repricing under generally accepted accounting principles.

(c) Delegation to a Committee. The Board may delegate some or all of the administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees. If administration of the Plan is delegated to a Committee, the Committee will have, in connection with the administration of the Plan, the powers theretofore possessed by the Board that have been delegated to the Committee, including the power to delegate to a subcommittee of the Committee any of the administrative powers the Committee is authorized to exercise and references in this Plan to the Board will thereafter be to the Committee or subcommittee, as applicable. Any delegation of administrative powers will be reflected in resolutions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, that the Board or the Committee adopts from time to time. The Committee may, at any time, abolish the subcommittee and revest in the Committee any powers delegated to the subcommittee. The Board may retain the authority to concurrently administer the Plan with the Committee and may, at any time, revest in the Board some or all of the powers previously delegated.

(d) Delegation to an Officer. The Board may delegate to one (1) or more Officers the authority to do one or both of the following (i) designate Employees who are not Officers to be recipients of Options and SARs (and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, other Stock Awards) and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the terms of such rights and options, and (ii) determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be subject to such Stock Awards granted to such Employees; provided, however, that the Board resolutions regarding such

 

3.


delegation will specify the total number of shares of Common Stock that may be subject to the Stock Awards granted by such Officer and that such Officer may not grant a Stock Award to himself or herself. Any such Stock Awards will be granted on the form of Stock Award Agreement most recently approved for use by the Committee or the Board, unless otherwise provided in the resolutions approving the delegation authority. The Board may not delegate authority to an Officer who is acting solely in the capacity of an Officer (and not also as a Director) to determine the Fair Market Value pursuant to Section 13(t).

(e) Effect of the Board’s Decision. All determinations, interpretations and constructions made by the Board in good faith will not be subject to review by any person and will be final, binding and conclusive on all persons.

 

3.

S HARES S UBJECT TO THE P LAN .

(a) Share Reserve. Subject to Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Stock Awards from and after the Effective Date will not exceed Eleven Million Three Hundred Thousand (11,300,000) shares (the “ Share Reserve ”). For clarity, the Share Reserve is a limitation on the number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Plan. Accordingly, this Section 3(a) does not limit the granting of Stock Awards except as provided in Section 7(a).

(b) Reversion of Shares to the Share Reserve . If a Stock Award or any portion of a Stock Award (i) expires or otherwise terminates without all of the shares covered by the Stock Award having been issued, or (ii) is settled in cash ( i.e. , the Participant receives cash rather than stock), the expiration, termination or settlement will not reduce or otherwise offset the number of shares of Common Stock that are available for issuance under the Plan. If any shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to a Stock Award are forfeited back to or repurchased by the Company because of the failure to meet a contingency or condition required to vest the shares in the Participant, then the shares that are forfeited or repurchased will revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan. Any shares reacquired by the Company in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations on a Stock Award or as consideration for the exercise or purchase price of a Stock Award will again become available for issuance under the Plan.

(c) Incentive Stock Option Limit. Subject to this Section 3 and Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options will be Eleven Million Three Hundred Thousand (11,300,000) shares of Common Stock.

(d) Source of Shares. The stock issuable under the Plan will be shares of authorized but unissued or reacquired Common Stock, including shares repurchased by the Company on the open market or otherwise.

 

4.


4.

E LIGIBILITY .

(a) Eligibility for Stock Awards. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to employees of the Company or a “parent corporation” or “subsidiary corporation” of the Company (as these terms are defined in Sections 424(e) and 424(f) of the Code). Stock Awards other than Incentive Stock Options may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants; provided, however , that Stock Awards may not be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants who are providing Continuous Service only to any “parent” of the Company, as this term is defined in Rule 405, unless (i) the stock underlying the Stock Awards is treated as “service recipient stock” under Section 409A of the Code (for example, because the Stock Awards are granted in connection with a corporate transaction such as a spin off transaction), or

(ii) the Company, in consultation with its legal counsel, has determined that the Stock Awards are otherwise exempt from or alternatively comply with the distribution requirements of Section 409A of the Code.

(b) Ten Percent Stockholders. A Ten Percent Stockholder will not be granted an Incentive Stock Option unless the exercise price of the Option is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant and the Option is not exercisable after the expiration of five years from the date of grant.

(c) Consultants. A Consultant will not be eligible for the grant of a Stock Award if, at the time of grant, either the offer or sale of the Company’s securities to the Consultant is not exempt under Rule 701 because of the nature of the services that the Consultant is providing to the Company, because the Consultant is not a natural person, or because of any other provision of Rule 701, unless the Company determines that the grant need not comply with the requirements of Rule 701 and will satisfy another exemption under the Securities Act as well as comply with the securities laws of all other relevant jurisdictions.

 

5.

O PTIONS AND S TOCK A PPRECIATION R IGHTS .

The Board will determine the form and the terms and conditions of each Option or SAR. All Options will be separately designated Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock Options at the time of grant, and, if certificates are issued, a separate certificate or certificates will be issued for shares of Common Stock purchased upon the exercise of each type of Option. If an Option is not specifically designated as an Incentive Stock Option, or if an Option is designated as an Incentive Stock Option but some portion or all of the Option fails to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option under the applicable rules, then the Option, or portion of the Option, will be a Nonstatutory Stock Option. The terms of separate Options or SARs need not be identical; provided, however , that each Stock Award Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of provisions of the Plan by reference in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following terms:

(a) Term. Subject to Section 4(b) regarding Ten Percent Stockholders, no Option or SAR will be exercisable after the expiration of ten years from the date of its grant or a shorter period specified in the Stock Award Agreement.

(b) Exercise Price. Subject to 4(b) regarding Ten Percent Stockholders, the exercise or strike price of each Option or SAR will be not less than 100% of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Option or SAR may be granted with an exercise or strike price lower than 100% of the Fair Market Value if the Stock Award is granted pursuant

 

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to an assumption of or substitution for another option or stock appreciation right in connection with a Corporate Transaction and in a manner consistent with the provisions of Section 409A of the Code and, if applicable, Section 424(a) of the Code. Each SAR will be denominated in shares of Common Stock equivalents.

(c) Exercise Price for Options. The exercise price of Common Stock acquired upon the exercise of an Option may be paid, to the extent permitted by applicable law and as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, by any combination of the following methods of payment. The Board will have the authority to grant Options that permit any one or more of the following methods of payment (or to restrict the ability to use any particular method or methods) and to grant Options that require the Company’s consent to use a particular method of payment. The permitted methods of payment are:

(i) by cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company;

(ii) pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board that, prior to the issuance of the Common Stock, results in the Company’s receipt of cash or check or the receipt of irrevocable instructions to pay the aggregate purchase price to the Company from the sales proceeds;

(iii) delivery to the Company (either by actual delivery or attestation) of shares

of Common Stock;

(iv) if an Option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price; provided, however , that the Company will accept cash or another method payment from the Participant to the extent of any remaining balance of the aggregate exercise price not satisfied by a reduction in the number of whole shares to be issued. Shares of Common Stock will no longer be subject to an Option and will not be exercisable after a “net exercise” to the extent that (A) shares issuable upon the exercise are used to pay the exercise price pursuant to the “net exercise,” (B) shares are delivered to the Participant as a result of the exercise, and (C) shares are withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations; or

(v) according to a deferred payment or similar arrangement with the Optionholder; provided, however , that interest will compound at least annually and will be charged at the minimum rate of interest necessary to avoid (A) the imputation of interest income to the Company and compensation income to the Optionholder under any applicable provisions of the Code, and (B) the classification of the Option as a liability for financial accounting purposes; or

(vi) in any other form of legal consideration that the Board determines acceptable and specifies in the applicable Stock Award Agreement.

 

 

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(d) Exercise and Payment of a SAR. To exercise any outstanding SAR, the Participant must provide written notice of exercise to the Company in compliance with the terms of the Stock Appreciation Right Agreement evidencing the SAR. The appreciation distribution payable on the exercise of a SAR will be not greater than an amount equal to the excess of (A) the aggregate Fair Market Value (on the date of the exercise of the SAR) of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Common Stock equivalents in which the Participant is vested under the SAR, and with respect to which the Participant is exercising the SAR on the applicable exercise date, over (B) the strike price. The appreciation distribution may be paid in Common Stock, in cash, in any combination of the two, or in any other form of consideration, as the Board determines and describes in the applicable Stock Appreciation Right Agreement.

(e) Transferability of Options and SARs. The Board may, in its sole discretion, impose limitations on the transferability of Options and SARs as the Board determines. In the absence of a determination by the Board to the contrary, the following restrictions on the transferability of Options and SARs will apply:

(i) Restrictions on Transfer. An Option or SAR will not be transferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution (and pursuant to Sections 5(e)(ii) and 5(e)(iii)), and will be exercisable during the lifetime of the Participant only by the Participant. The Board may permit a transfer of the Option or SAR in a manner that is permissible under applicable tax and securities laws. Except as explicitly provided in the Plan, neither an Option nor a SAR may be transferred for consideration.

(ii) Domestic Relations Orders. Subject to the approval of the Board or a duly authorized Officer, an Option or SAR may be transferred pursuant to the terms of a domestic relations order, official marital settlement agreement or other divorce or separation instrument as permitted by Treasury Regulations Section 1.421-1(b)(2). If an Option is an Incentive Stock Option, the Option may be deemed to be a Nonstatutory Stock Option as a result of a transfer.

(iii) Beneficiary Designation. Subject to the approval of the Board or a duly authorized Officer, a Participant may, by delivering written notice to the Company, in a form approved by the Company (or its designated broker), designate a third party who, on the Participant’s death, will thereafter be entitled to exercise the Option or SAR and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from the exercise. In the absence of a designation, the executor or administrator of the Participant’s estate will be entitled to exercise the Option or SAR and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from the exercise. However, the Company may prohibit designation of a beneficiary at any time, including due to any conclusion by the Company that a designation would be inconsistent with applicable law.

(f) Vesting Generally. The total number of shares of Common Stock subject to an Option or SAR may vest and therefore become exercisable in periodic installments that may or may not be equal. The Board will determine whether the Option or SAR is subject to other terms and conditions on the time or times when the Stock Award may or may not be exercised, which may be based on the satisfaction of performance goals or other criteria. The vesting terms of individual Options or SARs may vary. This Section 5(f) is subject to any term in an Option or SAR specifying the minimum number of shares of Common Stock as to which the Option or SAR may be exercised.

 

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(g) Termination of Continuous Service. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate, if a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates (other than for Cause and other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability), the Participant may exercise his or her Option or SAR (to the extent that the Participant was entitled to exercise the Stock Award as of the date of termination of Continuous Service) within the period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date three months following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (or such longer or shorter period specified in the applicable Stock Award Agreement, which period will not be less than 30 days if necessary to comply with applicable law unless the Participant’s termination is for Cause); and (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the applicable Stock Award Agreement. If, after termination of Continuous Service, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option or SAR within the designated time frame, the Option or SAR will terminate.

(h) Extension of Termination Date. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate, if the exercise of an Option or SAR following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (other than for Cause and other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability) would be prohibited at any time solely because the issuance of shares of Common Stock would violate the registration requirements under the Securities Act, then the Option or SAR will terminate on the earlier of (i) the expiration of a total period of three months (which need not be consecutive) after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service during which the exercise of the Option or SAR would not be in violation of the Securities Act’s registration requirements, or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the applicable Stock Award Agreement. In addition, unless otherwise provided in a Participant’s Stock Award Agreement, if the sale of any Common Stock received upon exercise of an Option or SAR following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (other than for Cause) would violate the Company’s insider trading policy, then the Option or SAR will terminate on the earlier of (i) the expiration of a period of months (which need not be consecutive) equal to the applicable post-termination exercise period after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service during which the sale of the Common Stock received upon exercise of the Option or SAR would not be in violation of the Company’s insider trading policy, or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the applicable Stock Award Agreement.

(i) Disability of Participant. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate, if a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates as a result of the Participant’s Disability, the Participant may exercise his or her Option or SAR (to the extent that the Participant was entitled to exercise the Option or SAR as of the date of termination of Continuous Service), but only within the period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date 12 months following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (or such longer or shorter period specified in

 

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the Stock Award Agreement, which period will not be less than six months if necessary to comply with applicable law), and (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the Stock Award Agreement. If, after termination of Continuous Service, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option or SAR within the applicable time frame, the Option or SAR (as applicable) will terminate.

(j) Death of Participant. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company, if (i) a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates as a result of the Participant’s death, or (ii) the Participant dies within the period, if any, specified in the Stock Award Agreement for exercisability after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (for a reason other than death), then the Option or SAR may be exercised (to the extent the Participant was entitled to exercise the Option or SAR as of the date of death) by the Participant’s estate, by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option or SAR by bequest or inheritance, or by a person designated to exercise the Option or SAR upon the Participant’s death, but only within the period ending on the earlier of (A) the date 18 months following the date of the Participant’s death (or such longer or shorter period specified in the Stock Award Agreement, which period will not be less than six months if necessary to comply with applicable laws), and (B) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the Stock Award Agreement. If, after the Participant’s death, the Option or SAR is not exercised within the applicable time frame, the Option or SAR will terminate.

(k) Termination for Cause. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Stock Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company, if a Participant’s Continuous Service is terminated for Cause, the Option or SAR will terminate immediately upon the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service and the Participant will be prohibited from exercising the Option or SAR from and after the time of the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service.

(l) Non-Exempt Employees . If an Option or SAR is granted to an Employee who is a non-exempt employee for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended, the Option or SAR will not be first exercisable for any shares of Common Stock until at least six months following the date of grant (although the Stock Award may vest prior to that date). Consistent with the provisions of the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, (i) if a non-exempt Employee dies or suffers a Disability; (ii) upon a Corporate Transaction in which the Option or SAR is not assumed, continued, or substituted; (iii) upon a Change in Control; or (iv) upon the Participant’s retirement (as that term may be defined in the applicable Stock Award Agreement in another agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate, or, if no definition exists, in accordance with the Company’s then-current employment policies and guidelines), the vested portion of any Option and SAR held by the Employee may be exercised earlier than six months following the date of grant. This Section 5(l) is intended to operate so that any income derived by a non-exempt employee in connection with the exercise, vesting or issuance of any shares under an Option or SAR will be exempt from the employee’s regular rate of pay. To the extent permitted or required for compliance with the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, to ensure that any income derived by a non-exempt employee in connection with the exercise, vesting or issuance of any shares under any other Stock Award will be exempt from the employee’s regular rate of pay, this Section 5(l) will apply to all Stock Awards and is incorporated by reference into the applicable Stock Award Agreements.

 

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(m) Early Exercise of Options. An Option may, but need not, include a term that allows the Optionholder to elect, at any time before the Optionholder’s Continuous Service terminates, to exercise the Option as to all or any part of the shares of Common Stock subject to the Option prior to the full vesting of the Option. Subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 8(m), any unvested shares of Common Stock so purchased may be subject to a repurchase right in favor of the Company or to any other restriction the Board determines appropriate. Provided that the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 8(m) is not violated, the Company’s repurchase right will extend, and the Company will not otherwise be required to exercise its repurchase right, until at least six months (or such longer or shorter period of time required to avoid classification of the Option as a liability for financial accounting purposes) have elapsed following the Participant’s exercise of the Option, unless the Board otherwise provides in the Option Agreement.

(n) Right of Repurchase. Subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 8(m), the Option or SAR may include a term whereby the Company may elect to repurchase all or any part of the vested shares of Common Stock acquired by the Participant pursuant to the exercise of the Option or SAR.

(o) Right of First Refusal . Subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 8(m), the Option or SAR may include a term whereby the Company may elect to exercise a right of first refusal following receipt of notice from the Participant of the intent to transfer all or any part of the shares of Common Stock received upon the exercise of the Option or SAR. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 5(o) or in the applicable Stock Award Agreement, a right of first refusal will comply with the Company’s bylaws.

 

6.

S TOCK A WARDS O THER T HAN O PTIONS AND SAR S .

(a) Restricted Stock Awards. The Board will determine the form and terms and conditions of each Restricted Stock Agreement. To the extent consistent with the Company’s bylaws, at the Board’s election, shares of Common Stock may be (i) held in book entry form subject to the Company’s instructions until any restrictions relating to the Restricted Stock Award lapse; or (ii) evidenced by a certificate, which certificate will be held in the form and manner the Board determines. The terms and conditions of Restricted Stock Agreements may change from time to time, and the terms and conditions of separate Restricted Stock Agreements need not be identical. Each Restricted Stock Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of the provisions hereof by reference in the agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following terms:

(i) Consideration. A Restricted Stock Award may be granted in consideration for (A) cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company; (B) past services to the Company or an Affiliate; or (C) any other form of legal consideration (including future services) that may be acceptable to the Board, in its sole discretion, and permissible under applicable law.

 

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(ii) Vesting. Subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 8(m), shares of Common Stock granted under the Restricted Stock Agreement may be subject to forfeiture to the Company in accordance with a vesting schedule determined by the Board.

(iii) Termination of Participant’s Continuous Service. If a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates, the Company may receive, through a forfeiture condition or a repurchase right, any or all of the shares of Common Stock held by the Participant that have not vested as of the date of termination of Continuous Service under the terms of the Restricted Stock Agreement.

(iv) Transferability. Shares of Common Stock granted to a Participant under a Restricted Stock Agreement will be transferable by the Participant only upon the terms and conditions as the Board will determine, in its sole discretion, and describes in the Restricted Stock Agreement, so long as the shares of Common Stock granted under the Restricted Stock Agreement remain subject to the terms of the Restricted Stock Agreement.

(v) Dividends. A Restricted Stock Agreement may provide that any dividends paid on shares of Common Stock granted under a Restricted Stock Award will be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as apply to the shares of Common Stock subject to the Restricted Stock Award to which they relate.

(b) Restricted Stock Unit Awards. The Board will determine the form and terms and conditions of each Restricted Stock Unit Agreement. The terms and conditions of Restricted Stock Unit Agreements may change from time to time, and the terms and conditions of separate Restricted Stock Unit Agreements need not be identical. Each Restricted Stock Unit Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of the provisions hereof by reference in the Agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following terms:

(i) Consideration. At the time of grant of a Restricted Stock Unit Award, the Board will determine the consideration, if any, to be paid by the Participant upon delivery of each share of Common Stock underlying the Restricted Stock Unit Award. The consideration to be paid, if any, by the Participant for each share of Common Stock underlying a Restricted Stock Unit Award may be paid in any form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Board in its discretion and permissible under applicable law.

(ii) Vesting. The Board, in its discretion, may impose restrictions on or conditions to the vesting of a Restricted Stock Unit Award at the time the Board grants the Restricted Stock Unit Award.

(iii) Payment. The Company may settle a Restricted Stock Unit Award by the delivery of shares of Common Stock, their cash equivalent, any combination thereof or in any other form of consideration the Board determines and describes in the Restricted Stock Unit Agreement.

 

 

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(iv) Additional Restrictions. The Board, in its discretion, may impose restrictions or conditions that delay the delivery of the shares of Common Stock (or their cash equivalent or other property) subject to a Restricted Stock Award to a time after the vesting of such Restricted Stock Unit Award.

(v) Dividend Equivalents. Dividend equivalents may be credited in respect of shares of Common Stock underlying a Restricted Stock Unit Award, as the Board determines and describes in the applicable Restricted Stock Unit Agreement. At the sole discretion of the Board, the dividend equivalents may be converted into additional shares of Common Stock covered by the Restricted Stock Unit Award in a manner determined by the Board. Any additional shares of Common Stock credited by reason of the dividend equivalents will be subject to all of the same terms and conditions of the underlying Restricted Stock Unit Agreement to which they relate.

(vi) Termination of Participant’s Continuous Service. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Restricted Stock Unit Agreement, the Participant will forfeit any portion of the Restricted Stock Unit Award that has not vested upon the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service.

(vii) Compliance with Section  409A of the Code. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan, any Restricted Stock Unit Award granted under the Plan that is not exempt from the requirements of Section 409A of the Code will contain terms so that the Restricted Stock Unit Award will comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code. The Board will determine any restrictions and describe the restrictions in the Restricted Stock Unit Agreement evidencing the Restricted Stock Unit Award. For example, the restrictions may include, without limitation, a requirement that any Common Stock that is to be issued in a year following the year in which the Restricted Stock Unit Award vests must be issued in accordance with a fixed pre-determined schedule.

(c) Other Stock Awards. Other forms of Stock Awards valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, the Common Stock, including the appreciation in value of the Common Stock ( e.g. , options or stock appreciation rights with an exercise or strike price less than 100% of the Fair Market Value at the time of grant) may be granted either alone or in addition to other Stock Awards granted under Section 5 and this Section 6. Subject to the terms of the Plan, the Board will have sole and complete authority to determine the persons to whom and the time or times at which Other Stock Awards will be granted, the number of shares of Common Stock (or the cash equivalent thereof) to be granted pursuant to Other Stock Awards, and all other terms and conditions of Other Stock Awards.

 

7.

C OVENANTS OF THE C OMPANY .

(a) Availability of Shares. The Company will keep available at all times the number of shares of Common Stock reasonably required to satisfy then-outstanding Stock Awards.

 

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(b) Securities Law Compliance. The Company will seek to obtain from each regulatory commission or agency having jurisdiction over the Plan the authority as may be required to grant Stock Awards and to issue and sell shares of Common Stock upon exercise of the Stock Awards; provided, however , that this undertaking will not require the Company to register under the Securities Act the Plan, any Stock Award or any Common Stock issued or issuable pursuant to any Stock Award. If, after reasonable efforts and at a reasonable cost, the Company is unable to obtain from any regulatory commission or agency the authority that counsel for the Company determines necessary for the lawful issuance and sale of Common Stock under the Plan, the Company will be relieved from any liability for failure to issue and sell Common Stock upon exercise of Stock Awards unless and until such authority is obtained. A Participant will not be eligible to receive a grant of a Stock Award or be issued cash or shares of Common Stock pursuant to the Stock Award if the grant or issuance would be in violation of any applicable securities law.

(c) No Obligation to Notify or Minimize Taxes. The Company will have no duty or obligation to any Participant to advise the Participant as to the time or manner of exercising any Stock Award. Further, the Company will have no duty or obligation to warn or otherwise advise the Participant of a pending termination or expiration of a Stock Award or a possible period in which the Stock Award may not be exercised. The Company has no duty or obligation to minimize the tax consequences of a Stock Award to any Participant.

 

8.

M ISCELLANEOUS .

(a) Use of Proceeds from Sales of Common Stock. Proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock pursuant to Stock Awards will constitute general funds of the Company.

(b) Corporate Action Constituting Grant of Stock Awards. Corporate action constituting a grant by the Company of a Stock Award to any Participant will be deemed completed as of the date of the corporate action, unless otherwise determined by the Board, regardless of when the instrument, certificate, or letter evidencing the Stock Award is communicated to, or actually received or accepted by, the Participant. In the event that the corporate records ( e.g. , Board consents, resolutions or minutes) documenting the corporate action constituting the grant contain terms ( e.g. , exercise price, vesting schedule or number of shares) that are inconsistent with those in the Stock Award Agreement as a result of a clerical error in the papering of the Stock Award Agreement, the corporate records will control and the Participant will have no legally binding right to the incorrect term in the Stock Award Agreement.

(c) Stockholder Rights. No Participant will be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Common Stock subject to a Stock Award unless and until (i) the Participant has satisfied all requirements for exercise of, or the issuance of shares of Common Stock under, the Stock Award pursuant to its terms, and (ii) the issuance of the Common Stock subject to the Stock Award has been entered into the books and records of the Company.

 

 

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(d) No Employment or Other Service Rights. Nothing in the Plan, any Stock Award Agreement or any other instrument executed thereunder or in connection with any Stock Award granted pursuant thereto will confer upon any Participant any right to continue to serve the Company or an Affiliate in the capacity in effect at the time the Stock Award was granted or will affect the right of the Company or an Affiliate to terminate (i) the employment of an Employee with or without notice and with or without cause, (ii) the service of a Consultant pursuant to the terms of such Consultant’s agreement with the Company or an Affiliate, or (iii) the service of a Director pursuant to the bylaws of the Company, and any applicable provisions of the corporate law of the state in which the Company is incorporated, as the case may be.

(e) Change in Time Commitment. If a Participant’s regular level of time commitment in the performance of his or her services for the Company and any Affiliates is reduced (for example, and without limitation, if the Participant is an Employee of the Company and the Employee has a change in status from a full-time Employee to a part-time Employee) after the date of grant of any Stock Award to the Participant, the Board has the right in its sole discretion to (i) make a corresponding reduction in the number of shares subject to any portion of the Stock Award that is scheduled to vest or become payable after the date of the Participant’s change in time commitment, and (ii) in lieu of or in combination with a reduction, extend the vesting or payment schedule applicable to the Stock Award. In the event of any reduction or modification of the vesting or payment schedule, the Participant will have no right with respect to any portion of the Stock Award that is reduced or modified.

(f) Incentive Stock Option Limitations. To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time of grant) of Common Stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by any Optionholder during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and any Affiliates) exceeds $100,000 (or another limit established in the Code) or otherwise does not comply with the rules governing Incentive Stock Options, the Options or portions of the Options that exceed the limit (according to the order in which they were granted) or otherwise do not comply with the rules will be treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options, notwithstanding any contrary term of the applicable Option Agreement.

(g) Investment Assurances. The Company may require a Participant, as a condition of exercising or acquiring Common Stock under any Stock Award, (i) to give written assurances satisfactory to the Company as to the Participant’s knowledge and experience in financial and business matters or to employ a purchaser representative reasonably satisfactory to the Company who is knowledgeable and experienced in financial and business matters and that he or she is capable of evaluating, alone or together with the purchaser representative, the merits and risks of exercising the Stock Award; and (ii) to give written assurances satisfactory to the Company stating that the Participant is acquiring the Common Stock subject to the Stock Award for the Participant’s own account and not with any present intention of selling or otherwise distributing the Common Stock. The foregoing requirements, and any assurances given pursuant to the requirements, will be inoperative if (A) the issuance of the shares upon the exercise or acquisition of Common Stock under the Stock Award has been registered under a then currently

 

 

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effective registration statement under the Securities Act, or (B) as to any particular requirement, counsel for the Company determines that the requirement need not be met in the particular circumstances under then applicable securities laws. The Company may, upon advice of Company counsel, place legends on stock certificates issued under the Plan as Company counsel determines necessary or appropriate to comply with applicable securities laws, including, without limitations, legends restricting the transfer of the Common Stock.

(h) Withholding Obligations. Unless prohibited by the terms of a Stock Award Agreement, the Company may, in its sole discretion, satisfy any federal, state or local tax withholding obligation relating to a Stock Award by any of the following means (in addition to the Company’s right to withhold from any compensation the Company paid to the Participant) or by a combination of the following means: (i) causing the Participant to tender a cash payment; (ii) withholding shares of Common Stock from the shares of Common Stock issued or otherwise issuable to the Participant in connection with the Stock Award; provided, however , that the Company may not withhold shares of Common Stock with a value exceeding the minimum amount of tax required to be withheld by law (or any lesser amount as may be necessary to avoid classification of the Stock Award as a liability for financial accounting purposes); (iii) withholding cash from a Stock Award settled in cash; (iv) withholding payment from any amounts otherwise payable to the Participant; or (v) by any other method as may be described in the Stock Award Agreement.

(i) Electronic Delivery. Any reference in the Plan to a “written” agreement or document will include any agreement or document delivered electronically or posted on the Company’s intranet (or other shared electronic medium that the Company controls and to which the Participant has access).

(j) Deferrals. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Board, in its sole discretion, may determine that the delivery of Common Stock or the payment of cash upon the exercise, vesting or settlement of all or a portion of a Stock Award may be deferred and may establish programs and procedures for Participants to make deferral elections. Deferrals by Participants will be made in accordance with Section 409A of the Code. Consistent with Section 409A of the Code, the Board may provide for distributions while a Participant is still an employee or otherwise providing services to the Company. The Board is authorized to make deferrals of Stock Awards and determine when, and in what annual percentages, Participants may receive payments (including lump sum payments) following the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service, and implement any other terms and conditions consistent with the terms of the Plan and in accordance with applicable law.

(k) Compliance with Section  409A. To the extent that the Board determines that any Stock Award is subject to Section 409A of the Code, the Stock Award Agreement evidencing the Stock Award will incorporate the terms and conditions necessary to avoid the consequences specified in Section 409A(a)(1) of the Code. To the extent applicable, the Plan and Stock Award Agreements will be interpreted in accordance with Section 409A of the Code.

 

 

15.


(l) Compliance with the Exemption Provided by Rule 12h-1(f). If at the end of the Company’s most recently completed fiscal year: (i) the aggregate of the number of persons who hold outstanding compensatory employee stock options to purchase shares of Common Stock granted under the Plan or otherwise (these persons, the “ Holders of Options ”) equals or exceeds 500, and (ii) the Company’s assets exceed $10 million, then the following restrictions will apply during any period during which the Company does not have a class of its securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act and is not required to file reports under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act: (A) the Options and, prior to exercise, the shares of Common Stock to be issued on exercise of the Options may not be transferred until the Company is no longer relying on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-1(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act (“ Rule 12h-1(f) ”), except: (1) as permitted by Rule 701(c) promulgated under the Securities Act, (2) to a guardian upon the disability of the Holder of Options, or (3) to an executor upon the death of the Holder of Options (collectively, the “ Permitted Transferees ”); provided, however , that the following transfers are permitted: (i) transfers by the Holders of Options to the Company; and (ii) transfers in connection with a change in control or other acquisition involving the Company, if following the transaction, the Options no longer remain outstanding and the Company is no longer relying on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-1(f); provided further , that any Permitted Transferees may not further transfer the Options; (B) except as otherwise provided in (A) above, the Options and shares of Common Stock issuable on exercise of the Options are restricted as to any pledge, hypothecation, or other transfer, including any short position, any “put equivalent position” as defined by Rule 16a-1(h) promulgated under the Exchange Act, or any “call equivalent position” as defined by Rule 16a-1(b) promulgated under the Exchange Act by the Holders of Options prior to exercise of an Option until the Company is no longer relying on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-1(f); and (C) at any time that the Company is relying on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-1(f), the Company will deliver to the Holders of Options (whether by physical or electronic delivery or written notice of the availability of the information on an internet or intranet site) the information required by Rule 701(e)(3), 701(e)(4), and 701(e)(5) promulgated under the Securities Act every 6 months, including financial statements that are not more than 180 days old; provided, however , that the Company may condition the delivery of the information upon the Holder of Options’ agreement to maintain its confidentiality.

(m) Repurchase Limitation. The terms of any repurchase right will be specified in the Stock Award Agreement. The repurchase price for vested shares of Common Stock will be the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock on the date of repurchase. The repurchase price for unvested shares of Common Stock will be the lower of (i) the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock on the date of repurchase or (ii) their original purchase price. However, the Company will not exercise its repurchase right until at least six months (or such longer or shorter period of time necessary to avoid classification of the Stock Award as a liability for financial accounting purposes) have elapsed following delivery of shares of Common Stock subject to the Stock Award, unless the Board specifically provides otherwise.

 

16.


9.

A DJUSTMENTS UPON C HANGES IN C OMMON S TOCK ; O THER C ORPORATE E VENTS .

(a) Capitalization Adjustments. In the event of a Capitalization Adjustment, the Board will appropriately and proportionately adjust: (i) the classes and maximum number of securities subject to the Plan under Section 3(a), (ii) the classes and maximum number of securities that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options under Section 3(c), and (iii) the classes and number of securities and price per share of Common Stock subject to outstanding Stock Awards. The Board will make such adjustments, and its determination will be final, binding and conclusive.

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation. Except as otherwise provided in the Stock Award Agreement, in the event of a dissolution or liquidation of the Company, all outstanding Stock Awards (other than Stock Awards consisting of vested and outstanding shares of Common Stock not subject to a forfeiture condition or the Company’s right of repurchase) will terminate immediately prior to the completion of the dissolution or liquidation, and the shares of Common Stock subject to the Company’s repurchase right or subject to a forfeiture condition may be repurchased or reacquired by the Company notwithstanding the fact that the Participant is providing Continuous Service,.

(c) Corporate Transaction. The following terms will apply to Stock Awards in the event of a Corporate Transaction unless otherwise provided in the Stock Award Agreement or any other written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant or unless the Board expressly provides otherwise at the time of grant of a Stock Award. In the event of a Corporate Transaction, then, notwithstanding any other term of the Plan, the Board may take one or more of the following actions with respect to Stock Awards, contingent upon the closing or completion of the Corporate Transaction:

(i) arrange for the surviving corporation or acquiring corporation (or the surviving or acquiring corporation’s parent company) to assume or continue the Stock Award or to substitute a similar stock award for the Stock Award (including, without limitation, an award to acquire the same consideration paid to the stockholders of the Company in connection with the Corporate Transaction);

(ii) arrange for the assignment of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by the Company in respect of Common Stock issued pursuant to the Stock Award to the surviving corporation or acquiring corporation (or the surviving or acquiring corporation’s parent company);

(iii) accelerate the vesting, in whole or in part, of the Stock Award (and, if applicable, the time at which the Stock Award may be exercised) to a date prior to the effective time of the Corporate Transaction as the Board determines, with the Stock Award terminating if not exercised (if applicable) at or prior to the effective time of the Corporate Transaction; provided, however , that the Board may require the Participants to complete and deliver to the Company a notice of exercise before the effective date of a Corporate Transaction, which exercise is contingent upon the effectiveness of the Corporate Transaction;

(iv) arrange for the lapse, in whole or in part, of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by the Company with respect to the Stock Award;

 

 

17.


(v) cancel or arrange for the cancellation of the Stock Award, to the extent not vested or not exercised prior to the effective time of the Corporate Transaction, in exchange for the cash consideration, if any, as the Board, in its sole discretion, determines appropriate; and

(vi) make a payment, in the form determined by the Board equal to the excess, if any, of (A) the value of the property the Participant would have received upon the exercise of the Stock Award immediately prior to the effective time of the Corporate Transaction, over (B) any exercise price payable by the Participant in connection with any exercise. For clarity, this payment may be zero ($0) if the value of the property is equal to or less than the exercise price. Payments under this 9(c)(vi) may be delayed to the same extent that payment of consideration to the holders of the Common Stock in connection with the Corporate Transaction is delayed as a result of escrows, earn outs, holdbacks or any other contingencies.

The Board need not take the same action or actions with respect to all Stock Awards or portions of Stock Awards or with respect to all Participants. The Board may take different actions with respect to the vested and unvested portions of a Stock Award.

(d) Change in Control. A Stock Award may be subject to additional acceleration of vesting and exercisability upon or after a Change in Control as may be provided in the Stock Award Agreement for the Stock Award or as may be provided in any other written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant, but in the absence of such a provision, no such acceleration will occur.

 

10.

P LAN T ERM ; E ARLIER T ERMINATION OR S USPENSION OF THE P LAN .

(a) Plan Term. The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. Unless terminated sooner by the Board, the Plan will automatically terminate on the day before the tenth anniversary of the earlier of (i) the date the Board adopts the Plan, or (ii) the date the stockholders of the Company approve the Plan. No Stock Awards may be granted under the Plan while the Plan is suspended or after it is terminated.

(b) No Impairment of Rights. Suspension or termination of the Plan will not impair rights and obligations under any Stock Award granted while the Plan is in effect except with the written consent of the effected Participant or as otherwise permitted in the Plan.

 

11.

E FFECTIVE D ATE OF P LAN .

This Plan will become effective on the Effective Date.

 

12.

C HOICE OF L AW .

The law of the State of Delaware will govern all questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of the Plan, without regard to that state’s conflict of laws rules.

 

13.

D EFINITIONS . As used in the Plan, the following definitions will apply to the capitalized terms indicated below:

 

18.


(a) Affiliate ” means, at the time of determination, any “parent” or “majority-owned subsidiary” of the Company, as these terms are defined in Rule 405. The Board will have the authority to determine the time or times at which “parent” or “majority-owned subsidiary” status is determined within the foregoing definition.

(b) Board ” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

(c) Capitalization Adjustment ” means any change that is made in, or other events that occur with respect to, the Common Stock subject to the Plan or subject to any Stock Award after the Effective Date without the receipt of consideration by the Company through merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, reincorporation, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, large nonrecurring cash dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure, or any similar equity restructuring transaction, as that term is used in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (or any successor thereto). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the conversion of any convertible securities of the Company will not be treated as a Capitalization Adjustment.

(d) Cause ” will have the meaning ascribed to the term in any written agreement between the Participant and the Company or an Affiliate defining the term and, in the absence of such an agreement, the term means, with respect to a Participant, the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the Participant’s commission of any felony or any crime involving fraud, dishonesty or moral turpitude under the laws of the United States or any state thereof; (ii) such Participant’s attempted commission of, or participation in, a fraud or act of dishonesty against the Company; (iii) such Participant’s intentional, material violation of any contract or agreement between the Participant and the Company or of any statutory duty owed to the Company; (iv) such Participant’s unauthorized use or disclosure of the Company’s confidential information or trade secrets; or (v) such Participant’s gross misconduct. The determination that a termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service is either for Cause or without Cause will be made by the Company, in its sole discretion. Any determination by the Company that the Continuous Service of a Participant was terminated with or without Cause for the purposes of outstanding Stock Awards held by such Participant will have no effect upon any determination of the rights or obligations of the Company or such Participant for any other purpose.

(e) Change in Control ” means the occurrence, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events:

(i) any Exchange Act Person becomes the Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities other than by virtue of a merger, consolidation or similar transaction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Change in Control will not be deemed to occur

(A) on account of the acquisition of securities of the Company directly from the Company, (B) on account of the acquisition of securities of the Company by an investor, any affiliate thereof or any other Exchange Act Person that acquires the Company’s securities in a transaction or series of related transactions the primary purpose of which is to obtain financing for the Company through the issuance of equity securities, or (C) solely because the level of Ownership held by

 

 

19.


any Exchange Act Person (the “ Subject Person ”) exceeds the designated percentage threshold of the outstanding voting securities as a result of a repurchase or other acquisition of voting securities by the Company reducing the number of shares outstanding, provided that if a Change in Control would occur (but for the operation of this sentence) as a result of the acquisition of voting securities by the Company, and after such share acquisition, the Subject Person becomes the Owner of any additional voting securities that, assuming the repurchase or other acquisition had not occurred, increases the percentage of the then outstanding voting securities Owned by the Subject Person over the designated percentage threshold, then a Change in Control will be deemed to occur;

(ii) there is consummated a merger, consolidation or similar transaction involving (directly or indirectly) the Company and, immediately after the consummation of such merger, consolidation or similar transaction, the stockholders of the Company immediately prior thereto do not Own, directly or indirectly, either (A) outstanding voting securities representing more than 50% of the combined outstanding voting power of the surviving Entity in such merger, consolidation or similar transaction or (B) more than 50% of the combined outstanding voting power of the parent of the surviving Entity in such merger, consolidation or similar transaction, in each case in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of the outstanding voting securities of the Company immediately prior to such transaction; or

(iii) there is consummated a sale, lease, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries, other than a sale, lease, license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries to an Entity, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of which are Owned by stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of the outstanding voting securities of the Company immediately prior to such sale, lease, license or other disposition.

Notwithstanding the foregoing definition or any other term of the Plan, (A) the term Change in Control will not include a sale of assets, merger or other transaction effected exclusively for the purpose of changing the domicile of the Company, and (B) the definition of Change in Control (or any analogous term) in an individual written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant will supersede the foregoing definition with respect to Stock Awards subject to the agreement; provided, however , that if no definition of Change in Control or any analogous term is set forth in such an individual written agreement, the foregoing definition will apply.

(f) Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, including any applicable regulations and guidance thereunder.

(g) Committee ” means a committee of one or more Directors to whom the Board has delegated authority in accordance with Section 2(c).

(h) Common Stock ” means the common stock of the Company.

(i) Company ” means Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

 

 

20.


(j) Consultant ” means any person, including an advisor, who is (i) engaged by the Company or an Affiliate to render consulting or advisory services and is compensated for those services, or (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors of an Affiliate and is compensated for those services. However, service solely as a Director, or payment of a fee for such service, will not cause a Director to be considered a “Consultant” for purposes of the Plan.

(k) Continuous Service ” means that the Participant’s service with the Company or an Affiliate, whether as an Employee, Director or Consultant, is not interrupted or terminated. A change in the capacity in which the Participant renders service to the Company or an Affiliate as an Employee, Consultant or Director or a change in the Entity for which the Participant renders service, provided that there is no interruption or termination of the Participant’s service with the Company or an Affiliate, will not terminate a Participant’s Continuous Service; provided, however , that if the Entity for which a Participant is rendering services ceases to qualify as an Affiliate, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, the Participant’s Continuous Service will be considered to have terminated on the date the Entity ceases to qualify as an Affiliate. For example, a change in status from an Employee of the Company to a Consultant of an Affiliate or to a Director will not constitute an interruption of Continuous Service. To the extent permitted by law, the Board or the chief executive officer of the Company, in that party’s sole discretion, may determine whether Continuous Service will be considered interrupted in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Board or chief executive officer, including sick leave, military leave or any other personal leave; or (ii) transfers between the Company, an Affiliate, or their successors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a leave of absence will be treated as Continuous Service for purposes of vesting in a Stock Award only to such extent as may be provided in the Company’s leave of absence policy, in the written terms of any leave of absence agreement or policy applicable to the Participant, or as otherwise required by law.

(l) Corporate Transaction ” means the consummation, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events:

(i) a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries;

(ii) a sale or other disposition of at least 50% of the outstanding securities of the Company;

(iii) a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is not the surviving corporation; or

(iv) a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is the surviving corporation but the shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately preceding the merger, consolidation or similar transaction are converted or exchanged by virtue of the merger, consolidation or similar transaction into other property, whether in the form of securities, cash or otherwise.

(m) Director ” means a member of the Board.

 

21.


(n) Disability ” means, with respect to a Participant, the inability of the Participant to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months as provided in Sections 22(e)(3) and 409A(a)(2)(c)(i) of the Code, and will be determined by the Board on the basis of any medical evidence the Board determines warranted under the circumstances.

(o) Effective Date ” means the effective date of this Plan, which is the earlier of

(i) the date the Company’s stockholders fir approve the Plan, and (ii) the date the Board adopts the Plan.

(p) Employee ” means any person employed by the Company or an Affiliate. However, service solely as a Director, or payment of a fee for such services, will not cause a Director to be considered an “Employee” for purposes of the Plan.

(q) Entity ” means a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other

entity.

(r) Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

(s) Exchange Act Person ” means any natural person, Entity or “group” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act), except that “Exchange Act Person” will not include (i) the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company; (ii) any employee benefit plan of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company; (iii) an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to an offering of the securities; (iv) an Entity Owned, directly or indirectly, by the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of stock of the Company; or (v) any natural person, Entity or “group” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act) that, as of the Effective Date, is the Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities.

(t) Fair Market Value ” means, as of any date, the value of the Common Stock determined by the Board in compliance with Section 409A of the Code or, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option, in compliance with Section 422 of the Code.

(u) Incentive Stock Option ” means an option granted pursuant to Section 5 of the Plan that is intended to be, and that qualifies as, an “incentive stock option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

(v) Nonstatutory Stock Option ” means any option granted pursuant to Section 5 of the Plan that does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option.

(w) Officer ” means any person the Company designates as an officer.

 

22.


(x) Option ” means an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase shares of Common Stock granted under the Plan.

(y) Option Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and an Optionholder evidencing the terms and conditions of an Option. Each Option Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(z) Optionholder ” means a person to whom an Option is granted pursuant to the Plan or, if applicable, any other person who holds an outstanding Option.

(aa) Other Stock Award ” means an award based in whole or in part by reference to the Common Stock that is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(c).

(bb) Other Stock Award Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of an Other Stock Award evidencing the terms and conditions of an Other Stock Award grant. Each Other Stock Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(cc) Own ,” “ Owned ,” “ Owner ,” “ Ownership ” A person or Entity will be deemed to “Own,” to have “Owned,” to be the “Owner” of, or to have acquired “Ownership” of securities if the person or Entity, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting, with respect to the securities.

(dd) Participant ” means a person to whom a Stock Award is granted under the Plan or, if applicable, any other person who holds an outstanding Stock Award.

(ee) Plan ” means this Avedro, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan.

(ff) Restricted Stock Award ” means an award of shares of Common Stock that is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(a).

(gg) Restricted Stock Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Restricted Stock Award evidencing the terms and conditions of a Restricted Stock Award. Each Restricted Stock Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(hh) Restricted Stock Unit Award ” means a right to receive shares of Common Stock that is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(b).

(ii) Restricted Stock Unit Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Restricted Stock Unit Award evidencing the terms and conditions of a Restricted Stock Unit Award. Each Restricted Stock Unit Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(jj) Rule 405 ” means Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

 

23.


(kk) Rule 701 ” means Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act.

(ll) Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(mm) Stock Appreciation Right ” or “ SAR ” means a right to receive the appreciation on Common Stock that is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 5.

(nn) Stock Appreciation Right Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Stock Appreciation Right evidencing the terms and conditions of a Stock Appreciation Right. Each Stock Appreciation Right Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(oo) Stock Award ” means any right to receive Common Stock granted under the Plan, including an Incentive Stock Option, a Nonstatutory Stock Option, a Restricted Stock Award, a Restricted Stock Unit Award, a Stock Appreciation Right or any Other Stock Award.

(pp) Stock Award Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a Participant evidencing the terms and conditions of a Stock Award grant. Each Stock Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(qq) Subsidiary ” means, with respect to the Company, (i) any corporation of which more than 50% of the outstanding capital stock having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors of such corporation (irrespective of whether, at the time, stock of any other class or classes of such corporation will have or might have voting power by reason of the happening of any contingency) is at the time, directly or indirectly, Owned by the Company; and (ii) any partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which the Company has a direct or indirect interest (whether in the form of voting or participation in profits or capital contribution) of more than 50% .

(rr) Ten Percent Stockholder ” means a person who Owns (or is deemed to Own pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code) stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Affiliate.

***

 

24.


THIRD AMENDMENT TO

AVEDRO, INC.

2012 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

November 13, 2015

W HEREAS , the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) previously approved and adopted the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (the “ Plan ”) of the Company; and

W HEREAS , the Board and the stockholders of the Company have determined that it is in the best interest of the Company to amend the Plan as set forth in this Third Amendment to the Plan.

NOW, T HEREFORE , the Plan is amended as follows:

1. Section 3(a) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Share Reserve . Subject to Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Stock Awards after the Effective Date will not exceed 10,461,292 shares (the “ Share Reserve ”). For clarity, the Share Reserve is a limitation on the number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the Plan. Accordingly, this Section 3(a) does not limit the granting of Stock Awards except as provided in Section 7(a).

2. Section 3(c) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Incentive Stock Option Limit. Subject to this Section 3 and Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options will be 10,461,292 shares of Common Stock.

3. All other terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

4. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan.

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS :         November 13, 2015

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS :                     November 13, 2015


FOURTH AMENDMENT TO

AVEDRO, INC.

2012 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

W HEREAS , the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) previously approved and adopted the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (the “ Plan ”) of the Company; and

W HEREAS , the Board and the stockholders of the Company have determined that it is in the best interest of the Company to amend the Plan as set forth in this Fourth Amendment to the Plan.

NOW, T HEREFORE , the Plan is amended as follows:

1. Section 3(a) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Share Reserve . Subject to Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Stock Awards after the Effective Date will not exceed 13,736,292 shares (the “ Share Reserve ”). For clarity, the Share Reserve is a limitation on the number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the Plan. Accordingly, this Section 3(a) does not limit the granting of Stock Awards except as provided in Section 7(a).

2. Section 3(c) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Incentive Stock Option Limit . Subject to this Section 3 and Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options will be 13,736,292 shares of Common Stock.

3. All other terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

4. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan.

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS :         June 21, 2018

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS :                     July 18, 2018


FIFTH AMENDMENT TO

AVEDRO, INC.

2012 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

W HEREAS , the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) previously approved and adopted the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (the “ Plan ”) of the Company; and

W HEREAS , the Board and the stockholders of the Company have determined that it is in the best interest of the Company to amend the Plan as set forth in this Fifth Amendment to the Plan.

N OW , T HEREFORE , the Plan is amended as follows:

1.    Section 3(a) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Share Reserve . Subject to Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Stock Awards after the Effective Date will not exceed 16,580,792 shares (the “ Share Reserve ”). For clarity, the Share Reserve is a limitation on the number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the Plan. Accordingly, this Section 3(a) does not limit the granting of Stock Awards except as provided in Section 7(a).

2.    Section 3(c) of the Plan is hereby amended by replacing such section in its entirety with the following:

Incentive Stock Option Limit . Subject to this Section 3 and Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options will be 16,580,792 shares of Common Stock.

3.    All other terms and conditions of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

4.    Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan.

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS :            January 9, 2019

D ATE A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS :                       January 9, 2019

Exhibit 10.5

A VEDRO , I NC .

2012 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

O PTION G RANT N OTICE

Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”), pursuant to its 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”), hereby grants to Optionholder an option to purchase the number of shares of Common Stock set forth below (the “ Option ”). The Option is subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth in this Option Grant Notice (“ Notice ”), in the Option Agreement, the Plan and the Notice of Exercise, all of which are attached to this Notice and incorporated into this Notice in their entirety. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined in this Notice but defined in the Plan or the Option Agreement will have the same definitions as in the Plan or the Option Agreement. If there is any conflict between the terms in this Notice and the Plan, the terms of the Plan will control.

 

   Optionholder:                        
   Date of Grant:                        
   Vesting Commencement Date:                        
   Number of Shares Subject to Option:                        
   Exercise Price (Per Share):                        
   Total Exercise Price:                        
   Expiration Date:                        

 

Type of Grant:   ☐ Incentive Stock Option 1   ☐ Nonstatutory Stock Option
Exercise Schedule:   ☐ Same as Vesting Schedule   ☐ Early Exercise Permitted
Vesting Schedule:   [TBA]  
  [In the event that the Company consummates a Change in Control and Optionholder’s Continuous Service is terminated by the Company (or its successor or parent) without Cause (and not due to Disability or death) within [three (3) months prior to or] twelve (12) months immediately following the consummation of the Change in Control, then the vesting and exercisability of the shares subject to the Option that have not vested as of immediately prior to such termination date will be accelerated in full, provided that Optionholder timely executes, delivers to the Company and does not revoke a separation agreement that includes a release of claims in a form provided by the Company within the periods set forth in the separation agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Notice, the Option Agreement or the Plan prohibits the Company or a successor organization (or its parent) from causing the Option to earlier terminate pursuant to the terms of the Plan and the Option Agreement in connection with a Change in Control, merger, acquisition or other similar corporate transaction where such equity awards will terminate and not be assumed by the successor or acquiring entity.]
Payment:   By one or a combination of the following items (described in the Option Agreement):
  ☒    By cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company
  ☒    Pursuant to a Regulation T Program if the shares are publicly traded
  ☒    By delivery of already-owned shares if the shares are publicly traded
  ☐    If and only to the extent this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, by a “net exercise” arrangement

Additional Terms/Acknowledgements: Optionholder acknowledges receipt of, and understands and agrees to, this Notice, the Option Agreement and the Plan. Optionholder acknowledges and agrees that this Notice and the Option Agreement may not be modified, amended or revised except as provided in the Plan. Optionholder further

 

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If this is an Incentive Stock Option, it (plus other outstanding Incentive Stock Options) cannot be first exercisable for more than $100,000 in value (measured by exercise price) in any calendar year. Any excess over $100,000 is a Nonstatutory Stock Option.

 

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acknowledges that as of the Date of Grant, this Notice, the Option Agreement, and the Plan set forth the entire understanding between Optionholder and the Company regarding the Option and supersede all prior oral and written agreements, promises and representations on that subject with the exception of (i) options previously granted and delivered to Optionholder, and (ii) the following agreements only.

 

O THER  A GREEMENTS :

 
 

 

 

 

A VEDRO , I NC .:     O PTIONHOLDER :
By:  

                                                                                           

   

 

  Signature       Signature
Title:  

                                                                                       

    Date:  

 

Date:  

                                                                                       

     

A TTACHMENTS : Option Agreement, 2012 Equity Incentive Plan and Notice of Exercise

 

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A VEDRO , I NC .

2012 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

O PTION A GREEMENT

(I NCENTIVE S TOCK O PTION OR N ONSTATUTORY S TOCK O PTION )

Pursuant to your Stock Option Grant Notice (the “ Grant Notice ”) and this Option Agreement, Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) has granted you an option under its 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”) to purchase the number of shares of Common Stock indicated in your Grant Notice at the exercise price indicated in your Grant Notice. The option is granted to you effective as of the date of grant set forth in the Grant Notice (the “ Date of Grant ”). If there is any conflict between the terms in this Option Agreement and the Plan, the terms of the Plan will control. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined in this Option Agreement or in the Grant Notice but defined in the Plan will have the same definitions as in the Plan.

The details of your option, in addition to those set forth in the Grant Notice and the Plan, are as follows:

1.      V ESTING . Your option will vest as provided in your Grant Notice. Vesting will cease upon the termination of your Continuous Service.

2.      N UMBER OF S HARES AND E XERCISE P RICE . The number of shares of Common Stock subject to your option and your exercise price per share in your Grant Notice will be adjusted for Capitalization Adjustments.

3.      E XERCISE R ESTRICTION FOR N ON -E XEMPT E MPLOYEES . If you are an Employee eligible for overtime compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended (that is, a “ Non-Exempt Employee ”), and except as otherwise provided in the Plan, you may not exercise your option until you have completed at least six months of Continuous Service measured from the Date of Grant, even if you have already been an employee for more than six months. Consistent with the provisions of the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, you may exercise your option as to any vested portion prior to the six-month anniversary in the case of (i) your death or Disability; (ii) a Corporate Transaction in which your option is not assumed, continued, or substituted; (iii) a Change in Control; or (iv) the termination of your Continuous Service on your “retirement” (as defined in the Company’s benefit plans).

4.      E XERCISE PRIOR TO V ESTING (“E ARLY E XERCISE ”). If permitted in your Grant Notice ( i.e. , the “Exercise Schedule” indicates “Early Exercise Permitted”) and subject to the terms of your option, you may elect at any time that is both (i) during the period of your Continuous Service, and (ii) during the term of your option, to exercise all or part of your option, including the unvested portion of your option; provided, however , that:

(a)     a partial exercise of your option will be deemed to cover first vested shares of Common Stock and then the earliest vesting installment of unvested shares of Common Stock;

 

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(b)     any shares of Common Stock so purchased from installments that have not vested as of the date of exercise will be subject to the purchase option in favor of the Company as described in the Company’s form of Early Exercise Stock Purchase Agreement;

(c)     you will enter into the Company’s form of Early Exercise Stock Purchase Agreement with a vesting schedule that will result in the same vesting as if no early exercise had occurred; and

(d)     if your option is an Incentive Stock Option, then, to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the Date of Grant) of the shares of Common Stock with respect to which your option plus all other Incentive Stock Options you hold are exercisable for the first time by you during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and its Affiliates) exceeds $100,000, your options or portions thereof that exceed the limit (according to the order in which they were granted) will be treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options.

5.      M ETHOD OF P AYMENT . You must pay the full amount of the exercise price for the shares you wish to exercise. You may pay the exercise price in cash or by check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company or in any other manner permitted by your Grant Notice , which may include one or more of the following:

(a)     Provided that at the time of exercise the Common Stock is publicly traded, pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board that, prior to the issuance of Common Stock, results in either the receipt of cash (or check) by the Company or the receipt of irrevocable instructions to pay the aggregate exercise price to the Company from the sales proceeds. This manner of payment is also known as a “broker-assisted exercise,” “same day sale,” or “sell to cover.”

(b)     Provided that at the time of exercise the Common Stock is publicly traded, by delivery to the Company (either by actual delivery or attestation) of already-owned shares of Common Stock that are owned free and clear of any liens, claims, encumbrances or security interests, and that are valued at Fair Market Value on the date of exercise. “Delivery” for these purposes, in the sole discretion of the Company at the time you exercise your option, will include delivery to the Company of your attestation of ownership of the shares of Common Stock in a form the Company approves. You may not exercise your option by delivery to the Company of Common Stock if doing so would violate the provisions of any law, regulation or agreement restricting the redemption of the Company’s stock.

(c)     If this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of your option by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price. You must pay any remaining balance of the aggregate exercise price not satisfied by the “net exercise” in cash or other permitted form of payment. Shares of Common Stock will no longer be outstanding under your option and will not be exercisable thereafter if those shares (i) are used to pay the exercise price pursuant to the “net exercise,” (ii) are delivered to you as a result of such exercise, or (iii) are withheld to satisfy your tax withholding obligations.

 

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6.      W HOLE S HARES . You may exercise your option only for whole shares of Common Stock.

7.      S ECURITIES L AW C OMPLIANCE . In no event may you exercise your option unless the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise are then registered under the Securities Act or, if not registered, the Company has determined that your exercise and the issuance of the shares would be exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The exercise of your option also must comply with all other applicable laws and regulations governing your option, and you may not exercise your option if the Company determines that the exercise would not be in material compliance with applicable laws and regulations (including any restrictions on exercise required for compliance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.401(k)-1(d)(3), if applicable).

8.      T ERM . You may not exercise your option before the Date of Grant or after the expiration of its term. The term of your option expires, subject to the terms of Section 5(h) of the Plan, upon the earliest of the following:

(a)     immediately upon the termination of your Continuous Service for Cause;

(b)     three months after the termination of your Continuous Service for any reason other than Cause, your Disability or your death (except as otherwise provided in Section 8(d)); provided, however , that if (i) you are a Non-Exempt Employee, (ii) your Continuous Service terminates within six months after the Date of Grant, and (iii) you have vested in a portion of your option at the time of the termination of your Continuous Service, your option will not expire until the earlier of (A) the later of (1) the date that is seven months after the Date of Grant, and (2) the date that is three months after the termination of your Continuous Service, and (B) the Expiration Date set forth in your Grant Notice;

(c)     twelve months after the termination of your Continuous Service due to your Disability (except as otherwise provided in Section 8(d));

(d)     eighteen months after your death if you die either (i) during your Continuous Service, (ii) within three months after the termination of your Continuous Service for any reason other than Cause or your Disability, or (iii) within twelve months after the termination of your Continuous Service for your Disability;

(e)     the Expiration Date indicated in your Grant Notice; or

(f)     the day before the tenth anniversary of the Date of Grant.

If your option is an Incentive Stock Option, note that to obtain the federal income tax advantages associated with an Incentive Stock Option, the Code requires that at all times beginning on the Date of Grant and ending on the day three months before the date you exercise your option, you must be an employee of the Company or an Affiliate, except in the event of your death or your permanent and total Disability. The Company has provided for extended exercisability of your option under some circumstances for your benefit but cannot guarantee that your option will necessarily be treated as an Incentive Stock Option if you continue to provide services to the Company or an Affiliate as a Consultant or Director after your employment terminates or if you otherwise exercise your option more than three months after the date your employment with the Company or an Affiliate terminates.

 

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9.    E XERCISE .

(a)     You may exercise the vested portion of your option (and the unvested portion of your option if your Grant Notice so permits) during its term by (i) delivering a Notice of Exercise (in a form designated by the Company) or completing the other documents and procedures designated by the Company for exercise, and (ii) paying the exercise price and any applicable withholding taxes to the Company’s Secretary, stock plan administrator, or such other person as the Company may designate, together with any additional documents as the Company may then require.

(b)     You agree that, as a condition to any exercise of your option, the Company may require you to enter into an arrangement providing for the payment by you to the Company of any tax withholding obligation of the Company arising by reason of (i) the exercise of your option, (ii) the lapse of any substantial risk of forfeiture to which the shares of Common Stock are subject at the time of exercise, or (iii) the disposition of shares of Common Stock acquired upon such exercise.

(c)     If your option is an Incentive Stock Option, by exercising your option, you agree that you will notify the Company in writing within 15 days after the date of any disposition of any of the shares of the Common Stock issued upon exercise of your option that occurs within two years after the Date of Grant or within one year after the shares of Common Stock are transferred upon exercise of your option.

(d)     By exercising your option, you agree that you will not sell, dispose of, transfer, make any short sale of, grant any option for the purchase of, or enter into any hedging or similar transaction with the same economic effect as a sale with respect to any shares of Common Stock or other securities of the Company held by you, for a period of 180 days following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act or any longer period as the underwriters or the Company will request to facilitate compliance with FINRA Rule 2711 or NYSE Member Rule 472 or any successor or similar rules or regulation (the “ Lock-Up Period ”); provided, however , that nothing contained in this Section 9(d) will prevent the exercise of any repurchase option in favor of the Company during the Lock-Up Period. You further agree to execute and deliver the other agreements as may be reasonably requested by the Company or the underwriters that are consistent with the foregoing covenant or that are necessary to give further effect to the foregoing covenant. To enforce the foregoing covenant, the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to your shares of Common Stock until the end of the Lock-Up Period. You also agree that any transferee of any shares of Common Stock or other securities of the Company held by you will be bound by this Section 9(d). The underwriters of the Company’s stock are intended third party beneficiaries of this Section 9(d) and will have the right, power and authority to enforce the terms of this Section 9(d) as though they were a party to this Option Agreement.

(e)     As a condition to your exercise of your option and to the Company’s issuance and delivery of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon such exercise, the Company

 

4.


may require that you execute certain customary agreements entered into with the holders of capital stock of the Company, such as a right of first refusal and co-sale agreement, stockholders’ agreement and a voting agreement.

10.      T RANSFERABILITY . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 10, your option is not transferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and is exercisable during your life only by you.

(a)      Certain Trusts. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, you may transfer your option to a trust if you are considered to be the sole beneficial owner (determined under Section 671 of the Code and applicable state law) while the option is held in the trust. You and the trustee must enter into transfer and other agreements required by the Company.

(b)      Domestic Relations Orders. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, and provided that you and the designated transferee enter into transfer and other agreements required by the Company, you may transfer your option pursuant to the terms of a domestic relations order, official marital settlement agreement or other divorce or separation instrument as permitted by Treasury Regulations Section 1.421-1(b)(2) that contains the information required by the Company to effectuate the transfer. You are encouraged to discuss the proposed terms of any division of this option with the Company prior to finalizing the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement to help ensure the required information is contained within the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement. If this option is an Incentive Stock Option, this option may be deemed to be a Nonstatutory Stock Option as a result of the transfer.

(c)      Beneficiary Designation. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, you may, by delivering written notice to the Company in a form approved by the Company and any broker designated by the Company to handle option exercises, designate a third party who, after your death, will be entitled to exercise the option and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from the exercise. In the absence of such a designation, your executor or administrator of your estate will be entitled to exercise the option and receive, on behalf of your estate, the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from such exercise.

11.      R IGHT OF F IRST R EFUSAL . Shares of Common Stock that you acquire upon exercise of your option are subject to any right of first refusal that may be described in the Company’s bylaws in effect at the time the Company elects to exercise its right; provided, however , that if there is no right of first refusal described in the Company’s bylaws at that time, the right of first refusal described below will apply; provided further , that if your Option is an Incentive Stock Option and the right of first refusal that applies under this Section 11 at the time the Company elects to exercise its right is more beneficial to you than the right of first refusal that applies under this Section 11 on the Date of Grant, then the right of first refusal that applies under this Section 11 on the Date of Grant will apply. The Company’s right of first refusal will expire on the first date upon which any security of the Company is listed (or approved for listing) upon notice of issuance on a national securities exchange or quotation system (the “ Listing Date ”).

 

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(a)     Prior to the Listing Date, you may not validly Transfer (as defined below) any shares of Common Stock acquired upon exercise of your option, or any interest in those shares, unless the Transfer is made in compliance with the following terms:

(i)     Before there can be a valid Transfer of any shares of Common Stock or any interest in the shares, the record holder of the shares of Common Stock to be transferred (the “ Offered Shares ”) will give written notice (by registered or certified mail) to the Company. The notice will specify the identity of the proposed transferee, the cash price offered for the Offered Shares by the proposed transferee (or, if the proposed Transfer is one in which the holder will not receive cash, such as an involuntary transfer, gift, donation or pledge, the holder will state that no purchase price is being proposed), and the other terms and conditions of the proposed Transfer. The date the notice is mailed is referred to in this Section as the “ Notice Date ” and the record holder of the Offered Shares is referred to in this Section as the “ Offeror .” If, from time to time, there is any stock dividend, stock split or other change in the character or amount of any of the outstanding Common Stock that is subject to the terms of your option, then in that event any and all new, substituted or additional securities to which you are entitled by reason of your ownership of the shares of Common Stock acquired upon exercise of your option will be immediately subject to the Right of First Refusal (as defined below) with the same force and effect as the shares subject to the Right of First Refusal immediately before the event.

(ii)     For a period of 30 calendar days after the Notice Date, or a longer period as may be required to avoid the classification of your option as a liability for financial accounting purposes, the Company will have the option to purchase all (but not less than all) of the Offered Shares at the purchase price and on the terms set forth in Section 11(a)(iii) (the Company’s “ Right of First Refusal ”). If the proposed Transfer is one involving no payment of a purchase price, the purchase price will be the Fair Market Value of the Offered Shares as determined in good faith by the Board in its discretion. The Company may exercise its Right of First Refusal by mailing (by registered or certified mail) written notice of exercise of its Right of First Refusal to the Offeror prior to the end of said 30 days (including any extension required to avoid classification of the option as a liability for financial accounting purposes).

(iii)     The price at which the Company may purchase the Offered Shares pursuant to the exercise of its Right of First Refusal will be the cash price offered for the Offered Shares by the proposed transferee (as set forth in the notice required under Section 11(a)(i)), or the Fair Market Value as determined by the Board in the event no purchase price is involved. To the extent consideration other than cash is offered by the proposed transferee, the Company will not be required to pay any additional amounts to the Offeror other than the cash price offered (or the Fair Market Value, if applicable). The Company’s notice of exercise of its Right of First Refusal will be accompanied by full payment for the Offered Shares and, upon such payment by the Company, the Company will acquire full right, title and interest to all of the Offered Shares.

(iv)     If, and only if, the Company does not exercise its Right of First Refusal, the Transfer proposed in the notice given pursuant to Section 11(a)(i) may take place; provided, however , that the Transfer must, in all respects, be exactly as proposed in the Notice except that the Transfer may not take place either before the tenth calendar day after the expiration of the 30-day option exercise period or after the 90th calendar day after the expiration of the 30-day option exercise period, and if the Transfer has not taken place prior to the 90th day,

 

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the Transfer may not take place without once again complying with this Section 11(a). The option exercise periods in this Section 11(a)(iv) will be adjusted to include any extension required to avoid the classification of your option as a liability for financial accounting purposes.

(b)     As used in this Section 11, the term “ Transfer ” means any sale, encumbrance, pledge, gift or other form of disposition or transfer of shares of Common Stock or any legal or equitable interest in the shares; provided, however , that the term Transfer does not include a transfer of such shares or interests by will or intestacy to your Immediate Family (as defined below). In that case, the transferee or other recipient will receive and hold the shares of Common Stock so transferred subject to the terms of this Section 11, and there will be no further transfer of the shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section 11. As used in this Section 11, the term “ Immediate Family ” will mean your spouse, the lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother or sister, child, adopted child, grandchild or adopted grandchild of you or your spouse, or the spouse of any child, adopted child, grandchild or adopted grandchild of you or your spouse.

(c)     None of the shares of Common Stock purchased on exercise of your option will be transferred on the Company’s books nor will the Company recognize any Transfer of any shares of Common Stock or any interest in those shares unless and until all applicable terms of this Section 11 have been complied with in all respects. The certificates of stock evidencing shares of Common Stock purchased on exercise of your option will bear an appropriate legend referring to the transfer restrictions imposed by this Section 11.

(d)     To ensure that the shares subject to the Right of First Refusal will be available for repurchase by the Company, the Company may require you to deposit the certificates evidencing the shares that you purchase upon exercise of your option with an escrow agent designated by the Company under the terms and conditions of an escrow agreement the Company approves. If the Company does not require such deposit as a condition of exercise of your option, the Company reserves the right at any time to require you to so deposit the certificates in escrow. As soon as practicable after the expiration of the Right of First Refusal, the agent will deliver to you the shares and any other property no longer subject to the restriction. If the shares and any other property held in escrow are subject to the Company’s exercise of its Right of First Refusal, the notices required to be given to you will be given to the escrow agent, and any payment required to be given to you will be given to the escrow agent. Within 30 days after payment by the Company for the Offered Shares, the escrow agent will deliver the Offered Shares that the Company has repurchased to the Company and will deliver the payment received from the Company to you.

12.      O PTION NOT A S ERVICE C ONTRACT . Your option is not an employment or service contract, and nothing in your option will be deemed to create in any way whatsoever any obligation on your part to continue in the employ of the Company or an Affiliate, or of the Company or an Affiliate to continue your employment. In addition, nothing in your option will obligate the Company or an Affiliate, their respective stockholders, boards of directors, officers or employees to continue any relationship that you might have as a Director or Consultant for the Company or an Affiliate.

 

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13.    W ITHHOLDING O BLIGATIONS .

(a)     At the time you exercise your option, in whole or in part, and at any time thereafter as requested by the Company, you hereby authorize withholding from payroll and any other amounts payable to you, and otherwise agree to make adequate provision for (including by means of a “same day sale” pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board to the extent permitted by the Company), any sums required to satisfy the federal, state, local and foreign tax withholding obligations of the Company or an Affiliate, if any, which arise in connection with the exercise of your option.

(b)     If this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, then upon your request and subject to approval by the Company, and compliance with any applicable legal conditions or restrictions, the Company may withhold from fully vested shares of Common Stock otherwise issuable to you upon the exercise of your option a number of whole shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value, determined by the Company as of the date of exercise, not in excess of the minimum amount of tax required to be withheld by law (or such lower amount as may be necessary to avoid classification of your option as a liability for financial accounting purposes). If the date of determination of any tax withholding obligation is deferred to a date later than the date of exercise of your option, share withholding pursuant to the preceding sentence will not be permitted unless you make a proper and timely election under Section 83(b) of the Code, covering the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock acquired upon such exercise with respect to which such determination is otherwise deferred, to accelerate the determination of the tax withholding obligation to the date of exercise of your option. Notwithstanding the filing of the election, shares of Common Stock will be withheld solely from fully vested shares of Common Stock determined as of the date of exercise of your option that are otherwise issuable to you upon such exercise. Any adverse consequences to you arising in connection with such share withholding procedure will be your sole responsibility.

(c)     You may not exercise your option unless the tax withholding obligations of the Company and any Affiliate are satisfied. Accordingly, you may not be able to exercise your option when desired even though your option is vested, and the Company will have no obligation to issue a certificate for such shares of Common Stock or release such shares of Common Stock from any escrow provided for herein, if applicable, unless such obligations are satisfied.

14.      T AX C ONSEQUENCES . You hereby agree that the Company does not have a duty to design or administer the Plan or its other compensation programs in a manner that minimizes your tax liabilities. You will not make any claim against the Company, or any of its Officers, Directors, Employees or Affiliates related to tax liabilities arising from your option or your other compensation. In particular, you acknowledge that this option is exempt from Section 409A of the Code only if the exercise price per share specified in the Grant Notice is at least equal to the “fair market value” per share of the Common Stock on the Date of Grant and there is no other impermissible deferral of compensation associated with the option. Because the Common Stock is not traded on an established securities market, the Fair Market Value is determined by the Board, perhaps in consultation with an independent valuation firm retained by the Company. You acknowledge that there is no guarantee that the Internal Revenue Service will agree with the valuation as determined by the Board, and you will not make any claim against the Company, or

 

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any of its Officers, Directors, Employees or Affiliates in the event that the Internal Revenue Service asserts that the valuation determined by the Board is less than the “fair market value” as subsequently determined by the Internal Revenue Service.

15.      N OTICES . Any notices provided for in your option or the Plan will be given in writing (including electronically) and will be deemed effectively given upon receipt or, in the case of notices delivered by mail by the Company to you, five days after deposit in the U.S. mail, postage prepaid, addressed to you at the last address you provided to the Company. The Company may, in its sole discretion, decide to deliver any documents related to participation in the Plan and this option by electronic means or to request your consent to participate in the Plan by electronic means. By accepting this option, you consent to receive such documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an online or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

16.      G OVERNING P LAN D OCUMENT . Your option is subject to all the terms of the Plan, which are hereby made a part of your option, and is further subject to all interpretations, amendments, rules and regulations, which may from time to time be promulgated and adopted pursuant to the Plan. If there is any conflict between the provisions of your option and those of the Plan, the provisions of the Plan will control.

***

 

9.

Exhibit 10.6

A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

A DOPTED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS : [                          ]

A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS : [                      ]

IPO D ATE : [                      ]

1.    G ENERAL .

(a)      Successor to and Continuation of Prior Plan. The Plan is intended as the successor to and continuation of the Company’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Prior Plan ”). From and after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on the IPO Date, no additional stock awards will be granted under the Prior Plan. All Awards granted on or after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on the IPO Date will be granted under this Plan. All stock awards granted under the Prior Plan will remain subject to the terms of the Prior Plan.

(i)     Any shares that would otherwise remain available for future grants under the Prior Plan as of 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on the IPO Date (the “ Prior Plan’s Available Reserve ”) will cease to be available under the Prior Plan at such time. Instead, that number of shares of Common Stock equal to the Prior Plan’s Available Reserve will be added to the Share Reserve (as further described in Section 3(a) below) and will be immediately available for grants and issuance pursuant to Stock Awards hereunder, up to the maximum number set forth in Section 3(a) below.

(ii)     In addition, from and after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on the IPO Date, any shares subject, at such time, to outstanding stock awards granted under the Prior Plan or under the Company’s 2003 Stock Plan (together with the Prior Plan, the “ Prior Plans ”) that (i) expire or terminate for any reason prior to exercise or settlement; (ii) are forfeited because of the failure to meet a contingency or condition required to vest such shares or otherwise return to the Company; or (iii) are reacquired, withheld (or not issued) to satisfy a tax withholding obligation in connection with an award or to satisfy the purchase price or exercise price of a stock award (such shares the “ Returning Shares ”) will immediately be added to the Share Reserve (as further described in Section 3(a) below) as and when such shares become Returning Shares, up to the maximum number set forth in Section 3(a) below.

(b)      Eligible Award Recipients. Employees, Directors and Consultants are eligible to receive Awards.

(c)      Available Awards. The Plan provides for the grant of the following types of Awards: (i) Incentive Stock Options, (ii) Nonstatutory Stock Options, (iii) Stock Appreciation Rights (iv) Restricted Stock Awards, (v) Restricted Stock Unit Awards, (vi) Performance Stock Awards, (vii) Performance Cash Awards, and (viii) Other Stock Awards.

(d)      Purpose. The Plan, through the granting of Awards, is intended to help the Company secure and retain the services of eligible award recipients, provide incentives for such persons to exert maximum efforts for the success of the Company and any Affiliate and provide a means by which the eligible recipients may benefit from increases in value of the Common Stock.

2.    A DMINISTRATION .

(a)      Administration by Board. The Board will administer the Plan. The Board may delegate administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees, as provided in Section 2(c).

 

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(b)      Powers of Board. The Board will have the power, subject to, and within the limitations of, the express provisions of the Plan:

(i)     To determine (A) who will be granted Awards; (B) when and how each Award will be granted; (C) what type of Award will be granted; (D) the provisions of each Award (which need not be identical), including when a person will be permitted to exercise or otherwise receive cash or Common Stock under the Award; (E) the number of shares of Common Stock subject to, or the cash value of, an Award; and (F) the Fair Market Value applicable to a Stock Award.

(ii)     To construe and interpret the Plan and Awards granted under it, and to establish, amend and revoke rules and regulations for administration of the Plan and Awards. The Board, in the exercise of these powers, may correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in the Plan or in any Award Agreement or in the written terms of a Performance Cash Award, in a manner and to the extent it will deem necessary or expedient to make the Plan or Award fully effective.

(iii)     To settle all controversies regarding the Plan and Awards granted under it.

(iv)     To accelerate, in whole or in part, the time at which an Award may be exercised or vest (or the time at which cash or shares of Common Stock may be issued in settlement thereof).

(v)     To suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or an Award Agreement, suspension or termination of the Plan will not materially impair a Participant’s rights under the Participant’s then-outstanding Award without the Participant’s written consent except as provided in subsection (viii) below.

(vi)     To amend the Plan in any respect the Board deems necessary or advisable, including, without limitation, by adopting amendments relating to Incentive Stock Options and certain nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code and/or bringing the Plan or Awards granted under the Plan into compliance with the requirements for Incentive Stock Options or ensuring that they are exempt from or compliant with the requirements for nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, subject to the limitations, if any, of applicable law. If required by applicable law or listing requirements, and except as provided in Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the Company will seek stockholder approval of any amendment of the Plan that (A) materially increases the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Plan, (B) materially expands the class of individuals eligible to receive Awards under the Plan, (C) materially increases the benefits accruing to Participants under the Plan, (D) materially reduces the price at which shares of Common Stock may be issued or purchased under the Plan, (E) materially extends the term of the Plan, or (F) materially expands the types of Awards available for issuance under the Plan. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan or an Award Agreement, no amendment of the Plan will materially impair a Participant’s rights under an outstanding Award without the Participant’s written consent.

(vii)     To submit any amendment to the Plan for stockholder approval, including, but not limited to, amendments to the Plan intended to satisfy the requirements of (A) Section 422 of the Code regarding incentive stock options or (B) Rule 16b-3.

(viii)     To approve forms of Award Agreements for use under the Plan and to amend the terms of any one or more Awards, including, but not limited to, amendments to provide terms more favorable to the Participant than previously provided in the Award Agreement, subject to any specified limits in the Plan that are not subject to Board discretion; provided however, that a Participant’s rights under any Award will not be impaired by any such amendment unless (A) the Company requests the consent of the affected Participant, and (B) such Participant consents in writing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (1) a

 

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Participant’s rights will not be deemed to have been impaired by any such amendment if the Board, in its sole discretion, determines that the amendment, taken as a whole, does not materially impair the Participant’s rights, and (2) subject to the limitations of applicable law, if any, the Board may amend the terms of any one or more Awards without the affected Participant’s consent (A) to maintain the qualified status of the Award as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code; (B) to change the terms of an Incentive Stock Option, if such change results in impairment of the Award solely because it impairs the qualified status of the Award as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code; (C) to clarify the manner of exemption from, or to bring the Award into compliance with, Section 409A of the Code; or (D) to comply with other applicable laws or listing requirements.

(ix)     Generally, to exercise such powers and to perform such acts as the Board deems necessary or expedient to promote the best interests of the Company and that are not in conflict with the provisions of the Plan or Awards.

(x)     To adopt such procedures and sub-plans as are necessary or appropriate to permit participation in the Plan by Employees, Directors or Consultants who are foreign nationals or employed outside the United States (provided that Board approval will not be necessary for immaterial modifications to the Plan or any Award Agreement that are required for compliance with the laws of the relevant foreign jurisdiction).

(xi)     To effect, with the consent of any adversely affected Participant, (A) the reduction of the exercise, purchase or strike price of any outstanding Stock Award; (B) the cancellation of any outstanding Stock Award and the grant in substitution therefor of a new (1) Option or SAR, (2) Restricted Stock Award, (3) Restricted Stock Unit Award, (4) Other Stock Award, (5) cash and/or (6) other valuable consideration determined by the Board, in its sole discretion, with any such substituted award (x) covering the same or a different number of shares of Common Stock as the cancelled Stock Award and (y) granted under the Plan or another equity or compensatory plan of the Company; or (C) any other action that is treated as a repricing under generally accepted accounting principles.

(c)    Delegation to Committee.

( i )      General. The Board may delegate some or all of the administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees. If administration of the Plan is delegated to a Committee, the Committee will have, in connection with the administration of the Plan, the powers theretofore possessed by the Board that have been delegated to the Committee, including the power to delegate to a subcommittee of the Committee any of the administrative powers the Committee is authorized to exercise (and references in this Plan to the Board will thereafter be to the Committee or subcommittee, as applicable). Any delegation of administrative powers will be reflected in resolutions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, adopted from time to time by the Board or Committee (as applicable). The Committee may, at any time, abolish the subcommittee and/or revest in the Committee any powers delegated to the subcommittee. The Board may retain the authority to concurrently administer the Plan with the Committee and may, at any time, revest in the Board some or all of the powers previously delegated.

(ii)      Rule 16b-3 Compliance. The Committee may consist solely of two or more Non-Employee Directors, in accordance with Rule 16b-3.

(d)      Delegation to an Officer. The Board may delegate to one or more Officers the authority to do one or both of the following (i) designate Employees who are not Officers to be recipients of Options and SARs (and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, other Stock Awards) and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the terms of such Awards, and (ii) determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be subject to such Stock Awards granted to such Employees; provided, however , that the Board resolutions

 

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regarding such delegation will specify the total number of shares of Common Stock that may be subject to the Stock Awards granted by such Officer and that such Officer may not grant a Stock Award to himself or herself. Any such Stock Awards will be granted on the form of Stock Award Agreement most recently approved for use by the Committee or the Board, unless otherwise provided in the resolutions approving the delegation authority. The Board may not delegate authority to an Officer who is acting solely in the capacity of an Officer (and not also as a Director) to determine the Fair Market Value pursuant to Section 13(w)(iii) below.

(e)      Effect of Board’s Decision. All determinations, interpretations and constructions made by the Board in good faith will not be subject to review by any person and will be final, binding and conclusive on all persons.

3.    S HARES S UBJECT TO THE P LAN .

(a)      Share Reserve. Subject to Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, and the following sentence regarding the annual increase, the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to Stock Awards will not exceed [                      ] shares (the “ Share Reserve ”), which number is the sum of (i) [                      ] new shares, plus (ii) the number of shares subject to the Prior Plan’s Available Reserve plus (iii) the number of shares that are Returning Shares, as such shares become available from time to time. In addition, the Share Reserve will automatically increase on January 1 st of each year, for a period of not more than ten years, commencing on January 1 st of the year following the year in which the IPO Date occurs and ending on (and including) January 1, 2029, in an amount equal to [__]% of the total number of shares of Capital Stock outstanding on December 31st of the preceding calendar year. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board may act prior to January 1 st of a given year to provide that there will be no January 1 st increase in the Share Reserve for such year or that the increase in the Share Reserve for such year will be a lesser number of shares of Common Stock than would otherwise occur pursuant to the preceding sentence.

For clarity, the Share Reserve in this Section 3(a) is a limitation on the number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the Plan. Accordingly, this Section 3(a) does not limit the granting of Stock Awards except as provided in Section 7(a). Shares may be issued in connection with a merger or acquisition as permitted by Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c) or, if applicable, NYSE Listed Company Manual Section 303A.08, AMEX Company Guide Section 711 or other applicable rule, and such issuance will not reduce the number of shares available for issuance under the Plan.

(b)      Reversion of Shares to the Share Reserve. If a Stock Award or any portion thereof (i) expires or otherwise terminates without all of the shares covered by such Stock Award having been issued or (ii) is settled in cash ( i.e. , the Participant receives cash rather than stock), such expiration, termination or settlement will not reduce (or otherwise offset) the number of shares of Common Stock that may be available for issuance under the Plan. If any shares of Common Stock issued pursuant to a Stock Award are forfeited back to or repurchased or reacquired by the Company for any reason, including because of the failure to meet a contingency or condition required to vest such shares in the Participant, then the shares that are forfeited or repurchased or reacquired will revert to and again become available for issuance under the Plan. Any shares reacquired by the Company in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations on a Stock Award or as consideration for the exercise or purchase price of a Stock Award will again become available for issuance under the Plan.

(c)      Incentive Stock Option Limit. Subject to the Share Reserve and Section 9(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the aggregate maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options will be [                      ] shares of Common Stock.

 

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(d)      Limitation on Grants to Non-Employee Directors. The maximum number of shares of Common Stock subject to Stock Awards granted under the Plan or otherwise during a single calendar year to any Non-Employee Director, taken together with any cash fees paid by the Company to such Non-Employee Director during such calendar year for service on the Board, will not exceed [                      ] in total value (calculating the value of any such Stock Awards based on the grant date fair value of such Stock Awards for financial reporting purposes), or, with respect to the calendar year in which a Non-Employee Director is first appointed or elected to the Board, [                      ].

(e)      Source of Shares. The stock issuable under the Plan will be shares of authorized but unissued or reacquired Common Stock, including shares repurchased by the Company on the open market or otherwise.

4.    E LIGIBILITY .

(a)      Eligibility for Specific Stock Awards. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to employees of the Company or a “parent corporation” or “subsidiary corporation” thereof (as such terms are defined in Sections 424(e) and 424(f) of the Code). Stock Awards other than Incentive Stock Options may be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants; provided, however, that Stock Awards may not be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants who are providing Continuous Service only to any “parent” of the Company, as such term is defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act, unless (i) the stock underlying such Stock Awards is treated as “service recipient stock” under Section 409A of the Code (for example, because the Stock Awards are granted pursuant to a corporate transaction such as a spin off transaction), (ii) the Company, in consultation with its legal counsel, has determined that such Stock Awards are otherwise exempt from Section 409A of the Code, or (iii) the Company, in consultation with its legal counsel, has determined that such Stock Awards comply with the distribution requirements of Section 409A of the Code.

(b)      Ten Percent Stockholders. A Ten Percent Stockholder will not be granted an Incentive Stock Option unless the exercise price of such Option is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value on the date of grant and the Option is not exercisable after the expiration of five years from the date of grant.

5.    P ROVISIONS R ELATING TO O PTIONS AND S TOCK A PPRECIATION R IGHTS .

Each Option or SAR will be in such form and will contain such terms and conditions as the Board deems appropriate. All Options will be separately designated Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock Options at the time of grant, and, if certificates are issued, a separate certificate or certificates will be issued for shares of Common Stock purchased on exercise of each type of Option. If an Option is not specifically designated as an Incentive Stock Option, or if an Option is designated as an Incentive Stock Option but some portion or all of the Option fails to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option under the applicable rules, then the Option (or portion thereof) will be a Nonstatutory Stock Option. The provisions of separate Options or SARs need not be identical; provided, however , that each Award Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of provisions hereof by reference in the applicable Award Agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following provisions:

(a)      Term. Subject to the provisions of Section 4(b) regarding Ten Percent Stockholders, no Option or SAR will be exercisable after the expiration of ten (10) years from the date of its grant or such shorter period specified in the Award Agreement.

(b)      Exercise Price. Subject to the provisions of Section 4(b) regarding Ten Percent Stockholders, the exercise or strike price of each Option or SAR will be not less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to the Option or SAR on the date the Award is granted.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Option or SAR may be granted with an exercise or strike price lower than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock subject to the Award if such Award is granted pursuant to an assumption of or substitution for another option or stock appreciation right pursuant to a corporate transaction and in a manner consistent with the provisions of Section 409A of the Code and, if applicable, Section 424(a) of the Code. Each SAR will be denominated in shares of Common Stock equivalents.

(c)      Purchase Price for Options. The purchase price of Common Stock acquired pursuant to the exercise of an Option may be paid, to the extent permitted by applicable law and as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, by any combination of the methods of payment set forth below. The Board will have the authority to grant Options that do not permit all of the following methods of payment (or otherwise restrict the ability to use certain methods) and to grant Options that require the consent of the Company to use a particular method of payment. The permitted methods of payment are as follows:

(i)     by cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company;

(ii)     pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board that, prior to the issuance of the stock subject to the Option, results in either the receipt of cash (or check) by the Company or the receipt of irrevocable instructions to pay the aggregate exercise price to the Company from the sales proceeds;

(iii)     by delivery to the Company (either by actual delivery or attestation) of shares of Common Stock;

(iv)     if an Option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price; provided, however , that the Company will accept a cash or other payment from the Participant to the extent of any remaining balance of the aggregate exercise price not satisfied by such reduction in the number of whole shares to be issued. Shares of Common Stock will no longer be subject to an Option and will not be exercisable thereafter to the extent that (A) shares issuable upon exercise are used to pay the exercise price pursuant to the “net exercise,” (B) shares are delivered to the Participant as a result of such exercise, and (C) shares are withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations; or

(v)     in any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Board and specified in the applicable Award Agreement.

(d)      Exercise and Payment of a SAR. To exercise any outstanding SAR, the Participant must provide written notice of exercise to the Company in compliance with the provisions of the Stock Appreciation Right Agreement evidencing such SAR. The appreciation distribution payable on the exercise of a SAR will be not greater than an amount equal to the excess of (A) the aggregate Fair Market Value (on the date of the exercise of the SAR) of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Common Stock equivalents in which the Participant is vested under such SAR, and with respect to which the Participant is exercising the SAR on such date, over (B) the aggregate strike price of the number of Common Stock equivalents with respect to which the Participant is exercising the SAR on such date. The appreciation distribution may be paid in Common Stock, in cash, in any combination of the two or in any other form of consideration, as determined by the Board and contained in the Award Agreement evidencing such SAR.

(e)      Transferability of Options and SARs. The Board may, in its sole discretion, impose such limitations on the transferability of Options and SARs as the Board will determine. In the absence of such a determination by the Board to the contrary, the following restrictions on the transferability of Options and SARs will apply:

 

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(i)      Restrictions on Transfer. An Option or SAR will not be transferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution (or pursuant to subsections (ii) and (iii) below), and will be exercisable during the lifetime of the Participant only by the Participant. The Board may permit transfer of the Option or SAR in a manner that is not prohibited by applicable tax and securities laws. Except as explicitly provided herein, neither an Option nor a SAR may be transferred for consideration.

(ii)      Domestic Relations Orders. Subject to the approval of the Board or a duly authorized Officer, an Option or SAR may be transferred pursuant to the terms of a domestic relations order, official marital settlement agreement or other divorce or separation instrument as permitted by Treasury Regulation Section 1.421-1(b)(2). If an Option is an Incentive Stock Option, such Option may be deemed to be a Nonstatutory Stock Option as a result of such transfer.

(iii)      Beneficiary Designation. Subject to the approval of the Board or a duly authorized Officer, a Participant may, by delivering written notice to the Company, in a form approved by the Company (or the designated broker), designate a third party who, on the death of the Participant, will thereafter be entitled to exercise the Option or SAR and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from such exercise. In the absence of such a designation, upon the death of the Participant, the executor or administrator of the Participant’s estate will be entitled to exercise the Option or SAR and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from such exercise. However, the Company may prohibit designation of a beneficiary at any time, including due to any conclusion by the Company that such designation would be inconsistent with the provisions of applicable laws.

(f)      Vesting Generally. The total number of shares of Common Stock subject to an Option or SAR may vest and become exercisable in periodic installments that may or may not be equal. The Option or SAR may be subject to such other terms and conditions on the time or times when it may or may not be exercised (which may be based on the satisfaction of Performance Goals or other criteria) as the Board may deem appropriate. The vesting provisions of individual Options or SARs may vary. The provisions of this Section 5(f) are subject to any Option or SAR provisions governing the minimum number of shares of Common Stock as to which an Option or SAR may be exercised.

(g)      Termination of Continuous Service. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company, if a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates (other than for Cause and other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability), the Participant may exercise his or her Option or SAR (to the extent that the Participant was entitled to exercise such Award as of the date of termination of Continuous Service) within the period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date that is three (3) months following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (or such longer or shorter period specified in the applicable Award Agreement, which period will not be less than thirty (30) days if necessary to comply with applicable laws unless such termination is for Cause) and (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the Award Agreement. If, after termination of Continuous Service, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option or SAR (as applicable) within the applicable time frame, the Option or SAR will terminate.

(h)      Extension of Termination Date. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award Agreement or other written agreement between the Participant and the Company, if the exercise of an Option or SAR following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (other than for Cause and other than upon the Participant’s death or Disability) would be prohibited at any time solely because the issuance of shares of Common Stock would violate the registration requirements under the Securities Act, then the Option or SAR will terminate on the earlier of (i) the expiration of a total period of time (that need

 

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not be consecutive) equal to the applicable post termination exercise period after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service during which the exercise of the Option or SAR would not be in violation of such registration requirements, and (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the applicable Award Agreement. In addition, unless otherwise provided in a Participant’s Award Agreement, if the sale of any Common Stock received on exercise of an Option or SAR following the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service (other than for Cause) would violate the Company’s insider trading policy, then the Option or SAR will terminate on the earlier of (i) the expiration of a period of months (that need not be consecutive) equal to the applicable post-termination exercise period after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service during which the sale of the Common Stock received upon exercise of the Option or SAR would not be in violation of the Company’s insider trading policy, or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the applicable Award Agreement.

( i )      Disability of Participant. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company, if a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates as a result of the Participant’s Disability, the Participant may exercise his or her Option or SAR (to the extent that the Participant was entitled to exercise such Option or SAR as of the date of termination of Continuous Service), but only within such period of time ending on the earlier of (i) the date twelve (12) months following such termination of Continuous Service (or such longer or shorter period specified in the Award Agreement, which period will not be less than six (6) months if necessary to comply with applicable laws) and (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option or SAR as set forth in the Award Agreement. If, after termination of Continuous Service, the Participant does not exercise his or her Option or SAR within the applicable time frame, the Option or SAR (as applicable) will terminate.

(j)      Death of Participant. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Award Agreement or other agreement between the Participant and the Company, if (i) a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates as a result of the Participant’s death, or (ii) the Participant dies within the period (if any) specified in the Award Agreement for exercisability after the termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service for a reason other than death, then the Option or SAR may be exercised (to the extent the Participant was entitled to exercise such Option or SAR as of the date of death) by the Participant’s estate, by a person who acquired the right to exercise the Option or SAR by bequest or inheritance or by a person designated to exercise the Option or SAR upon the Participant’s death, but only within the period ending on the earlier of (i) the date eighteen (18) months following the date of death (or such longer or shorter period specified in the Award Agreement, which period will not be less than six (6) months if necessary to comply with applicable laws) and (ii) the expiration of the term of such Option or SAR as set forth in the Award Agreement. If, after the Participant’s death, the Option or SAR is not exercised within the applicable time frame, the Option or SAR (as applicable) will terminate.

(k)      Termination for Cause. Except as explicitly provided otherwise in a Participant’s Award Agreement or other individual written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant, if a Participant’s Continuous Service is terminated for Cause, the Option or SAR will terminate immediately upon such Participant’s termination of Continuous Service, and the Participant will be prohibited from exercising his or her Option or SAR from and after the time of such termination of Continuous Service.

(l)      Non-Exempt Employees. If an Option or SAR is granted to an Employee who is a non-exempt employee for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended, the Option or SAR will not be first exercisable for any shares of Common Stock until at least six (6) months following the date of grant of the Option or SAR (although the Award may vest prior to such date). Consistent with the provisions of the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, (i) if such non-exempt Employee dies or suffers a Disability, (ii) upon a Corporate Transaction in which such Option or SAR is not assumed, continued, or substituted, (iii) upon a Change in Control, or (iv) upon the Participant’s retirement (as such term may be defined in the Participant’s Award Agreement, in another agreement between the Participant and the

 

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Company, or, if no such definition, in accordance with the Company’s then current employment policies and guidelines), the vested portion of any Options and SARs may be exercised earlier than six (6) months following the date of grant. The foregoing provision is intended to operate so that any income derived by a non-exempt employee in connection with the exercise or vesting of an Option or SAR will be exempt from his or her regular rate of pay. To the extent permitted and/or required for compliance with the Worker Economic Opportunity Act to ensure that any income derived by a non-exempt employee in connection with the exercise, vesting or issuance of any shares under any other Stock Award will be exempt from the employee’s regular rate of pay, the provisions of this Section 5(l) will apply to all Stock Awards and are hereby incorporated by reference into such Stock Award Agreements.

6.    P ROVISIONS OF S TOCK A WARDS O THER THAN O PTIONS AND SAR S .

(a)      Restricted Stock Awards. Each Restricted Stock Award Agreement will be in such form and will contain such terms and conditions as the Board deems appropriate. To the extent consistent with the Company’s bylaws, at the Board’s election, shares of Common Stock may be (i) held in book entry form subject to the Company’s instructions until any restrictions relating to the Restricted Stock Award lapse; or (ii) evidenced by a certificate, which certificate will be held in such form and manner as determined by the Board. The terms and conditions of Restricted Stock Award Agreements may change from time to time, and the terms and conditions of separate Restricted Stock Award Agreements need not be identical. Each Restricted Stock Award Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of the provisions hereof by reference in the agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following provisions:

(i)      Consideration. A Restricted Stock Award may be awarded in consideration for (A) cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company, (B) past or future services to the Company or an Affiliate, or (C) any other form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Board, in its sole discretion, and permissible under applicable law.

(ii)      Vesting. Shares of Common Stock awarded under the Restricted Stock Award Agreement may be subject to forfeiture to the Company in accordance with a vesting schedule to be determined by the Board.

(iii)      Termination of Participant’s Continuous Service. If a Participant’s Continuous Service terminates, the Company may receive through a forfeiture condition or a repurchase right any or all of the shares of Common Stock held by the Participant as of the date of termination of Continuous Service under the terms of the Restricted Stock Award Agreement.

(iv)      Transferability. Rights to acquire shares of Common Stock under the Restricted Stock Award Agreement will be transferable by the Participant only upon such terms and conditions as are set forth in the Restricted Stock Award Agreement, as the Board will determine in its sole discretion, so long as Common Stock awarded under the Restricted Stock Award Agreement remains subject to the terms of the Restricted Stock Award Agreement.

(v)      Dividends. A Restricted Stock Award Agreement may provide that any dividends paid on Restricted Stock will be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as apply to the shares subject to the Restricted Stock Award to which they relate.

(b)      Restricted Stock Unit Awards. Each Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement will be in such form and will contain such terms and conditions as the Board deems appropriate. The terms and conditions of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreements may change from time to time, and the terms and conditions of separate Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreements need not be identical. Each Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement will conform to (through incorporation of the provisions hereof by reference in the Agreement or otherwise) the substance of each of the following provisions:

 

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(i)      Consideration. At the time of grant of a Restricted Stock Unit Award, the Board will determine the consideration, if any, to be paid by the Participant upon delivery of each share of Common Stock subject to the Restricted Stock Unit Award. The consideration to be paid (if any) by the Participant for each share of Common Stock subject to a Restricted Stock Unit Award may be paid in any form of legal consideration that may be acceptable to the Board, in its sole discretion, and permissible under applicable law.

(ii)      Vesting. At the time of the grant of a Restricted Stock Unit Award, the Board may impose such restrictions on or conditions to the vesting of the Restricted Stock Unit Award as it, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate.

(iii)      Payment . A Restricted Stock Unit Award may be settled by the delivery of shares of Common Stock, their cash equivalent, any combination thereof or in any other form of consideration, as determined by the Board and contained in the Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement.

(iv)      Additional Restrictions. At the time of the grant of a Restricted Stock Unit Award, the Board, as it deems appropriate, may impose such restrictions or conditions that delay the delivery of the shares of Common Stock (or their cash equivalent) subject to a Restricted Stock Unit Award to a time after the vesting of such Restricted Stock Unit Award.

(v)      Dividend Equivalents. Dividend equivalents may be credited in respect of shares of Common Stock covered by a Restricted Stock Unit Award, as determined by the Board and contained in the Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement. At the sole discretion of the Board, such dividend equivalents may be converted into additional shares of Common Stock covered by the Restricted Stock Unit Award in such manner as determined by the Board. Any additional shares covered by the Restricted Stock Unit Award credited by reason of such dividend equivalents will be subject to all of the same terms and conditions of the underlying Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement to which they relate.

(vi)      Termination of Participant s Continuous Service. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement or other written agreement between a Participant and the Company or an Affiliate, such portion of the Restricted Stock Unit Award that has not vested will be forfeited upon the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service.

(c)      Performance Awards.

( i )      Performance Stock Awards. A Performance Stock Award is a Stock Award that is payable (including that may be granted, may vest or may be exercised) contingent upon the attainment during a Performance Period of certain Performance Goals. A Performance Stock Award may, but need not, require the Participant’s completion of a specified period of Continuous Service. The length of any Performance Period, the Performance Goals to be achieved during the Performance Period, and the measure of whether and to what degree such Performance Goals have been attained will be conclusively determined by the Board or Committee, in its sole discretion. In addition, to the extent permitted by applicable law and the applicable Award Agreement, the Board or the Committee may determine that cash may be used in payment of Performance Stock Awards.

(ii)      Performance Cash Awards. A Performance Cash Award is a cash award that is payable contingent upon the attainment during a Performance Period of certain Performance Goals. A Performance Cash Award may also require the completion of a specified period of Continuous Service. At

 

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the time of grant of a Performance Cash Award, the length of any Performance Period, the Performance Goals to be achieved during the Performance Period, and the measure of whether and to what degree such Performance Goals have been attained will be conclusively determined by the Board or Committee, in its sole discretion. The Board or Committee may specify the form of payment of Performance Cash Awards, which may be cash or other property, or may provide for a Participant to have the option for his or her Performance Cash Award, or such portion thereof as the Board may specify, to be paid in whole or in part in cash or other property.

(iii)      Board Discretion . The Board retains the discretion to adjust or eliminate the compensation or economic benefit due upon attainment of Performance Goals and to define the manner of calculating the Performance Criteria it selects to use for a Performance Period. Partial achievement of the specified criteria may result in the payment or vesting corresponding to the degree of achievement as specified in the Stock Award Agreement or the written terms of a Performance Cash Award.

(d)      Other Stock Awards . Other forms of Stock Awards valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, Common Stock, including the appreciation in value thereof (e.g., options or stock rights with an exercise price or strike price less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock at the time of grant) may be granted either alone or in addition to Stock Awards provided for under Section 5 and the preceding provisions of this Section 6. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Board will have sole and complete authority to determine the persons to whom and the time or times at which such Other Stock Awards will be granted, the number of shares of Common Stock (or the cash equivalent thereof) to be granted pursuant to such Other Stock Awards and all other terms and conditions of such Other Stock Awards.

7.    C OVENANTS OF THE C OMPANY .

(a)      Availability of Shares. The Company will keep available at all times the number of shares of Common Stock reasonably required to satisfy then-outstanding Stock Awards.

(b)      Securities Law Compliance. The Company will seek to obtain from each regulatory commission or agency having jurisdiction over the Plan, as necessary, such authority as may be required to grant Stock Awards and to issue and sell shares of Common Stock upon exercise or vesting of the Stock Awards; provided, however , that this undertaking will not require the Company to register under the Securities Act or other securities or applicable laws, the Plan, any Stock Award or any Common Stock issued or issuable pursuant to any such Stock Award. If, after reasonable efforts and at a reasonable cost, the Company is unable to obtain from any such regulatory commission or agency the authority that counsel for the Company deems necessary or advisable for the lawful issuance and sale of Common Stock under the Plan, the Company will be relieved from any liability for failure to issue and sell Common Stock upon exercise or vesting of such Stock Awards unless and until such authority is obtained. A Participant will not be eligible for the grant of an Award or the subsequent issuance of cash or Common Stock pursuant to the Award if such grant or issuance would be in violation of any applicable securities law.

(c)      No Obligation to Notify or Minimize Taxes. The Company will have no duty or obligation to any Participant to advise such holder as to the tax treatment or time or manner of exercising such Stock Award. Furthermore, the Company will have no duty or obligation to warn or otherwise advise such holder of a pending termination or expiration of an Award or a possible period in which the Award may not be exercised. The Company has no duty or obligation to minimize the tax consequences of an Award to the holder of such Award.

 

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8.    M ISCELLANEOUS .

(a)      Use of Proceeds from Sales of Common Stock. Proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock pursuant to Stock Awards will constitute general funds of the Company.

(b)      Corporate Action Constituting Grant of Awards. Corporate action constituting a grant by the Company of an Award to any Participant will be deemed completed as of the date of such corporate action, unless otherwise determined by the Board, regardless of when the instrument, certificate, or letter evidencing the Award is communicated to, or actually received or accepted by, the Participant. In the event that the corporate records (e.g., Board consents, resolutions or minutes) documenting the corporate action approving the grant contain terms (e.g., exercise price, vesting schedule or number of shares) that are inconsistent with those in the Award Agreement or related grant documents as a result of a clerical error in the papering of the Award Agreement or related grant documents, the corporate records will control and the Participant will have no legally binding right to the incorrect term in the Award Agreement or related grant documents.

(c)      Stockholder Rights. No Participant will be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, any shares of Common Stock subject to an Award unless and until (i) such Participant has satisfied all requirements for exercise of, or the issuance of shares of Common Stock under, the Award pursuant to its terms, and (ii) the issuance of the Common Stock subject to such Award has been entered into the books and records of the Company.

(d)      No Employment or Other Service Rights. Nothing in the Plan, any Award Agreement or any other instrument executed thereunder or in connection with any Award granted pursuant thereto will confer upon any Participant any right to continue to serve the Company or an Affiliate in the capacity in effect at the time the Award was granted or will affect the right of the Company or an Affiliate to terminate (i) the employment of an Employee with or without notice and with or without cause, (ii) the service of a Consultant pursuant to the terms of such Consultant’s agreement with the Company or an Affiliate, or (iii) the service of a Director pursuant to the bylaws of the Company or an Affiliate, and any applicable provisions of the corporate law of the state or foreign jurisdiction in which the Company or the Affiliate is domiciled or incorporated, as the case may be.

(e)      Change in Time Commitment. In the event a Participant’s regular level of time commitment in the performance of his or her services for the Company and any Affiliates is reduced (for example, and without limitation, if the Participant is an Employee of the Company and the Employee has a change in status from a full-time Employee to a part-time Employee or takes an extended leave of absence) after the date of grant of any Award to the Participant, the Board has the right in its sole discretion to (x) make a corresponding reduction in the number of shares or cash amount subject to any portion of such Award that is scheduled to vest or become payable after the date of such change in time commitment, and (y) in lieu of or in combination with such a reduction, extend the vesting or payment schedule applicable to such Award. In the event of any such reduction, the Participant will have no right with respect to any portion of the Award that is so reduced or extended.

(f)      Incentive Stock Option Limitations. To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time of grant) of Common Stock with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by any Optionholder during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and any Affiliates) exceeds $100,000 (or such other limit established in the Code) or otherwise does not comply with the rules governing Incentive Stock Options, the Options or portions thereof that exceed such limit (according to the order in which they were granted) or otherwise do not comply with such rules will be treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options, notwithstanding any contrary provision of the applicable Option Agreement(s).

 

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(g)      Investment Assurances. The Company may require a Participant, as a condition of exercising or acquiring Common Stock under any Award, (i) to give written assurances satisfactory to the Company as to the Participant’s knowledge and experience in financial and business matters and/or to employ a purchaser representative reasonably satisfactory to the Company who is knowledgeable and experienced in financial and business matters and that such Participant is capable of evaluating, alone or together with the purchaser representative, the merits and risks of exercising the Award; and (ii) to give written assurances satisfactory to the Company stating that the Participant is acquiring Common Stock subject to the Award for the Participant’s own account and not with any present intention of selling or otherwise distributing the Common Stock. The foregoing requirements, and any assurances given pursuant to such requirements, will be inoperative if (A) the issuance of the shares upon the exercise or acquisition of Common Stock under the Stock Award has been registered under a then currently effective registration statement under the Securities Act, or (B) as to any particular requirement, a determination is made by counsel for the Company that such requirement need not be met in the circumstances under the then applicable securities laws. The Company may, upon advice of counsel to the Company, place legends on stock certificates issued under the Plan as such counsel deems necessary or appropriate in order to comply with applicable securities laws, including, but not limited to, legends restricting the transfer of the Common Stock.

(h)      Withholding Obligations. Unless prohibited by the terms of an Award Agreement, the Company may, in its sole discretion, satisfy any federal, state or local tax withholding obligation relating to an Award by any of the following means or by a combination of such means: (i) causing the Participant to tender a cash payment; (ii) withholding shares of Common Stock from the shares of Common Stock issued or otherwise issuable to the Participant in connection with the Stock Award; provided, however, that no shares of Common Stock are withheld with a value exceeding the maximum amount of tax required to be withheld by law (or such lesser amount as may be necessary to avoid classification of the Stock Award as a liability for financial accounting purposes); (iii) withholding cash from an Award settled in cash; (iv) withholding payment from any amounts otherwise payable to the Participant; or (v) by such other method as may be set forth in the Award Agreement.

(i)      Electronic Delivery. Any reference herein to a “written” agreement or document will include any agreement or document delivered electronically, filed publicly at www.sec.gov (or any successor website thereto) or posted on the Company’s intranet (or other shared electronic medium controlled by the Company to which the Participant has access).

(j)      Deferrals. To the extent permitted by applicable law, the Board, in its sole discretion, may determine that the delivery of Common Stock or the payment of cash, upon the exercise, vesting or settlement of all or a portion of any Award may be deferred and may establish programs and procedures for deferral elections to be made by Participants. Deferrals by Participants will be made in accordance with Section 409A of the Code. Consistent with Section 409A of the Code, the Board may provide for distributions while a Participant is still an employee or otherwise providing services to the Company. The Board is authorized to make deferrals of Awards and determine when, and in what annual percentages, Participants may receive payments, including lump sum payments, following the Participant’s termination of Continuous Service, and implement such other terms and conditions consistent with the provisions of the Plan and in accordance with applicable law.

(k)      Clawback/Recovery. All Awards granted under the Plan will be subject to recoupment in accordance with any clawback policy that the Company is required to adopt pursuant to the listing standards of any national securities exchange or association on which the Company’s securities are listed or as is otherwise required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act or other applicable law. In addition, the Board may impose such other clawback, recovery or recoupment provisions in an Award Agreement as the Board determines necessary or appropriate, including but not limited to a

 

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reacquisition right in respect of previously acquired shares of Common Stock or other cash or property upon the occurrence of an event constituting Cause. No recovery of compensation under such a clawback policy will be an event giving rise to a right to voluntary terminate employment upon a “resignation for good reason,” or for a “constructive termination” or any similar term under any plan of or agreement with the Company.

(l)      Compliance with Section  409A of the Code. Unless otherwise expressly provided for in an Award Agreement, the Plan and Award Agreements will be interpreted to the greatest extent possible in a manner that makes the Plan and the Awards granted hereunder exempt from Section 409A of the Code, and, to the extent not so exempt, in compliance with Section 409A of the Code. If the Board determines that any Award granted hereunder is not exempt from and is therefore subject to Section 409A of the Code, the Award Agreement evidencing such Award will incorporate the terms and conditions necessary to avoid the consequences specified in Section 409A(a)(1) of the Code, and to the extent an Award Agreement is silent on terms necessary for compliance, such terms are hereby incorporated by reference into the Award Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Plan (and unless the Award Agreement specifically provides otherwise), if the shares of Common Stock are publicly traded, and if a Participant holding an Award that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A of the Code is a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code, no distribution or payment of any amount that is due because of a “separation from service” (as defined in Section 409A of the Code without regard to alternative definitions thereunder) will be issued or paid before the date that is six months following the date of such Participant’s “separation from service” or, if earlier, the date of the Participant’s death, unless such distribution or payment can be made in a manner that complies with Section 409A of the Code, and any amounts so deferred will be paid in a lump sum on the day after such six month period elapses, with the balance paid thereafter on the original schedule.

9.    A DJUSTMENTS UPON C HANGES IN C OMMON S TOCK ; O THER C ORPORATE E VENTS .

(a)      Capitalization Adjustments. In the event of a Capitalization Adjustment, the Board will appropriately and proportionately adjust: (i) the class(es) and maximum number of securities subject to the Plan pursuant to Section 3(a), (ii) the class(es) and maximum number of securities by which the share reserve is to increase automatically each year pursuant to Section 3(a), (iii) the class(es) and maximum number of securities that may be issued pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options pursuant to Section 3(c), (iv) the class(es) and maximum number of securities that may be awarded to any Non-Employee Director pursuant to Section 3(d), and (v) the class(es) and number of securities and price per share of stock subject to outstanding Stock Awards. The Board will make such adjustments, and its determination will be final, binding and conclusive.

(b)      Dissolution. Except as otherwise provided in the Stock Award Agreement, in the event of a Dissolution of the Company, all outstanding Stock Awards (other than Stock Awards consisting of vested and outstanding shares of Common Stock not subject to a forfeiture condition or the Company’s right of repurchase) will terminate immediately prior to the completion of such Dissolution, and the shares of Common Stock subject to the Company’s repurchase rights or subject to a forfeiture condition may be repurchased or reacquired by the Company notwithstanding the fact that the holder of such Stock Award is providing Continuous Service; provided, however, that the Board may, in its sole discretion, cause some or all Stock Awards to become fully vested, exercisable and/or no longer subject to repurchase or forfeiture (to the extent such Stock Awards have not previously expired or terminated) before the Dissolution is completed but contingent on its completion.

(c)      Transaction. The following provisions will apply to Stock Awards in the event of a Transaction unless otherwise provided in the instrument evidencing the Stock Award or any other written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant or unless otherwise expressly provided by the Board at the time of grant of a Stock Award. In the event of a Transaction, then, notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, the Board may take one or more of the following actions with respect to Stock Awards, contingent upon the closing or completion of the Transaction:

 

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(i)     arrange for the surviving corporation or acquiring corporation (or the surviving or acquiring corporation’s parent company) to assume or continue the Stock Award or to substitute a similar stock award for the Stock Award (including, but not limited to, an award to acquire the same consideration paid to the stockholders of the Company pursuant to the Transaction);

(ii)     arrange for the assignment of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by the Company in respect of Common Stock issued pursuant to the Stock Award to the surviving corporation or acquiring corporation (or the surviving or acquiring corporation’s parent company);

(iii)     accelerate the vesting, in whole or in part, of the Stock Award (and, if applicable, the time at which the Stock Award may be exercised) to a date prior to the effective time of such Transaction as the Board determines (or, if the Board does not determine such a date, to the date that is five days prior to the effective date of the Transaction), with such Stock Award terminating if not exercised (if applicable) at or prior to the effective time of the Transaction; provided, however , that the Board may require Participants to complete and deliver to the Company a notice of exercise before the effective date of a Transaction, which exercise is contingent upon the effectiveness of such Transaction;

(iv)     arrange for the lapse, in whole or in part, of any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by the Company with respect to the Stock Award;

(v)     cancel or arrange for the cancellation of the Stock Award, to the extent not vested or not exercised prior to the effective time of the Transaction, in exchange for such cash consideration, if any, as the Board, in its sole discretion, may consider appropriate; and

(vi)     make a payment, in such form as may be determined by the Board equal to the excess, if any, of (A) the value of the property the Participant would have received upon the exercise of the Stock Award immediately prior to the effective time of the Transaction, over (B) any exercise price payable by such holder in connection with such exercise. For clarity, this payment may be $0 if the value of the property is equal to or less than the exercise price. Payments under this provision may be delayed to the same extent that payment of consideration to the holders of the Company’s Common Stock in connection with the Transaction is delayed as a result of escrows, earn outs, holdbacks or any other contingencies.

The Board need not take the same action or actions with respect to all Stock Awards or portions thereof or with respect to all Participants. The Board may take different actions with respect to the vested and unvested portions of a Stock Award.

(d)      Change in Control. A Stock Award may be subject to additional acceleration of vesting and exercisability upon or after a Change in Control as may be provided in the Stock Award Agreement for such Stock Award or as may be provided in any other written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant, but in the absence of such provision, no such acceleration will automatically occur.

10.    P LAN T ERM ; E ARLIER T ERMINATION OR S USPENSION OF THE P LAN .

The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. No Incentive Stock Options may be granted after the tenth anniversary of the earlier of (i) the date the Plan is adopted by the Board (the “ Adoption Date ”), or (ii) the date the Plan is approved by the stockholders of the Company. No Awards may be granted under the Plan while the Plan is suspended or after it is terminated.

 

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11.    E XISTENCE OF THE P LAN ; T IMING OF F IRST G RANT OR E XERCISE .

The Plan will come into existence on the Adoption Date; provided, however , that no Stock Award may be granted prior to the IPO Date. In addition, no Stock Award will be exercised (or, in the case of a Restricted Stock Award, Restricted Stock Unit Award, Performance Share Award, or Other Stock Award, no Stock Award will be granted) and no Performance Cash Award will be settled unless and until the Plan has been approved by the stockholders of the Company, which approval will be within 12 months after the date the Plan is adopted by the Board.

12.    C HOICE OF L AW .

The laws of the State of Delaware will govern all questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Plan, without regard to that state’s conflict of laws rules.

13.    D EFINITIONS . As used in the Plan, the following definitions will apply to the capitalized terms indicated below:

(a)     “ Affiliate ” means, at the time of determination, any “parent” or “subsidiary” of the Company as such terms are defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. The Board will have the authority to determine the time or times at which “parent” or “subsidiary” status is determined within the foregoing definition.

(b)     “ Award ” means a Stock Award or a Performance Cash Award.

(c)     “ Award Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a Participant evidencing the terms and conditions of an Award.

(d)     “ Board ” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

(e)     “ Capital Stock ” means each and every class of common stock of the Company, regardless of the number of votes per share.

(f)     “ Capitalization Adjustment ” means any change that is made in, or other events that occur with respect to, the Common Stock subject to the Plan or subject to any Stock Award after the Adoption Date without the receipt of consideration by the Company through merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, reincorporation, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, large nonrecurring cash dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure or any similar equity restructuring transaction, as that term is used in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (or any successor thereto). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the conversion of any convertible securities of the Company will not be treated as a Capitalization Adjustment.

(g)     “ Cause shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in any written agreement between the Participant and the Company defining such term and, in the absence of such agreement, such term means, with respect to a Participant, the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) such Participant’s commission of any felony or any crime involving fraud, dishonesty or moral turpitude under the laws of the United States or any state thereof; (ii) such Participant’s attempted commission of, or participation in, a fraud or act of dishonesty against the Company; (iii) such Participant’s intentional, material violation of

 

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any contract or agreement between the Participant and the Company or of any statutory duty owed to the Company; (iv) such Participant’s unauthorized use or disclosure of the Company’s confidential information or trade secrets; or (v) such Participant’s gross misconduct. The determination that a termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service is either for Cause or without Cause shall be made by the Company, in its sole discretion. Any determination by the Company that the Continuous Service of a Participant was terminated with or without Cause for the purposes of outstanding Awards held by such Participant shall have no effect upon any determination of the rights or obligations of the Company or such Participant for any other purpose.

(h)     “ Change in Control ” means the occurrence, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events:

(i)     any Exchange Act Person becomes the Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities other than by virtue of a merger, consolidation or similar transaction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Change in Control will not be deemed to occur (A) on account of the acquisition of securities of the Company directly from the Company, (B) on account of the acquisition of securities of the Company by an investor, any affiliate thereof or any other Exchange Act Person that acquires the Company’s securities in a transaction or series of related transactions the primary purpose of which is to obtain financing for the Company through the issuance of equity securities, (C) on account of the acquisition of securities of the Company by any individual who is, on the IPO Date, either an executive officer or a Director (either, an “ IPO Investor ”) and/or any entity in which an IPO Investor has a direct or indirect interest (whether in the form of voting rights or participation in profits or capital contributions) of more than 50% (collectively, the “ IPO Entities ”) or on account of the IPO Entities continuing to hold shares that come to represent more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities as a result of the conversion of any class of the Company’s securities into another class of the Company’s securities having a different number of votes per share pursuant to the conversion provisions set forth in the Company’s [Amended and Restated] Certificate of Incorporation; or (D) solely because the level of Ownership held by any Exchange Act Person (the “ Subject Person ”) exceeds the designated percentage threshold of the outstanding voting securities as a result of a repurchase or other acquisition of voting securities by the Company reducing the number of shares outstanding, provided that if a Change in Control would occur (but for the operation of this sentence) as a result of the acquisition of voting securities by the Company, and after such share acquisition, the Subject Person becomes the Owner of any additional voting securities that, assuming the repurchase or other acquisition had not occurred, increases the percentage of the then outstanding voting securities Owned by the Subject Person over the designated percentage threshold, then a Change in Control will be deemed to occur;

(ii)     there is consummated a merger, consolidation or similar transaction involving (directly or indirectly) the Company and, immediately after the consummation of such merger, consolidation or similar transaction, the stockholders of the Company immediately prior thereto do not Own, directly or indirectly, either (A) outstanding voting securities representing more than 50% of the combined outstanding voting power of the surviving Entity in such merger, consolidation or similar transaction or (B) more than 50% of the combined outstanding voting power of the parent of the surviving Entity in such merger, consolidation or similar transaction, in each case in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of the outstanding voting securities of the Company immediately prior to such transaction; provided, however , that a merger, consolidation or similar transaction will not constitute a Change in Control under this prong of the definition if the outstanding voting securities representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the surviving Entity or its parent are owned by the IPO Entities;

(iii)     there is consummated a sale, lease, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries, other than a sale, lease,

 

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license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries to an Entity, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of which are Owned by stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of the outstanding voting securities of the Company immediately prior to such sale, lease, license or other disposition; provided, however , that a sale, lease, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries will not constitute a Change in Control under this prong of the definition if the outstanding voting securities representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the acquiring Entity or its parent are owned by the IPO Entities;

(iv)     the stockholders of the Company approve or the Board approves a plan of complete dissolution or liquidation of the Company, or a complete dissolution or liquidation of the Company will otherwise occur, except for a liquidation into a parent corporation; or

(v)     individuals who, on the IPO Date, are members of the Board (the “ Incumbent  Board ”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the members of the Board; provided, however, that if the appointment or election (or nomination for election) of any new Board member was approved or recommended by a majority vote of the members of the Incumbent Board then still in office, such new member will, for purposes of this Plan, be considered as a member of the Incumbent Board.

Notwithstanding the foregoing definition or any other provision of the Plan, (A) the term Change in Control will not include a sale of assets, merger or other transaction effected exclusively for the purpose of changing the domicile of the Company and (B) the definition of Change in Control (or any analogous term) in an individual written agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and the Participant will supersede the foregoing definition with respect to Awards subject to such agreement; provided, however , that if no definition of Change in Control or any analogous term is set forth in such an individual written agreement, the foregoing definition will apply.

(i)     “ Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, including any applicable regulations and guidance thereunder.

(j)     “ Committee ” means a committee of one or more Directors to whom authority has been delegated by the Board in accordance with Section 2(c).

(k)     “ Common Stock ” means, as of the IPO Date, the common stock of the Company, having one vote per share.

(l)     “ Company ” means Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

(m)     “ Consultant ” means any person, including an advisor, who is (i) engaged by the Company or an Affiliate to render consulting or advisory services and is compensated for such services, or (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors of an Affiliate and is compensated for such services. However, service solely as a Director, or payment of a fee for such service, will not cause a Director to be considered a “Consultant” for purposes of the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a person is treated as a Consultant under this Plan only if a Form S-8 Registration Statement under the Securities Act is available to register either the offer or the sale of the Company’s securities to such person.

(n)     “ Continuous Service ” means that the Participant’s service with the Company or an Affiliate, whether as an Employee, Director or Consultant, is not interrupted or terminated. A change in the capacity in which the Participant renders service to the Company or an Affiliate as an Employee, Consultant or Director or a change in the entity for which the Participant renders such service, provided

 

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that there is no interruption or termination of the Participant’s service with the Company or an Affiliate, will not terminate a Participant’s Continuous Service; provided, however , that if the Entity for which a Participant is rendering services ceases to qualify as an Affiliate, as determined by the Board, in its sole discretion, such Participant’s Continuous Service will be considered to have terminated on the date such Entity ceases to qualify as an Affiliate. To the extent permitted by law, the Board or the chief executive officer of the Company, in that party’s sole discretion, may determine whether Continuous Service will be considered interrupted in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Board or chief executive officer, including sick leave, military leave or any other personal leave, or (ii) transfers between the Company, an Affiliate, or their successors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a leave of absence will be treated as Continuous Service for purposes of vesting in an Award only to such extent as may be provided in the Company’s leave of absence policy, in the written terms of any leave of absence agreement or policy applicable to the Participant, or as otherwise required by law.

(o)     “ Corporate Transaction ” means the consummation, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events:

(i)     a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all, as determined by the Board, in its sole discretion, of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries;

(ii)     a sale or other disposition of more than 50% of the outstanding securities of the Company;

(iii)     a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is not the surviving corporation; or

(iv)     a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is the surviving corporation but the shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately preceding the merger, consolidation or similar transaction are converted or exchanged by virtue of the merger, consolidation or similar transaction into other property, whether in the form of securities, cash or otherwise.

(p)     “ Director ” means a member of the Board.

(q)     “ Disability ” means, with respect to a Participant, the inability of such Participant to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, as provided in Sections 22(e)(3) and 409A(a)(2)(c)(i) of the Code, and will be determined by the Board on the basis of such medical evidence as the Board deems warranted under the circumstances.

(r)     “ Dissolution ” means when the Company, after having executed a certificate of dissolution with the State of Delaware (or other applicable state), has completely wound up its affairs. Conversion of the Company into a Limited Liability Company (or any other pass-through entity) will not be considered a “Dissolution” for purposes of the Plan.

(s)      “ Employee ” means any person employed by the Company or an Affiliate. However, service solely as a Director, or payment of a fee for such services, will not cause a Director to be considered an “Employee” for purposes of the Plan.

(t)     “ Entity ” means a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity.

 

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(u)     “ Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

(v)     “ Exchange Act Person means any natural person, Entity or “group” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act), except that “Exchange Act Person” will not include (i) the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company, (ii) any employee benefit plan of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company or any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company or any Subsidiary of the Company, (iii) an underwriter temporarily holding securities pursuant to a registered public offering of such securities, (iv) an Entity Owned, directly or indirectly, by the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their Ownership of stock of the Company; or (v) any natural person, Entity or “group” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Exchange Act) that, as of the IPO Date, is the Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing more than 50% of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities.

(w)     “ Fair Market Value ” means, as of any date, the value of the Common Stock determined as follows:

(i)     If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or traded on any established market, the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock will be, unless otherwise determined by the Board, the closing sales price for such stock as quoted on such exchange or market (or the exchange or market with the greatest volume of trading in the Common Stock) on the date of determination, as reported in a source the Board deems reliable.

(ii)     Unless otherwise provided by the Board, if there is no closing sales price for the Common Stock on the date of determination, then the Fair Market Value will be the closing selling price on the last preceding date for which such quotation exists.

(iii)     In the absence of such markets for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value will be determined by the Board in good faith and in a manner that complies with Sections 409A and 422 of the Code.

(x)     “ Incentive Stock Option ” means an option granted pursuant to Section 5 of the Plan that is intended to be, and qualifies as, an “incentive stock option” within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code.

(y)     “ IPO Date ” means the date of the underwriting agreement between the Company and the underwriter(s) managing the initial public offering of the Common Stock, pursuant to which the Common Stock is priced for the initial public offering.

(z)     “ Non-Employee Director means a Director who either (i) is not a current employee or officer of the Company or an Affiliate, does not receive compensation, either directly or indirectly, from the Company or an Affiliate for services rendered as a consultant or in any capacity other than as a Director (except for an amount as to which disclosure would not be required under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act (“ Regulation S-K ”)), does not possess an interest in any other transaction for which disclosure would be required under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K, and is not engaged in a business relationship for which disclosure would be required pursuant to Item 404(b) of Regulation S-K; or (ii) is otherwise considered a “non-employee director” for purposes of Rule 16b-3.

(aa)     “ Nonstatutory Stock Option ” means any Option granted pursuant to Section 5 of the Plan that does not qualify as an Incentive Stock Option.

 

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(bb)     “ Officer ” means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

(cc)     “ Option ” means an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option to purchase shares of Common Stock granted pursuant to the Plan.

(dd)     “ Option Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and an Optionholder evidencing the terms and conditions of an Option grant. Each Option Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(ee)     “ Optionholder ” means a person to whom an Option is granted pursuant to the Plan or, if applicable, such other person who holds an outstanding Option.

(ff)     “ Other Stock Award ” means an award based in whole or in part by reference to the Common Stock which is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(d).

(gg)     “ Other Stock Award Agreement means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of an Other Stock Award evidencing the terms and conditions of an Other Stock Award grant. Each Other Stock Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(hh)     “ Own, Owned, Owner, Ownership means a person or Entity will be deemed to “Own,” to have “Owned,” to be the “Owner” of, or to have acquired “Ownership” of securities if such person or Entity, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting, with respect to such securities.

(ii)     “ Participant ” means a person to whom an Award is granted pursuant to the Plan or, if applicable, such other person who holds an outstanding Stock Award.

(jj)     “ Performance Cash Award ” means an award of cash granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(c)(ii).

(kk)     “ Performance Criteria ” means the one or more criteria that the Board will select for purposes of establishing the Performance Goals for a Performance Period. The Performance Criteria that will be used to establish such Performance Goals may be based on any one of, or combination of, the following as determined by the Board: (i) sales; (ii) revenues; (iii) assets; (iv) expenses; (v) market penetration or expansion; (vi) earnings from operations; (vii) earnings before or after deduction for all or any portion of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, incentives, service fees or extraordinary or special items, whether or not on a continuing operations or an aggregate or per share basis; (viii) net income or net income per common share (basic or diluted); (ix) return on equity, investment, capital or assets; (x) one or more operating ratios; (xi) borrowing levels, leverage ratios or credit rating; (xii) market share; (xiii) capital expenditures; (xiv) cash flow, free cash flow, cash flow return on investment, or net cash provided by operations; (xv) stock price, dividends or total stockholder return; (xvi) development of new technologies or products; (xvii) sales of particular products or services; (xviii) economic value created or added; (xix) operating margin or profit margin; (xx) customer acquisition or retention; (xxi) raising or refinancing of capital; (xxii) successful hiring of key individuals; (xxiii) resolution of significant litigation; (xxiv) acquisitions and divestitures (in whole or in part); (xxv) joint ventures and strategic alliances; (xxvi) spin-offs, split-ups and the like; (xxvii) reorganizations; (xxviii) recapitalizations, restructurings, financings (issuance of debt or equity) or refinancings; (xxix) or strategic business criteria, consisting of one or more objectives based on the following goals: achievement of timely development, design management or enrollment, meeting specified market penetration or value added, payor acceptance, patient adherence, peer

 

21.


reviewed publications, issuance of new patents, establishment of or securing of licenses to intellectual property, product development or introduction (including, without limitation, any clinical trial accomplishments, regulatory or other filings, approvals or milestones, discovery of novel products, maintenance of multiple products in pipeline, product launch or other product development milestones), geographic business expansion, cost targets, cost reductions or savings, customer satisfaction, operating efficiency, acquisition or retention, employee satisfaction, information technology, corporate development (including, without limitation, licenses, innovation, research or establishment of third party collaborations), manufacturing or process development, legal compliance or risk reduction, patent application or issuance goals, or goals relating to acquisitions, divestitures or other business combinations (in whole or in part), joint ventures or strategic alliances; and (xxx) other measures of performance selected by the Board.

(ll)     “ Performance Goals ” means, for a Performance Period, the one or more goals established by the Board for the Performance Period based upon the Performance Criteria. Performance Goals may be based on a Company-wide basis, with respect to one or more business units, divisions, Affiliates, or business segments, and in either absolute terms or relative to the performance of one or more comparable companies or the performance of one or more relevant indices. The Board is authorized at any time in its sole discretion, to adjust or modify the calculation of a Performance Goal for such Performance Period in order to prevent the dilution or enlargement of the rights of Participants, (a) in the event of, or in anticipation of, any unusual or extraordinary corporate item, transaction, event or development; (b) in recognition of, or in anticipation of, any other unusual or nonrecurring events affecting the Company, or the financial statements of the Company in response to, or in anticipation of, changes in applicable laws, regulations, accounting principles, or business conditions; or (c) in view of the Board’s assessment of the business strategy of the Company, performance of comparable organizations, economic and business conditions, and any other circumstances deemed relevant. Specifically, the Board is authorized to make adjustment in the method of calculating attainment of Performance Goals and objectives for a Performance Period as follows: (i) to exclude the dilutive effects of acquisitions or joint ventures; (ii) to assume that any business divested by the Company achieved performance objectives at targeted levels during the balance of a Performance Period following such divestiture; and (iii) to exclude the effect of any change in the outstanding shares of common stock of the Company by reason of any stock dividend or split, stock repurchase, reorganization, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, spin-off, combination or exchange of shares or other similar corporate change, or any distributions to common stockholders other than regular cash dividends. In addition, the Board is authorized to make adjustment in the method of calculating attainment of Performance Goals and objectives for a Performance Period as follows: (i) to exclude restructuring and/or other nonrecurring charges; (ii) to exclude exchange rate effects, as applicable, for non-U.S. dollar denominated net sales and operating earnings; (iii) to exclude the effects of changes to generally accepted accounting standards required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board; (iv) to exclude the effects of any items that are “unusual” in nature or occur “infrequently” as determined under generally accepted accounting principles; (v) to exclude the effects to any statutory adjustments to corporate tax rates; and (vi) to make other appropriate adjustments selected by the Board.

(mm)     “ Performance Period ” means the period of time selected by the Board over which the attainment of one or more Performance Goals will be measured for the purpose of determining a Participant’s right to and the payment of a Stock Award or a Performance Cash Award. Performance Periods may be of varying and overlapping duration, at the sole discretion of the Board.

(nn)     “ Performance Stock Award ” means a Stock Award granted under the terms and conditions of Section 6(c)(i).

(oo)     “ Plan ” means this Avedro, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan.

 

22.


(pp)     “ Restricted Stock Award ” means an award of shares of Common Stock, which is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(a).

(qq)     “ Restricted Stock Award Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Restricted Stock Award evidencing the terms and conditions of a Restricted Stock Award grant. Each Restricted Stock Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(rr)     “ Restricted Stock Unit Award means a right to receive shares of Common Stock which is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 6(b).

( ss )     “ Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Restricted Stock Unit Award evidencing the terms and conditions of a Restricted Stock Unit Award grant. Each Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(tt)     “ Rule 16b-3 ” means Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act or any successor to Rule 16b-3, as in effect from time to time.

(uu)     “ Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(vv)     “ Stock Appreciation Right ” or “ SAR means a right to receive the appreciation on Common Stock that is granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 5.

(ww)     “ Stock Appreciation Right Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a holder of a Stock Appreciation Right evidencing the terms and conditions of a Stock Appreciation Right grant. Each Stock Appreciation Right Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

(xx)     “ Stock Award ” means any right to receive Common Stock granted under the Plan, including an Incentive Stock Option, a Nonstatutory Stock Option, a Restricted Stock Award, a Restricted Stock Unit Award, a Stock Appreciation Right, a Performance Stock Award or any Other Stock Award.

( yy )     “ Stock Award Agreement ” means a written agreement between the Company and a Participant evidencing the terms and conditions of a Stock Award grant. Each Stock Award Agreement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

( zz )     “ Subsidiary ” means, with respect to the Company, (i) any corporation of which more than 50% of the outstanding capital stock having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors of such corporation (irrespective of whether, at the time, stock of any other class or classes of such corporation will have or might have voting power by reason of the happening of any contingency) is at the time, directly or indirectly, Owned by the Company, and (ii) any partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which the Company has a direct or indirect interest (whether in the form of voting or participation in profits or capital contribution) of more than 50%.

(aaa)     “ Ten Percent Stockholder ” means a person who Owns (or is deemed to Own pursuant to Section 424(d) of the Code) stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Affiliate.

(bbb)     “ Transaction ” means a Corporate Transaction or a Change in Control.

 

23.

Exhibit 10.7

A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

S TOCK O PTION G RANT N OTICE

Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”), pursuant to its 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”), hereby grants to Optionholder an option to purchase the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock set forth below. This option is subject to all of the terms and conditions as set forth in this Stock Option Grant Notice, in the Option Agreement, the Plan and the Notice of Exercise, all of which are attached hereto and incorporated herein in their entirety. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined herein but defined in the Plan or the Option Agreement will have the same definitions as in the Plan or the Option Agreement. If there is any conflict between the terms in this Stock Option Grant Notice and the Plan, the terms of the Plan will control.

 

Optionholder:

 

 

Date of Grant:

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date:

 

 

Number of Shares Subject to Option:

 

 

Exercise Price (Per Share):

 

 

Total Exercise Price:

 

 

Expiration Date:

 

 

 

Type of Grant:    ☐ Incentive Stock Option 1    ☐ Nonstatutory Stock Option
Exercise Schedule:    Same as Vesting Schedule   
Vesting Schedule:    [______________, subject to Optionholder’s Continuous Service as of each such date]
Payment:    By one or a combination of the following items (described in the Option Agreement):
   ☐ By cash, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company
   ☐ Pursuant to a Regulation T Program if the shares are publicly traded
   ☐ By delivery of already-owned shares if the shares are publicly traded
   ☐ If and only to the extent this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, and subject to the Company’s consent at the time of exercise, by a “net exercise” arrangement

 

1  

If this is an Incentive Stock Option, it (plus other outstanding Incentive Stock Options) cannot be first exercisable for more than $100,000 in value (measured by exercise price) in any calendar year. Any excess over $100,000 is a Nonstatutory Stock Option.

 

1


Additional Terms/Acknowledgements: Optionholder acknowledges receipt of, and understands and agrees to, this Stock Option Grant Notice, the Option Agreement and the Plan. Optionholder acknowledges and agrees that this Stock Option Grant Notice and the Option Agreement may not be modified, amended or revised except as provided in the Plan. Optionholder further acknowledges that as of the Date of Grant, this Stock Option Grant Notice, the Option Agreement, and the Plan set forth the entire understanding between Optionholder and the Company regarding this option award and supersede all prior oral and written agreements, promises and/or representations on that subject with the exception of, if applicable, (i) equity awards previously granted and delivered to Optionholder, (ii) any compensation recovery policy that is adopted by the Company or is otherwise required by applicable law and (iii) any written employment or severance arrangement or other written agreement entered into between the Company and Optionholder specifying the terms that should govern this option upon the terms and conditions set forth therein.

By accepting this option, Optionholder acknowledges having received and read the Stock Option Grant Notice, the Option Agreement and the Plan and agrees to all of the terms and conditions set forth in these documents. Optionholder consents to receive Plan and related documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

 

A VEDRO , I NC .     O PTIONHOLDER :
By:    

 

                     

 

  Signature       Signature
Title:         Date:    
Date:               

A TTACHMENTS : Option Agreement, 2019 Equity Incentive Plan and Notice of Exercise

 

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A TTACHMENT I

A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

O PTION A GREEMENT

(I NCENTIVE S TOCK O PTION OR N ONSTATUTORY S TOCK O PTION )

Pursuant to your Stock Option Grant Notice (“ Grant Notice ”) and this Option Agreement, Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) has granted you an option under its 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”) to purchase the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock indicated in your Grant Notice at the exercise price indicated in your Grant Notice. The option is granted to you effective as of the date of grant set forth in the Grant Notice (the “ Date of Grant ”). If there is any conflict between the terms in this Option Agreement and the Plan, the terms of the Plan will control. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined in this Option Agreement or in the Grant Notice but defined in the Plan will have the same definitions as in the Plan.

The details of your option, in addition to those set forth in the Grant Notice and the Plan, are as follows:

1.      V ESTING . Subject to the provisions contained herein, your option will vest as provided in your Grant Notice. Vesting will cease upon the termination of your Continuous Service.

2.      N UMBER OF S HARES AND E XERCISE P RICE . The number of shares of Common Stock subject to your option and your exercise price per share in your Grant Notice will be adjusted for Capitalization Adjustments.

3.      E XERCISE R ESTRICTION FOR N ON -E XEMPT E MPLOYEES . If you are an Employee eligible for overtime compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended (that is, a “ Non-Exempt Employee ”), and except as otherwise provided in the Plan, you may not exercise your option until you have completed at least six (6) months of Continuous Service measured from the Date of Grant, even if you have already been an employee for more than six (6) months. Consistent with the provisions of the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, you may exercise your option as to any vested portion prior to such six (6) month anniversary in the case of (i) your death or disability, (ii) a Corporate Transaction in which your option is not assumed, continued or substituted, (iii) a Change in Control or (iv) your termination of Continuous Service on your “retirement” (as defined in the Company’s benefit plans).

4.      M ETHOD OF P AYMENT . You must pay the full amount of the exercise price for the shares you wish to exercise. You may pay the exercise price in cash or by check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company or in any other manner permitted by your Grant Notice, which may include one or more of the following:

(a)     Provided that at the time of exercise the Common Stock is publicly traded, pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board that, prior to the issuance of Common Stock, results in either the receipt of cash (or check) by the Company or the receipt of irrevocable instructions to pay the aggregate exercise price to the Company from the sales proceeds. This manner of payment is also known as a “broker-assisted exercise”, “same day sale”, or “sell to cover”.

 

3


(b)     Provided that at the time of exercise the Common Stock is publicly traded, by delivery to the Company (either by actual delivery or attestation) of already-owned shares of Common Stock that are owned free and clear of any liens, claims, encumbrances or security interests, and that are valued at Fair Market Value on the date of exercise. “Delivery” for these purposes, in the sole discretion of the Company at the time you exercise your option, will include delivery to the Company of your attestation of ownership of such shares of Common Stock in a form approved by the Company. You may not exercise your option by delivery to the Company of Common Stock if doing so would violate the provisions of any law, regulation or agreement restricting the redemption of the Company’s stock.

(c)     If this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, subject to the consent of the Company at the time of exercise, by a “net exercise” arrangement pursuant to which the Company will reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of your option by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price. You must pay any remaining balance of the aggregate exercise price not satisfied by the “net exercise” in cash or other permitted form of payment. Shares of Common Stock will no longer be outstanding under your option and will not be exercisable thereafter if those shares (i) are used to pay the exercise price pursuant to the “net exercise,” (ii) are delivered to you as a result of such exercise, and (iii) are withheld to satisfy your tax withholding obligations.

5.      W HOLE S HARES . You may exercise your option only for whole shares of Common Stock.

6.      S ECURITIES L AW C OMPLIANCE . In no event may you exercise your option unless the shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise are then registered under the Securities Act or, if not registered, the Company has determined that your exercise and the issuance of the shares would be exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The exercise of your option also must comply with all other applicable laws and regulations governing your option, and you may not exercise your option if the Company determines that such exercise would not be in material compliance with such laws and regulations (including any restrictions on exercise required for compliance with Treas. Reg. 1.401(k)-1(d)(3), if applicable).

7.      T ERM . You may not exercise your option before the Date of Grant or after the expiration of the option’s term. The term of your option expires, subject to the provisions of Section 5(h) of the Plan, upon the earliest of the following:

(a)     immediately upon the termination of your Continuous Service for Cause;

(b)     three (3) months after the termination of your Continuous Service for any reason other than Cause, your Disability or your death (except as otherwise provided in Section 7(d) below); provided, however, that if during any part of such three (3) month period your option is not exercisable solely because of the condition set forth in the section above regarding “Securities Law Compliance,” your option will not expire until the earlier of the Expiration Date or until it has been exercisable for an aggregate period of three (3) months after the termination of your Continuous Service; provided further, if during any part of such three (3) month period, the sale of any Common Stock received upon exercise of your option would violate the Company’s insider trading policy, then your option will not expire until the earlier of the Expiration Date or until it has been exercisable for an aggregate period of three (3) months after the termination of your Continuous Service during which the sale of the Common Stock received upon exercise of your option would not be in violation of the Company’s insider trading policy. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if (i) you are a Non-Exempt Employee, (ii) your Continuous Service terminates within six (6) months after the Date of Grant, and (iii) you have vested in a portion of your option at the time of your termination of Continuous Service, your option will not expire until the earlier of (x) the later of (A) the date that is seven (7) months after the Date of Grant, and (B) the date that is three (3) months after the termination of your Continuous Service, and (y) the Expiration Date;

 

4


(c)     twelve (12) months after the termination of your Continuous Service due to your Disability (except as otherwise provided in Section 7(d) below);

(d)     eighteen (18) months after your death if you die either during your Continuous Service or within three (3) months after your Continuous Service terminates for any reason other than Cause;

(e)     the Expiration Date indicated in your Grant Notice; or

(f)     the day before the tenth (10th) anniversary of the Date of Grant.

If your option is an Incentive Stock Option, note that to obtain the federal income tax advantages associated with an Incentive Stock Option, the Code requires that at all times beginning on the Date of Grant and ending on the day three (3) months before the date of your option’s exercise, you must be an employee of the Company or an Affiliate, except in the event of your death or Disability. The Company has provided for extended exercisability of your option under certain circumstances for your benefit but cannot guarantee that your option will necessarily be treated as an Incentive Stock Option if you continue to provide services to the Company or an Affiliate as a Consultant or Director after your employment terminates or if you otherwise exercise your option more than three (3) months after the date your employment with the Company or an Affiliate terminates.

8.    E XERCISE .

(a)     You may exercise the vested portion of your option (and the unvested portion of your option if your Grant Notice so permits) during its term by (i) delivering a Notice of Exercise (in a form designated by the Company) or completing such other documents and/or procedures designated by the Company for exercise and (ii) paying the exercise price and any applicable withholding taxes to the Company’s Secretary, stock plan administrator, or such other person as the Company may designate, together with such additional documents as the Company may then require.

(b)     By exercising your option you agree that, as a condition to any exercise of your option, the Company may require you to enter into an arrangement providing for the payment by you to the Company of any tax withholding obligation of the Company arising by reason of (i) the exercise of your option, (ii) the lapse of any substantial risk of forfeiture to which the shares of Common Stock are subject at the time of exercise, or (iii) the disposition of shares of Common Stock acquired upon such exercise.

(c)     If your option is an Incentive Stock Option, by exercising your option you agree that you will notify the Company in writing within fifteen (15) days after the date of any disposition of any of the shares of the Common Stock issued upon exercise of your option that occurs within two (2) years after the Date of Grant or within one (1) year after such shares of Common Stock are transferred upon exercise of your option.

9.      T RANSFERABILITY . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 9, your option is not transferable, except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and is exercisable during your life only by you.

(a)      Certain Trusts. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, you may transfer your option to a trust if you are considered to be the sole beneficial owner (determined under Section 671 of the Code and applicable state law) while the option is held in the trust. You and the trustee must enter into transfer and other agreements required by the Company.

 

5


(b)      Domestic Relations Orders. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, and provided that you and the designated transferee enter into transfer and other agreements required by the Company, you may transfer your option pursuant to the terms of a domestic relations order, official marital settlement agreement or other divorce or separation instrument as permitted by Treasury Regulation 1.421-1(b)(2) that contains the information required by the Company to effectuate the transfer. You are encouraged to discuss the proposed terms of any division of this option with the Company prior to finalizing the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement to help ensure the required information is contained within the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement. If this option is an Incentive Stock Option, this option may be deemed to be a Nonstatutory Stock Option as a result of such transfer.

(c)      Beneficiary Designation. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, you may, by delivering written notice to the Company, in a form approved by the Company and any broker designated by the Company to handle option exercises, designate a third party who, on your death, will thereafter be entitled to exercise this option and receive the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from such exercise. In the absence of such a designation, your executor or administrator of your estate will be entitled to exercise this option and receive, on behalf of your estate, the Common Stock or other consideration resulting from such exercise.

10.      O PTION NOT A S ERVICE C ONTRACT . Your option is not an employment or service contract, and nothing in your option will be deemed to create in any way whatsoever any obligation on your part to continue in the employ of the Company or an Affiliate, or of the Company or an Affiliate to continue your employment. In addition, nothing in your option will obligate the Company or an Affiliate, their respective stockholders, boards of directors, officers or employees to continue any relationship that you might have as a Director or Consultant for the Company or an Affiliate.

11.    W ITHHOLDING O BLIGATIONS .

(a)     At the time you exercise your option, in whole or in part, and at any time thereafter as requested by the Company, you hereby authorize withholding from payroll and any other amounts payable to you, and otherwise agree to make adequate provision for (including by means of a “same day sale” pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board to the extent permitted by the Company), any sums required to satisfy the federal, state, local and foreign tax withholding obligations of the Company or an Affiliate, if any, which arise in connection with the exercise of your option.

(b)     If this option is a Nonstatutory Stock Option, then upon your request and subject to approval by the Company, and compliance with any applicable legal conditions or restrictions, the Company may withhold from fully vested shares of Common Stock otherwise issuable to you upon the exercise of your option a number of whole shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value, determined by the Company as of the date of exercise, not in excess of the maximum amount of tax required to be withheld by law (or such lower amount as may be necessary to avoid classification of your option as a liability for financial accounting purposes). Notwithstanding the filing of such election, shares of Common Stock shall be withheld solely from fully vested shares of Common Stock determined as of the date of exercise of your option that are otherwise issuable to you upon such exercise. Any adverse consequences to you arising in connection with such share withholding procedure shall be your sole responsibility.

 

6


(c)     You may not exercise your option unless the tax withholding obligations of the Company and/or any Affiliate are satisfied. Accordingly, you may not be able to exercise your option when desired even though your option is vested, and the Company will have no obligation to issue a certificate for such shares of Common Stock or release such shares of Common Stock from any escrow provided for herein, if applicable, unless such obligations are satisfied.

12.      T AX C ONSEQUENCES . You hereby agree that the Company does not have a duty to design or administer the Plan or its other compensation programs in a manner that minimizes your tax liabilities. You will not make any claim against the Company, or any of its Officers, Directors, Employees or Affiliates related to tax liabilities arising from your option or your other compensation. In particular, you acknowledge that this option is exempt from Section 409A of the Code only if the exercise price per share specified in the Grant Notice is at least equal to the “fair market value” per share of the Common Stock on the Date of Grant and there is no other impermissible deferral of compensation associated with the option.

13.      N OTICES . Any notices provided for in your option or the Plan will be given in writing (including electronically) and will be deemed effectively given upon receipt or, in the case of notices delivered by mail by the Company to you, five (5) days after deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to you at the last address you provided to the Company. The Company may, in its sole discretion, decide to deliver any documents related to participation in the Plan and this option by electronic means or to request your consent to participate in the Plan by electronic means. By accepting this option, you consent to receive such documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

14.      G OVERNING P LAN D OCUMENT . Your option is subject to all the provisions of the Plan, the provisions of which are hereby made a part of your option, and is further subject to all interpretations, amendments, rules and regulations, which may from time to time be promulgated and adopted pursuant to the Plan. If there is any conflict between the provisions of your option and those of the Plan, the provisions of the Plan will control. In addition, your option (and any compensation paid or shares issued under your option) is subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any clawback policy adopted by the Company and any compensation recovery policy otherwise required by applicable law. No recovery of compensation under such a clawback policy will be an event giving rise to a right to voluntarily terminate employment upon a resignation for “good reason,” or for a “constructive termination” or any similar term under any plan of or agreement with the Company.

15.      O THER D OCUMENTS . You hereby acknowledge receipt of and the right to receive a document providing the information required by Rule 428(b)(1) promulgated under the Securities Act, which includes the Plan prospectus. In addition, you acknowledge receipt of the Company’s policy permitting certain individuals to sell shares only during certain “window” periods and the Company’s insider trading policy, in effect from time to time.

16.      E FFECT ON O THER E MPLOYEE B ENEFIT P LANS . The value of this option will not be included as compensation, earnings, salaries, or other similar terms used when calculating your benefits under any employee benefit plan sponsored by the Company or any Affiliate, except as such plan otherwise expressly provides. The Company expressly reserves its rights to amend, modify, or terminate any of the Company’s or any Affiliate’s employee benefit plans.

17.      V OTING R IGHTS . You will not have voting or any other rights as a stockholder of the Company with respect to the shares to be issued pursuant to this option until such shares are issued to you. Upon such issuance, you will obtain full voting and other rights as a stockholder of the Company. Nothing contained in this option, and no action taken pursuant to its provisions, will create or be construed to create a trust of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between you and the Company or any other person.

 

7


18.      S EVERABILITY . If all or any part of this Option Agreement or the Plan is declared by any court or governmental authority to be unlawful or invalid, such unlawfulness or invalidity will not invalidate any portion of this Option Agreement or the Plan not declared to be unlawful or invalid. Any Section of this Option Agreement (or part of such a Section) so declared to be unlawful or invalid shall, if possible, be construed in a manner which will give effect to the terms of such Section or part of a Section to the fullest extent possible while remaining lawful and valid.

19.      M ISCELLANEOUS .

(a)     The rights and obligations of the Company under your option will be transferable to any one or more persons or entities, and all covenants and agreements hereunder will inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by the Company’s successors and assigns.

(b)     You agree upon request to execute any further documents or instruments necessary or desirable in the sole determination of the Company to carry out the purposes or intent of your option.

(c)     You acknowledge and agree that you have reviewed your option in its entirety, have had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing and accepting your option, and fully understand all provisions of your option.

(d)     This Option Agreement will be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.

(e)     All obligations of the Company under the Plan and this Option Agreement will be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company.

*        *        *

This Option Agreement will be deemed to be signed by you upon the signing by you of the Stock Option Grant Notice to which it is attached.

 

8


A TTACHMENT II

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

 

9


A TTACHMENT III

N OTICE OF E XERCISE

 

A VEDRO , I NC .     Date of Exercise:                                 
201 Jones Road    
Waltham, MA 02451    

This constitutes notice to Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) under my stock option that I elect to purchase the below number of shares of Common Stock of the Company (the “ Shares ”) for the price set forth below.

 

Type of option (check one):

     Incentive ☐       Nonstatutory ☐  

Stock option dated:

    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Number of Shares as to which option is exercised:

    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Certificates to be issued in name of:

    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total exercise price:

   $ ______________     $ ______________  

Cash payment delivered herewith:

   $ ______________     $ ______________  

[Value of ________ Shares delivered herewith 1 :

   $ ______________     $ ______________

[Value of ________ Shares pursuant to net exercise 2 :

   $ ______________     $ ______________

[Regulation T Program (cashless exercise 3 ):

   $ ______________     $ ______________

 

1  

Shares must meet the public trading requirements set forth in the option. Shares must be valued in accordance with the terms of the option being exercised, and must be owned free and clear of any liens, claims, encumbrances or security interests. Certificates must be endorsed or accompanied by an executed assignment separate from certificate.

2  

The option must be a Nonstatutory Stock Option, and the Company must have established net exercise procedures at the time of exercise, in order to utilize this payment method.

3  

Shares must meet the public trading requirements set forth in the option.

 

10


By this exercise, I agree (i) to provide such additional documents as you may require pursuant to the terms of the Avedro, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, (ii) to provide for the payment by me to you (in the manner designated by you) of your withholding obligation, if any, relating to the exercise of this option, and (iii) if this exercise relates to an incentive stock option, to notify you in writing within fifteen (15) days after the date of any disposition of any of the Shares issued upon exercise of this option that occurs within two (2) years after the date of grant of this option or within one (1) year after such Shares are issued upon exercise of this option.

 

Very truly yours,
 

 

 

11


A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

R ESTRICTED S TOCK U NIT G RANT N OTICE

Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”), pursuant to its 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”), hereby awards to Participant a Restricted Stock Unit Award for the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock (“ Restricted Stock Units ”) set forth below (the “ Award ”). The Award is subject to all of the terms and conditions as set forth in this notice of grant (this “ Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice ”), and in the Plan and the Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (the “ Award Agreement ”), both of which are attached hereto and incorporated herein in their entirety. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Plan or the Award Agreement. In the event of any conflict between the terms in this Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice or the Award Agreement and the Plan, the terms of the Plan shall control.

 

Participant:

 

 

Date of Grant:

 

 

Vesting Commencement Date:

 

 

Number of Restricted Stock Units:

 

 

 

Vesting Schedule:    [__________________, subject to Participant’s Continuous Service through each such vesting date.]
Issuance Schedule:    Subject to any Capitalization Adjustment, one share of Common Stock (or its cash equivalent, at the discretion of the Company) will be issued for each Restricted Stock Unit that vests at the time set forth in Section 6 of the Award Agreement.

 

12


Additional Terms/Acknowledgements: Participant acknowledges receipt of, and understands and agrees to, this Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice, the Award Agreement and the Plan. Participant acknowledges and agrees that this Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice and the Award Agreement may not be modified, amended, or revised except as provided in the Plan. Participant further acknowledges that as of the Date of Grant, this Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice, the Award Agreement and the Plan set forth the entire understanding between Participant and the Company regarding the acquisition of the Common Stock pursuant to the Award specified above and supersede all prior oral and written agreements on the terms of this Award, with the exception, if applicable, of (i) equity awards previously granted and delivered to Participant, (ii) any compensation recovery policy that is adopted by the Company or is otherwise required by applicable law and (iii) any written employment or severance arrangement or other written agreement entered into between the Company and Participant specifying the terms that should govern this Award upon the terms and conditions set forth therein.

By accepting this Award, Participant acknowledges having received and read the Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice, the Award Agreement and the Plan and agrees to all of the terms and conditions set forth in these documents. Participant consents to receive Plan and related documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

 

A VEDRO , I NC .     P ARTICIPANT :
By:    

 

                     

 

  Signature       Signature
Title:         Date:    
Date:               

A TTACHMENTS : Award Agreement and 2019 Equity Incentive Plan

 

13


A TTACHMENT I

A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

R ESTRICTED S TOCK U NIT A WARD A GREEMENT

Pursuant to the Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice (the “ Grant Notice ”) and this Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (the “ Agreement ”), Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) has awarded you (“ Participant ”) a Restricted Stock Unit Award (the “ Award ”) pursuant to the Company’s 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”) for the number of Restricted Stock Units/shares indicated in the Grant Notice. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined in this Agreement or the Grant Notice shall have the same meanings given to them in the Plan. The terms of your Award, in addition to those set forth in the Grant Notice, are as follows.

1.      G RANT OF THE A WARD . This Award represents the right to be issued on a future date one (1) share of Common Stock for each Restricted Stock Unit that vests on the applicable vesting date(s) (subject to any adjustment under Section 3 below) as indicated in the Grant Notice. As of the Date of Grant, the Company will credit to a bookkeeping account maintained by the Company for your benefit (the “ Account ”) the number of Restricted Stock Units/shares of Common Stock subject to the Award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company reserves the right to issue you the cash equivalent of Common Stock, in part or in full satisfaction of the delivery of Common Stock in connection with the vesting of the Restricted Stock Units, and, to the extent applicable, references in this Agreement and the Grant Notice to Common Stock issuable in connection with your Restricted Stock Units will include the potential issuance of its cash equivalent pursuant to such right. This Award was granted in consideration of your services to the Company.

2.      V ESTING . Subject to the limitations contained herein, your Award will vest, if at all, in accordance with the vesting schedule provided in the Grant Notice. Vesting will cease upon the termination of your Continuous Service and the Restricted Stock Units credited to the Account that were not vested on the date of such termination will be forfeited at no cost to the Company and you will have no further right, title or interest in or to such Award or the shares of Common Stock to be issued in respect of such portion of the Award.

3.      N UMBER OF S HARES . The number of Restricted Stock Units subject to your Award may be adjusted from time to time for Capitalization Adjustments, as provided in the Plan. Any additional Restricted Stock Units, shares, cash or other property that becomes subject to the Award pursuant to this Section 3, if any, shall be subject, in a manner determined by the Board, to the same forfeiture restrictions, restrictions on transferability, and time and manner of delivery as applicable to the other Restricted Stock Units and shares covered by your Award. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 3, no fractional shares or rights for fractional shares of Common Stock shall be created pursuant to this Section 3. Any fraction of a share will be rounded down to the nearest whole share.

4.      S ECURITIES L AW C OMPLIANCE . You may not be issued any Common Stock under your Award unless the shares of Common Stock underlying the Restricted Stock Units are either (i) then registered under the Securities Act, or (ii) the Company has determined that such issuance would be exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Your Award must also comply with other applicable laws and regulations governing the Award, and you shall not receive such Common Stock if the Company determines that such receipt would not be in material compliance with such laws and regulations.

 

14


5.      T RANSFER R ESTRICTIONS . Prior to the time that shares of Common Stock have been delivered to you, you may not transfer, pledge, sell or otherwise dispose of this Award or the shares issuable in respect of your Award, except as expressly provided in this Section 5. For example, you may not use shares that may be issued in respect of your Restricted Stock Units as security for a loan. The restrictions on transfer set forth herein will lapse upon delivery to you of shares in respect of your vested Restricted Stock Units.

(a)    Death . Your Award is transferable by will and by the laws of descent and distribution. At your death, vesting of your Award will cease and your executor or administrator of your estate shall be entitled to receive, on behalf of your estate, any Common Stock or other consideration that vested but was not issued before your death.

(b)    Domestic Relations Orders. Upon receiving written permission from the Board or its duly authorized designee, and provided that you and the designated transferee enter into transfer and other agreements required by the Company, you may transfer your right to receive the distribution of Common Stock or other consideration hereunder, pursuant to a domestic relations order, marital settlement agreement or other divorce or separation instrument as permitted by applicable law that contains the information required by the Company to effectuate the transfer. You are encouraged to discuss the proposed terms of any division of this Award with the Company General Counsel prior to finalizing the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement to verify that you may make such transfer, and if so, to help ensure the required information is contained within the domestic relations order or marital settlement agreement.

6.    D ATE OF I SSUANCE .

(a)     The issuance of shares in respect of the Restricted Stock Units is intended to comply with Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-1(b)(4) and will be construed and administered in such a manner. Subject to the satisfaction of the Withholding Obligation set forth in Section 11 of this Agreement, in the event one or more Restricted Stock Units vests, the Company shall issue to you one (1) share of Common Stock for each Restricted Stock Unit that vests on the applicable vesting date(s) (subject to any adjustment under Section 3 above, and subject to any different provisions in the Grant Notice). Each issuance date determined by this paragraph is referred to as an “ Original Issuance Date ”.

(b)     If the Original Issuance Date falls on a date that is not a business day, delivery shall instead occur on the next following business day. In addition, if:

(i)     the Original Issuance Date does not occur (1) during an “open window period” applicable to you, as determined by the Company in accordance with the Company’s then-effective policy on trading in Company securities, or (2) on a date when you are otherwise permitted to sell shares of Common Stock on an established stock exchange or stock market (including but not limited to under a previously established written trading plan that meets the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act and was entered into in compliance with the Company’s policies (a “ 10b5-1 Arrangement ”)), and

(ii)     either (1) a Withholding Obligation does not apply, or (2) the Company decides, prior to the Original Issuance Date, (A) not to satisfy the Withholding Obligation by withholding shares of Common Stock from the shares otherwise due, on the Original Issuance Date, to you under this Award, and (B) not to permit you to enter into a “same day sale” commitment with a broker-dealer pursuant to Section 11 of this Agreement (including but not limited to a commitment under a 10b5-1 Arrangement) and (C) not to permit you to pay your Withholding Obligation in cash,

 

15


then the shares that would otherwise be issued to you on the Original Issuance Date will not be delivered on such Original Issuance Date and will instead be delivered on the first business day when you are not prohibited from selling shares of the Company’s Common Stock in the open public market, but in no event later than December 31 of the calendar year in which the Original Issuance Date occurs (that is, the last day of your taxable year in which the Original Issuance Date occurs), or, if and only if permitted in a manner that complies with Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-1(b)(4), no later than the date that is the 15th day of the third calendar month of the applicable year following the year in which the shares of Common Stock under this Award are no longer subject to a “substantial risk of forfeiture” within the meaning of Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-1(d).

(c)     The form of delivery ( e.g. , a stock certificate or electronic entry evidencing such shares) shall be determined by the Company.

7.      D IVIDENDS . You shall receive no benefit or adjustment to your Award with respect to any cash dividend, stock dividend or other distribution that does not result from a Capitalization Adjustment; provided, however, that this sentence will not apply with respect to any shares of Common Stock that are delivered to you in connection with your Award after such shares have been delivered to you.

8.      R ESTRICTIVE L EGENDS . The shares of Common Stock issued in respect of your Award shall be endorsed with appropriate legends as determined by the Company.

9.      E XECUTION OF D OCUMENTS . You hereby acknowledge and agree that the manner selected by the Company by which you indicate your consent to your Grant Notice is also deemed to be your execution of your Grant Notice and of this Agreement. You further agree that such manner of indicating consent may be relied upon as your signature for establishing your execution of any documents to be executed in the future in connection with your Award.

10.      A WARD NOT A S ERVICE C ONTRACT .

(a)     Nothing in this Agreement (including, but not limited to, the vesting of your Award or the issuance of the shares in respect of your Award), the Plan or any covenant of good faith and fair dealing that may be found implicit in this Agreement or the Plan shall: (i) confer upon you any right to continue in the employ or service of, or affiliation with, the Company or an Affiliate; (ii) constitute any promise or commitment by the Company or an Affiliate regarding the fact or nature of future positions, future work assignments, future compensation or any other term or condition of employment or affiliation; (iii) confer any right or benefit under this Agreement or the Plan unless such right or benefit has specifically accrued under the terms of this Agreement or Plan; or (iv) deprive the Company of the right to terminate you at will and without regard to any future vesting opportunity that you may have.

(b)     By accepting this Award, you acknowledge and agree that the right to continue vesting in the Award pursuant to the vesting schedule provided in the Grant Notice may not be earned unless (in addition to any other conditions described in the Grant Notice and this Agreement) you continue as an employee, director or consultant at the will of the Company and affiliate, as applicable (not through the act of being hired, being granted this Award or any other award or benefit) and that the Company has the right to reorganize, sell, spin-out or otherwise restructure one or more of its businesses or Affiliates at any time or from time to time, as it deems appropriate (a “ reorganization ”). You acknowledge and agree that such a reorganization could result in the termination of your Continuous Service, or the termination of Affiliate status of your employer and the loss of benefits available to you under this Agreement, including but not limited to, the termination of the right to continue vesting in the Award. You further acknowledge and agree that this Agreement, the Plan, the transactions contemplated hereunder and the vesting schedule set forth herein or any covenant of good faith and fair dealing that may be found implicit in any of them do

 

16


not constitute an express or implied promise of continued engagement as an employee or consultant for the term of this Agreement, for any period, or at all, and shall not interfere in any way with the Company’s right to terminate your Continuous Service at any time, with or without your cause or notice, or to conduct a reorganization.

11.    W ITHHOLDING O BLIGATION .

(a)    On each vesting date, and on or before the time you receive a distribution of the shares of Common Stock in respect of your Restricted Stock Units, and at any other time as reasonably requested by the Company in accordance with applicable tax laws, you hereby authorize any required withholding from the Common Stock issuable to you and/or otherwise agree to make adequate provision, including in cash, for any sums required to satisfy the federal, state, local and foreign tax withholding obligations of the Company or any Affiliate that arise in connection with your Award (the “ Withholding Obligation ”).

(b)    By accepting this Award, you acknowledge and agree that the Company or any Affiliate may, in its sole discretion, satisfy all or any portion of the Withholding Obligation relating to your Restricted Stock Units by any of the following means or by a combination of such means: (i) causing you to pay any portion of the Withholding Obligation in cash; (ii) withholding from any compensation otherwise payable to you by the Company; (iii) withholding shares of Common Stock from the shares of Common Stock issued or otherwise issuable to you in connection with the Award with a Fair Market Value (measured as of the date shares of Common Stock are issued pursuant to Section 6) equal to the amount of such Withholding Obligation; provided, however, that the number of such shares of Common Stock so withheld will not exceed the amount necessary to satisfy the Withholding Obligation using the maximum statutory withholding rates for federal, state, local and foreign tax purposes, including payroll taxes, that are applicable to supplemental taxable income; and provided , further, that to the extent necessary to qualify for an exemption from application of Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, if applicable, such share withholding procedure will be subject to the express prior approval of the Board or the Company’s Compensation Committee; and/or (iv) permitting or requiring you to enter into a “same day sale” commitment, if applicable, with a broker-dealer that is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (a “ FINRA Dealer ”), pursuant to this authorization and without further consent, whereby you irrevocably elect to sell a portion of the shares to be delivered in connection with your Restricted Stock Units to satisfy the Withholding Obligation and whereby the FINRA Dealer irrevocably commits to forward the proceeds necessary to satisfy the Withholding Obligation directly to the Company and/or its Affiliates. Unless the Withholding Obligation is satisfied, the Company shall have no obligation to deliver to you any Common Stock or any other consideration pursuant to this Award.

(c)    In the event the Withholding Obligation arises prior to the delivery to you of Common Stock or it is determined after the delivery of Common Stock to you that the amount of the Withholding Obligation was greater than the amount withheld by the Company, you agree to indemnify and hold the Company harmless from any failure by the Company to withhold the proper amount.

12.      T AX C ONSEQUENCES . The Company has no duty or obligation to minimize the tax consequences to you of this Award and shall not be liable to you for any adverse tax consequences to you arising in connection with this Award. You are hereby advised to consult with your own personal tax, financial and/or legal advisors regarding the tax consequences of this Award and by signing the Grant Notice, you have agreed that you have done so or knowingly and voluntarily declined to do so. You understand that you (and not the Company) shall be responsible for your own tax liability that may arise as a result of this investment or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

17


13.      U NSECURED O BLIGATION . Your Award is unfunded, and as a holder of a vested Award, you shall be considered an unsecured creditor of the Company with respect to the Company’s obligation, if any, to issue shares or other property pursuant to this Agreement. You shall not have voting or any other rights as a stockholder of the Company with respect to the shares to be issued pursuant to this Agreement until such shares are issued to you pursuant to Section 6 of this Agreement. Upon such issuance, you will obtain full voting and other rights as a stockholder of the Company. Nothing contained in this Agreement, and no action taken pursuant to its provisions, shall create or be construed to create a trust of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between you and the Company or any other person.

14.      N OTICES . Any notice or request required or permitted hereunder shall be given in writing (including electronically) and will be deemed effectively given upon receipt or, in the case of notices delivered by mail by the Company to you, five (5) days after deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to you at the last address you provided to the Company. The Company may, in its sole discretion, decide to deliver any documents related to participation in the Plan and this Award by electronic means or to request your consent to participate in the Plan by electronic means. By accepting this Award, you consent to receive such documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company.

15.      H EADINGS . The headings of the Sections in this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part of this Agreement or to affect the meaning of this Agreement.

16.      M ISCELLANEOUS .

(a)     The rights and obligations of the Company under your Award shall be transferable by the Company to any one or more persons or entities, and all covenants and agreements hereunder shall inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, the Company’s successors and assigns.

(b)     You agree upon request to execute any further documents or instruments necessary or desirable in the sole determination of the Company to carry out the purposes or intent of your Award.

(c)     You acknowledge and agree that you have reviewed your Award in its entirety, have had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing and accepting your Award and fully understand all provisions of your Award.

(d)     This Agreement shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.

(e)     All obligations of the Company under the Plan and this Agreement shall be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company.

17.      G OVERNING P LAN D OCUMENT . Your Award is subject to all the provisions of the Plan, the provisions of which are hereby made a part of your Award, and is further subject to all interpretations, amendments, rules and regulations which may from time to time be promulgated and adopted pursuant to the Plan. Your Award (and any compensation paid or shares issued under your Award) is subject to recoupment in accordance with The Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and any implementing regulations thereunder, any clawback policy adopted by the Company and any compensation recovery policy otherwise required by applicable law. No recovery of compensation under such a clawback policy will be an event giving rise to a right to voluntarily terminate employment upon a resignation for “good reason,” or for a “constructive termination” or any similar term under any plan of or agreement with the Company.

 

18


18.      E FFECT ON O THER E MPLOYEE B ENEFIT P LANS . The value of the Award subject to this Agreement shall not be included as compensation, earnings, salaries, or other similar terms used when calculating benefits under any employee benefit plan (other than the Plan) sponsored by the Company or any Affiliate except as such plan otherwise expressly provides. The Company expressly reserves its rights to amend, modify, or terminate any or all of the employee benefit plans of the Company or any Affiliate.

19.      S EVERABILITY . If all or any part of this Agreement or the Plan is declared by any court or governmental authority to be unlawful or invalid, such unlawfulness or invalidity shall not invalidate any portion of this Agreement or the Plan not declared to be unlawful or invalid. Any Section of this Agreement (or part of such a Section) so declared to be unlawful or invalid shall, if possible, be construed in a manner which will give effect to the terms of such Section or part of a Section to the fullest extent possible while remaining lawful and valid.

20.      O THER D OCUMENTS . You hereby acknowledge receipt or the right to receive a document providing the information required by Rule 428(b)(1) promulgated under the Securities Act. In addition, you acknowledge receipt of the Company’s policy permitting certain individuals to sell shares only during certain “window” periods and the Company’s insider trading policy, in effect from time to time.

21.      A MENDMENT . This Agreement may not be modified, amended or terminated except by an instrument in writing, signed by you and by a duly authorized representative of the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement may be amended solely by the Board by a writing which specifically states that it is amending this Agreement, so long as a copy of such amendment is delivered to you, and provided that, except as otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, no such amendment materially adversely affecting your rights hereunder may be made without your written consent. Without limiting the foregoing, the Board reserves the right to change, by written notice to you, the provisions of this Agreement in any way it may deem necessary or advisable to carry out the purpose of the Award as a result of any change in applicable laws or regulations or any future law, regulation, ruling, or judicial decision, provided that any such change shall be applicable only to rights relating to that portion of the Award which is then subject to restrictions as provided herein.

22.      C OMPLIANCE WITH S ECTION  409A OF THE C ODE . This Award is intended to be exempt from the application of Section 409A of the Code, including but not limited to by reason of complying with the “short-term deferral” rule set forth in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(4) and any ambiguities herein shall be interpreted accordingly. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if it is determined that the Award fails to satisfy the requirements of the short-term deferral rule and is otherwise not exempt from, and determined to be deferred compensation subject to Section 409A of the Code, this Award shall comply with Section 409A to the extent necessary to avoid adverse personal tax consequences and any ambiguities herein shall be interpreted accordingly. If it is determined that the Award is deferred compensation subject to Section 409A and you are a “Specified Employee” (within the meaning set forth in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code) as of the date of your “Separation from Service” (as defined in Section 409A), then the issuance of any shares that would otherwise be made upon the date of your Separation from Service or within the first six (6) months thereafter will not be made on the originally scheduled date(s) and will instead be issued in a lump sum on the date that is six (6) months and one day after the date of the Separation from Service, with the balance of the shares issued thereafter in accordance with the original vesting and issuance schedule set forth above, but if and only if such delay in the issuance of the shares is necessary to avoid the imposition of adverse taxation on you in respect of the shares under Section 409A of the Code. Each installment of shares that vests is intended to constitute a “separate payment” for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-2(b)(2).

 

19


* * * * *

This Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement shall be deemed to be signed by the Company and the Participant upon the signing by the Participant of the Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice to which it is attached.

 

20


A TTACHMENT II

2019 E QUITY I NCENTIVE P LAN

 

21

Exhibit 10.8

A VEDRO , I NC .

2019 E MPLOYEE S TOCK P URCHASE P LAN

A DOPTED BY THE B OARD OF D IRECTORS : [                      ]

A PPROVED BY THE S TOCKHOLDERS : [                      ]

 

1.

G ENERAL ; P URPOSE .

(a)     The Plan provides a means by which Eligible Employees of the Company and certain designated Related Corporations may be given an opportunity to purchase shares of Common Stock. The Plan permits the Company to grant a series of Purchase Rights to Eligible Employees under an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

(b)     The Company, by means of the Plan, seeks to retain the services of such Employees, to secure and retain the services of new Employees and to provide incentives for such persons to exert maximum efforts for the success of the Company and its Related Corporations.

 

2.

A DMINISTRATION .

(a)     The Board will administer the Plan unless and until the Board delegates administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees, as provided in Section 2(c).

(b)     The Board will have the power, subject to, and within the limitations of, the express provisions of the Plan:

(i)        To determine how and when Purchase Rights will be granted and the provisions of each Offering (which need not be identical).

(ii)       To designate from time to time which Related Corporations of the Company will be eligible to participate in the Plan.

(iii)      To construe and interpret the Plan and Purchase Rights, and to establish, amend and revoke rules and regulations for its administration. The Board, in the exercise of this power, may correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in the Plan, in a manner and to the extent it deems necessary or expedient to make the Plan fully effective.

(iv)       To settle all controversies regarding the Plan and Purchase Rights granted under the Plan.

(v)        To suspend or terminate the Plan at any time as provided in Section 12.

(vi)       To amend the Plan at any time as provided in Section 12.

(vii)      Generally, to exercise such powers and to perform such acts as it deems necessary or expedient to promote the best interests of the Company and its Related Corporations and to carry out the intent that the Plan be treated as an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

(viii)     To adopt such rules, procedures and sub-plans relating to the operation and administration of the Plan as are necessary or appropriate under applicable local laws, regulations and procedures to permit or facilitate participation in the Plan by Employees who are foreign nationals or employed or located outside the United States.

 

1


(c)     The Board may delegate some or all of the administration of the Plan to a Committee or Committees. If administration is delegated to a Committee, the Committee will have, in connection with the administration of the Plan, the powers theretofore possessed by the Board that have been delegated to the Committee, including the power to delegate to a subcommittee any of the administrative powers the Committee is authorized to exercise (and references to the Board in this Plan and in any applicable Offering Document will thereafter be to the Committee or subcommittee), subject, however, to such resolutions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan, as may be adopted from time to time by the Board. The Board may retain the authority to concurrently administer the Plan with the Committee and may, at any time, revest in the Board some or all of the powers previously delegated. Whether or not the Board has delegated administration of the Plan to a Committee, the Board will have the final power to determine all questions of policy and expediency that may arise in the administration of the Plan.

(d)     All determinations, interpretations and constructions made by the Board in good faith will not be subject to review by any person and will be final, binding and conclusive on all persons.

 

3.

S HARES OF C OMMON S TOCK S UBJECT TO THE P LAN .

(a)     Subject to the provisions of Section 11(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, the maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the Plan will not exceed [                      ] shares of Common Stock, plus the number of shares of Common Stock that are automatically added on January 1st of each year for a period of up to ten years, commencing on the first January 1 following the IPO Date and ending on (and including) January 1, 2029, in an amount equal to the lesser of (i) [      ]% of the total number of shares of Capital Stock outstanding on December 31st of the preceding calendar year, and (ii) [                      ] shares of Common Stock. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board may act prior to the first day of any calendar year to provide that there will be no January 1 st increase in the share reserve for such calendar year or that the increase in the share reserve for such calendar year will be a lesser number of shares of Common Stock than would otherwise occur pursuant to the preceding sentence.

(b)     If any Purchase Right granted under the Plan terminates without having been exercised in full, the shares of Common Stock not purchased under such Purchase Right will again become available for issuance under the Plan.

(c)     The stock purchasable under the Plan will be shares of authorized but unissued or reacquired Common Stock, including shares repurchased by the Company on the open market.

 

4.

G RANT OF P URCHASE R IGHTS ; O FFERING .

(a)     The Board may from time to time grant or provide for the grant of Purchase Rights to Eligible Employees under an Offering (consisting of one or more Purchase Periods) on an Offering Date or Offering Dates selected by the Board. Each Offering will be in such form and will contain such terms and conditions as the Board will deem appropriate, and will comply with the requirement of Section 423(b)(5) of the Code that all Employees granted Purchase Rights will have the same rights and privileges. The terms and conditions of an Offering shall be incorporated by reference into the Plan and treated as part of the Plan. The provisions of separate Offerings need not be identical, but each Offering will include (through incorporation of the provisions of this Plan by reference in the document comprising the Offering or otherwise) the period during which the Offering will be effective, which period will not exceed 27 months beginning with the Offering Date, and the substance of the provisions contained in Sections 5 through 8, inclusive.

 

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(b)     If a Participant has more than one Purchase Right outstanding under the Plan, unless he or she otherwise indicates in forms delivered to the Company: (i) each form will apply to all of his or her Purchase Rights under the Plan, and (ii) a Purchase Right with a lower exercise price (or an earlier-granted Purchase Right, if different Purchase Rights have identical exercise prices) will be exercised to the fullest possible extent before a Purchase Right with a higher exercise price (or a later-granted Purchase Right if different Purchase Rights have identical exercise prices) will be exercised.

(c)     The Board will have the discretion to structure an Offering so that if the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the first Trading Day of a new Purchase Period within that Offering is less than or equal to the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock on the Offering Date for that Offering, then (i) that Offering will terminate immediately as of that first Trading Day, and (ii) the Participants in such terminated Offering will be automatically enrolled in a new Offering beginning on the first Trading Day of such new Purchase Period.

 

5.

E LIGIBILITY .

(a)     Purchase Rights may be granted only to Employees of the Company or, as the Board may designate in accordance with Section 2(b), to Employees of a Related Corporation. Except as provided in Section 5(b), an Employee will not be eligible to be granted Purchase Rights unless, on the Offering Date, the Employee has been in the employ of the Company or the Related Corporation, as the case may be, for such continuous period preceding such Offering Date as the Board may require, but in no event will the required period of continuous employment be equal to or greater than two years. In addition, the Board may (unless prohibited by applicable law) provide that no Employee will be eligible to be granted Purchase Rights under the Plan unless, on the Offering Date, such Employee’s customary employment with the Company or the Related Corporation is more than 20 hours per week and more than five months per calendar year or such other criteria as the Board may determine consistent with Section 423 of the Code. The Board may also exclude from participation in the Plan or any Offering Employees who are “highly compensated employees” (within the meaning of Section 414(q) of the Code) of the Company or a Related Corporation or a subset of such highly compensated employees.

(b)     The Board may provide that each person who, during the course of an Offering, first becomes an Eligible Employee will, on a date or dates specified in the Offering which coincides with the day on which such person becomes an Eligible Employee or which occurs thereafter, receive a Purchase Right under that Offering, which Purchase Right will thereafter be deemed to be a part of that Offering. Such Purchase Right will have the same characteristics as any Purchase Rights originally granted under that Offering, as described herein, except that:

(i)       the date on which such Purchase Right is granted will be the “Offering Date” of such Purchase Right for all purposes, including determination of the exercise price of such Purchase Right;

(ii)      the period of the Offering with respect to such Purchase Right will begin on its Offering Date and end coincident with the end of such Offering; and

(iii)     the Board may provide that if such person first becomes an Eligible Employee within a specified period of time before the end of the Offering, he or she will not receive any Purchase Right under that Offering.

(c)     No Employee will be eligible for the grant of any Purchase Rights if, immediately after any such Purchase Rights are granted, such Employee owns stock possessing five percent or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of stock of the Company or of any Related Corporation. For purposes of this Section 5(c), the rules of Section 424(d) of the Code will apply in determining the stock ownership of any Employee, and stock which such Employee may purchase under all outstanding Purchase Rights and options will be treated as stock owned by such Employee.

 

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(d)     As specified by Section 423(b)(8) of the Code, an Eligible Employee may be granted Purchase Rights only if such Purchase Rights, together with any other rights granted under all Employee Stock Purchase Plans of the Company and any Related Corporations, do not permit such Eligible Employee’s rights to purchase stock of the Company or any Related Corporation to accrue at a rate which, when aggregated, exceeds $25,000 of Fair Market Value of such stock (determined at the time such rights are granted, and which, with respect to the Plan, will be determined as of their respective Offering Dates) for each calendar year in which such rights are outstanding at any time.

(e)     Officers of the Company and any designated Related Corporation, if they are otherwise Eligible Employees, will be eligible to participate in Offerings under the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board may (unless prohibited by law) provide in an Offering that Employees who are highly compensated Employees within the meaning of Section 423(b)(4)(D) of the Code will not be eligible to participate.

 

6.

P URCHASE R IGHTS ; P URCHASE P RICE .

(a)     On each Offering Date, each Eligible Employee, pursuant to an Offering made under the Plan, will be granted a Purchase Right to purchase up to that number of shares of Common Stock purchasable either with a percentage or with a maximum dollar amount, as designated by the Board, but in either case not exceeding 15% of such Employee’s earnings (as defined by the Board in each Offering) during the period that begins on the Offering Date (or such later date as the Board determines for a particular Offering) and ends on the date stated in the Offering, which date will be no later than the end of the Offering.

(b)     The Board will establish one or more Purchase Dates during an Offering on which Purchase Rights granted for that Offering will be exercised and shares of Common Stock will be purchased in accordance with such Offering.

(c)     In connection with each Offering made under the Plan, the Board may specify (i) a maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be purchased by any Participant on any Purchase Date during such Offering, (ii) a maximum aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be purchased by all Participants pursuant to such Offering and/or (iii) a maximum aggregate number of shares of Common Stock that may be purchased by all Participants on any Purchase Date under the Offering. If the aggregate purchase of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Purchase Rights granted under the Offering would exceed any such maximum aggregate number, then, in the absence of any Board action otherwise, a pro rata (based on each Participant’s accumulated Contributions) allocation of the shares of Common Stock (rounded down to the nearest whole share) available will be made in as nearly a uniform manner as will be practicable and equitable.

(d)     The purchase price of shares of Common Stock acquired pursuant to Purchase Rights will be not less than the lesser of:

(i)      an amount equal to 85% of the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock on the Offering Date; or

(ii)     an amount equal to 85% of the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock on the applicable Purchase Date.

 

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7.

P ARTICIPATION ; W ITHDRAWAL ; T ERMINATION .

(a)     An Eligible Employee may elect to participate in an Offering and authorize payroll deductions as the means of making Contributions by completing and delivering to the Company, within the time specified in the Offering, an enrollment form provided by the Company. The enrollment form will specify the amount of Contributions not to exceed the maximum amount specified by the Board. Each Participant’s Contributions will be credited to a bookkeeping account for such Participant under the Plan and will be deposited with the general funds of the Company except where applicable law or regulations requires that Contributions be deposited with a third party. If permitted in the Offering, a Participant may begin such Contributions with the first payroll occurring on or after the Offering Date (or, in the case of a payroll date that occurs after the end of the prior Offering but before the Offering Date of the next new Offering, Contributions from such payroll will be included in the new Offering). If permitted in the Offering, a Participant may thereafter reduce (including to zero) or increase his or her Contributions. If specifically provided in the Offering, in addition to making Contributions by payroll deductions, a Participant may make Contributions through the payment by cash or check prior to a Purchase Date.

(b)     During an Offering, a Participant may cease making Contributions and withdraw from the Offering by delivering to the Company a withdrawal form provided by the Company. The Company may impose a deadline before a Purchase Date for withdrawing. Upon such withdrawal, such Participant’s Purchase Right in that Offering will immediately terminate and the Company will distribute to such Participant all of his or her accumulated but unused Contributions and such Participant’s Purchase Right in that Offering shall thereupon terminate. A Participant’s withdrawal from that Offering will have no effect upon his or her eligibility to participate in any other Offerings under the Plan, but such Participant will be required to deliver a new enrollment form to participate in subsequent Offerings.

(c)     Purchase Rights granted pursuant to any Offering under the Plan will terminate immediately if the Participant either (i) is no longer an Employee for any reason or for no reason (subject to any post-employment participation period required by law) or (ii) is otherwise no longer eligible to participate. The Company will distribute to such individual all of his or her accumulated but unused Contributions.

(d)     During a Participant’s lifetime, Purchase Rights will be exercisable only by such Participant. Purchase Rights are not transferable by a Participant, except by will, by the laws of descent and distribution, or, if permitted by the Company, by a beneficiary designation as described in Section 10.

(e)     Unless otherwise specified in the Offering, the Company will have no obligation to pay interest on Contributions.

 

8.

E XERCISE OF P URCHASE R IGHTS .

(a)     On each Purchase Date, each Participant’s accumulated Contributions will be applied to the purchase of shares of Common Stock, up to the maximum number of shares of Common Stock permitted by the Plan and the applicable Offering, at the purchase price specified in the Offering. No fractional shares will be issued unless specifically provided for in the Offering.

(b)     Unless otherwise provided in the Offering, if any amount of accumulated Contributions remains in a Participant’s account after the purchase of shares of Common Stock and such remaining amount is less than the amount required to purchase one share of Common Stock on the final Purchase Date of an Offering, then such remaining amount will be held in such Participant’s account for the purchase of shares of Common Stock under the next Offering under the Plan, unless such Participant withdraws from or is not eligible to participate in such next Offering, in which case such amount will be distributed to such

 

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Participant after the final Purchase Date without interest. If the amount of Contributions remaining in a Participant’s account after the purchase of shares of Common Stock is at least equal to the amount required to purchase one (1) whole share of Common Stock on the final Purchase Date of an Offering, then such remaining amount will be distributed in full to such Participant after the final Purchase Date of such Offering without interest.

(c)     No Purchase Rights may be exercised to any extent unless the shares of Common Stock to be issued upon such exercise under the Plan are covered by an effective registration statement pursuant to the Securities Act and the Plan is in material compliance with all applicable federal, state, foreign and other securities and other laws applicable to the Plan. If on a Purchase Date the shares of Common Stock are not so registered or the Plan is not in such compliance, no Purchase Rights will be exercised on such Purchase Date, and the Purchase Date will be delayed until the shares of Common Stock are subject to such an effective registration statement and the Plan is in material compliance, except that the Purchase Date will in no event be more than 27 months from the Offering Date. If, on the Purchase Date, as delayed to the maximum extent permissible, the shares of Common Stock are not registered and the Plan is not in material compliance with all applicable laws, no Purchase Rights will be exercised and all accumulated but unused Contributions will be distributed to the Participants without interest.

 

9.

C OVENANTS OF THE C OMPANY .

The Company will seek to obtain from each federal, state, foreign or other regulatory commission or agency having jurisdiction over the Plan such authority as may be required to grant Purchase Rights and issue and sell shares of Common Stock thereunder unless the Company determines, in its sole discretion, that doing so would cause the Company to incur costs that are unreasonable. If, after commercially reasonable efforts, the Company is unable to obtain the authority that counsel for the Company deems necessary for the grant of Purchase Rights or the lawful issuance and sale of Common Stock under the Plan, and at a commercially reasonable cost, the Company will be relieved from any liability for failure to grant Purchase Rights and/or to issue and sell Common Stock upon exercise of such Purchase Rights.

 

10.

D ESIGNATION OF B ENEFICIARY .

(a)     The Company may, but is not obligated to, permit a Participant to submit a form designating a beneficiary who will receive any shares of Common Stock and/or Contributions from the Participant’s account under the Plan if the Participant dies before such shares and/or Contributions are delivered to the Participant. The Company may, but is not obligated to, permit the Participant to change such designation of beneficiary. Any such designation and/or change must be on a form approved by the Company.

(b)      If a Participant dies, and in the absence of a valid beneficiary designation, the Company will deliver any shares of Common Stock and/or Contributions to the executor or administrator of the estate of the Participant. If no executor or administrator has been appointed (to the knowledge of the Company), the Company, in its sole discretion, may deliver such shares of Common Stock and/or Contributions, without interest, to the Participant’s spouse, dependents or relatives, or if no spouse, dependent or relative is known to the Company, then to such other person as the Company may designate.

 

11.

A DJUSTMENTS UPON C HANGES IN C OMMON S TOCK ; C ORPORATE T RANSACTIONS .

(a)     In the event of a Capitalization Adjustment, the Board will appropriately and proportionately adjust: (i) the class(es) and maximum number of securities subject to the Plan pursuant to Section 3(a), (ii) the class(es) and maximum number of securities by which the share reserve is to increase automatically each year pursuant to Section 3(a), (iii) the class(es) and number of securities subject to, and the purchase price applicable to outstanding Offerings and Purchase Rights, and (iv) the class(es) and number of securities that are the subject of the purchase limits under each ongoing Offering. The Board will make these adjustments, and its determination will be final, binding and conclusive.

 

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(b)     In the event of a Corporate Transaction, then: (i) any surviving corporation or acquiring corporation (or the surviving or acquiring corporation’s parent company) may assume or continue outstanding Purchase Rights or may substitute similar rights (including a right to acquire the same consideration paid to the stockholders in the Corporate Transaction) for outstanding Purchase Rights, or (ii) if any surviving or acquiring corporation (or its parent company) does not assume or continue such Purchase Rights or does not substitute similar rights for such Purchase Rights, then the Participants’ accumulated Contributions will be used to purchase shares of Common Stock (rounded down to the nearest whole share) within ten business days prior to the Corporate Transaction under the outstanding Purchase Rights, and the Purchase Rights will terminate immediately after such purchase.

 

12.

A MENDMENT , T ERMINATION OR S USPENSION OF THE P LAN .

(a)     The Board may amend the Plan at any time in any respect the Board deems necessary or advisable. However, except as provided in Section 11(a) relating to Capitalization Adjustments, stockholder approval will be required for any amendment of the Plan for which stockholder approval is required by applicable law or listing requirements.

(b)     The Board may suspend or terminate the Plan at any time. No Purchase Rights may be granted under the Plan while the Plan is suspended or after it is terminated.

(c)     Any benefits, privileges, entitlements and obligations under any outstanding Purchase Rights granted before an amendment, suspension or termination of the Plan will not be materially impaired by any such amendment, suspension or termination except (i) with the consent of the person to whom such Purchase Rights were granted, (ii) as necessary to comply with any laws, listing requirements, or governmental regulations (including, without limitation, the provisions of Section 423 of the Code and the regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder relating to Employee Stock Purchase Plans) including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued or amended after the date the Plan is adopted by the Board, or (iii) as necessary to obtain or maintain favorable tax, listing, or regulatory treatment. To be clear, the Board may amend outstanding Purchase Rights without a Participant’s consent if such amendment is necessary to ensure that the Purchase Right and/or the Plan complies with the requirements of Section 423 of the Code.

Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or any Offering Document to the contrary, the Board will be entitled to: (i) establish the exchange ratio applicable to amounts withheld in a currency other than U.S. dollars; (ii) permit Contributions in excess of the amount designated by a Participant in order to adjust for mistakes in the Company’s processing of properly completed Contribution elections; (iii) establish reasonable waiting and adjustment periods and/or accounting and crediting procedures to ensure that amounts applied toward the purchase of Common Stock for each Participant properly correspond with amounts withheld from the Participant’s Contributions; (iv) amend any outstanding Purchase Rights or clarify any ambiguities regarding the terms of any Offering to enable the Purchase Rights to qualify under and/or comply with Section 423 of the Code; and (v) establish other limitations or procedures as the Board determines in its sole discretion advisable that are consistent with the Plan. The actions of the Board pursuant to this paragraph will not be considered to alter or impair any Purchase Rights granted under an Offering as they are part of the initial terms of each Offering and the Purchase Rights granted under each Offering.

 

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13.

E FFECTIVE D ATE OF P LAN .

The Plan will become effective immediately prior to and contingent upon the IPO Date. No Purchase Rights will be exercised unless and until the Plan has been approved by the stockholders of the Company, which approval must be within 12 months before or after the date the Plan is adopted (or if required under Section 12(a) above, materially amended) by the Board.

 

14.

M ISCELLANEOUS P ROVISIONS .

(a)     Proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock pursuant to Purchase Rights will constitute general funds of the Company.

(b)     A Participant will not be deemed to be the holder of, or to have any of the rights of a holder with respect to, shares of Common Stock subject to Purchase Rights unless and until the Participant’s shares of Common Stock acquired upon exercise of Purchase Rights are recorded in the books of the Company (or its transfer agent).

(c)     The Plan and Offering do not constitute an employment contract. Nothing in the Plan or in the Offering will in any way alter the at will nature of a Participant’s employment or be deemed to create in any way whatsoever any obligation on the part of any Participant to continue in the employ of the Company or a Related Corporation, or on the part of the Company or a Related Corporation to continue the employment of a Participant.

(d)     The provisions of the Plan will be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware without resort to that state’s conflicts of laws rules.

(e)     If any particular provision of the Plan is found to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable, such provision will not affect the other provisions of the Plan, but the Plan will be construed in all respects as if such invalid provision were omitted.

(f)     If any provision of the Plan does not comply with applicable law or regulations, such provision shall be construed in such a manner as to comply with applicable law or regulations.

 

15.

D EFINITIONS .

As used in the Plan, the following definitions will apply to the capitalized terms indicated below:

(a)     “ Board means the Board of Directors of the Company.

(b)     “ Capital Stock means each and every class of common stock of the Company, regardless of the number of votes per share.

(c)     “ Capitalization Adjustment ” means any change that is made in, or other events that occur with respect to, the Common Stock subject to the Plan or subject to any Purchase Right after the date the Plan is adopted by the Board without the receipt of consideration by the Company through merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, reincorporation, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, large nonrecurring cash dividend, stock split, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure or other similar equity restructuring transaction, as that term is used in Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (or any successor thereto). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the conversion of any convertible securities of the Company will not be treated as a Capitalization Adjustment.

 

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(d)     “ Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, including any applicable regulations and guidance thereunder .

(e)     “ Committee means a committee of one or more members of the Board to whom authority has been delegated by the Board in accordance with Section 2(c).

(f)     “ Common Stock ” means, as of the IPO Date, the common stock of the Company.

(g)     “ Company ” means Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

(h)      “Contributions ” means the payroll deductions and other additional payments specifically provided for in the Offering that a Participant contributes to fund the exercise of a Purchase Right. A Participant may make additional payments into his or her account if specifically provided for in the Offering, and then only if the Participant has not already had the maximum permitted amount withheld during the Offering through payroll deductions.

(i)     “ Corporate Transaction ” means the consummation, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events:

(i)       a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, of the consolidated assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries;

(ii)      a sale or other disposition of more than 50% of the outstanding securities of the Company;

(iii)     a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is not the surviving corporation; or

(iv)      a merger, consolidation or similar transaction following which the Company is the surviving corporation but the shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately preceding the merger, consolidation or similar transaction are converted or exchanged by virtue of the merger, consolidation or similar transaction into other property, whether in the form of securities, cash or otherwise.

(j)     “ Director means a member of the Board.

(k)     “ Eligible Employee means an Employee who meets the requirements set forth in the document(s) governing the Offering for eligibility to participate in the Offering, provided that such Employee also meets the requirements for eligibility to participate set forth in the Plan.

(l)     “ Employee means any person, including an Officer or Director, who is “employed” for purposes of Section 423(b)(4) of the Code by the Company or a Related Corporation. However, service solely as a Director, or payment of a fee for such services, will not cause a Director to be considered an “Employee” for purposes of the Plan.

(m)     “ Employee Stock Purchase Plan means a plan that grants Purchase Rights intended to be options issued under an “employee stock purchase plan,” as that term is defined in Section 423(b) of the Code.

(n)     “ Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

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(o)     “ Fair Market Value ” means, as of any date, the value of the Common Stock determined as follows:

(i)       If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or traded on any established market, the Fair Market Value of a share of Common Stock will be, unless otherwise determined by the Board, the closing sales price for such stock as quoted on such exchange or market (or the exchange or market with the greatest volume of trading in the Common Stock) on the date of determination , as reported in such source as the Board deems reliable. Unless otherwise provided by the Board, if there is no closing sales price for the Common Stock on the date of determination, then the Fair Market Value will be the closing sales price on the last preceding date for which such quotation exists.

(ii)      In the absence of such markets for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value will be determined by the Board in good faith in compliance with applicable laws and in a manner that complies with Sections 409A of the Code.

(iii)     Notwithstanding the foregoing, for any Offering that commences on the IPO Date, the Fair Market Value of the shares of Common Stock on the Offering Date will be the price per share at which the shares are first sold to the public in the Company’s initial public offering as specified in the final prospectus for that initial public offering.

(p)      “ IPO Date means the date of the underwriting agreement between the Company and the underwriter(s) managing the initial public offering of the Common Stock, pursuant to which the Common Stock is priced for the initial public offering.

(q)     “ Offering means the grant to Eligible Employees of Purchase Rights, with the exercise of those Purchase Rights automatically occurring at the end of one or more Purchase Periods. The terms and conditions of an Offering will generally be set forth in the “ Offering Document ” approved by the Board for that Offering.

(r)     “ Offering Date ” means a date selected by the Board for an Offering to commence.

(s)     “ Officer means a person who is an officer of the Company or a Related Corporation within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act.

(t)     “ Participant means an Eligible Employee who holds an outstanding Purchase Right.

(u)     “ Plan means this Avedro, Inc. 2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

(v)     “ Purchase Date means one or more dates during an Offering selected by the Board on which Purchase Rights will be exercised and on which purchases of shares of Common Stock will be carried out in accordance with such Offering.

(w)     “ Purchase Period ” means a period of time specified within an Offering, generally beginning on the Offering Date or on the first Trading Day following a Purchase Date, and ending on a Purchase Date. An Offering may consist of one or more Purchase Periods.

(x)     “ Purchase Right means an option to purchase shares of Common Stock granted pursuant to the Plan.

 

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(y)     “ Related Corporation means any “parent corporation” or “subsidiary corporation” of the Company whether now or subsequently established, as those terms are defined in Sections 424(e) and (f), respectively, of the Code.

(z)     “ Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(aa)     “ Subsidiary ” means, with respect to the Company, (i) any corporation of which more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding capital stock having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors of such corporation (irrespective of whether, at the time, stock of any other class or classes of such corporation will have or might have voting power by reason of the happening of any contingency) is at the time, directly or indirectly, Owned by the Company, and (ii) any partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which the Company has a direct or indirect interest (whether in the form of voting or participation in profits or capital contribution) of more than fifty percent (50%). For purposes of the foregoing clause (i), the Company will be deemed to “Own” or have “Owned” such securities if the Company, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting, with respect to such securities.

(bb)     “ Trading Day means any day on which the exchange(s) or market(s) on which shares of Common Stock are listed, including but not limited to the NYSE, Nasdaq Global Select Market, the Nasdaq Global Market, the Nasdaq Capital Market or any successors thereto, is open for trading.

 

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Exhibit 10.9

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This E MPLOYMENT A GREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is entered into effective September  23, 2016 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Avedro, Inc. (the “Company”) and R eza Zadno, Ph.D. (the “Employee”).

Between July 11, 2016 and September 23, 2016, Employee was employed as interim Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the Company, pursuant to the terms of the July 11, 2016 offer letter;

On September 23, 2016 the Company’s Board of Directors (“Board’ ) voted to change the Employee’s status from Interim CEO to permanent CEO;

Effective as of January 1, 2017, the Board voted to increase Employee’s Base Salary as described in Section 2.1 herein;

The Company desires to continue to employ the Employee in the capacity of full-time CEO pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and, in connection therewith, to compensate the Employee for Employee’s personal services to the Company; and

The Employee wishes to be employed by the Company and provide personal services to the Company in return for certain compensation.

Accordingly, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties agree to the following:

1.     E MPLOYMENT B Y T HE C OMPANY .

1.1      At-Will Employment . Employee shall be employed by the Company on an “at-will” basis, meaning either the Company or Employee may terminate Employee’s employment at any time, with or without cause or advanced notice. Any contrary representations that may have been made to Employee shall be superseded by this Agreement. This Agreement shall constitute the full and complete agreement between Employee and the Company on the “at-will” nature of Employee’s employment with the Company, which may be changed only in an express written agreement signed by Employee and a duly authorized officer of the Company. Employee’s rights to any compensation following a termination shall be only as set forth in Section 6.

1.2      Position . Subject to the terms set forth herein, the Company agrees to employ Employee, initially in the position of CEO and Employee hereby accepts such employment. During the term of Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will devote Employee’s best efforts and substantially all of Employee’s business time and attention to the business of the Company.

1.3      Duties . Employee will report to the Board and/or such other Board officers, company executives and/or committees designated by the Board, performing such duties as are normally associated with his then current position and such duties as are assigned to


him from time to time, subject to the oversight and direction of the Board. Employee shall further serve as a Director of the Board during the term of his employment. Employee shall perform his duties under this Agreement principally out of the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts or such other location as assigned. In addition, the Employee shall make such business trips to such places as may be necessary or advisable for the efficient operations of the Company.

1.4      Company Policies and Benefits . The employment relationship between the parties shall also be subject to the Company’s personnel policies and procedures as they may be interpreted, adopted, revised or deleted from time to time in the Company’s sole discretion. The Employee will be eligible to participate on the same basis as similarly situated employees in the Company’s benefit plans in effect from time to time during his employment. All matters of eligibility for coverage or benefits under any benefit plan shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of such plan. The Company reserves the right to change, alter, or terminate any benefit plan in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the terms of this Agreement differ from or are in conflict with the Company’s general employment policies or practices, this Agreement shall control.

1.5      Paid Time Off . The Employee will be eligible to accrue up to 15 days of paid vacation per calendar year, which accrues each bi-monthly pay period. In addition, the Employee will be eligible to take up to 6 sick days per calendar year. Employee’s paid time off will be prorated based upon the Effective Date of this Agreement.

2.     C OMPENSATION .

2.1      Salary . For the period of September 23, 2016 through December 31, 2016, Employee shall receive for Employee’s services to be rendered hereunder an initial annualized base salary of $350,000 which shall be increased to $400,000 as of January 1, 2017 (“Base Salary”). The Base Salary is subject to review and adjustment from time to time by the Company in its sole discretion, payable subject to standard federal and state payroll withholding requirements in accordance with Company’s standard payroll practices.

2.2     Bonus.

(a)      During Employment . Employee shall be eligible to earn an annual performance bonus of up to 50% of his Base Salary (‘ Annual Bonus’’). The Annual Bonus will be based upon the Board’s assessment of the Employee’s performance and the Company’s attainment of targeted goals as set by the Board in its sole discretion. The Annual Bonus, if any, will be subject to applicable payroll deductions and withholdings. Following the close of each calendar year, the Board will determine whether the Employee has earned the Annual Bonus, and the amount of any Annual Bonus, based on the set criteria. No amount of the Annual Bonus is guaranteed, and the Employee must be an employee in good standing on the Annual Bonus payment date to be eligible to receive an Annual Bonus; no partial or prorated bonuses will be provided. The Annual Bonus, if earned, will be paid no later than March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the applicable calendar year for which the Annual Bonus is being measured. The Employee’s eligibility for an Annual Bonus is subject to change in the discretion of the Board (or any authorized committee thereof).

 

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(b)     Upon Termination . Subject to the prov1s1ons of Section 6.1(b)(iii), in the event Employee leaves the employ of the Company for any reason prior to payment of any bonus, he is not eligible for such bonus, prorated or otherwise.

2.3     Stock Option .

(a)     Option Grant . On September 23, 2016, the Board issued the Employee options to purchase an aggregate of 2,339,385 shares of the Company’s common stock pursuant. subject to the Company’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (“Plan”) and the Company’s standard form of Stock Option Agreement (“Stock Agreement”) between the Employee and the Company. The option is an incentive stock option to the extent permissible under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code and has an exercise price per share of $0.40.

(b)     Vesting . The Option is comprised of two separate grants: an option to purchase 236,500 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Interim CEO Grant”) and an option to purchase 2,105,885 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “CEO Grant” and together with the Interim CEO Grant. the “Options”).

(i)    The Interim CEO Grant vests monthly in five equal installments over a five month period beginning on August 12, 2016 (i.e., with August 12, 2016 being the first vesting date) (the “Vesting Commencement Date’ ), subject to Employee’s continuous services as of each such vesting date.

(ii)    The CEO Grant vests monthly in forty-eight (48) equal installments over a four-year period for each month of continuous service beginning on the Vesting Commencement Date (i.e., with August 12, 2016 being the first vesting date), subject to Employee’s continuous service as of each such vesting date.

(c)     Acceleration . In addition to the acceleration provided for in Section 6.5(a)(y), in the event the Company consummates a Change in Control (as such term in defined in the Plan) (as defined, a “Change in Control ), then any then-unvested Options shall vest immediately prior to, but subject to, the consummation of such Change in Control.

2.4      Expense Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee for all reasonable, documented business expenses incurred in connection with his services hereunder, in accordance with the Company’s business expense reimbursement policies and procedures as may be in effect from time to time.

2.5      Home Travel Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee, subject to applicable taxes and withholdings, for reasonable travel expenses incurred in connection with Employee’s weekly travel from his home in California to the Company’s office in Massachusetts. The Company has covered the cost of a corporate apartment for Employee’s use while at the Company’s offices in Massachusetts. Employee acknowledges that all reimbursements and/or benefits under this Section 2.5 will be taxable to Employee. The reimbursement amount payable by the Company to the Employee pursuant to this Section 2.5 shall be “grossed up” so that on an after-tax basis the

 

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Company has paid to Employee, and the Employee retains, the amount otherwise payable pursuant to this Section 2.5 (i.e., the amount payable by the Company to the Employee shall equal x divided by (y minus z) where (i) x is the amount of the reimbursement payment described above, (ii) y is equal to one and (iii) z is the federal and state blended tax rate applicable to such payment).

3.      P ROPRIETARY I NFORMATION , I NVENTIONS , N ON -C OMPETITION A ND N ON -S OLICITATION O BLIGATIONS . The parties hereto have entered into a Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement (the “Proprietary Information Agreement ), which may be amended by the parties from time to time without regard to this Agreement. The Proprietary Information Agreement contains provisions that are intended by the parties to survive and do survive termination or expiration of this Agreement.

4.      O UTSIDE A CTIVITIES . Except with the prior written consent of the Company’s Board, Employee will not, while employed by the Company, undertake or engage in any other employment, occupation or business enterprise that would interfere with Employee’s responsibilities and the performance of Employee’s duties hereunder except for (i) reasonable time devoted to volunteer services for or on behalf of such religious, educational, non-profit and/or other charitable organization as Employee may wish to serve; (ii) reasonable time devoted to activities in the non-profit and business communities consistent with Employee’s duties; and (iii) such other activities as may be specifically approved by the Board. This restriction shall not, however, preclude the Employee from owning less than one percent (1%) of the total outstanding shares of a publicly traded company.

5.      N O C ONFLICT W ITH E XISTING O BLIGATIONS . Employee represents that Employee’s performance of all the terms of this Agreement and as an Employee of the Company do not and will not breach any agreement or obligation of any kind made prior to Employee’s employment by the Company, including agreements or obligations Employee may have with prior employers or entities for which Employee has provided services. Employee has not entered into, and Employee agrees that Employee will not enter into, any agreement or obligation, either written or oral, in conflict herewith.

6.      T ERMINATION O F E MPLOYMENT . The parties acknowledge that Employee’s employment relationship with the Company is at-will. Either Employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without Cause. The provisions in this Section govern the amount of compensation, if any, to be provided to Employee upon termination of employment and do not alter this at-will status.

6.1     Termination by the Company Without Cause .

(a)    The Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company pursuant to this Section 6.1 at any time without “Cause” (as defined in Section 6.2(a) below) by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement. A termination pursuant to Section 6.4 or 6.6 below is not a termination without “Cause” for purposes of receiving the benefits described in this Section 6.1.

 

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(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated without Cause, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke a separation agreement that includes a general release substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A (the “Release”), and subject to Section 6.1(c) (the date that the Release becomes effective and may no longer be revoked by the Employee is referred to as the “Release Date”), then:

(i)    the Company shall pay to Employee an amount equal to twelve (12)  months’ of Employee’s then current Base Salary, less applicable withholdings and deductions (the “Severance Payment”), in installments in accordance with the Company’s ordinary payroll practices commencing on the Company’s first regular payroll date that is more than sixty (60) days following the Separation Date (as defined below), and shall be for any accrued Base Salary for the sixty (60) day period plus the period from the sixtieth (60th) day until the regular payroll date, if applicable, and all salary continuation payments thereafter, if any, shall be made on the Company’s regular payroll dates;

(ii)    the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the effective date of the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated such that 50% of the then-unvested shares shall be deemed fully vested and exercisable as of the Separation Date;

(iii)    the Company shall pay to Employee a lump sum cash amount equivalent to Employee’s Annual Bonus for the year in which the Separation Date occurs, prorated based on the number of days that Employee was employed during such performance year, divided by the total number of days in such performance year (the “Bonus Severance Payment” ). Employee’s Base Salary as in effect on the Separation Date, ignoring any decrease that forms the basis of Employee’s resignation for Good Reason, if applicable, shall be used for calculating the Bonus Severance Payment. The Bonus Severance Payment will be paid within sixty (60) days of the effective date of the Release (namely, the date it can no longer be revoked) but in no event later than March 15 of the year following the year in which the Separation Date occurs; and

(iv)    if the Employee timely elects continued coverage under COBRA for himself and his covered dependents under the Company’s group health plans following such termination, then the Employee will be entitled to the following COBRA benefits (the “COBRA Benefits,” together with the Severance Payment, the Bonus Severance Payment and the accelerated vesting described in Section 6.l(b)(ii), the “Severance Benefits’’): the Company shall pay the COBRA premiums necessary to continue the Employee’s and his covered dependents’ health insurance coverage in effect for himself (and his covered dependents) on the termination date until the earliest of (x) twelve (12) months following the termination date (the “COBRA Severance Period’ ); (y) the date when the Employee becomes eligible for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment; or (iii) the date the Employee ceases to be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage for any reason, including plan termination (such period from the termination date through the earlier of (i)-(iii), the “COBRA Payment

 

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Period”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time the Company determines that its payment of COBRA premiums on the Employee’s behalf would result in a violation of applicable law (including but not limited to the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the 2010 Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act), then in lieu of paying COBRA premiums pursuant to this Section, the Company shall pay the Employee on the last day of each remaining month of the COBRA Payment Period, a fully taxable cash payment equal to the COBRA premium for such month, subject to applicable tax withholding (such amount, the “Special Severance Payment”), such Special Severance Payment to be made without regard to the Employee’s payment of COBRA premiums and without regard to the expiration of the COBRA period prior to the end of the COBRA Payment Period. Nothing in this Agreement shall deprive the Employee of his rights under COBRA or ERISA for benefits under plans and policies arising under his employment by the Company.

(c)    Employee shall not receive the Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) unless he executes the Release within the consideration period specified therein, which shall in no event be more than sixty (60) days, and until the Release becomes effective and can no longer be revoked by Employee under its terms. Employee’s ability to receive benefits pursuant to Section 6.I(b) is further conditioned upon his: returning all Company property; complying with his post-termination obligations under this Agreement and the Proprietary Information Agreement; and complying with the Release including without limitation any non-disparagement and confidentiality provisions contained therein.

(d)    The benefits provided to Employee pursuant to this Section 6.1 are in lieu of, and not in addition to, any benefits to which Employee may otherwise be entitled under any Company severance plan, policy or program.

(e)    The damages caused by the termination of Employee’s employment without Cause would be difficult to ascertain; therefore, the severance for which Employee is eligible pursuant to Section 6.1(b) above in exchange for the Release is agreed to by the parties as liquidated damages, to serve as full compensation, and not a penalty.

6.2     Termination by the Company for Cause.

Subject to Section 6.2(b) below, the Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement

(a)     “Cause” means (i) any material breach of this Agreement, the Proprietary Information Agreement between the Employee and the Company, or any other written agreement between Employee and the Company, if such breach causes material harm to the Company or reasonably threatens to cause such harm; (ii) any material failure to comply with the Company’s written policies or rules, as they may be in effect from time to time during Employee’s employment, if such failure causes material harm to the Company, and to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; (iii) commission, conviction of, or a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to, a felony under the laws of the United States or any State; (iv) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act having the effect of materially injuring (whether financially or

 

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otherwise) the business or reputation of the Company, which to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; or (v) willful misconduct with respect to any of Employee’s material duties or obligations under this Agreement, including, without limitation, willful insubordination with respect to reasonable directions from the Board which, to the extent it is curable is not cured within thirty (30) days aft.er written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company.

(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated at any time for Cause, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b), or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.3     Resignation by the Employee With Good Reason.

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company for Good Reason by giving notice following the end of the Cure Period (as defined in this Section). For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” for the Employee to terminate his employment hereunder shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events without the Employee’s consent: (i) a material reduction in the Employee’s Base Salary (other than an across-the-board decrease in base salary applicable to all executive officers of the Company); (ii) a material breach of this Agreement by the Company; (iii) a material reduction in the Employee’s duties, authority and responsibilities relative to the Employee’s duties, authority, and responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction; or (iv) the relocation of the Employee’s then-principal place of employment, without the Employee’s consent, in a manner that lengthens his one-way commute distance by fifty (50) or more miles from his then-current principal place of employment immediately prior to such relocation; provided, however, that, any such termination by the Employee shall only be deemed for Good Reason pursuant to this definition if: (1) the Employee gives the Company written notice of his intent to terminate for Good Reason within thirty (30) days following the first occurrence of the condition(s) that he believes constitute(s) Good Reason, which notice shall describe such condition(s); (2) the Company fails to remedy such condition(s) within thirty (30) days following receipt of the written notice (the “Cure Period”); and (3) the Employee voluntarily terminates his employment within thirty (30) days following the end of the Cure Period.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from employment for Good Reason, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke the Release and subject to Section 6.1(c), then the Company shall pay to Employee the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b).

 

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6.4     Resignation by the Employee Without Good Reason.

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company at any time by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 .

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of resignation, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee through the date of resignation under any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement during such period and Employee shall be eligible for any benefit continuation or conversion rights provided by the provisions of a benefit plan or by law.

6.5     Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control.

(a)    If Employee’s employment by the Company is terminated by the Company (or its successor or parent) without Cause (and not due to Disability or death) or by Employee for Good Reason immediately before or within twelve (12) months immediately following a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan), that constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), then: (x) the Company shall pay or provide Employee with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b) except that the Severance Payment described in Section 6.1(b)(i) shall be paid to Employee in a lump sum, on the first payroll date of the Company that is at least sixty (60) days following the Separation Date; and (y) the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated (and lapse, in the case of reacquisition or repurchase rights) in full, provided that Employee executes and does not revoke the Release.

6.6     Termination by Virtue of Death or Disability of the Employee .

(a)    In the event of Employee’s death while employed pursuant to this Agreement, all obligations of the parties hereunder shall terminate immediately, and the Company shall, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, pay to the Employee’s legal representatives Employee’s accrued but unpaid salary through the date of death together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

(b)    Subject to applicable state and federal law, the Company shall at all times have the right, upon written notice to the Employee, to terminate this Agreement based on the Employee’s Disability (as defined below). Termination by the Company of the Employee’s employment based on “Disability” shall mean termination because the Employee is unable due to a physical or mental condition to perform the essential functions of his position with or without reasonable accommodation for six (6) months in the aggregate during any twelve (12) month period or based on the written certification by two licensed physicians of the likely continuation of such condition for such period. This

 

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definition shall be interpreted and applied consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and other applicable law. In the event Employee’s employment is terminated based on the Employee’s Disability, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.7      Termination Due to Discontinuance of Business . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in the event the Company’s business is discontinued because rendered impracticable by substantial financial losses, lack of funding, legal decisions, administrative rulings, declaration of war, dissolution, national or local economic depression or crisis or any reasons beyond the control of the Company, then this Agreement shall terminate as of the day the Company determines to cease operation with the same force and effect as if such day of the month were originally set as the termination date hereof. In the event this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 6.7, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.8     Notice; Effective Date of Termination.

(a)    Termination of Employee’s employment (the “Separation Date”) pursuant to this Agreement shall be effective on the earliest of:

(i)    immediately after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination, with or without Cause;

(ii)    immediately upon the Employee’s death;

(iii)    ten ( l 0) days after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination on account of Employee’s Disability, unless the Company specifies a later Separation Date, in which case, termination shall be effective as of such later Separation Date,provided that Employee has not returned to the full time performance of Employee’s duties prior to such date;

(iv)    immediately upon written notice by the Employee of his resignation for Good Reason within thirty (30) days after the Cure Period has ended and the Company has failed to remedy any of the reasons for Good Reason resignation pursuant to Section 6.3(a); or

(v)    ten (10) days after the Employee gives written notice to the Company of Employee’s resignation, provided that the Company may set a Separation Date at

 

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any time between the date of notice and the date of resignation, in which case the Employee’s resignation shall be effective as of such other date. Employee will receive compensation through any required notice period.

(b)    In the event notice of a termination under subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) is given orally, at the other party’s request, the party giving notice must provide written confirmation of such notice within five (5) business days of the request in compliance with the requirement of Section 7.1 below. In the event of a termination for Cause, written confirmation shall specify the subsection(s) of the definition of Cause relied on to support the decision to terminate.

6.9      Cooperation With Company Mter Termination of Employment . Following termination of Employee’s employment for any reason, Employee shall reasonably cooperate with the Company in all matters relating to the winding up of Employee’s pending work including, but not limited to, any litigation in which the Company is involved, and the orderly transfer of any such pending work to such other employees as may be designated by the Company.

6.10      Effect of Termination. The Employee agrees that should the Employee’s employment be terminated for any reason, the Employee shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all positions with the Company and its subsidiaries, including, but not limited, to a position on the Board.

6.11      Application of Section  409A . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, any payments and benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Code”) and the regulations and other guidance thereunder and any state law of similar effect (collectively, “Section 409A”) shall not commence in connection with Employee’s termination of employment unless and until Employee has also incurred a “separation from service” (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulation Section l.409A-1(h) (“Separation From Service”), unless the Company reasonably determines that such amounts may be provided to Employee without causing Employee to incur the additional 20% tax under Section 409A. It is intended that each installment of severance pay provided for in this Agreement is a separate “payment” for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A- 2(b)(2)(i). For the avoidance of doubt, it is intended that severance payments set forth in this Agreement satisfy, to the greatest extent possible, the exceptions from the application of Section 409A provided under Treasury Regulation Sections l.409A-l(b)(4), l.409A-l(b)(5), and l.409A-l(b)(9). If the Company (or, if applicable, the successor entity thereto) determines that any payments or benefits constitute “deferred compensation” under Section 409A and Employee is, on the termination of service, a “specified employee” of the Company or any successor entity thereto, as such term is defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, then, solely to the extent necessary to avoid the incurrence of the adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A, the timing of the payments and benefits shall be delayed until the earlier to occur of: (a) the date that is six months and one day after Employee’s Separation From Service, or (b) the date of Employee’s death (such applicable date, the “Specified Employee Initial Payment Date’ ). On the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date, the Company (or the successor entity thereto, as applicable) shall (i) pay to Employee a lump sum amount equal to the sum of the payments and benefits that Employee would otherwise have received through the Specified Employee Initial

 

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Payment Date if the commencement of the payment of such amounts had not been so delayed pursuant to this Section and (ii) commence paying the balance of the payments and benefits in accordance with the applicable payment schedules set forth in this Agreement. All reimbursements provided under this Agreement shall be subject to the following requirements: (i) the amount of in-kind benefits provided or reimbursable expenses incurred in one taxable year shall not affect the in-kind benefits to be provided or the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other taxable year, (ii) all reimbursements shall be paid as soon as administratively practicable, but in no event shall any reimbursement be paid after the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred, and (iii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits is not subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit. It is intended that all payments and benefits under this Agreement shall either comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A, and any ambiguity contained herein shall be interpreted in such manner so as to avoid adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall in no event be obligated to indemnify the Employee for any taxes or interest that may be assessed by the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to Section 409A of the Code to payments made pursuant to this Agreement.

7.     G ENERAL P ROVISIONS .

7.1      Notices . Any notices required hereunder to be in writing shall be deemed effectively given: (a) upon personal delivery to the party to be notified, (b) when sent by electronic mail, telex or confirmed facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not, then on the next business day, (c) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (d) one (I) day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the Company at its primary office location and to Employee at Employee’s address as listed on the Company payroll, or at such other address as the Company or the Employee may designate by ten (JO) days advance written notice to the other.

7.2      Severability . Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions had never been contained herein.

7.3      Waiver . If either party should waive any breach of any provisions of this Agreement, Employee or it shall not thereby be deemed to have waived any preceding or succeeding breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

7.4      Complete Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Employee and the Company with regard to the subject matter hereof. This Agreement is the complete, final, and exclusive embodiment of their agreement with regard to this subject matter and supersedes any prior oral discussions or written communications and agreements. This Agreement is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation other than those expressly contained herein, and it cannot be modified or amended except in writing signed

 

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by Employee and an authorized officer of the Company. The parties have entered into a separate Proprietary Information Agreement and have or may enter into separate agreement related to stock awards. These separate agreements govern other aspects of the relationship between the parties, have or may have provisions that survive termination of the Employee’s employment under this Agreement, may be amended or superseded by the parties without regard to this Agreement and are enforceable according to their terms without regard to the enforcement provision of this Agreement.

7.5      Countemarts . This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, any one of which need not contain signatures of more than one party, but all of which taken together will constitute one and the same Agreement.

7.6      Headings . The headings of the sections hereof are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part hereof nor to affect the meaning thereof.

7.7      Successors and Assigns. The Company shall assign this Agreement and its rights and obligations hereunder in whole, but not in part, to any Company or other entity with or into which the Company may hereafter merge or consolidate or to which the Company may transfer all or substantially all of its assets, if in any such case said Company or other entity shall by operation of law or expressly in writing assume all obligations of the Company hereunder as fully as if it had been originally made a party hereto, but may not otherwise assign this Agreement or its rights and obligations hereunder. The Employee may not assign or transfer this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder, other than to his estate upon his death.

7.8      Choice of Law . All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement will be governed by the law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

7.9      Indemnification . The Employee shall be entitled to indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Company’s Bylaws with terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company executive officer or director and subject to the terms of any separate written indemnification agreement. At all times during the Employee’s employment, the Company shall maintain in effect a directors and officers liability insurance policy with the Employee as a covered officer.

7.10      Resolution of Disputes . The parties recognize that litigation in federal or state courts or before federal or state administrative agencies of disputes arising out of the Employee’s employment with the Company or out of this Agreement, or the Employee’s termination of employment or termination of this Agreement, may not be in the best interests of either the Employee or the Company, and may result in unnecessary costs, delays, complexities, and uncertainty. The parties agree that any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to the negotiation, execution, performance or termination of this Agreement or the Employee’s employment, including, but not limited to, any claim arising out of this Agreement, claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1966, as amended, the Family Medical Leave Act, the

 

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Employee Retirement Income Security Act, and any similar federal, state or local law, statute, regulation, or any common law doctrine, whether that dispute arises during or after employment, shall be settled by binding arbitration conducted before a single arbitrator by Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“JAMS”) or its successor, under the then applicable JAMS rules; provided however, that this dispute resolution provision shall not apply to any separate agreements between the parties that do not themselves specify arbitration as an exclusive remedy. The location for the arbitration shall be the Boston, Massachusetts metropolitan area. Any award made by such panel shall be final, binding and conclusive on the parties for all purposes, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators’ fees and expenses and all administrative fees and expenses associated with the filing of the arbitration shall be borne by the Company; provided however, that at the Employee’s option, Employee may voluntarily pay up to one-half the costs and fees. The parties acknowledge and agree that their obligations to arbitrate under this Section survive the termination of this Agreement and continue after the termination of the employment relationship between Employee and the Company. The parties each further agree that the arbitration provisions of this Agreement shall provide each party with its exclusive remedy, and each party expressly waives any right it might have to seek redress in any other forum, except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement. By electing arbitration as the means for final settlement of all claims, the parties hereby waive their respective rights to, and agree not to, sue each other in any action in a Federal, State or local court with respect to such claims, but may seek to enforce in court an arbitration award rendered pursuant to this Agreement. The parties specifically agree to waive their respective rights to a trial by jury, and further agree that no demand, request or motion will be made for trial by jury.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement on the day and year first written above.

 

AVEDRO, INC.
By:  

/s/ Gilbert Kliman

  Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D.
  Member of the Board
Employee:

/s/ Reza Zadno

Reza Zadno, Ph.D.

 

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Exhibit 10.10

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This A MENDED A ND R ESTATED E MPLOYMENT A GREEMENT (the “Agreement” ), by and between Avedro, Inc. (the “Company” ) and R eza Zadno, Ph.D. (the “Employee” ), is effective as of the date the Company consummates an initial public offering ( the “ Effective Date” ).

Between July 11, 2016 and September 23, 2016, Employee was employed as interim Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the Company, pursuant to the terms of the July 11, 2016 offer letter;

On September 23, 2016 the Company’s Board of Directors (“Board’ ) voted to change the Employee’s status from Interim CEO to permanent CEO and President;

Effective as of September 23, 2016, the Employee and the Company entered into an Employment Agreement (the “Prior Agreement” );

Effective as of January 1, 2017, the Board voted to increase Employee’s Base Salary as described in Section 2.1 herein;

The Company desires to continue to employ the Employee in the capacity of full-time CEO and President following the Effective Date pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, which shall amend and restate the Prior Agreement and, in connection therewith, to compensate the Employee for Employee’s personal services to the Company; and

The Employee wishes to be employed by the Company and provide personal services to the Company in return for certain compensation.

Accordingly, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties agree to the following:

1.     E MPLOYMENT B Y T HE C OMPANY .

1.1      At-Will Employment . Employee shall be employed by the Company on an “at-will” basis, meaning either the Company or Employee may terminate Employee’s employment at any time, with or without cause or advanced notice. Any contrary representations that may have been made to Employee shall be superseded by this Agreement. This Agreement shall constitute the full and complete agreement between Employee and the Company on the “at-will” nature of Employee’s employment with the Company, which may be changed only in an express written agreement signed by Employee and a duly authorized officer of the Company. Employee’s rights to any compensation following a termination shall be only as set forth in Section 6.

1.2      Position . Subject to the terms set forth herein, the Company agrees to employ Employee, initially in the position of CEO and President and Employee hereby accepts such employment. During the term of Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will devote Employee’s best efforts and substantially all of Employee’s business time and attention to the business of the Company.

1.3      Duties . Employee will report to the Board and/or such other Board officers, company executives and/or committees designated by the Board, performing such duties as are normally associated with his then current position and such duties as are assigned to


him from time to time, subject to the oversight and direction of the Board. Employee shall further serve as a Director of the Board during the term of his employment. Employee shall perform his duties under this Agreement principally out of the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts or such other location as assigned. In addition, the Employee shall make such business trips to such places as may be necessary or advisable for the efficient operations of the Company.

1.4      Company Policies and Benefits . The employment relationship between the parties shall also be subject to the Company’s personnel policies and procedures as they may be interpreted, adopted, revised or deleted from time to time in the Company’s sole discretion. The Employee will be eligible to participate on the same basis as similarly situated employees in the Company’s benefit plans in effect from time to time during his employment. All matters of eligibility for coverage or benefits under any benefit plan shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of such plan. The Company reserves the right to change, alter, or terminate any benefit plan in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the terms of this Agreement differ from or are in conflict with the Company’s general employment policies or practices, this Agreement shall control.

1.5      Paid Time Off . The Employee will be eligible to accrue up to 16 days of paid vacation and 4 personal days per calendar year, which accrues each bi-monthly pay period. In addition, the Employee will be eligible to take up to 6 sick days per calendar year. Employee’s paid time off will be prorated based upon the Effective Date of this Agreement.

2.     C OMPENSATION .

2.1      Salary . For the period of September 23, 2016 through December 31, 2016, Employee shall receive for Employee’s services to be rendered hereunder an initial annualized base salary of $350,000 which shall be increased to $515,000 as of January 1, 2019 (“Base Salary”). The Base Salary is subject to review and adjustment from time to time by the Company in its sole discretion, payable subject to standard federal and state payroll withholding requirements in accordance with Company’s standard payroll practices.

2.2     Bonus.

(a)      During Employment . Employee shall be eligible to earn an annual performance bonus of up to 75% of his Base Salary (‘ Annual Bonus’’). The Annual Bonus will be based upon the Board’s assessment of the Employee’s performance and the Company’s attainment of targeted goals as set by the Board in its sole discretion. The Annual Bonus, if any, will be subject to applicable payroll deductions and withholdings. Following the close of each calendar year, the Board will determine whether the Employee has earned the Annual Bonus, and the amount of any Annual Bonus, based on the set criteria. No amount of the Annual Bonus is guaranteed, and the Employee must be an employee in good standing on the Annual Bonus payment date to be eligible to receive an Annual Bonus; no partial or prorated bonuses will be provided. The Annual Bonus, if earned, will be paid no later than March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the applicable calendar year for which the Annual Bonus is being measured. The Employee’s eligibility for an Annual Bonus is subject to change in the discretion of the Board (or any authorized committee thereof).

 

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(b)     Upon Termination . Subject to the prov1s1ons of Section 6.1(b)(iii), in the event Employee leaves the employ of the Company for any reason prior to payment of any bonus, he is not eligible for such bonus, prorated or otherwise.

2.3     Equity Awards . The Employee acknowledges that as of the Effective Date, he has received the equity awards set forth on Exhibit A hereto, under, and subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (“ Plan ”) and applicable award agreements thereunder. The employee acknowledges and agrees that from and after the Effective Date, such equity awards shall only be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6 or this Agreement.

 

2.4      Expense Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee for all reasonable, documented business expenses incurred in connection with his services hereunder, in accordance with the Company’s business expense reimbursement policies and procedures as may be in effect from time to time.

2.5      Home Travel Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee, subject to applicable taxes and withholdings, for reasonable travel expenses incurred in connection with Employee’s weekly travel from his home in California to the Company’s office in Massachusetts. The Company has covered the cost of a corporate apartment for Employee’s use while at the Company’s offices in Massachusetts. Employee acknowledges that all reimbursements and/or benefits under this Section 2.5 will be taxable to Employee. The reimbursement amount payable by the Company to the Employee pursuant to this Section 2.5 shall be “grossed up” so that on an after-tax basis the

 

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Company has paid to Employee, and the Employee retains, the amount otherwise payable pursuant to this Section 2.5 (i.e., the amount payable by the Company to the Employee shall equal x divided by (y minus z) where (i) x is the amount of the reimbursement payment described above, (ii) y is equal to one and (iii) z is the federal and state blended tax rate applicable to such payment).

3.      P ROPRIETARY I NFORMATION , I NVENTIONS , N ON -C OMPETITION A ND N ON -S OLICITATION O BLIGATIONS . The parties hereto have entered into a Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement (the “Proprietary Information Agreement ), which may be amended by the parties from time to time without regard to this Agreement. The Proprietary Information Agreement contains provisions that are intended by the parties to survive and do survive termination or expiration of this Agreement.

4.      O UTSIDE A CTIVITIES . Except with the prior written consent of the Company’s Board, Employee will not, while employed by the Company, undertake or engage in any other employment, occupation or business enterprise that would interfere with Employee’s responsibilities and the performance of Employee’s duties hereunder except for (i) reasonable time devoted to volunteer services for or on behalf of such religious, educational, non-profit and/or other charitable organization as Employee may wish to serve; (ii) reasonable time devoted to activities in the non-profit and business communities consistent with Employee’s duties; and (iii) such other activities as may be specifically approved by the Board. This restriction shall not, however, preclude the Employee from owning less than one percent (1%) of the total outstanding shares of a publicly traded company.

5.      N O C ONFLICT W ITH E XISTING O BLIGATIONS . Employee represents that Employee’s performance of all the terms of this Agreement and as an Employee of the Company do not and will not breach any agreement or obligation of any kind made prior to Employee’s employment by the Company, including agreements or obligations Employee may have with prior employers or entities for which Employee has provided services. Employee has not entered into, and Employee agrees that Employee will not enter into, any agreement or obligation, either written or oral, in conflict herewith.

6.      T ERMINATION O F E MPLOYMENT . The parties acknowledge that Employee’s employment relationship with the Company is at-will. Either Employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without Cause. The provisions in this Section govern the amount of compensation, if any, to be provided to Employee upon termination of employment and do not alter this at-will status.

6.1     Termination by the Company Without Cause .

(a)    The Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company pursuant to this Section 6.1 at any time without “Cause” (as defined in Section 6.2(a) below) by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement. A termination pursuant to Section 6.4 or 6.6 below is not a termination without “Cause” for purposes of receiving the benefits described in this Section 6.1.

 

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(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated without Cause, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke a separation agreement that includes a general release substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B (the “Release”), and subject to Section 6.1(c) (the date that the Release becomes effective and may no longer be revoked by the Employee is referred to as the “Release Date”), then:

(i)    the Company shall pay to Employee an amount equal to twelve (12)  months’ of Employee’s then current Base Salary, less applicable withholdings and deductions (the “Severance Payment”), in installments in accordance with the Company’s ordinary payroll practices commencing on the Company’s first regular payroll date that is more than sixty (60) days following the Separation Date (as defined below), and shall be for any accrued Base Salary for the sixty (60) day period plus the period from the sixtieth (60th) day until the regular payroll date, if applicable, and all salary continuation payments thereafter, if any, shall be made on the Company’s regular payroll dates;

(ii)    the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the effective date of the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated such that 50% of the then-unvested shares shall be deemed fully vested and exercisable as of the Separation Date;

(iii)    the Company shall pay to Employee a lump sum cash amount equivalent to Employee’s Annual Bonus for the year in which the Separation Date occurs, prorated based on the number of days that Employee was employed during such performance year, divided by the total number of days in such performance year (the “Bonus Severance Payment” ). Employee’s Base Salary as in effect on the Separation Date, ignoring any decrease that forms the basis of Employee’s resignation for Good Reason, if applicable, shall be used for calculating the Bonus Severance Payment. The Bonus Severance Payment will be paid within sixty (60) days of the effective date of the Release (namely, the date it can no longer be revoked) but in no event later than March 15 of the year following the year in which the Separation Date occurs; and

(iv)    if the Employee timely elects continued coverage under COBRA for himself and his covered dependents under the Company’s group health plans following such termination, then the Employee will be entitled to the following COBRA benefits (the “COBRA Benefits,” together with the Severance Payment, the Bonus Severance Payment and the accelerated vesting described in Section 6.l(b)(ii), the “Severance Benefits’’): the Company shall pay the COBRA premiums necessary to continue the Employee’s and his covered dependents’ health insurance coverage in effect for himself (and his covered dependents) on the termination date until the earliest of (x) twelve (12) months following the termination date (the “COBRA Severance Period’ ); (y) the date when the Employee becomes eligible for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment; or (iii) the date the Employee ceases to be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage for any reason, including plan termination (such period from the termination date through the earlier of (i)-(iii), the “COBRA Payment

 

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Period”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time the Company determines that its payment of COBRA premiums on the Employee’s behalf would result in a violation of applicable law (including but not limited to the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the 2010 Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act), then in lieu of paying COBRA premiums pursuant to this Section, the Company shall pay the Employee on the last day of each remaining month of the COBRA Payment Period, a fully taxable cash payment equal to the COBRA premium for such month, subject to applicable tax withholding (such amount, the “Special Severance Payment”), such Special Severance Payment to be made without regard to the Employee’s payment of COBRA premiums and without regard to the expiration of the COBRA period prior to the end of the COBRA Payment Period. Nothing in this Agreement shall deprive the Employee of his rights under COBRA or ERISA for benefits under plans and policies arising under his employment by the Company.

(c)    Employee shall not receive the Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) unless he executes the Release within the consideration period specified therein, which shall in no event be more than sixty (60) days, and until the Release becomes effective and can no longer be revoked by Employee under its terms. Employee’s ability to receive benefits pursuant to Section 6.I(b) is further conditioned upon his: returning all Company property; complying with his post-termination obligations under this Agreement and the Proprietary Information Agreement; and complying with the Release including without limitation any non-disparagement and confidentiality provisions contained therein.

(d)    The benefits provided to Employee pursuant to this Section 6.1 are in lieu of, and not in addition to, any benefits to which Employee may otherwise be entitled under any Company severance plan, policy or program.

(e)    The damages caused by the termination of Employee’s employment without Cause would be difficult to ascertain; therefore, the severance for which Employee is eligible pursuant to Section 6.1(b) above in exchange for the Release is agreed to by the parties as liquidated damages, to serve as full compensation, and not a penalty.

6.2     Termination by the Company for Cause.

Subject to Section 6.2(b) below, the Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement

(a)     “Cause” means (i) any material breach of this Agreement, the Proprietary Information Agreement between the Employee and the Company, or any other written agreement between Employee and the Company, if such breach causes material harm to the Company or reasonably threatens to cause such harm; (ii) any material failure to comply with the Company’s written policies or rules, as they may be in effect from time to time during Employee’s employment, if such failure causes material harm to the Company, and to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; (iii) commission, conviction of, or a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to, a felony under the laws of the United States or any State; (iv) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act having the effect of materially injuring (whether financially or

 

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otherwise) the business or reputation of the Company, which to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; or (v) willful misconduct with respect to any of Employee’s material duties or obligations under this Agreement, including, without limitation, willful insubordination with respect to reasonable directions from the Board which, to the extent it is curable is not cured within thirty (30) days aft.er written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company.

(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated at any time for Cause, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b), or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.3     Resignation by the Employee With Good Reason.

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company for Good Reason by giving notice following the end of the Cure Period (as defined in this Section). For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” for the Employee to terminate his employment hereunder shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events without the Employee’s consent: (i) a material reduction in the Employee’s Base Salary (other than an across-the-board decrease in base salary applicable to all executive officers of the Company); (ii) a material breach of this Agreement by the Company; (iii) a material reduction in the Employee’s duties, authority and responsibilities relative to the Employee’s duties, authority, and responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction; or (iv) the relocation of the Employee’s then-principal place of employment, without the Employee’s consent, in a manner that lengthens his one-way commute distance by fifty (50) or more miles from his then-current principal place of employment immediately prior to such relocation; provided, however, that, any such termination by the Employee shall only be deemed for Good Reason pursuant to this definition if: (1) the Employee gives the Company written notice of his intent to terminate for Good Reason within thirty (30) days following the first occurrence of the condition(s) that he believes constitute(s) Good Reason, which notice shall describe such condition(s); (2) the Company fails to remedy such condition(s) within thirty (30) days following receipt of the written notice (the “Cure Period”); and (3) the Employee voluntarily terminates his employment within thirty (30) days following the end of the Cure Period.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from employment for Good Reason, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke the Release and subject to Section 6.1(c), then the Company shall pay to Employee the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b).

 

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6.4     Resignation by the Employee Without Good Reason.

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company at any time by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 .

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of resignation, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee through the date of resignation under any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement during such period and Employee shall be eligible for any benefit continuation or conversion rights provided by the provisions of a benefit plan or by law.

6.5     Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control.

(a)    If Employee’s employment by the Company is terminated by the Company (or its successor or parent) without Cause (and not due to Disability or death) or by Employee for Good Reason immediately before or within eighteen (18) months immediately following a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan), that constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), then: (x) (1) the Severance Payment shall equal (A) an amount equal to eighteen (18) months of Employee’s then current base salary, plus (B) one and one-half (1 1/2 ) times Employee’s target Annual Bonus for the year of termination and (2) the COBRA Severance Period shall be up to eighteen (18) months following the termination date; (y) the Company shall pay or provide Employee with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b) (as increased by (x), above) except that such Severance Payment shall be paid to Employee in a lump sum, on the first payroll date of the Company that is at least sixty (60) days following the Separation Date; and (z) the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated (and lapse, in the case of reacquisition or repurchase rights) in full, provided that Employee executes and does not revoke the Release.

6.6     Termination by Virtue of Death or Disability of the Employee .

(a)    In the event of Employee’s death while employed pursuant to this Agreement, all obligations of the parties hereunder shall terminate immediately, and the Company shall, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, pay to the Employee’s legal representatives Employee’s accrued but unpaid salary through the date of death together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

(b)    Subject to applicable state and federal law, the Company shall at all times have the right, upon written notice to the Employee, to terminate this Agreement based on the Employee’s Disability (as defined below). Termination by the Company of the Employee’s employment based on “Disability” shall mean termination because the Employee is unable due to a physical or mental condition to perform the essential functions of his position with or without reasonable accommodation for six (6) months in the aggregate during any twelve (12) month period or based on the written certification by two licensed physicians of the likely continuation of such condition for such period. This

 

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definition shall be interpreted and applied consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and other applicable law. In the event Employee’s employment is terminated based on the Employee’s Disability, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.7      Termination Due to Discontinuance of Business . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in the event the Company’s business is discontinued because rendered impracticable by substantial financial losses, lack of funding, legal decisions, administrative rulings, declaration of war, dissolution, national or local economic depression or crisis or any reasons beyond the control of the Company, then this Agreement shall terminate as of the day the Company determines to cease operation with the same force and effect as if such day of the month were originally set as the termination date hereof. In the event this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 6.7, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.8     Notice; Effective Date of Termination.

(a)    Termination of Employee’s employment (the “Separation Date”) pursuant to this Agreement shall be effective on the earliest of:

(i)    immediately after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination, with or without Cause;

(ii)    immediately upon the Employee’s death;

(iii)    ten ( l 0) days after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination on account of Employee’s Disability, unless the Company specifies a later Separation Date, in which case, termination shall be effective as of such later Separation Date,provided that Employee has not returned to the full time performance of Employee’s duties prior to such date;

(iv)    immediately upon written notice by the Employee of his resignation for Good Reason within thirty (30) days after the Cure Period has ended and the Company has failed to remedy any of the reasons for Good Reason resignation pursuant to Section 6.3(a); or

(v)    ten (10) days after the Employee gives written notice to the Company of Employee’s resignation, provided that the Company may set a Separation Date at

 

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any time between the date of notice and the date of resignation, in which case the Employee’s resignation shall be effective as of such other date. Employee will receive compensation through any required notice period.

(b)    In the event notice of a termination under subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) is given orally, at the other party’s request, the party giving notice must provide written confirmation of such notice within five (5) business days of the request in compliance with the requirement of Section 7.1 below. In the event of a termination for Cause, written confirmation shall specify the subsection(s) of the definition of Cause relied on to support the decision to terminate.

6.9      Cooperation With Company Mter Termination of Employment . Following termination of Employee’s employment for any reason, Employee shall reasonably cooperate with the Company in all matters relating to the winding up of Employee’s pending work including, but not limited to, any litigation in which the Company is involved, and the orderly transfer of any such pending work to such other employees as may be designated by the Company.

6.10      Effect of Termination. The Employee agrees that should the Employee’s employment be terminated for any reason, the Employee shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all positions with the Company and its subsidiaries, including, but not limited, to a position on the Board.

6.11      Application of Section  409A . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, any payments and benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Code”) and the regulations and other guidance thereunder and any state law of similar effect (collectively, “Section 409A”) shall not commence in connection with Employee’s termination of employment unless and until Employee has also incurred a “separation from service” (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulation Section l.409A-1(h) (“Separation From Service”), unless the Company reasonably determines that such amounts may be provided to Employee without causing Employee to incur the additional 20% tax under Section 409A. It is intended that each installment of severance pay provided for in this Agreement is a separate “payment” for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A- 2(b)(2)(i). For the avoidance of doubt, it is intended that severance payments set forth in this Agreement satisfy, to the greatest extent possible, the exceptions from the application of Section 409A provided under Treasury Regulation Sections l.409A-l(b)(4), l.409A-l(b)(5), and l.409A-l(b)(9). If the Company (or, if applicable, the successor entity thereto) determines that any payments or benefits constitute “deferred compensation” under Section 409A and Employee is, on the termination of service, a “specified employee” of the Company or any successor entity thereto, as such term is defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, then, solely to the extent necessary to avoid the incurrence of the adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A, the timing of the payments and benefits shall be delayed until the earlier to occur of: (a) the date that is six months and one day after Employee’s Separation From Service, or (b) the date of Employee’s death (such applicable date, the “Specified Employee Initial Payment Date’ ). On the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date, the Company (or the successor entity thereto, as applicable) shall (i) pay to Employee a lump sum amount equal to the sum of the payments and benefits that Employee would otherwise have received through the Specified Employee Initial

 

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Payment Date if the commencement of the payment of such amounts had not been so delayed pursuant to this Section and (ii) commence paying the balance of the payments and benefits in accordance with the applicable payment schedules set forth in this Agreement. All reimbursements provided under this Agreement shall be subject to the following requirements: (i) the amount of in-kind benefits provided or reimbursable expenses incurred in one taxable year shall not affect the in-kind benefits to be provided or the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other taxable year, (ii) all reimbursements shall be paid as soon as administratively practicable, but in no event shall any reimbursement be paid after the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred, and (iii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits is not subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit. It is intended that all payments and benefits under this Agreement shall either comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A, and any ambiguity contained herein shall be interpreted in such manner so as to avoid adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall in no event be obligated to indemnify the Employee for any taxes or interest that may be assessed by the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to Section 409A of the Code to payments made pursuant to this Agreement.

7.     G ENERAL P ROVISIONS .

7.1      Notices . Any notices required hereunder to be in writing shall be deemed effectively given: (a) upon personal delivery to the party to be notified, (b) when sent by electronic mail, telex or confirmed facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not, then on the next business day, (c) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (d) one (I) day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the Company at its primary office location and to Employee at Employee’s address as listed on the Company payroll, or at such other address as the Company or the Employee may designate by ten (JO) days advance written notice to the other.

7.2      Severability . Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions had never been contained herein.

7.3      Waiver . If either party should waive any breach of any provisions of this Agreement, Employee or it shall not thereby be deemed to have waived any preceding or succeeding breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

7.4      Complete Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Employee and the Company with regard to the subject matter hereof. This Agreement is the complete, final, and exclusive embodiment of their agreement with regard to this subject matter and supersedes any prior oral discussions or written communications and agreements. This Agreement is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation other than those expressly contained herein, and it cannot be modified or amended except in writing signed

 

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by Employee and an authorized officer of the Company. The parties have entered into a separate Proprietary Information Agreement and have or may enter into separate agreement related to stock awards. These separate agreements govern other aspects of the relationship between the parties, have or may have provisions that survive termination of the Employee’s employment under this Agreement, may be amended or superseded by the parties without regard to this Agreement and are enforceable according to their terms without regard to the enforcement provision of this Agreement.

7.5      Countemarts . This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, any one of which need not contain signatures of more than one party, but all of which taken together will constitute one and the same Agreement.

7.6      Headings . The headings of the sections hereof are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part hereof nor to affect the meaning thereof.

7.7      Successors and Assigns. The Company shall assign this Agreement and its rights and obligations hereunder in whole, but not in part, to any Company or other entity with or into which the Company may hereafter merge or consolidate or to which the Company may transfer all or substantially all of its assets, if in any such case said Company or other entity shall by operation of law or expressly in writing assume all obligations of the Company hereunder as fully as if it had been originally made a party hereto, but may not otherwise assign this Agreement or its rights and obligations hereunder. The Employee may not assign or transfer this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder, other than to his estate upon his death.

7.8      Choice of Law . All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement will be governed by the law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

7.9      Indemnification . The Employee shall be entitled to indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Company’s Bylaws with terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company executive officer or director and subject to the terms of any separate written indemnification agreement. At all times during the Employee’s employment, the Company shall maintain in effect a directors and officers liability insurance policy with the Employee as a covered officer.

7.10      Resolution of Disputes . The parties recognize that litigation in federal or state courts or before federal or state administrative agencies of disputes arising out of the Employee’s employment with the Company or out of this Agreement, or the Employee’s termination of employment or termination of this Agreement, may not be in the best interests of either the Employee or the Company, and may result in unnecessary costs, delays, complexities, and uncertainty. The parties agree that any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to the negotiation, execution, performance or termination of this Agreement or the Employee’s employment, including, but not limited to, any claim arising out of this Agreement, claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1966, as amended, the Family Medical Leave Act, the

 

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Employee Retirement Income Security Act, and any similar federal, state or local law, statute, regulation, or any common law doctrine, whether that dispute arises during or after employment, shall be settled by binding arbitration conducted before a single arbitrator by Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“JAMS”) or its successor, under the then applicable JAMS rules; provided however, that this dispute resolution provision shall not apply to any separate agreements between the parties that do not themselves specify arbitration as an exclusive remedy. The location for the arbitration shall be the Boston, Massachusetts metropolitan area. Any award made by such panel shall be final, binding and conclusive on the parties for all purposes, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators’ fees and expenses and all administrative fees and expenses associated with the filing of the arbitration shall be borne by the Company; provided however, that at the Employee’s option, Employee may voluntarily pay up to one-half the costs and fees. The parties acknowledge and agree that their obligations to arbitrate under this Section survive the termination of this Agreement and continue after the termination of the employment relationship between Employee and the Company. The parties each further agree that the arbitration provisions of this Agreement shall provide each party with its exclusive remedy, and each party expressly waives any right it might have to seek redress in any other forum, except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement. By electing arbitration as the means for final settlement of all claims, the parties hereby waive their respective rights to, and agree not to, sue each other in any action in a Federal, State or local court with respect to such claims, but may seek to enforce in court an arbitration award rendered pursuant to this Agreement. The parties specifically agree to waive their respective rights to a trial by jury, and further agree that no demand, request or motion will be made for trial by jury.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement on the day and year first written above.

 

AVEDRO, INC.
By:  

/s/ Gilbert H. Kliman

  Gilbert H. Kliman, M.D.
  Member of the Board
Employee:

/s/ Reza Zadno

Reza Zadno, Ph.D.

 

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Exhibit A

 

Grant Date

  

Type of Award

  

Number of Shares
subject to Award

  

Exercise Price

January 9, 2019    ISO    1,190,000    $2.86
January 31, 2018    RSU    74,860    $0.00
January 31, 2018    ISO    2,339,285    $0.48
July 18, 2018    ISO    893,650    $0.83

 

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Exhibit 10.11

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This E MPLOYMENT A GREEMENT (the “ Agreement ”), by and between Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) and [NAME] (the “ Employee ”), is entered into effective [DATE] (the “ Effective Date ”).

The Company desires to continue to employ the Employee in the capacity of [full][part]-time [POSITION] pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and, in connection therewith, to compensate the Employee for Employee’s personal services to the Company; and

The Employee wishes to continue to be employed by the Company and provide personal services to the Company in return for certain compensation.

Accordingly, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties agree to the following:

1. E MPLOYMENT BY THE C OMPANY .

1.1      At-Will Employment . Employee shall continue to be employed by the Company on an “at-will” basis, meaning either the Company or Employee may terminate Employee’s employment at any time, with or without cause or advanced notice. Any contrary representations that may have been made to Employee shall be superseded by this Agreement. This Agreement shall constitute the full and complete agreement between Employee and the Company on the “at-will” nature of Employee’s employment with the Company, which may be changed only in an express written agreement signed by Employee and a duly authorized officer of the Company. Employee’s rights to any compensation following a termination shall be only as set forth in Section 6.

1.2      Position . Subject to the terms set forth herein, the Company agrees to continue to employ Employee, initially in the position of [POSITION] , and Employee hereby accepts such continued employment. During the term of Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will devote Employee’s best efforts and substantially all of Employee’s business time and attention to the business of the Company.

1.3      Duties . Employee will report to the [POSITION] , performing such duties as are normally associated with his then current position and such duties as are assigned to him from time to time, subject to the oversight and direction of the [POSITION] . Employee shall perform his duties under this Agreement principally out of the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts or such other location as assigned. [The parties acknowledge that Employee has relocated or will relocate to the Waltham, Massachusetts area and that any relocation reimbursements shall be in accordance with Section 2.4 herein. The parties agree that, for purposes of a resignation for Good Reason in accordance with Section 6.3 below, Employee’s “then-current principal place of employment” shall be deemed the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts, both prior to and following Employee’s relocation.] In


addition, the Employee shall make such business trips to such places as may be necessary or advisable for the efficient operations of the Company.

1.4      Company Policies and Benefits . The employment relationship between the parties shall also be subject to the Company’s personnel policies and procedures as they may be interpreted, adopted, revised or deleted from time to time in the Company’s sole discretion. The Employee will be eligible to participate on the same basis as similarly situated employees in the Company’s benefit plans in effect from time to time during his employment. All matters of eligibility for coverage or benefits under any benefit plan shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of such plan. The Company reserves the right to change, alter, or terminate any benefit plan in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the terms of this Agreement differ from or are in conflict with the Company’s general employment policies or practices, this Agreement shall control.

1.5      Paid Time Off . The Employee will be eligible to accrue up to 15 days of paid vacation per calendar year, which accrues each bi-monthly pay period. In addition, the Employee will be eligible to take up to 6 sick days per calendar year. Employee’s paid time off will be prorated for any partial year of employment.

2. C OMPENSATION .

2.1      Salary . Employee shall initially receive for Employee’s services to be rendered hereunder an initial annualized base salary of $ [AMOUNT] (“ Base Salary ”). The Base Salary is subject to review and adjustment from time to time by the Company in its sole discretion, payable subject to standard federal and state payroll withholding requirements in accordance with Company’s standard payroll practices.

2.2      Bonus .

(a)     During Employment . Employee shall be eligible to earn an annual performance bonus of up to [PERCENT] % of his Base Salary (“ Annual Bonus ”). The Annual Bonus will be based upon the Company’s assessment of the Employee’s performance and the Company’s attainment of targeted goals as set by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) in its sole discretion. The Annual Bonus, if any, will be subject to applicable payroll deductions and withholdings. Following the close of each calendar year, the Company will determine whether the Employee has earned the Annual Bonus, and the amount of any Annual Bonus, based on the set criteria. No amount of the Annual Bonus is guaranteed, and the Employee must be an employee in good standing on the Annual Bonus payment date to be eligible to receive an Annual Bonus; no partial or prorated bonuses will be provided. The Annual Bonus, if earned, will be paid no later than March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the applicable calendar year for which the Annual Bonus is being measured. The Employee’s eligibility for an Annual Bonus is subject to change in the discretion of the Board (or any authorized committee thereof).

(b)     Upon Termination . In the event Employee leaves the employ of the Company for any reason prior to payment of any bonus, he is not eligible for such bonus, prorated or otherwise.

 

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2.3     Stock Option .

(a)     Option Grant . The parties acknowledge that on [                ], the Board issued the Employee options to purchase an aggregate of [                ] shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to the Company’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (“ Plan ”) and the Company’s standard form of Stock Option Agreement (“ Stock Agreement ’) between the Employee and the Company.    The option is an incentive stock option to the extent permissible under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code and has an exercise price per share of $[                ].

(b)     Vesting . The Option vests and becomes exercisable at the rate of 25% of the total number of shares on the twelve month anniversary of [                ] (the “ Vesting Commencement Date ”) and 1/48 th of the total number of shares each month thereafter on the monthly anniversary of the Vesting Commencement Date, such that all shares shall become fully vested after four years from the Vesting Commencement Date. Vesting will depend on Employee’s continued service to the Company.

(c)     Acceleration . The Option may be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6.5(a)(y) of this Agreement.

2.4      Relocation . The Company will provide Employee with up to a $[                ] allowance to cover expenses related to Employee’s relocation, provided that such expenses must be incurred no later than [                ]. The Company will require copies of two valid relocation proposals, and reimbursement will be made upon submission of qualified relocation expense receipts. The payment or reimbursement of relocation expenses and benefits provided under this Section will be treated as taxable income to Employee and subject to tax withholding and/or deductions to the extent required by applicable law. Employee authorizes the Company to withhold from such payments and from Employee’s salary any such tax withholding and/or deductions applicable to such payments and reimbursements as required by applicable law. Should Employee resign from his position with the Company, where such resignation does not constitute a resignation for Good Reason, as defined below, on or before [                ], Employee will be responsible for reimbursing the Company for the full amount of this allowance. Should Employee resign, where such resignation does not constitute a resignation for Good Reason as defined below, between [                ]. Employee will be responsible for reimbursing the Company for half of this allowance.

2.5      Expense Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee for all reasonable, documented business expenses incurred in connection with his services hereunder, in accordance with the Company’s business expense reimbursement policies and procedures as may be in effect from time to time.

3.      P ROPRIETARY I NFORMATION , I NVENTIONS , N ON -S OLICITATION AND N ON -C OMPETITION O BLIGATIONS . The parties hereto have entered into a Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Solicitation and Non-Competition Agreement (the “ Proprietary Information Agreement ”), which may be amended by the parties from time to time without regard to this Agreement. The Proprietary Information Agreement contains provisions that are intended by the parties to survive and do survive termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

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4.      O UTSIDE A CTIVITIES . Except with the prior written consent of the Company’s Board, Employee will not, while employed by the Company, undertake or engage in any other employment, occupation or business enterprise that would interfere with Employee’s responsibilities and the performance of Employee’s duties hereunder except for (i) reasonable time devoted to volunteer services for or on behalf of such religious, educational, non-profit and/or other charitable organization as Employee may wish to serve; (ii) reasonable time devoted to activities in the non-profit and business communities consistent with Employee’s duties; and (iii) such other activities as may be specifically approved by the Board. This restriction shall not, however, preclude Employee from owning less than one percent (1%) of the total outstanding shares of a publicly traded company.

[In accordance with (iii) of this Section 4, Employee is specifically permitted to continue to serve on the Board of Directors of [                ].]

[In accordance with (iii) of this Section 4, Employee is specifically permitted to continue to work in [                ] and continue with [consulting] relationships which do not create a conflict with the Company.]

5.      N O C ONFLICT WITH E XISTING O BLIGATIONS . Employee represents that Employee’s performance of all the terms of this Agreement and as an Employee of the Company do not and will not breach any agreement or obligation of any kind made prior to Employee’s employment by the Company, including agreements or obligations Employee may have with prior employers or entities for which Employee has provided services. Employee has not entered into, and Employee agrees that Employee will not enter into, any agreement or obligation, either written or oral, in conflict herewith.

6.      T ERMINATION O F E MPLOYMENT . The parties acknowledge that Employee’s employment relationship with the Company is at-will. Either Employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without Cause. The provisions in this Section govern the amount of compensation, if any, to be provided to Employee upon termination of employment and do not alter this at-will status.

6.1      Termination by the Company Without Cause .

(a)    The Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company pursuant to this Section 6.1 at any time without “Cause” (as defined in Section 6.2(a) below) by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement. A termination pursuant to Section 6.4, 6.6, or 6.7 below is not a termination without “Cause” for purposes of receiving the benefits described in this Section 6.1.

(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated without Cause, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke a separation agreement that includes a general release substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A (the “ Release ”), and subject to Section 6.1(c) (the date that the Release becomes effective and may no longer be revoked by the Employee is referred to as the “ Release Date ”), then:

 

4


(i)     the Company shall pay to Employee an amount equal to [                ] months’ of Employee’s then current Base Salary, less applicable withholdings and deductions (the “ Severance Payment ”), in installments in accordance with the Company’s ordinary payroll practices commencing on the Company’s first regular payroll date that is more than sixty (60) days following the Separation Date (as defined below), provided that the first payment shall be for any accrued Base Salary for the sixty (60) day period plus the period from the sixtieth (60 th ) day until the regular payroll date, if applicable, and all salary continuation payments thereafter, if any, shall be made on the Company’s regular payroll dates;

(ii)    if the Employee timely elects continued coverage under COBRA for himself and his covered dependents under the Company’s group health plans following such termination, then the Employee will be entitled to the following COBRA benefits (the “ COBRA Benefits ,” together with the Severance Payment, the “ Severance Benefits ) : the Company shall pay the COBRA premiums necessary to continue the Employee’s and his covered dependents’ health insurance coverage in effect for himself (and his covered dependents) on the termination date until the earliest of (x) [                ] months following the termination date (the “ COBRA Severance Period ”); (y) the date when the Employee becomes eligible for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment; or (iii) the date the Employee ceases to be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage for any reason, including plan termination (such period from the termination date through the earlier of (i)-(iii), the “ COBRA Payment Period ”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time the Company determines that its payment of COBRA premiums on the Employee’s behalf would result in a violation of applicable law (including but not limited to the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the 2010 Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act), then in lieu of paying COBRA premiums pursuant to this Section, the Company shall pay the Employee on the last day of each remaining month of the COBRA Payment Period, a fully taxable cash payment equal to the COBRA premium for such month, subject to applicable tax withholding (such amount, the “ Special Severance Payment ”), such Special Severance Payment to be made without regard to the Employee’s payment of COBRA premiums and without regard to the expiration of the COBRA period prior to the end of the COBRA Payment Period. Nothing in this Agreement shall deprive the Employee of his rights under COBRA or ERISA for benefits under plans and policies arising under his employment by the Company.

(c)    Employee shall not receive the Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) unless he executes the Release within the consideration period specified therein, which shall in no event be more than sixty (60) days, and until the Release becomes effective and can no longer be revoked by Employee under its terms. Employee’s ability to receive benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) is further conditioned upon his: returning all Company property; complying with his post-termination obligations under this Agreement and the Proprietary Information Agreement; and complying with the Release including without limitation any non-disparagement and confidentiality provisions contained therein.

(d) The benefits provided to Employee pursuant to this Section 6.1 are in lieu of, and not in addition to, any benefits to which Employee may otherwise be entitled under any Company severance plan, policy or program.

 

5


(e)     The damages caused by the termination of Employee’s employment without Cause would be difficult to ascertain; therefore, the Severance Benefits for which Employee is eligible pursuant to Section 6.1(b) above in exchange for the Release are agreed to by the parties as liquidated damages, to serve as full compensation, and not a penalty.

6.2      Termination by the Company for Cause .

Subject to Section 6.2(b) below, the Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement.

(a)    “ Cause ” means (i) any material breach of this Agreement, the Proprietary Information Agreement between the Employee and the Company, or any other written agreement between Employee and the Company, if such breach causes material harm to the Company or reasonably threatens to cause such harm; (ii) any material failure to comply with the Company’s written policies or rules, as they may be in effect from time to time during Employee’s employment, if such failure causes material harm to the Company, and to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; (iii) commission, conviction of, or a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to, a felony under the laws of the United States or any State; (iv) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act having the effect of materially injuring (whether financially or otherwise) the business or reputation of the Company, which to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; or (v) willful misconduct with respect to any of Employee’s material duties or obligations under this Agreement, including, without limitation, willful insubordination with respect to reasonable directions from the Company or the Board which, to the extent it is curable is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company.

(b)     In the event Employee’s employment is terminated at any time for Cause, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b), or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.3      Resignation by the Employee With Good Reason .

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company for Good Reason by giving notice following the end of the Cure Period (as defined in this Section). For purposes of this Agreement, “ Good Reason ” for the Employee to terminate his employment hereunder shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events without the Employee’s consent: (i) a material reduction in the Employee’s Base Salary (other than an across-the-board decrease in base salary applicable to all executive officers of the Company); (ii) a material breach of this Agreement by the Company; (iii) a material reduction in the Employee’s duties, authority and responsibilities relative to the Employee’s duties, authority, and

 

6


responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction; or (iv) the relocation of the Employee’s then-principal place of employment, without the Employee’s consent, in a manner that lengthens his one-way commute distance by fifty (50) or more miles from his then-current principal place of employment immediately prior to such relocation; provided, however, that, any such termination by the Employee shall only be deemed for Good Reason pursuant to this definition if: (1) the Employee gives the Company written notice of his intent to terminate for Good Reason within thirty (30) days following the first occurrence of the condition(s) that he believes constitute(s) Good Reason, which notice shall describe such condition(s); (2) the Company fails to remedy such condition(s) within thirty (30) days following receipt of the written notice (the “ Cure Period ”); and (3) the Employee voluntarily terminates his employment within thirty (30) days following the end of the Cure Period.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from employment for Good Reason, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke the Release and subject to Section 6.1(c), then the Company shall pay to Employee the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b).

6.4      Resignation by the Employee Without Good Reason .

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company at any time by giving notice as described in Section 6.8.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of resignation, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee through the date of resignation under any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement during such period and Employee shall be eligible for any benefit continuation or conversion rights provided by the provisions of a benefit plan or by law.

6.5      Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control .

(a)    If Employee’s employment by the Company is terminated by the Company (or its successor or parent) without Cause (and not due to Disability or death) or by Employee for Good Reason within [                ] months before or within [                ] months immediately following a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan), that constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), then: (x) the Company shall pay or provide Employee with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b) except that the Severance Payment described in Section 6.1(b)(i) shall be paid to Employee in a lump sum, on the first payroll date of the Company that is at least sixty (60) days following the Separation Date; and (y) the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated (and lapse, in the case of reacquisition or repurchase rights) in full, provided that Employee executes and does not revoke the Release. Nothing in this Section prohibits the Company or a successor

 

7


organization (or its parent) from causing such equity awards to earlier terminate pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity plan or award agreements in connection with a Change in Control, merger, acquisition or other similar corporate transaction where such equity awards will terminate and not be assumed by the successor or acquiring entity.

6.6      Termination by Virtue of Death or Disability of the Employee .

(a)    In the event of Employee’s death while employed pursuant to this Agreement, all obligations of the parties hereunder shall terminate immediately, and the Company shall, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, pay to the Employee’s legal representatives Employee’s accrued but unpaid salary through the date of death together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

(b)    Subject to applicable state and federal law, the Company shall at all times have the right, upon written notice to the Employee, to terminate this Agreement based on the Employee’s Disability (as defined below). Termination by the Company of the Employee’s employment based on “ Disability ” shall mean termination because the Employee is unable due to a physical or mental condition to perform the essential functions of his position with or without reasonable accommodation for [                ] months in the aggregate during any [                ] month period or based on the written certification by two licensed physicians of the likely continuation of such condition for such period. This definition shall be interpreted and applied consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and other applicable law. In the event Employee’s employment is terminated based on the Employee’s Disability, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.7      Termination Due to Discontinuance of Business . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in the event the Company’s business is discontinued because rendered impracticable by substantial financial losses, lack of funding, legal decisions, administrative rulings, declaration of war, dissolution, national or local economic depression or crisis or any reasons beyond the control of the Company, then this Agreement shall terminate as of the day the Company determines to cease operation with the same force and effect as if such day of the month were originally set as the termination date hereof. In the event this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 6.7, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.8      Notice; Effective Date of Termination .

 

8


(a)    Termination of Employee’s employment (the “ Separation Date ”) pursuant to this Agreement shall be effective on the earliest of:

(i)    immediately after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination, with or without Cause;

(ii)    immediately upon the Employee’s death;

(iii)    ten (10) days after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination on account of Employee’s Disability, unless the Company specifies a later Separation Date, in which case, termination shall be effective as of such later Separation Date, provided that Employee has not returned to the full time performance of Employee’s duties prior to such date;

(iv)    immediately upon written notice by the Employee of his resignation for Good Reason within thirty (30) days after the Cure Period has ended and the Company has failed to remedy any of the reasons for Good Reason resignation pursuant to Section 6.3(a); or

(v)    ten (10) days after the Employee gives written notice to the Company of Employee’s resignation, provided that the Company may set a Separation Date at any time between the date of notice and the date of resignation, in which case the Employee’s resignation shall be effective as of such other date. Employee will receive compensation through any required notice period.

(b)    In the event notice of a termination under subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) is given orally, at the other party’s request, the party giving notice must provide written confirmation of such notice within five (5) business days of the request in compliance with the requirement of Section 7.1 below. In the event of a termination for Cause, written confirmation shall specify the subsection(s) of the definition of Cause relied on to support the decision to terminate.

6.9      Cooperation With Company After Termination of Employment . Following termination of Employee’s employment for any reason, Employee shall reasonably cooperate with the Company in all matters relating to the winding up of Employee’s pending work including, but not limited to, any litigation in which the Company is involved, and the orderly transfer of any such pending work to such other employees as may be designated by the Company.

6.10      Effect of Termination . The Employee agrees that should the Employee’s employment be terminated for any reason, the Employee shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all positions with the Company and its subsidiaries.

6.11      Application of Section  409A . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, any payments and benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“ Code ”) and the regulations and other guidance thereunder and any state law of similar effect (collectively, “ Section  409A ”) shall not commence in connection with

 

9


Employee’s termination of employment unless and until Employee has also incurred a “separation from service” (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h) (“ Separation From Service ”), unless the Company reasonably determines that such amounts may be provided to Employee without causing Employee to incur the additional 20% tax under Section 409A. It is intended that each installment of severance pay provided for in this Agreement is a separate “payment” for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-2(b)(2)(i). For the avoidance of doubt, it is intended that severance payments set forth in this Agreement satisfy, to the greatest extent possible, the exceptions from the application of Section 409A provided under Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-1(b)(4), 1.409A-1(b)(5), and 1.409A-1(b)(9). If the Company (or, if applicable, the successor entity thereto) determines that any payments or benefits constitute “deferred compensation” under Section 409A and Employee is, on the termination of service, a “specified employee” of the Company or any successor entity thereto, as such term is defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, then, solely to the extent necessary to avoid the incurrence of the adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A, the timing of the payments and benefits shall be delayed until the earlier to occur of: (a) the date that is [    ] months and one day after Employee’s Separation From Service, or (b) the date of Employee’s death (such applicable date, the “ Specified Employee Initial Payment Date ”). On the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date, the Company (or the successor entity thereto, as applicable) shall (i) pay to Employee a lump sum amount equal to the sum of the payments and benefits that Employee would otherwise have received through the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date if the commencement of the payment of such amounts had not been so delayed pursuant to this Section and (ii) commence paying the balance of the payments and benefits in accordance with the applicable payment schedules set forth in this Agreement. All reimbursements provided under this Agreement shall be subject to the following requirements: (i) the amount of in-kind benefits provided or reimbursable expenses incurred in one taxable year shall not affect the in-kind benefits to be provided or the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other taxable year, (ii) all reimbursements shall be paid as soon as administratively practicable, but in no event shall any reimbursement be paid after the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred, and (iii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits is not subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit. It is intended that all payments and benefits under this Agreement shall either comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A, and any ambiguity contained herein shall be interpreted in such manner so as to avoid adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall in no event be obligated to indemnify the Employee for any taxes or interest that may be assessed by the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to Section 409A of the Code to payments made pursuant to this Agreement.

7.      G ENERAL P ROVISIONS .

7.1      Notices . Any notices required hereunder to be in writing shall be deemed effectively given: (a) upon personal delivery to the party to be notified, (b) when sent by electronic mail, telex or confirmed facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not, then on the next business day, (c) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (d) one (1) day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the Company at its primary office location and to Employee at Employee’s address as listed on the Company payroll, or at such

 

10


other address as the Company or the Employee may designate by ten (10) days advance written notice to the other.

7.2      Severability . Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions had never been contained herein.

7.3      Waiver . If either party should waive any breach of any provisions of this Agreement, Employee or it shall not thereby be deemed to have waived any preceding or succeeding breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

7.4      Complete Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Employee and the Company with regard to the subject matter hereof. This Agreement is the complete, final, and exclusive embodiment of their agreement with regard to this subject matter and supersedes any prior oral discussions or written communications and agreements, including the Offer Letter dated [DATE] . This Agreement is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation other than those expressly contained herein, and it cannot be modified or amended except in writing signed by Employee and an authorized officer of the Company. The parties have entered into a separate Proprietary Information Agreement and have or may enter into separate agreements related to stock awards. These separate agreements govern other aspects of the relationship between the parties, have or may have provisions that survive termination of the Employee’s employment under this Agreement, may be amended or superseded by the parties without regard to this Agreement and are enforceable according to their terms without regard to the enforcement provision of this Agreement.

7.5      Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, any one of which need not contain signatures of more than one party, but all of which taken together will constitute one and the same Agreement.

7.6      Headings . The headings of the sections hereof are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part hereof nor to affect the meaning thereof.

7.7      Successors and Assigns . The Company shall assign this Agreement and its rights and obligations hereunder in whole, but not in part, to any Company or other entity with or into which the Company may hereafter merge or consolidate or to which the Company may transfer all or substantially all of its assets, if in any such case said Company or other entity shall by operation of law or expressly in writing assume all obligations of the Company hereunder as fully as if it had been originally made a party hereto, but may not otherwise assign this Agreement or its rights and obligations hereunder. The Employee may not assign or transfer this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder, other than to his estate upon his death.

 

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7.8      Choice of Law . All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement will be governed by the law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

7.9      Indemnification . The Employee shall be entitled to indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Company’s Bylaws with terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company executive officer or director and subject to the terms of any separate written indemnification agreement. At all times during the Employee’s employment, the Company shall maintain in effect a directors and officers liability insurance policy with the Employee as a covered officer.

7.10     Resolution of Disputes . The parties recognize that litigation in federal or state courts or before federal or state administrative agencies of disputes arising out of the Employee’s employment with the Company or out of this Agreement, or the Employee’s termination of employment or termination of this Agreement, may not be in the best interests of either the Employee or the Company, and may result in unnecessary costs, delays, complexities, and uncertainty. The parties agree that any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to the negotiation, execution, performance or termination of this Agreement or the Employee’s employment, including, but not limited to, any claim arising out of this Agreement, claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1966, as amended, the Family Medical Leave Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, and any similar federal, state or local law, statute, regulation, or any common law doctrine, whether that dispute arises during or after employment, shall be settled by binding arbitration conducted before a single arbitrator by Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“ JAMS ”) or its successor, under the then applicable JAMS rules; provided however, that this dispute resolution provision shall not apply to any separate agreements between the parties that do not themselves specify arbitration as an exclusive remedy. The location for the arbitration shall be the Boston, Massachusetts metropolitan area. Any award made by such panel shall be final, binding and conclusive on the parties for all purposes, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators’ fees and expenses and all administrative fees and expenses associated with the filing of the arbitration shall be borne by the Company; provided however , that at the Employee’s option, Employee may voluntarily pay up to one-half the costs and fees. The parties acknowledge and agree that their obligations to arbitrate under this Section survive the termination of this Agreement and continue after the termination of the employment relationship between Employee and the Company. The parties each further agree that the arbitration provisions of this Agreement shall provide each party with its exclusive remedy, and each party expressly waives any right it might have to seek redress in any other forum, except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement. By electing arbitration as the means for final settlement of all claims, the parties hereby waive their respective rights to, and agree not to, sue each other in any action in a Federal, State or local court with respect to such claims, but may seek to enforce in court an arbitration award rendered pursuant to this Agreement. The parties specifically agree to waive their respective rights to a trial by jury, and further agree that no demand, request or motion will be made for trial by jury.

 

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I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the parties have executed this Employment Agreement on the day and year first written above.

 

AVEDRO, INC.
By:    

 

 

Employee:
 

 

[NAME]

 

 

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Exhibit A

Release Agreement

This Release Agreement (“ Release ” or “ Agreement ”) is made by and between [NAME] (“you”) and Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”). A copy of this Release is an attachment to the Employment Agreement between the Company and you dated __________ _____, 20__ (the “ Employment Agreement ”). Capitalized terms not defined in this Agreement carry the definition found in the Employment Agreement.

1.      Severance Payments. In consideration for your execution, return and non-revocation of this Release on or after your Separation Date, the Company will provide you with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6 of the Employment Agreement.

2.      Compliance with Section  409A. The Severance Benefits offered to you by the Company are payable in reliance on Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9) and the short term deferral exemption in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(4). For purposes of Code Section 409A, your right to receive any installment payments (whether pay in lieu of notice, Severance Benefits, reimbursements or otherwise) shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate payments and, accordingly, each installment payment shall at all times be considered a separate and distinct payment. All payments and benefits are subject to applicable withholdings and deductions.

3.      Release . In exchange for the Severance Benefits and other consideration, to which you would not otherwise be entitled, and except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, you, on behalf of yourself and, to the extent permitted by law, on behalf of your spouse, heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, insurers, attorneys and other persons or entities, acting or purporting to act on your behalf (collectively, the “ Employee Parties ”), hereby generally and completely release, acquit and forever discharge the Company, its parents and subsidiaries, and its and their officers, directors, managers, partners, agents, representatives, employees, attorneys, shareholders, predecessors, successors, assigns, insurers and affiliates (the “ Company Parties ”) of and from any and all claims, liabilities, demands, contentions, actions, causes of action, suits, costs, expenses, attorneys’ fees, damages, indemnities, debts, judgments, levies, executions and obligations of every kind and nature, in law, equity, or otherwise, both known and unknown, suspected and unsuspected, disclosed and undisclosed, arising out of or in any way related to agreements, events, acts or conduct at any time prior to and including the execution date of this Agreement, including but not limited to: all such claims and demands directly or indirectly arising out of or in any way connected with your employment with the Company or the termination of that employment; claims or demands related to salary, bonuses, commissions, stock, stock options, or any other ownership interests in the Company, vacation pay, fringe benefits, expense reimbursements, severance pay, or any other form of compensation; claims pursuant to any federal, state or local law, statute, or cause of action; tort law; or contract law (individually a “ Claim ” and collectively “ Claims ”). The Claims you are releasing and waiving in this Agreement include, but are not limited to, any and all Claims that any of the Company Parties:

 

   

has violated its personnel policies, handbooks, contracts of employment, or covenants of good faith and fair dealing;

 

   

has discriminated against you on the basis of age, race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), national origin, ancestry, disability, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, source of income, entitlement to benefits, any union activities or other protected category in violation of any local, state or federal law, constitution, ordinance, or regulation, including but not limited to: the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, as amended (“ ADEA ”); Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; the Civil Rights Act of 1991; 42 U.S.C. § 1981, as amended; the Equal Pay Act; the Americans With Disabilities Act; the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act; the Family and Medical Leave Act; the Massachusetts Wage Act and the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practice Act; [                ] the Employee Retirement Income Security Act; the Employee Polygraph Protection Act; the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act; the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act; the anti-retaliation provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or any other federal or state law regarding whistleblower


 

retaliation; the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act; the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act; the Fair Credit Reporting Act; and the National Labor Relations Act; and

 

   

has violated any statute, public policy or common law (including, but not limited to, Claims for retaliatory discharge; negligent hiring, retention or supervision; defamation; intentional or negligent infliction of emotional distress and/or mental anguish; intentional interference with contract; negligence; detrimental reliance; loss of consortium to you or any member of your family and/or promissory estoppel).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, other than events expressly contemplated by this Agreement you do not waive or release rights or Claims that may arise from events that occur after the date this Release is executed. Also excluded from this Agreement are any Claims which cannot be waived by law, including, without limitation, any rights you may have under applicable workers’ compensation laws. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent you from filing, cooperating with, or participating in any proceeding or investigation before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other federal government agency, or similar state or local agency (“ Government Agencies ”), or exercising any rights pursuant to Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act. You further understand this Agreement does not limit your ability to voluntarily communicate with any Government Agencies or otherwise participate in any investigation or proceeding that may be conducted by any Government Agency, including providing documents or other information, without notice to the Company. While this Agreement does not limit your right to receive an award for information provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission, you understand and agree that, you are otherwise waiving, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any and all rights you may have to individual relief based on any Claims that you have released and any rights you have waived by signing this Agreement. If any Claim is not subject to release, to the extent permitted by law, you waive any right or ability to be a class or collective action representative or to otherwise participate in any putative or certified class, collective or multi-party action or proceeding based on such a Claim in which any of the Company Parties is a party. This Agreement does not abrogate your existing rights under any Company benefit plan or any plan or agreement related to equity ownership in the Company; however, it does waive, release and forever discharge Claims existing as of the date you execute this Agreement pursuant to any such plan or agreement.

4.      Your Acknowledgments and Affirmations . You also acknowledge and agree that (i) the consideration given to you in exchange for the waiver and release in this Agreement is in addition to anything of value to which you were already entitled, and (ii) that you have been paid for all time worked, have received all the leave, leaves of absence and leave benefits and protections for which you are eligible, and have not suffered any on-the-job injury for which you have not already filed a Claim. You affirm that all of the decisions of the Company Parties regarding your pay and benefits through the date of your execution of this Agreement were not discriminatory based on age, disability, race, color, sex, religion, national origin or any other classification protected by law. You affirm that you have not filed or caused to be filed, and are not presently a party to, a Claim against any of the Company Parties. You further affirm that you have no known workplace injuries or occupational diseases. You acknowledge and affirm that you have not been retaliated against for reporting any allegation of corporate fraud or other wrongdoing by any of the Company Parties, or for exercising any rights protected by law, including any rights protected by the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family Medical Leave Act or any related statute or local leave or disability accommodation laws, or any applicable state workers’ compensation law. In addition, you acknowledge that you are knowingly and voluntarily waiving and releasing any rights you may have under the ADEA (“ ADEA Waiver ”). You also acknowledge that the consideration given for the ADEA Waiver is in addition to anything of value to which you were already entitled. You further acknowledge that you have been advised by this writing, as required by the ADEA, that: (a) your release and waiver herein does not apply to any rights or claims that arise after the date you sign this Agreement; (b) you should consult with an attorney prior to signing this Agreement; (c) you have twenty-one (21) days to consider this Agreement (although you may choose to voluntarily sign it sooner); (d) you have seven (7) days following the date you sign this Agreement to revoke it (by sending written revocation directly to [name/title] ; and (e) the Agreement will not be effective until the date upon which the revocation period has expired unexercised, which will be the eighth (8 th ) day after you sign this Agreement.

5.      Return of Company Property. By the Separation Date, you agree to return to the Company all Company documents (and all copies thereof) and other Company property that you have had in your possession at

 

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any time, including, but not limited to, Company files, notes, drawings, records, business plans and forecasts, financial information, specifications, computer-recorded information, tangible property (including, but not limited to, computers), credit cards, entry cards, identification badges and keys; and, any materials of any kind that contain or embody any proprietary or confidential information of the Company (and all reproductions thereof). Please coordinate return of Company property with [name/title] . Receipt of the Severance Benefits described in Section  1 of this Agreement is expressly conditioned upon return of all Company property.

6.      Confidential Information, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Obligations . Both during and after your employment you acknowledge your continuing obligations under your Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement not to use or disclose any confidential or proprietary information of the Company and comply with your post-employment non-competition and non-solicitation restrictions. The Company acknowledges that you will not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. In addition, in the event that you file a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, you may disclose the trade secret to your attorney and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if you: (A) file any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) do not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order.

7.      Confidentiality . The provisions of this Agreement will be held in strictest confidence by you and will not be publicized or disclosed in any manner whatsoever; provided, however , that: (a) you may disclose this Agreement to your immediate family; (b) you may disclose this Agreement in confidence to your attorney, accountant, auditor, tax preparer, and financial advisor; and (c) you may disclose this Agreement insofar as such disclosure may be required by law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall limit your right to discuss your employment with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, other federal government agency or similar state or local agency or to discuss the terms and conditions of your employment with others to the extent expressly permitted by Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act.

8.      Non-Disparagement . You agree not to disparage the Company, and the Company’s attorneys, directors, managers, partners, employees, agents and affiliates, in any manner likely to be harmful to them or their business, business reputation or personal reputation; provided that you will respond accurately and fully to any question, inquiry or request for information when required by legal process. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall limit your right to voluntarily communicate with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, other federal government agency or similar state or local agency or to discuss the terms and conditions of your employment with others to the extent expressly permitted by Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act.

9.      No Admission . This Agreement does not constitute an admission by the Company of any wrongful action or violation of any federal, state, or local statute, or common law rights, including those relating to the provisions of any law or statute concerning employment actions, or of any other possible or claimed violation of law or rights.

10.      Breach . You agree that upon any breach of this Agreement you will forfeit all amounts paid or owing to you under this Agreement. Further, you acknowledge that it may be impossible to assess the damages caused by your violation of the terms of Sections 5, 6, 7 and 8 of this Agreement and further agree that any threatened or actual violation or breach of those Sections of this Agreement will constitute immediate and irreparable injury to the Company. You therefore agree that any such breach of this Agreement is a material breach of this Agreement, and, in addition to any and all other damages and remedies available to the Company upon your breach of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to an injunction to prevent you from violating or breaching this Agreement. You agree that if the Company is successful in whole or in part in any legal or equitable action against you under this Agreement, you agree to pay all of the costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by the Company in enforcing the terms of this Agreement.

 

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11.      Miscellaneous . This Agreement constitutes the complete, final and exclusive embodiment of the entire agreement between you and the Company with regard to this subject matter. It is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation, written or oral, other than those expressly contained herein, and it supersedes any other such promises, warranties or representations. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except in a writing signed by both you and a duly authorized officer of the Company. This Agreement will bind the heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns of both you and the Company, and inure to the benefit of both you and the Company, their heirs, successors and assigns. If any provision of this Agreement is determined to be invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, this determination will not affect any other provision of this Agreement and the provision in question will be modified by the court so as to be rendered enforceable. This Agreement will be deemed to have been entered into and will be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as applied to contracts made and to be performed entirely within Massachusetts.

 

A VEDRO , I NC .
By:    
 

Name:

Title:

   
  [NAME]

 

 

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Exhibit 10.12

FORM OF AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This E MPLOYMENT A GREEMENT (the “ Agreement ”), by and between Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”) and [NAME] (the “ Employee ”), is effective as of the date the Company consummates an initial public offering (the “ Effective Date ”).

The Company desires to continue to employ the Employee in the capacity of [full][part]-time [POSITION] pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and, in connection therewith, to compensate the Employee for Employee’s personal services to the Company; and

The Employee wishes to continue to be employed by the Company and provide personal services to the Company in return for certain compensation.

Accordingly, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties agree to the following:

1. E MPLOYMENT BY THE C OMPANY .

1.1      At-Will Employment . Employee shall continue to be employed by the Company on an “at-will” basis, meaning either the Company or Employee may terminate Employee’s employment at any time, with or without cause or advanced notice. Any contrary representations that may have been made to Employee shall be superseded by this Agreement. This Agreement shall constitute the full and complete agreement between Employee and the Company on the “at-will” nature of Employee’s employment with the Company, which may be changed only in an express written agreement signed by Employee and a duly authorized officer of the Company. Employee’s rights to any compensation following a termination shall be only as set forth in Section 6.

1.2      Position . Subject to the terms set forth herein, the Company agrees to continue to employ Employee, initially in the position of [POSITION] , and Employee hereby accepts such continued employment. During the term of Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will devote Employee’s best efforts and substantially all of Employee’s business time and attention to the business of the Company.

1.3      Duties . Employee will report to the [POSITION] , performing such duties as are normally associated with his then current position and such duties as are assigned to him from time to time, subject to the oversight and direction of the [POSITION] . Employee shall perform his duties under this Agreement principally out of the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts or such other location as assigned. [The parties acknowledge that Employee has relocated or will relocate to the Waltham, Massachusetts area and that any relocation reimbursements shall be in accordance with Section 2.4 herein. The parties agree that, for purposes of a resignation for Good Reason in accordance with Section 6.3 below, Employee’s “then-current principal place of employment” shall be deemed the Company’s corporate headquarters in Massachusetts, both prior to and following Employee’s relocation.] In


addition, the Employee shall make such business trips to such places as may be necessary or advisable for the efficient operations of the Company.

1.4      Company Policies and Benefits . The employment relationship between the parties shall also be subject to the Company’s personnel policies and procedures as they may be interpreted, adopted, revised or deleted from time to time in the Company’s sole discretion. The Employee will be eligible to participate on the same basis as similarly situated employees in the Company’s benefit plans in effect from time to time during his employment. All matters of eligibility for coverage or benefits under any benefit plan shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of such plan. The Company reserves the right to change, alter, or terminate any benefit plan in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that the terms of this Agreement differ from or are in conflict with the Company’s general employment policies or practices, this Agreement shall control.

1.5      Paid Time Off . The Employee will be eligible to accrue up to 16 days of paid vacation and 4 personal days per calendar year, which accrues each bi-monthly pay period. In addition, the Employee will be eligible to take up to 6 sick days per calendar year. Employee’s paid time off will be prorated for any partial year of employment.

2. C OMPENSATION .

2.1      Salary . Employee shall initially receive for Employee’s services to be rendered hereunder an initial annualized base salary of $ [AMOUNT] (“ Base Salary ”). The Base Salary is subject to review and adjustment from time to time by the Company in its sole discretion, payable subject to standard federal and state payroll withholding requirements in accordance with Company’s standard payroll practices.

2.2      Bonus .

(a)     During Employment . Employee shall be eligible to earn an annual performance bonus of up to [PERCENT] % of his Base Salary (“ Annual Bonus ”). The Annual Bonus will be based upon the Company’s assessment of the Employee’s performance and the Company’s attainment of targeted goals as set by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) in its sole discretion. The Annual Bonus, if any, will be subject to applicable payroll deductions and withholdings. Following the close of each calendar year, the Company will determine whether the Employee has earned the Annual Bonus, and the amount of any Annual Bonus, based on the set criteria. No amount of the Annual Bonus is guaranteed, and the Employee must be an employee in good standing on the Annual Bonus payment date to be eligible to receive an Annual Bonus; no partial or prorated bonuses will be provided. The Annual Bonus, if earned, will be paid no later than March 15 of the calendar year immediately following the applicable calendar year for which the Annual Bonus is being measured. The Employee’s eligibility for an Annual Bonus is subject to change in the discretion of the Board (or any authorized committee thereof).

(b)     Upon Termination . In the event Employee leaves the employ of the Company for any reason prior to payment of any bonus, he is not eligible for such bonus, prorated or otherwise.

 

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2.3     Stock Option .

(a)     Option Grant . The parties acknowledge that on [                ], the Board issued the Employee options to purchase an aggregate of [                ] shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to the Company’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (“ Plan ”) and the Company’s standard form of Stock Option Agreement (“ Stock Agreement ’) between the Employee and the Company.    The option is an incentive stock option to the extent permissible under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code and has an exercise price per share of $[                ].

(b)     Vesting . The Option vests and becomes exercisable at the rate of 25% of the total number of shares on the twelve month anniversary of [                ] (the “ Vesting Commencement Date ”) and 1/48 th of the total number of shares each month thereafter on the monthly anniversary of the Vesting Commencement Date, such that all shares shall become fully vested after four years from the Vesting Commencement Date. Vesting will depend on Employee’s continued service to the Company.

(c)     Acceleration . The Option may be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6.5(a)(y) of this Agreement.

2.4      Relocation . The Company will provide Employee with up to a $[                ] allowance to cover expenses related to Employee’s relocation, provided that such expenses must be incurred no later than [                ]. The Company will require copies of two valid relocation proposals, and reimbursement will be made upon submission of qualified relocation expense receipts. The payment or reimbursement of relocation expenses and benefits provided under this Section will be treated as taxable income to Employee and subject to tax withholding and/or deductions to the extent required by applicable law. Employee authorizes the Company to withhold from such payments and from Employee’s salary any such tax withholding and/or deductions applicable to such payments and reimbursements as required by applicable law. Should Employee resign from his position with the Company, where such resignation does not constitute a resignation for Good Reason, as defined below, on or before [                ], Employee will be responsible for reimbursing the Company for the full amount of this allowance. Should Employee resign, where such resignation does not constitute a resignation for Good Reason as defined below, between [                ]. Employee will be responsible for reimbursing the Company for half of this allowance.

2.5      Expense Reimbursement . The Company will reimburse Employee for all reasonable, documented business expenses incurred in connection with his services hereunder, in accordance with the Company’s business expense reimbursement policies and procedures as may be in effect from time to time.

3.      P ROPRIETARY I NFORMATION , I NVENTIONS , N ON -S OLICITATION AND N ON -C OMPETITION O BLIGATIONS . The parties hereto have entered into a Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Solicitation and Non-Competition Agreement (the “ Proprietary Information Agreement ”), which may be amended by the parties from time to time without regard to this Agreement. The Proprietary Information Agreement contains provisions that are intended by the parties to survive and do survive termination or expiration of this Agreement.

 

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4.      O UTSIDE A CTIVITIES . Except with the prior written consent of the Company’s Board, Employee will not, while employed by the Company, undertake or engage in any other employment, occupation or business enterprise that would interfere with Employee’s responsibilities and the performance of Employee’s duties hereunder except for (i) reasonable time devoted to volunteer services for or on behalf of such religious, educational, non-profit and/or other charitable organization as Employee may wish to serve; (ii) reasonable time devoted to activities in the non-profit and business communities consistent with Employee’s duties; and (iii) such other activities as may be specifically approved by the Board. This restriction shall not, however, preclude Employee from owning less than one percent (1%) of the total outstanding shares of a publicly traded company.

[In accordance with (iii) of this Section 4, Employee is specifically permitted to continue to serve on the Board of Directors of [                ].]

[In accordance with (iii) of this Section 4, Employee is specifically permitted to continue to work in [                ] and continue with [consulting] relationships which do not create a conflict with the Company.]

5.      N O C ONFLICT WITH E XISTING O BLIGATIONS . Employee represents that Employee’s performance of all the terms of this Agreement and as an Employee of the Company do not and will not breach any agreement or obligation of any kind made prior to Employee’s employment by the Company, including agreements or obligations Employee may have with prior employers or entities for which Employee has provided services. Employee has not entered into, and Employee agrees that Employee will not enter into, any agreement or obligation, either written or oral, in conflict herewith.

6.      T ERMINATION O F E MPLOYMENT . The parties acknowledge that Employee’s employment relationship with the Company is at-will. Either Employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without Cause. The provisions in this Section govern the amount of compensation, if any, to be provided to Employee upon termination of employment and do not alter this at-will status.

6.1      Termination by the Company Without Cause .

(a)    The Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company pursuant to this Section 6.1 at any time without “Cause” (as defined in Section 6.2(a) below) by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement. A termination pursuant to Section 6.4, 6.6, or 6.7 below is not a termination without “Cause” for purposes of receiving the benefits described in this Section 6.1.

(b)    In the event Employee’s employment is terminated without Cause, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke a separation agreement that includes a general release substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A (the “ Release ”), and subject to Section 6.1(c) (the date that the Release becomes effective and may no longer be revoked by the Employee is referred to as the “ Release Date ”), then:

 

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(i)     the Company shall pay to Employee an amount equal to [                ] months’ of Employee’s then current Base Salary, less applicable withholdings and deductions (the “ Severance Payment ”), in installments in accordance with the Company’s ordinary payroll practices commencing on the Company’s first regular payroll date that is more than sixty (60) days following the Separation Date (as defined below), provided that the first payment shall be for any accrued Base Salary for the sixty (60) day period plus the period from the sixtieth (60 th ) day until the regular payroll date, if applicable, and all salary continuation payments thereafter, if any, shall be made on the Company’s regular payroll dates;

(ii)    if the Employee timely elects continued coverage under COBRA for himself and his covered dependents under the Company’s group health plans following such termination, then the Employee will be entitled to the following COBRA benefits (the “ COBRA Benefits ,” together with the Severance Payment, the “ Severance Benefits ) : the Company shall pay the COBRA premiums necessary to continue the Employee’s and his covered dependents’ health insurance coverage in effect for himself (and his covered dependents) on the termination date until the earliest of (x) [                ] months following the termination date (the “ COBRA Severance Period ”); (y) the date when the Employee becomes eligible for health insurance coverage in connection with new employment or self-employment; or (iii) the date the Employee ceases to be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage for any reason, including plan termination (such period from the termination date through the earlier of (i)-(iii), the “ COBRA Payment Period ”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time the Company determines that its payment of COBRA premiums on the Employee’s behalf would result in a violation of applicable law (including but not limited to the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the 2010 Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act), then in lieu of paying COBRA premiums pursuant to this Section, the Company shall pay the Employee on the last day of each remaining month of the COBRA Payment Period, a fully taxable cash payment equal to the COBRA premium for such month, subject to applicable tax withholding (such amount, the “ Special Severance Payment ”), such Special Severance Payment to be made without regard to the Employee’s payment of COBRA premiums and without regard to the expiration of the COBRA period prior to the end of the COBRA Payment Period. Nothing in this Agreement shall deprive the Employee of his rights under COBRA or ERISA for benefits under plans and policies arising under his employment by the Company.

(c)    Employee shall not receive the Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) unless he executes the Release within the consideration period specified therein, which shall in no event be more than sixty (60) days, and until the Release becomes effective and can no longer be revoked by Employee under its terms. Employee’s ability to receive benefits pursuant to Section 6.1(b) is further conditioned upon his: returning all Company property; complying with his post-termination obligations under this Agreement and the Proprietary Information Agreement; and complying with the Release including without limitation any non-disparagement and confidentiality provisions contained therein.

(d) The benefits provided to Employee pursuant to this Section 6.1 are in lieu of, and not in addition to, any benefits to which Employee may otherwise be entitled under any Company severance plan, policy or program.

 

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(e)     The damages caused by the termination of Employee’s employment without Cause would be difficult to ascertain; therefore, the Severance Benefits for which Employee is eligible pursuant to Section 6.1(b) above in exchange for the Release are agreed to by the parties as liquidated damages, to serve as full compensation, and not a penalty.

6.2      Termination by the Company for Cause .

Subject to Section 6.2(b) below, the Company shall have the right to terminate Employee’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause by giving notice as described in Section 6.8 of this Agreement.

(a)    “ Cause ” means (i) any material breach of this Agreement, the Proprietary Information Agreement between the Employee and the Company, or any other written agreement between Employee and the Company, if such breach causes material harm to the Company or reasonably threatens to cause such harm; (ii) any material failure to comply with the Company’s written policies or rules, as they may be in effect from time to time during Employee’s employment, if such failure causes material harm to the Company, and to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; (iii) commission, conviction of, or a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to, a felony under the laws of the United States or any State; (iv) any willful, intentional or grossly negligent act having the effect of materially injuring (whether financially or otherwise) the business or reputation of the Company, which to the extent it is curable by Employee, is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company; or (v) willful misconduct with respect to any of Employee’s material duties or obligations under this Agreement, including, without limitation, willful insubordination with respect to reasonable directions from the Company or the Board which, to the extent it is curable is not cured within thirty (30) days after written notice thereof is given to Employee by the Company.

(b)     In the event Employee’s employment is terminated at any time for Cause, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b), or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.3      Resignation by the Employee With Good Reason .

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company for Good Reason by giving notice following the end of the Cure Period (as defined in this Section). For purposes of this Agreement, “ Good Reason ” for the Employee to terminate his employment hereunder shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events without the Employee’s consent: (i) a material reduction in the Employee’s Base Salary (other than an across-the-board decrease in base salary applicable to all executive officers of the Company); (ii) a material breach of this Agreement by the Company; (iii) a material reduction in the Employee’s duties, authority and responsibilities relative to the Employee’s duties, authority, and

 

6


responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction; or (iv) the relocation of the Employee’s then-principal place of employment, without the Employee’s consent, in a manner that lengthens his one-way commute distance by fifty (50) or more miles from his then-current principal place of employment immediately prior to such relocation; provided, however, that, any such termination by the Employee shall only be deemed for Good Reason pursuant to this definition if: (1) the Employee gives the Company written notice of his intent to terminate for Good Reason within thirty (30) days following the first occurrence of the condition(s) that he believes constitute(s) Good Reason, which notice shall describe such condition(s); (2) the Company fails to remedy such condition(s) within thirty (30) days following receipt of the written notice (the “ Cure Period ”); and (3) the Employee voluntarily terminates his employment within thirty (30) days following the end of the Cure Period.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from employment for Good Reason, then provided that the Employee executes and does not revoke the Release and subject to Section 6.1(c), then the Company shall pay to Employee the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b).

6.4      Resignation by the Employee Without Good Reason .

(a)    Employee may resign from Employee’s employment with the Company at any time by giving notice as described in Section 6.8.

(b)    In the event Employee resigns from Employee’s employment with the Company, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of resignation, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee through the date of resignation under any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement during such period and Employee shall be eligible for any benefit continuation or conversion rights provided by the provisions of a benefit plan or by law.

6.5      Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change in Control .

(a)    If Employee’s employment by the Company is terminated by the Company (or its successor or parent) without Cause (and not due to Disability or death) or by Employee for Good Reason within [                ] months before or within [                ] months immediately following a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan), that constitutes a change in control event described in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-3(i)(5), then: (x) (1) the Severance Payment shall equal (A) an amount equal to [        ] months of Employee’s then current base salary, plus (B) one and [        ] times Employee’s target Annual Bonus for the year of termination and (2) the COBRA Severance Period shall be up to [        ] months following the termination date; (y) the Company shall pay or provide Employee with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6.1(b) (as increased by (x) above) except that such Severance Payment shall be paid to Employee in a lump sum, on the first payroll date of the Company that is at least sixty (60) days following the Separation Date; and (z) the vesting and exercisability of all outstanding stock options and other stock awards that are held by Employee as of immediately prior to the Separation Date, to the extent such awards are subject to time-based vesting requirements, shall be accelerated (and lapse, in the case of reacquisition or repurchase rights) in full, provided that Employee executes and does not revoke the Release. Nothing in this Section prohibits the Company or a successor

 

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organization (or its parent) from causing such equity awards to earlier terminate pursuant to the terms of the applicable equity plan or award agreements in connection with a Change in Control, merger, acquisition or other similar corporate transaction where such equity awards will terminate and not be assumed by the successor or acquiring entity.

6.6      Termination by Virtue of Death or Disability of the Employee .

(a)    In the event of Employee’s death while employed pursuant to this Agreement, all obligations of the parties hereunder shall terminate immediately, and the Company shall, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, pay to the Employee’s legal representatives Employee’s accrued but unpaid salary through the date of death together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

(b)    Subject to applicable state and federal law, the Company shall at all times have the right, upon written notice to the Employee, to terminate this Agreement based on the Employee’s Disability (as defined below). Termination by the Company of the Employee’s employment based on “ Disability ” shall mean termination because the Employee is unable due to a physical or mental condition to perform the essential functions of his position with or without reasonable accommodation for [                ] months in the aggregate during any [                ] month period or based on the written certification by two licensed physicians of the likely continuation of such condition for such period. This definition shall be interpreted and applied consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and other applicable law. In the event Employee’s employment is terminated based on the Employee’s Disability, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.7      Termination Due to Discontinuance of Business . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in the event the Company’s business is discontinued because rendered impracticable by substantial financial losses, lack of funding, legal decisions, administrative rulings, declaration of war, dissolution, national or local economic depression or crisis or any reasons beyond the control of the Company, then this Agreement shall terminate as of the day the Company determines to cease operation with the same force and effect as if such day of the month were originally set as the termination date hereof. In the event this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section 6.7, Employee will not receive the Severance Benefits, or any other severance compensation or benefit, except that, pursuant to the Company’s standard payroll policies, the Company shall pay to Employee the accrued but unpaid salary of Employee through the date of termination, together with all compensation and benefits payable to Employee based on his participation in any compensation or benefit plan, program or arrangement through the date of termination.

6.8      Notice; Effective Date of Termination .

 

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(a)    Termination of Employee’s employment (the “ Separation Date ”) pursuant to this Agreement shall be effective on the earliest of:

(i)    immediately after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination, with or without Cause;

(ii)    immediately upon the Employee’s death;

(iii)    ten (10) days after the Company gives notice to Employee of Employee’s termination on account of Employee’s Disability, unless the Company specifies a later Separation Date, in which case, termination shall be effective as of such later Separation Date, provided that Employee has not returned to the full time performance of Employee’s duties prior to such date;

(iv)    immediately upon written notice by the Employee of his resignation for Good Reason within thirty (30) days after the Cure Period has ended and the Company has failed to remedy any of the reasons for Good Reason resignation pursuant to Section 6.3(a); or

(v)    ten (10) days after the Employee gives written notice to the Company of Employee’s resignation, provided that the Company may set a Separation Date at any time between the date of notice and the date of resignation, in which case the Employee’s resignation shall be effective as of such other date. Employee will receive compensation through any required notice period.

(b)    In the event notice of a termination under subsections (a)(iii) and (iv) is given orally, at the other party’s request, the party giving notice must provide written confirmation of such notice within five (5) business days of the request in compliance with the requirement of Section 7.1 below. In the event of a termination for Cause, written confirmation shall specify the subsection(s) of the definition of Cause relied on to support the decision to terminate.

6.9      Cooperation With Company After Termination of Employment . Following termination of Employee’s employment for any reason, Employee shall reasonably cooperate with the Company in all matters relating to the winding up of Employee’s pending work including, but not limited to, any litigation in which the Company is involved, and the orderly transfer of any such pending work to such other employees as may be designated by the Company.

6.10      Effect of Termination . The Employee agrees that should the Employee’s employment be terminated for any reason, the Employee shall be deemed to have resigned from any and all positions with the Company and its subsidiaries.

6.11      Application of Section  409A . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, any payments and benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“ Code ”) and the regulations and other guidance thereunder and any state law of similar effect (collectively, “ Section  409A ”) shall not commence in connection with

 

9


Employee’s termination of employment unless and until Employee has also incurred a “separation from service” (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h) (“ Separation From Service ”), unless the Company reasonably determines that such amounts may be provided to Employee without causing Employee to incur the additional 20% tax under Section 409A. It is intended that each installment of severance pay provided for in this Agreement is a separate “payment” for purposes of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-2(b)(2)(i). For the avoidance of doubt, it is intended that severance payments set forth in this Agreement satisfy, to the greatest extent possible, the exceptions from the application of Section 409A provided under Treasury Regulation Sections 1.409A-1(b)(4), 1.409A-1(b)(5), and 1.409A-1(b)(9). If the Company (or, if applicable, the successor entity thereto) determines that any payments or benefits constitute “deferred compensation” under Section 409A and Employee is, on the termination of service, a “specified employee” of the Company or any successor entity thereto, as such term is defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code, then, solely to the extent necessary to avoid the incurrence of the adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A, the timing of the payments and benefits shall be delayed until the earlier to occur of: (a) the date that is [    ] months and one day after Employee’s Separation From Service, or (b) the date of Employee’s death (such applicable date, the “ Specified Employee Initial Payment Date ”). On the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date, the Company (or the successor entity thereto, as applicable) shall (i) pay to Employee a lump sum amount equal to the sum of the payments and benefits that Employee would otherwise have received through the Specified Employee Initial Payment Date if the commencement of the payment of such amounts had not been so delayed pursuant to this Section and (ii) commence paying the balance of the payments and benefits in accordance with the applicable payment schedules set forth in this Agreement. All reimbursements provided under this Agreement shall be subject to the following requirements: (i) the amount of in-kind benefits provided or reimbursable expenses incurred in one taxable year shall not affect the in-kind benefits to be provided or the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other taxable year, (ii) all reimbursements shall be paid as soon as administratively practicable, but in no event shall any reimbursement be paid after the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred, and (iii) the right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits is not subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit. It is intended that all payments and benefits under this Agreement shall either comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A, and any ambiguity contained herein shall be interpreted in such manner so as to avoid adverse personal tax consequences under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall in no event be obligated to indemnify the Employee for any taxes or interest that may be assessed by the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to Section 409A of the Code to payments made pursuant to this Agreement.

7.      G ENERAL P ROVISIONS .

7.1      Notices . Any notices required hereunder to be in writing shall be deemed effectively given: (a) upon personal delivery to the party to be notified, (b) when sent by electronic mail, telex or confirmed facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not, then on the next business day, (c) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (d) one (1) day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the Company at its primary office location and to Employee at Employee’s address as listed on the Company payroll, or at such

 

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other address as the Company or the Employee may designate by ten (10) days advance written notice to the other.

7.2      Severability . Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision or any other jurisdiction, but this Agreement will be reformed, construed and enforced in such jurisdiction as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions had never been contained herein.

7.3      Waiver . If either party should waive any breach of any provisions of this Agreement, Employee or it shall not thereby be deemed to have waived any preceding or succeeding breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

7.4      Complete Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Employee and the Company with regard to the subject matter hereof. This Agreement is the complete, final, and exclusive embodiment of their agreement with regard to this subject matter and supersedes any prior oral discussions or written communications and agreements, including the Offer Letter dated [DATE] . This Agreement is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation other than those expressly contained herein, and it cannot be modified or amended except in writing signed by Employee and an authorized officer of the Company. The parties have entered into a separate Proprietary Information Agreement and have or may enter into separate agreements related to stock awards. These separate agreements govern other aspects of the relationship between the parties, have or may have provisions that survive termination of the Employee’s employment under this Agreement, may be amended or superseded by the parties without regard to this Agreement and are enforceable according to their terms without regard to the enforcement provision of this Agreement.

7.5      Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, any one of which need not contain signatures of more than one party, but all of which taken together will constitute one and the same Agreement.

7.6      Headings . The headings of the sections hereof are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part hereof nor to affect the meaning thereof.

7.7      Successors and Assigns . The Company shall assign this Agreement and its rights and obligations hereunder in whole, but not in part, to any Company or other entity with or into which the Company may hereafter merge or consolidate or to which the Company may transfer all or substantially all of its assets, if in any such case said Company or other entity shall by operation of law or expressly in writing assume all obligations of the Company hereunder as fully as if it had been originally made a party hereto, but may not otherwise assign this Agreement or its rights and obligations hereunder. The Employee may not assign or transfer this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder, other than to his estate upon his death.

 

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7.8      Choice of Law . All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement will be governed by the law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

7.9      Indemnification . The Employee shall be entitled to indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and the Company’s Bylaws with terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company executive officer or director and subject to the terms of any separate written indemnification agreement. At all times during the Employee’s employment, the Company shall maintain in effect a directors and officers liability insurance policy with the Employee as a covered officer.

7.10     Resolution of Disputes . The parties recognize that litigation in federal or state courts or before federal or state administrative agencies of disputes arising out of the Employee’s employment with the Company or out of this Agreement, or the Employee’s termination of employment or termination of this Agreement, may not be in the best interests of either the Employee or the Company, and may result in unnecessary costs, delays, complexities, and uncertainty. The parties agree that any dispute between the parties arising out of or relating to the negotiation, execution, performance or termination of this Agreement or the Employee’s employment, including, but not limited to, any claim arising out of this Agreement, claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1966, as amended, the Family Medical Leave Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, and any similar federal, state or local law, statute, regulation, or any common law doctrine, whether that dispute arises during or after employment, shall be settled by binding arbitration conducted before a single arbitrator by Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc. (“ JAMS ”) or its successor, under the then applicable JAMS rules; provided however, that this dispute resolution provision shall not apply to any separate agreements between the parties that do not themselves specify arbitration as an exclusive remedy. The location for the arbitration shall be the Boston, Massachusetts metropolitan area. Any award made by such panel shall be final, binding and conclusive on the parties for all purposes, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators’ fees and expenses and all administrative fees and expenses associated with the filing of the arbitration shall be borne by the Company; provided however , that at the Employee’s option, Employee may voluntarily pay up to one-half the costs and fees. The parties acknowledge and agree that their obligations to arbitrate under this Section survive the termination of this Agreement and continue after the termination of the employment relationship between Employee and the Company. The parties each further agree that the arbitration provisions of this Agreement shall provide each party with its exclusive remedy, and each party expressly waives any right it might have to seek redress in any other forum, except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement. By electing arbitration as the means for final settlement of all claims, the parties hereby waive their respective rights to, and agree not to, sue each other in any action in a Federal, State or local court with respect to such claims, but may seek to enforce in court an arbitration award rendered pursuant to this Agreement. The parties specifically agree to waive their respective rights to a trial by jury, and further agree that no demand, request or motion will be made for trial by jury.

 

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I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the parties have executed this Employment Agreement on the day and year first written above.

 

AVEDRO, INC.
By:    

 

 

Employee:
 

 

[NAME]

 

 

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Exhibit A

Release Agreement

This Release Agreement (“ Release ” or “ Agreement ”) is made by and between [NAME] (“you”) and Avedro, Inc. (the “ Company ”). A copy of this Release is an attachment to the Employment Agreement between the Company and you dated __________ _____, 20__ (the “ Employment Agreement ”). Capitalized terms not defined in this Agreement carry the definition found in the Employment Agreement.

1.      Severance Payments. In consideration for your execution, return and non-revocation of this Release on or after your Separation Date, the Company will provide you with the Severance Benefits described in Section 6 of the Employment Agreement.

2.      Compliance with Section  409A. The Severance Benefits offered to you by the Company are payable in reliance on Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9) and the short term deferral exemption in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(4). For purposes of Code Section 409A, your right to receive any installment payments (whether pay in lieu of notice, Severance Benefits, reimbursements or otherwise) shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate payments and, accordingly, each installment payment shall at all times be considered a separate and distinct payment. All payments and benefits are subject to applicable withholdings and deductions.

3.      Release . In exchange for the Severance Benefits and other consideration, to which you would not otherwise be entitled, and except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, you, on behalf of yourself and, to the extent permitted by law, on behalf of your spouse, heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, insurers, attorneys and other persons or entities, acting or purporting to act on your behalf (collectively, the “ Employee Parties ”), hereby generally and completely release, acquit and forever discharge the Company, its parents and subsidiaries, and its and their officers, directors, managers, partners, agents, representatives, employees, attorneys, shareholders, predecessors, successors, assigns, insurers and affiliates (the “ Company Parties ”) of and from any and all claims, liabilities, demands, contentions, actions, causes of action, suits, costs, expenses, attorneys’ fees, damages, indemnities, debts, judgments, levies, executions and obligations of every kind and nature, in law, equity, or otherwise, both known and unknown, suspected and unsuspected, disclosed and undisclosed, arising out of or in any way related to agreements, events, acts or conduct at any time prior to and including the execution date of this Agreement, including but not limited to: all such claims and demands directly or indirectly arising out of or in any way connected with your employment with the Company or the termination of that employment; claims or demands related to salary, bonuses, commissions, stock, stock options, or any other ownership interests in the Company, vacation pay, fringe benefits, expense reimbursements, severance pay, or any other form of compensation; claims pursuant to any federal, state or local law, statute, or cause of action; tort law; or contract law (individually a “ Claim ” and collectively “ Claims ”). The Claims you are releasing and waiving in this Agreement include, but are not limited to, any and all Claims that any of the Company Parties:

 

   

has violated its personnel policies, handbooks, contracts of employment, or covenants of good faith and fair dealing;

 

   

has discriminated against you on the basis of age, race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), national origin, ancestry, disability, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, source of income, entitlement to benefits, any union activities or other protected category in violation of any local, state or federal law, constitution, ordinance, or regulation, including but not limited to: the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, as amended (“ ADEA ”); Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; the Civil Rights Act of 1991; 42 U.S.C. § 1981, as amended; the Equal Pay Act; the Americans With Disabilities Act; the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act; the Family and Medical Leave Act; the Massachusetts Wage Act and the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practice Act; [                ] the Employee Retirement Income Security Act; the Employee Polygraph Protection Act; the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act; the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act; the anti-retaliation provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or any other federal or state law regarding whistleblower


 

retaliation; the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act; the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act; the Fair Credit Reporting Act; and the National Labor Relations Act; and

 

   

has violated any statute, public policy or common law (including, but not limited to, Claims for retaliatory discharge; negligent hiring, retention or supervision; defamation; intentional or negligent infliction of emotional distress and/or mental anguish; intentional interference with contract; negligence; detrimental reliance; loss of consortium to you or any member of your family and/or promissory estoppel).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, other than events expressly contemplated by this Agreement you do not waive or release rights or Claims that may arise from events that occur after the date this Release is executed. Also excluded from this Agreement are any Claims which cannot be waived by law, including, without limitation, any rights you may have under applicable workers’ compensation laws. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent you from filing, cooperating with, or participating in any proceeding or investigation before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other federal government agency, or similar state or local agency (“ Government Agencies ”), or exercising any rights pursuant to Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act. You further understand this Agreement does not limit your ability to voluntarily communicate with any Government Agencies or otherwise participate in any investigation or proceeding that may be conducted by any Government Agency, including providing documents or other information, without notice to the Company. While this Agreement does not limit your right to receive an award for information provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission, you understand and agree that, you are otherwise waiving, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any and all rights you may have to individual relief based on any Claims that you have released and any rights you have waived by signing this Agreement. If any Claim is not subject to release, to the extent permitted by law, you waive any right or ability to be a class or collective action representative or to otherwise participate in any putative or certified class, collective or multi-party action or proceeding based on such a Claim in which any of the Company Parties is a party. This Agreement does not abrogate your existing rights under any Company benefit plan or any plan or agreement related to equity ownership in the Company; however, it does waive, release and forever discharge Claims existing as of the date you execute this Agreement pursuant to any such plan or agreement.

4.      Your Acknowledgments and Affirmations . You also acknowledge and agree that (i) the consideration given to you in exchange for the waiver and release in this Agreement is in addition to anything of value to which you were already entitled, and (ii) that you have been paid for all time worked, have received all the leave, leaves of absence and leave benefits and protections for which you are eligible, and have not suffered any on-the-job injury for which you have not already filed a Claim. You affirm that all of the decisions of the Company Parties regarding your pay and benefits through the date of your execution of this Agreement were not discriminatory based on age, disability, race, color, sex, religion, national origin or any other classification protected by law. You affirm that you have not filed or caused to be filed, and are not presently a party to, a Claim against any of the Company Parties. You further affirm that you have no known workplace injuries or occupational diseases. You acknowledge and affirm that you have not been retaliated against for reporting any allegation of corporate fraud or other wrongdoing by any of the Company Parties, or for exercising any rights protected by law, including any rights protected by the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family Medical Leave Act or any related statute or local leave or disability accommodation laws, or any applicable state workers’ compensation law. In addition, you acknowledge that you are knowingly and voluntarily waiving and releasing any rights you may have under the ADEA (“ ADEA Waiver ”). You also acknowledge that the consideration given for the ADEA Waiver is in addition to anything of value to which you were already entitled. You further acknowledge that you have been advised by this writing, as required by the ADEA, that: (a) your release and waiver herein does not apply to any rights or claims that arise after the date you sign this Agreement; (b) you should consult with an attorney prior to signing this Agreement; (c) you have twenty-one (21) days to consider this Agreement (although you may choose to voluntarily sign it sooner); (d) you have seven (7) days following the date you sign this Agreement to revoke it (by sending written revocation directly to [name/title] ; and (e) the Agreement will not be effective until the date upon which the revocation period has expired unexercised, which will be the eighth (8 th ) day after you sign this Agreement.

5.      Return of Company Property. By the Separation Date, you agree to return to the Company all Company documents (and all copies thereof) and other Company property that you have had in your possession at

 

2


any time, including, but not limited to, Company files, notes, drawings, records, business plans and forecasts, financial information, specifications, computer-recorded information, tangible property (including, but not limited to, computers), credit cards, entry cards, identification badges and keys; and, any materials of any kind that contain or embody any proprietary or confidential information of the Company (and all reproductions thereof). Please coordinate return of Company property with [name/title] . Receipt of the Severance Benefits described in Section  1 of this Agreement is expressly conditioned upon return of all Company property.

6.      Confidential Information, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Obligations . Both during and after your employment you acknowledge your continuing obligations under your Proprietary Information, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement not to use or disclose any confidential or proprietary information of the Company and comply with your post-employment non-competition and non-solicitation restrictions. The Company acknowledges that you will not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. In addition, in the event that you file a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, you may disclose the trade secret to your attorney and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if you: (A) file any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) do not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order.

7.      Confidentiality . The provisions of this Agreement will be held in strictest confidence by you and will not be publicized or disclosed in any manner whatsoever; provided, however , that: (a) you may disclose this Agreement to your immediate family; (b) you may disclose this Agreement in confidence to your attorney, accountant, auditor, tax preparer, and financial advisor; and (c) you may disclose this Agreement insofar as such disclosure may be required by law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall limit your right to discuss your employment with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, other federal government agency or similar state or local agency or to discuss the terms and conditions of your employment with others to the extent expressly permitted by Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act.

8.      Non-Disparagement . You agree not to disparage the Company, and the Company’s attorneys, directors, managers, partners, employees, agents and affiliates, in any manner likely to be harmful to them or their business, business reputation or personal reputation; provided that you will respond accurately and fully to any question, inquiry or request for information when required by legal process. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall limit your right to voluntarily communicate with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, United States Department of Labor, the National Labor Relations Board, other federal government agency or similar state or local agency or to discuss the terms and conditions of your employment with others to the extent expressly permitted by Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act.

9.      No Admission . This Agreement does not constitute an admission by the Company of any wrongful action or violation of any federal, state, or local statute, or common law rights, including those relating to the provisions of any law or statute concerning employment actions, or of any other possible or claimed violation of law or rights.

10.      Breach . You agree that upon any breach of this Agreement you will forfeit all amounts paid or owing to you under this Agreement. Further, you acknowledge that it may be impossible to assess the damages caused by your violation of the terms of Sections 5, 6, 7 and 8 of this Agreement and further agree that any threatened or actual violation or breach of those Sections of this Agreement will constitute immediate and irreparable injury to the Company. You therefore agree that any such breach of this Agreement is a material breach of this Agreement, and, in addition to any and all other damages and remedies available to the Company upon your breach of this Agreement, the Company shall be entitled to an injunction to prevent you from violating or breaching this Agreement. You agree that if the Company is successful in whole or in part in any legal or equitable action against you under this Agreement, you agree to pay all of the costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by the Company in enforcing the terms of this Agreement.

 

3


11.      Miscellaneous . This Agreement constitutes the complete, final and exclusive embodiment of the entire agreement between you and the Company with regard to this subject matter. It is entered into without reliance on any promise or representation, written or oral, other than those expressly contained herein, and it supersedes any other such promises, warranties or representations. This Agreement may not be modified or amended except in a writing signed by both you and a duly authorized officer of the Company. This Agreement will bind the heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns of both you and the Company, and inure to the benefit of both you and the Company, their heirs, successors and assigns. If any provision of this Agreement is determined to be invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, this determination will not affect any other provision of this Agreement and the provision in question will be modified by the court so as to be rendered enforceable. This Agreement will be deemed to have been entered into and will be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as applied to contracts made and to be performed entirely within Massachusetts.

 

A VEDRO , I NC .
By:    
 

Name:

Title:

   
  [NAME]

 

 

4

Exhibit 10.13

NORTHWEST PARK

OFFICE LEASE

BY AND BETWEEN

NWP BUILDING 32 LLC

(AS LANDLORD)

AND

AVEDRO, INC.

(AS TENANT)

FOR PREMISES AT

30 NORTH AVENUE

BURLINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

ARTICLE 1 REFERENCE DATA

     1  
 

1.1

 

S UBJECT R EFERRED T O

     1  
 

1.2

 

E XHIBITS

     2  

ARTICLE 2 PREMISES AND TERM

     4  
 

2.1

 

P REMISES

     4  
 

2.2

 

T ERM

     5  
 

2.3

 

E XTENSION O PTION

     5  

ARTICLE 3 IMPROVEMENTS

     7  
 

3.1

 

P ERFORMANCE OF W ORK AND A PPROVAL OF L ANDLORD S W ORK

     7  
 

3.2

 

A CCEPTANCE OF THE P REMISES

     8  
 

3.3

 

E ARLY A CCESS

     8  

ARTICLE 4 RENT

     8  
 

4.1

  T HE F IXED R ENT      8  
 

4.2

  A DDITIONAL R ENT      8  
 

    4.2.1

  

Real Estate Taxes

     8  
 

    4.2.2

  

Personal Property Taxes

     9  
 

    4.2.3

  

Operating Costs

     10  
 

    4.2.4

  

Insurance

     12  
 

    4.2.5

  

Utilities

     13  
 

4.3

  L ATE P AYMENT OF R ENT      13  
 

4.4

  L ETTER OF C REDIT      13  
 

    4.4.1

  

Amount of Security

     13  
 

    4.4.2

  

Renewal of Letter of Credit

     14  
 

    4.4.3

  

Draws to Cure Defaults

     14  
 

    4.4.4

  

Draws to Pay Damages

     14  
 

    4.4.5

  

Issuing Bank

     15  
 

    4.4.6

  

Draws for Failure to Deliver Substitute Letter of Credit

     15  
 

    4.4.7

  

Transferability

     15  
 

    4.4.8

  

Return of Letter of Credit at End of Term

     15  

ARTICLE 5 LANDLORD’S COVENANTS

     15  
 

5.1

 

A FFIRMATIVE C OVENANTS

     15  
 

    5.1.1

  

Heat and Air-Conditioning

     15  
 

    5.1.2

  

Electricity

     15  
 

    5.1.3

  

Cleaning; Water

     16  
 

    5.1.4

  

Elevator; Fire Alarm

     16  
 

    5.1.5

  

Repairs

     16  
 

    5.1.6

  

Indemnification

     16  
 

5.2

 

I NTERRUPTION

     16  
 

5.3

 

O UTSIDE S ERVICES

     17  
 

5.4

 

A CCESS

     17  

ARTICLE 6 TENANT’S ADDITIONAL COVENANTS

     17  
 

6.1

 

A FFIRMATIVE C OVENANTS

     17  
 

    6.1.1

  

Perform Obligations

     17  
 

    6.1.2

  

Use

     17  
 

    6.1.3

  

Repair and Maintenance; Cleaning

     17  
 

    6.1.4

  

Compliance with Law

     18  
 

    6.1.5

  

Indemnification

     18  
 

    6.1.6

  

Landlord’s Right to Enter

     18  

 

i.


 

    6.1.7

  

Personal Property at Tenant’s Risk

     19  
 

    6.1.8

  

Payment of Landlords Cost of Enforcement

     19  
 

    6.1.9

  

Yield Up

     19  
 

    6.1.10

  

Rules and Regulations

     20  
 

    6.1.11

  

Estoppel Certificate

     20  
 

    6.1.12

  

Landlord’s Expenses Re Consents

     20  
 

6.2

 

N EGATIVE C OVENANTS

     21  
 

    6.2.1

  

Assignment and Subletting

     21  
 

    6.2.2

  

Nuisance

     23  
 

    6.2.3

  

Hazardous Wastes and Materials

     23  
 

    6.2.4

  

Floor Load; Heavy Equipment

     24  
 

    6.2.5

  

Installation, Alterations or Additions

     24  
 

    6.2.6

  

Abandonment

     26  
 

    6.2.7

  

Signs

     26  
 

    6.2.8

  

Parking and Storage

     26  

ARTICLE 7 CASUALTY OR TAKING

     26  
 

7.1

 

T ERMINATION

     26  
 

7.2

 

R ESTORATION

     26  
 

7.3

 

A WARD

     26  

ARTICLE 8 DEFAULTS

     27  
 

8.1

 

E VENTS OF D EFAULT

     27  
 

8.2

 

R EMEDIES

     27  
 

8.3

 

R EMEDIES C UMULATIVE

     28  
 

8.4

 

L ANDLORD S R IGHT TO C URE D EFAULTS

     28  
 

8.5

 

E FFECT OF W AIVERS OF D EFAULT

     28  
 

8.6

 

N O W AIVER , ETC

     28  
 

8.7

 

N O A CCORD AND S ATISFACTION

     29  

ARTICLE 9 RIGHTS OF MORTGAGE HOLDERS

     29  
 

9.1

 

R IGHTS OF M ORTGAGE H OLDERS

     29  
 

9.2

 

L EASE S UPERIOR OR S UBORDINATE TO M ORTGAGES

     29  

ARTICLE 10 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

     30  
 

10.1

 

N OTICES FROM O NE P ARTY TO THE O THER

     30  
 

10.2

 

Q UIET E NJOYMENT

     30  
 

10.3

 

L EASE NOT TO BE R ECORDED

     30  
 

10.4

 

L IMITATION OF L ANDLORD S L IABILITY

     30  
 

10.5

 

F ORCE M AJEURE

     30  
 

10.6

 

L ANDLORD S D EFAULT

     30  
 

10.7

 

B ROKERAGE

     31  
 

10.8

 

A PPLICABLE L AW AND C ONSTRUCTION ; M ERGER ; J URY T RIAL

     31  
 

10.9

 

C ONSENTS

     31  
 

10.10

 

A UTHORITY

     31  
 

10.11

 

C OUNTERPARTS

     31  
 

10.12

 

USA P ATRIOT A CT

     31  
 

10.13

 

E XECUTION AND D ELIVERY

     32  

 

 

ii.


NORTHWEST PARK

OFFICE LEASE

ARTICLE 1

Reference Data

 

1.1

Subject Referred To .

Each reference in this Lease to any of the following subjects shall be construed to incorporate the data stated for that subject in this Section 1.1.

 

Date of this Lease:

   November 4, 2016

Building:

   The two-story building in Northwest Park in Burlington, Massachusetts (hereinafter referred to as the “Park”) on a parcel of land described in a deed recorded in Middlesex County South Registry of Deeds in Book11696, Page328, and known as 30 North Avenue (the Building and such parcel of land hereinafter being collectively referred to as the “Property”).

Premises:

   A portion of the second (2 nd ) floor of the Building, substantially as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto.

Rentable Floor Area of Premises:

   Approximately 7,239 rentable square feet (subject to Section 2.1)

Landlord:

   NWP Building 32 LLC, a Massachusetts limited liability company

Original Notice Address of Landlord:

  

c/o Nordblom Management Company, Inc.

71 Third Avenue

Burlington, Massachusetts 01803

Tenant:

   Avedro, Inc., a Delaware corporation

Original Notice Address of Tenant:

  

30 North Avenue

Burlington, MA 01803

Attn: Brian Roberts, CFO

 

with a copy to:

 

Cooley LLP

500 Boylston Street, 14 th Floor

Boston, MA 02116

Attn: Marc Recht, Esq.

Commencement Date:

   See Section 2.2

Rent Commencement Date:

   The date that is sixty (60) days after the Commencement Date.

Expiration Date:

   The last day of the Partial Lease Year (as defined in Section 2.2)

Target Delivery Date:

   January 1, 2017

 

1


Annual Fixed Rent Rate:

  

Commencement Date – Rent

Commencement Date: $0.00

Rent Commencement Date – end of Lease

Year 1: $86,868.00

Lease Year 2: $90,492.00

Lease Year 3: $94,104.00

Lease Year 4: $97,728.00

Lease Year 5: $101,352.00

Lease Year 6: $104,964.00

Partial Lease Year: $104,964.00 1

Monthly Fixed Rent Rate:

  

Commencement Date – Rent

Commencement Date: $0.00

 

Rent Commencement Date – end of Lease

Year 1: $7,239.00

Lease Year 2: $7,541.00

Lease Year 3: $7,842.00

Lease Year 4: $8,144.00

Lease Year 5: $8,446.00

Lease Year 6: $8,747.00

Partial Lease Year: $8,747.00

Letter of Credit Amount:

   $50,652.00 (subject to reduction as set forth in Section 4.4)

Tenant’s Percentage:

   The ratio of the Rentable Floor Area of the Premises to the total rentable area of the Building, which shall initially be deemed to be 12.06%.

Initial Estimate of Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes for the Tax Year:

   $14,044.00

Initial Estimate of Tenant’s Percentage of Operating Costs for the Calendar Year:

   $19,545.00

Permitted Uses:

   Light manufacturing and administrative offices

Public Liability Insurance Limits:

  

Commercial General Liability:

  

$1,000,000 per occurrence

$2,000,000 general aggregate

Commercial Excess Liability and/or Umbrella:

  

$5,000,000 general aggregate

$5,000,000 per occurrence

Guarantor:

   N/A

 

1.2

Exhibits .

The Exhibits listed below in this section are incorporated in this Lease by reference and are to be construed as a part of this Lease.

 

1  

This an annualized rate based on the rate in effect for the Partial Lease Year.

 

2


EXHIBIT A

   Plan showing the Premises.

EXHIBIT B

   Commencement Date Notification

EXHIBIT C

   Work Letter

EXHIBIT C-1

   Space Plan

EXHIBIT D

   Work Change Order

EXHIBIT E

   Form Letter of Credit

EXHIBIT F

   Rules and Regulations

EXHIBIT F-1

   Construction Rules and Regulations

EXHIBIT G

   Form Tenant Estoppel Certificate

EXHIBIT H

   Landlord’s Consent and Waiver

 

3


ARTICLE 2

Premises and Term

 

2.1

Premises . Landlord hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby leases from Landlord, subject to and with the benefit of the terms, covenants, conditions and provisions of this Lease, the Premises, excluding the roof, exterior faces of exterior walls, the common stairways, stairwells, elevators and elevator shafts, and pipes, ducts, conduits, wires, and appurtenant fixtures serving exclusively or in common other parts of the Building (and any areas, such as the space above the ceiling or in the walls, that may contain such pipes, ducts, conduits, wires or appurtenant fixtures), and if Tenant’s space includes less than entire rentable area of any floor, excluding the central core area of such floor.

Tenant shall have, as appurtenant to the Premises, rights to use in common, subject to reasonable rules of general applicability to tenants of the Building from time to time made by Landlord of which Tenant is given notice: (a) the common lobbies, hallways, stairways, loading docks and elevators of the Building, (b) common walkways and driveways necessary for access to the Building, (c) the common parking areas serving the Building, and (d) if the Premises include less than the entire rentable area of any floor, the common toilets and other common facilities in the central core area of such floor.

Tenant shall be permitted to use twenty-five (25) parking spaces in the parking area serving the Building.

Landlord reserves the right from time to time, without unreasonable interference with use of the Premises: (a) to install, use, maintain, repair, replace and relocate for service to the Premises and other parts of the Building, or either, pipes, ducts, conduits, wires and appurtenant fixtures, wherever located in the Premises or Building (provided the same, to the extent within the Premises, shall be located, to the extent reasonably practicable, in the central core area of the Building, within the ceiling plenum, behind the walls or below the floors, or within the chases, risers, ducts, conduits, lines, shafts or similar concealed areas), (b) to alter or relocate any other common facility and/or common areas of the Building, (c) to make any repairs and replacements to the Premises which Landlord may deem necessary, and (d) in connection with any excavation made upon adjacent land of Landlord or others, to enter, and to license others to enter, upon the Premises to do such work as the person causing such excavation deems necessary to preserve the wall of the Building from injury or damage and to support the same. Except in the case of emergency, Landlord shall provide Tenant with reasonable prior notice (which notice may be given verbally) of any such access to the Premises for any of the foregoing.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Lease, Tenant acknowledges that Landlord is planning on altering portions of the common areas of the Building (such alterations the “Common Area Work”), and that as part of the Common Area Work the demising walls of the Premises may need to be relocated (it being agreed any such relocation of demising walls will occur prior to the Commencement Date). Tenant acknowledges that, to perform certain portions of the Common Area Work, Landlord may need access to, and perform work within, the Premises. Tenant agrees that Landlord shall be permitted to enter the Premises and perform the Common Area Work during normal business hours, and Tenant shall cooperate with Landlord’s reasonable requirements to facilitate such Common Area Work. Landlord shall use reasonable efforts while conducting such activities to minimize any interference with Tenant’s use of the Premises. To the extent that the demising walls of the Premises were relocated as part of the Common Area Work then, within sixty (60) days of completion of the Common Area Work, Landlord shall verify the new measurement of the Premises, and the pertinent economic terms (including parking rights) set forth under this Lease affected by the size of the Premises shall be adjusted to account for such new measurement (it being agreed that in no event shall the measurement of the Premises vary by more than five hundred (500) rentable square feet from what is listed in Section 1.1). Landlord and Tenant agree to enter into a letter agreement or amendment to this Lease memorializing such adjustments, if applicable, but failure of the parties to execute such a document shall have no effect on the effectiveness of the adjustment of the Premises pursuant to this paragraph and the economic terms associated therewith.

 

4


2.2

Term . TO HAVE AND TO HOLD for an original term (the “Original Term”) beginning on the Commencement Date, which shall be the earlier of (a) the date on which the work to be performed by Landlord pursuant to Exhibit C (“Landlord’s Work”) has been substantially completed or (b) the opening by Tenant of its business in the Premises (as distinct from working in the Premises to install its furniture, fixtures, wiring and equipment), and ending on the Expiration Date, unless sooner terminated as hereinafter provided. The term “substantially completed” as used herein shall mean that the work to be performed by Landlord pursuant to Exhibit C has been completed with the exception of minor items which can be fully completed without material interference with Tenant and other items which because of the season or weather or the nature of the item are not practicable to do at the time, provided that none of said items is necessary to make the Premises tenantable for the Permitted Uses. However, if Landlord is delayed from Substantially Completing Landlord’s Work on or before the Target Delivery Date because of a Tenant Delay (defined below), then Landlord’s Work shall be deemed to be “Substantially Completed” on the date that such work would have been Substantially Completed but for such Tenant Delay (but Landlord shall not be relieved of the obligation to actually complete Landlord’s Work).

The phrase, “Tenant Delay”, shall be defined as any delay in the completion of Landlord’s Work caused by (i) special work, upgrades or long lead-time items for which Landlord identifies a specified period of delay (it being agreed that Tenant shall not select any item that Landlord identifies as long lead-time items), and in either instance Tenant does not withdraw or alter such special work, upgrade, long lead-time item which avoids such delay, (ii) any changes to any plans made by Tenant, or any Work Change Order requested by Tenant, in any case for which Landlord identifies a specified period of delay at the time of its approval and for which Tenant does not withdraw such change to avoid delay, (iii) the delay of Tenant or its architects and engineers in providing or approving any plans, specifications, pricing or estimates or giving authorizations or supplying information reasonably required by Landlord or its general contractor within three (3) business days after request therefor, (v) any failure by any contractors employed by Tenant including, without limitation, contractors furnishing telecommunications, data processing or other service or equipment directly to Tenant (and not via Landlord’s contractors) to comply with the agreed upon timetables for coordination of the parties’ respective components of work, as established at on-site progress meetings between Landlord’s representative and Tenant’s representative, (vi) any failure by Tenant to comply with the terms of the Lease, including but not limited to Article 3, or any material interference with the performance of Landlord’s Work by Tenant or any of its agents, employees, architects, engineers or contractors (including but not limited to delays caused by the acts or omissions of Tenant or such parties), (vii) Tenant’s delay in delivering the initial Cash Deposit and/or Original Letter of Credit required pursuant to Section 4.4 or (viii) Tenant’s failure to sign and deliver this Lease to Landlord on before October 5, 2016.

When the dates of the Commencement Date and Rent Commencement Date have been determined, such dates shall be evidenced by a document, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B, which Landlord shall complete and deliver to Tenant, and which shall be deemed conclusive unless Tenant shall notify Landlord of any disagreement therewith within ten (10) days of receipt.

The term “Lease Year” as used herein shall mean a period of twelve (12) consecutive full calendar months. The first Lease Year shall begin on the Commencement Date if the Commencement Date is the first day of a calendar month; if not, then the first Lease Year shall commence upon the first day of the calendar month next following the Commencement Date. Each succeeding Lease Year shall commence upon the anniversary date of the first Lease Year. The term “Partial Lease Year” shall mean the time period comprised of the first two (2) full calendar months of the seventh (7th) Lease Year.. The Partial Lease Year shall begin on the first day following the end of the sixth (6th) Lease Year.

 

2.3

Extension Option . A. Tenant shall have the option (the “Extension Option”) to extend the Term of this Lease for one additional period of five (5) years, to begin immediately upon the expiration of the Original Term of this Lease (the “Extended Term”), provided that each of the following conditions has been satisfied:

(i) As of the date of the Extension Notice (defined below) and as of the commencement of the Extended Term, Tenant shall not be in default and shall not have previously been in default of its obligations under this Lease beyond any applicable grace period;

 

5


(ii) Tenant shall have had a net income for the 12-month period immediately preceding the date of the Extension Notice and for the 12-month period immediately preceding the commencement of the Extended Term; and

(iii) Simultaneously with the delivery of the Extension Notice and also at the commencement of the Extended Term, Tenant shall have delivered to Landlord an audited statement (or, if such audited statement is not available, then an unaudited statement signed and certified by Tenant’s Chief Financial Officer), prepared by Tenant’s accountant using generally accepted accounting principles, evidencing such net income during each of the periods specified in clause (ii) hereinabove.

B. All of the terms, covenants and provisions of this Lease shall apply to the Extended Term except that the Annual Fixed Rent Rate for such extension period shall be the market rate at the commencement of the Extended Term (“Market Rate”), as designated by Landlord (subject to Tenant’s right to dispute the same and the dispute resolution mechanism set forth below). If Tenant shall elect to exercise this Extension Option, it shall do so by giving Landlord written notice (the “Extension Notice”) of its intention to do so no earlier than twelve (12) months and no later than nine (9) months prior to the expiration of the Original Term of this Lease, time being of the essence thereof. If timely and properly Tenant gives such notice and satisfies the conditions specified above, the extension of this Lease shall be automatically effected without the execution of any additional documents. The Original Term and the Extended Term are hereinafter collectively called the “Term” or the “term”.

C. Not later than thirty (30) days following the giving of Tenant’s Extension Notice, Landlord shall notify Tenant of Landlord’s determination of the Market Rate for the Extended Term. Within fifteen (15) days after Landlord gives Tenant Landlord’s determination of the Market Rate, Tenant shall notify Landlord whether Tenant accepts or disputes such rate. If Tenant disagrees with Landlord’s determination, then Landlord and Tenant shall commence negotiations to agree upon the Market Rate. In any event, the Annual Fixed Rent Rate for the Extended Term shall not be less than the Annual Fixed Rent Rate in effect immediately prior to the Extended Term. If Landlord and Tenant are unable to reach agreement on the Market Rate within thirty (30) days after the date on which Landlord first gave Tenant Landlord’s proposal for the Market Rate, then the Market Rate shall be determined as provided below.

D. If Landlord and Tenant are unable to agree on the Market Rate by the end of said thirty (30)-day period, then within ten (10) days thereafter, Landlord and Tenant shall each simultaneously submit to the other in a sealed envelope its good faith estimate of the Market Rate. If the higher of such estimates is not more than one hundred five percent (105%) of the other estimate, then the Market Rate shall be the average of the two estimates. If the matter is not resolved by the exchange of estimates, then Market Rate shall be determined by an independent arbitrator as set forth below.

E. Within seven (7) days after the exchange of estimates, the parties shall select, as an arbitrator, a mutually acceptable commercial real estate broker or appraiser licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts specializing in the field of commercial office leasing in the Burlington area, having no less than ten (10) years’ experience (an “Approved Arbitrator”). If the parties cannot agree on such person, then within a second period of seven (7) business days, each shall select one Approved Arbitrator and the two appointed Arbitrators shall, within five (5) business days, select a third Approved Arbitrator who shall be the final decision-maker (the “Final Arbitrator”). If one party shall fail to timely make such appointment, then the person chosen by the other party shall be the sole arbitrator. Once the Final Arbitrator has been selected as provided for above, then, as soon thereafter as practicable, but in any case within fourteen (14) days after his or her appointment, the arbitrator shall determine the Market Rate by selecting either the Landlord’s estimate of Market Rate or the Tenant’s estimate of Market Rate. Such arbitrator must choose the

 

6


proposed Market Rate that he/she determines is closest to the actual market rental rate for the Premises. There shall be no discovery or similar proceedings. The arbitrator’s decision as to which estimate shall be the Market Rate for the Extended Term shall be rendered in writing to both Landlord and Tenant and shall be final and binding upon them and shall be the Annual Fixed Rent for the Extended Term. The costs of the Final Arbitrator will be equally divided between Landlord and Tenant. Any fees of any Approved Arbitrator or counsel engaged by Landlord or Tenant, however, shall be borne by the party that retained such Approved Arbitrator or counsel. If the dispute between the parties as to a market rate has not been resolved before the commencement of the Extended Term, then Tenant shall pay Fixed Rent under the Lease based upon the market rate designated by Landlord until either the agreement of the parties as to the market rate, or the decision of the Final Arbitrator, as the case may be, at which time Tenant shall pay any underpayment of Fixed Rent to Landlord, or Landlord shall refund any overpayment of Fixed Rent to Tenant.

F. Once the Market Rate has been determined, the parties shall promptly execute an amendment to this Lease setting forth the Fixed Rent for the Premises during the Extended Term.

G. Tenant’s rights to extend pursuant to this Section 2.3 are personal to the initial named Tenant, Avedro, Inc., and, except to a Permitted Transferee (as defined in Section 6.2.1), may not be assigned under any circumstances.

H. With respect to any assignment or subletting during the Original Term of this Lease, such assignment shall not include the right granted to Tenant under this Section 2.3 hereinabove to extend the Term, and such sublease shall be for a term expiring no later than the Expiration Date.

ARTICLE 3

Improvements

 

3.1

Performance of Work and Approval of Landlord s Work . Landlord shall cause to be performed the work required by Exhibit C, the Work Letter, and consistent with the space plan attached hereto as Exhibit C-1. All such work shall be done in a good and workmanlike manner employing Building-standard materials and finishes and so as to conform to all applicable building laws and codes (as such laws and codes, including but not limited to all Federal and State laws and codes, are enforced by the Town of Burlington, Massachusetts). Tenant agrees that Landlord may make any changes in such work which may become reasonably necessary or advisable, other than substantial changes, without approval of Tenant, provided written notice is promptly given to Tenant, and provided such changes do not result in a quality or finish below Building-standard materials and finishes. Provided the Lease is fully executed on or before October 5, 2016, then Landlord shall use diligence to cause Landlord’s work to be substantially completed by the Target Delivery Date, subject to the provisions of Section 10.5 hereof and any Tenant Delay. Landlord agrees that Tenant may make changes in such work with the approval of Landlord and the execution by Landlord and Tenant of a Work Change Order, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit D.

If, for any reason other than a Tenant Delay or a delay attributable to Force Majeure, Landlord’s Work has not been Substantially Completed on or before February 1, 2017 (the “Outside Delivery Date”), then Tenant shall accrue one (1) day of free Fixed Rent for each day of delay after the Outside Delivery Date until the date Landlord has done so. Further, if, for any reason other than a Tenant Delay or a delay attributable to Force Majeure, Landlord’s Work has not been Substantially Completed on or before April 1, 2017, then Tenant shall have the right to terminate this Lease by giving written notice of such termination to Landlord, with such written notice to be given by Tenant no later than April 6, 2017 and such termination to be effective at the expiration of thirty (30) days from the giving of such notice; provided however, that such termination will be rendered ineffective if, prior to the expiration of said 30-day period, Landlord shall have Substantially Completed Landlord’s Work. The foregoing shall be Tenant’s sole remedies at law or in equity for Landlord’s failure to Substantially Complete Landlord’s Work.

 

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3.2

Acceptance of the Premises . Tenant or its representatives may, at reasonable times, enter upon the Premises during the progress of the work to inspect the progress thereof and to determine if the work is being performed in accordance with the requirements of Section 3.1. Tenant shall promptly give to Landlord notices of any alleged failure by Landlord to comply with those requirements. Landlord’s Work shall be deemed approved by Tenant when Tenant occupies the Premises for the conduct of its business, except for items of Landlord’s Work which are uncompleted or do not conform to Exhibit C and as to which Tenant shall, in either case, have given written notice to Landlord prior to, or within five (5) days following, such occupancy. A certificate of completion by a licensed architect or registered engineer shall be conclusive evidence that Landlord’s Work has been completed except for items stated in such certificate to be incomplete or not in conformity with Exhibit C.

 

3.3

Early Access . Upon full execution of the Lease, Tenant may, prior to the Commencement Date (but following coordination with Landlord as to the timing), enter the Premises and without payment of rent, but otherwise subject to all the terms and conditions of this Lease, for the purpose of installing Tenant’s furniture, fixtures, wiring and equipment, provided that (i) Tenant shall not interfere with any work then being performed by or for Landlord in the Premises or Building, (ii) Tenant shall immediately cease its activities in the Premises in the event that Landlord notifies Tenant (which notice may be given orally) that Tenant is interfering with Landlord, and (iii) provided Tenant shall reimburse Landlord for Landlord’s actual costs incurred in connection with Tenant’s pre-commencement entry. All such work shall be done in accordance with, and Tenant shall comply with, the provisions of Section 6.2.5 hereof.

ARTICLE 4

Rent

 

4.1

The Fixed Rent . (a) Commencing on the Rent Commencement Date, Tenant covenants and agrees to pay rent to Landlord, by electronic fund transfer (or by such other method, as set forth below, or to such other person or entity as Landlord may by notice in writing to Tenant from time to time direct), at the Annual Fixed Rent Rate, in equal installments at the Monthly Fixed Rent Rate (which is 1/12th of the Annual Fixed Rent Rate), in advance, without notice or demand, and without setoff, abatement, suspension, deferment, reduction or deduction, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, on the first day of each calendar month included in the term; and for any portion of a calendar month at beginning of the term, at the rate for the first lease year payable in advance for such portion. The term “Additional Rent” shall mean all sums other than Fixed Rent that are payable to Landlord under this Lease, including, without limitation all Operating Costs, Taxes, late charges, and interest.

(b) It is the intention of the parties hereto that the obligations of Tenant hereunder shall be separate and independent covenants and agreements, that the Annual Fixed Rent, the Additional Rent and all other sums payable by Tenant to Landlord shall continue to be payable in all events and that the obligations of Tenant hereunder shall continue unaffected, unless the requirement to pay or perform the same shall have been abated or terminated pursuant to an express provision of this Lease.

(c) If Landlord shall give notice to Tenant that all rent and/or other payments due hereunder are to be made to Landlord by check, or by any other commercially reasonable means, Tenant shall make all such payments as shall be due after receipt of said notice by means as designated by Landlord, with such payments to be made to such address and to such person or entity as is specified by Landlord.

 

4.2

Additional Rent . Commencing on the Commencement Date, Tenant covenants and agrees to pay, as Additional Rent, insurance costs, utility charges, personal property taxes and its pro rata share of taxes and operating costs with respect to the Premises as provided in this Section 4.2 as follows:

 

  4.2.1

Real Estate Taxes . Tenant covenants to pay to Landlord, as Additional Rent, for each tax period partially or wholly included in the term, Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes (as hereinafter defined). Tenant shall remit to Landlord, on the first day of

 

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  each calendar month, estimated payments on account of Taxes, such monthly amounts to be sufficient to provide Landlord, by the time real estate tax payments are due and payable to any governmental authority responsible for collection of same, a sum equal to the Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes, as reasonably estimated by Landlord from time to time on the basis of the most recent tax data available. The initial calculation of the monthly estimated payments shall be based upon the Initial Estimate of Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes for the Tax Year and upon quarterly payments being due to the governmental authority on August 1, November 1, February 1 and May 1, and shall be made when the Commencement Date has been determined. If the total of such monthly remittances for any Tax Year is greater than the Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes for such Tax year, Landlord shall promptly pay to Tenant, or credit against the next accruing payments to be made by Tenant pursuant to this subsection 4.2.1, the difference; if the total of such remittances is less than the Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes for such Tax Year, Tenant shall pay the difference to Landlord at least ten (10) days prior to the date or dates within such Tax Year that any Taxes become due and payable to the governmental authority (but in any event no earlier than twenty (20) days following a written notice to Tenant, which notice shall set forth the manner of computation of Tenant’s Percentage of Taxes). This section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease.

If, after Tenant shall have made reimbursement to Landlord pursuant to this subsection 4.2.1, Landlord shall receive a refund of any portion of Taxes paid by Tenant with respect to any Tax Year during the term hereof as a result of an abatement of such Taxes by legal proceedings, settlement or otherwise (without either party having any obligation to undertake any such proceedings), Landlord shall promptly pay to Tenant, or credit against the next accruing payments to be made by Tenant pursuant to this subsection 4.2.1, the Tenant’s Percentage of the refund (less the proportional, pro rata expenses, including attorneys’ fees and appraisers’ fees, incurred in connection with obtaining any such refund), as relates to Taxes paid by Tenant to Landlord with respect to any Tax Year for which such refund is obtained.

In the event this Lease shall commence, or shall end (by reason of expiration of the term or earlier termination pursuant to the provisions hereof), on any date other than the first or last day of the Tax Year, or should the Tax Year or period of assessment of real estate taxes be changed or be more or less than one (1) year, as the case may be, then the amount of Taxes which may be payable by Tenant as provided in this subsection 4.2.1 shall be appropriately apportioned and adjusted.

The term “Taxes” shall mean all taxes, assessments, betterments and other charges and impositions (including, but not limited to, fire protection service fees and similar charges) levied, assessed or imposed at any time during the term by any governmental authority upon or against the Property, or taxes in lieu thereof, and additional types of taxes to supplement real estate taxes due to legal limits imposed thereon. If, at any time during the term of this Lease, any tax or excise on rents or other taxes, however described, are levied or assessed against Landlord with respect to the rent reserved hereunder, either wholly or partially in substitution for, or in addition to, real estate taxes assessed or levied on the Property, such tax or excise on rents shall be included in Taxes; however, Taxes shall not include franchise, estate, inheritance, succession, capital levy, transfer, income or excess profits taxes assessed on Landlord. Taxes shall include any estimated payment made by Landlord on account of a fiscal tax period for which the actual and final amount of taxes for such period has not been determined by the governmental authority as of the date of any such estimated payment. Any special assessments from any governmental authority which are not specifically charged to Tenant and which can be paid by Landlord in installments over a period in excess of one year, shall be paid by Landlord in the maximum number of installments permitted by law and not included as Taxes except in the year in which the installment is actually paid.

 

  4.2.2

Personal Property Taxes . Tenant shall pay all taxes charged, assessed or imposed upon the personal property of Tenant in or upon the Premises.

 

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  4.2.3

Operating Costs . Tenant covenants to pay to Landlord the Tenant’s Percentage of Operating Costs (as hereinafter defined) incurred by Landlord in any calendar year. Tenant shall remit to Landlord, on the first day of each calendar month, estimated payments on account of Operating Costs, such monthly amounts to be sufficient to provide Landlord, by the end of the calendar year, a sum equal to the Operating Costs, as reasonably estimated by Landlord from time to time. The initial monthly estimated payments shall be in an amount equal to 1/12th of the Initial Estimate of Tenant’s Percentage of Operating Costs for the Calendar Year. If, at the expiration of the year in respect of which monthly installments of Operating Costs shall have been made as aforesaid, the total of such monthly remittances is greater than the actual Operating Costs for such year, Landlord shall promptly pay to Tenant, or credit against the next accruing payments to be made by Tenant pursuant to this subsection 4.2.3, the difference; if the total of such remittances is less than the Operating Costs for such year, Tenant shall pay the difference to Landlord within twenty (20) days from the date Landlord shall furnish to Tenant an itemized statement of the Operating Costs, prepared, allocated and computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Any reimbursement for Operating Costs due and payable by Tenant with respect to periods of less than twelve (12) months shall be equitably prorated. This section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease.

The term “Operating Costs” shall mean all costs and expenses incurred for the operation, cleaning, maintenance, repair and upkeep of the Property, and the portion of such costs and expenses with regard to the common areas, facilities, services and amenities of the Park which is equitably allocable to the Property, including, without limitation, all costs of maintaining and repairing the Property and the Park (including snow removal, landscaping and grounds maintenance, operation, repair and maintenance of parking lots (including lighting), sidewalks, walking paths, access roads and driveways, Property signage, repair and maintenance of the roof; security, operation and repair of heating and air-conditioning equipment, elevators, lighting and any other Building equipment or systems) and of all repairs and replacements (other than repairs or replacements for which Landlord has received full reimbursement from contractors, other tenants of the Building or from others) necessary to keep the Property and the Park in good working order, repair, appearance and condition; all costs, including material and equipment costs, for cleaning and janitorial services to the Building (including window cleaning of the Building); all costs of any reasonable insurance carried by Landlord relating to the Property; all costs related to provision of heat (including oil, electric, and/or gas), cooling, and water (including sewer charges), refuse disposal and other utilities to the Building (exclusive of reimbursement to Landlord for any of same received as a result of direct billing to any tenant of the Building); payments under all service contracts relating to the foregoing; all compensation, fringe benefits, payroll taxes and workmen’s compensation insurance premiums related thereto with respect to any employees of Landlord or its affiliates engaged in the operation, security and maintenance of the Property and the Park; attorneys’ fees and disbursements (exclusive of any such fees and disbursements incurred in tax abatement proceedings or the preparation of leases) and auditing and other professional fees and expenses; and a management fee in line with market rates for comparable properties providing comparable services and amenities in the Burlington, Massachusetts geographic market area..

There shall not be included in such Operating Costs:

(a) brokerage fees (including rental fees) related to the operation of the Building;

(b) interest and depreciation charges incurred on the Property;

(c) expenditures made by Tenant with respect to (i) cleaning, maintenance and upkeep of the Premises, and (ii) the provision of electricity to the Premises;

 

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(d) leasing commissions, fees and costs, advertising and promotional expenses and other costs incurred in procuring tenants or in selling the Building, the Property or the Park;

(e) interest on indebtedness, debt amortization, ground rent and refinancing costs for any mortgage or ground lease of the Property or the Park;

(f) legal, auditing, consulting and professional fees and other costs paid or incurred in connection with financings, refinancings or sales of any of Landlord’s interest in the Property or the Park;

(g) cost of any work or service performed on an extra cost basis for any tenant in the Building or the Property to a materially greater extent or in a materially more favorable manner than furnished generally to the tenants and other occupants;

(h) costs of any items for which Landlord is actually paid or reimbursed by insurance, any tenant, or any third party;

(i) advertising, marketing and promotional expenditures other than for advertising for employees;

(j) any cost representing an amount paid to a person, firm, corporation or other entity related to Landlord that is in excess of the amount which would have been paid in the absence of such relationship;

(k) late fees or charges incurred by Landlord due to late payment of expenses, except to the extent attributable to Tenant’s actions or inactions;

(l) reserve funds;

(m) salaries or other compensation of employees above the grade of Senior Property Manager;

(n) costs of any cleanup, containment, abatement, removal or remediation of Hazardous Materials (as defined in Section 6.2.3) to the extent such were either (i) on the Property on the Date of this Lease or (ii) introduced onto the Property by Landlord;

(o) costs incurred in connection with bringing the Building into compliance with any laws and/or codes in effect and enforced prior to the Commencement Date; and

(p) capital expenditures, except as specifically provided for below.

If, during the term of this Lease, Landlord shall replace any capital items or make any capital expenditures which (a) are intended to reduce Operating Costs or (b) are required to comply with laws enacted after the date of this Lease, or (c) following the expiration of the first (1 st ) Lease Year, are required to replace worn-out items as may be necessary to maintain the Building in good working order, repair and condition and not to enhance the Building over and above its current appearance and condition (collectively called “capital expenditures”) the total amount of which is not properly included in Operating Costs for the calendar year in which they were made, there shall nevertheless be included in Operating Costs for each calendar year in which and after such capital expenditure is made the annual charge-off of such capital expenditure. (Annual charge-off shall be determined by (i) dividing the original cost of the capital expenditure by the number of years of useful life thereof [The useful life shall be reasonably determined by Landlord in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and practices in effect at the time of acquisition of the capital item.]; and (ii) adding to such quotient an interest factor computed on the unamortized balance of such capital expenditure based upon an interest rate reasonably determined by Landlord as being the interest rate then being charged for long-term mortgages by institutional lenders on like properties within the locality in which the Building is located.) Provided, further, that if Landlord reasonably concludes on the basis of engineering estimates

 

11


that a particular capital expenditure will effect savings in Operating Costs and that such annual projected savings will exceed the annual charge-off of capital expenditure computed as aforesaid, then and in such events, the annual charge-off shall be determined by dividing the amount of such capital expenditure by the number of years over which the projected amount of such savings shall fully amortize the cost of such capital item or the amount of such capital expenditure; and by adding the interest factor, as aforesaid.

If during any portion of any year for which Operating Costs are being computed, the Building was not fully occupied by tenants or if not all of such tenants were paying fixed rent or if Landlord was not supplying all tenants with the services, amenities or benefits being supplied hereunder, actual Operating Costs incurred that vary due to occupancy shall be reasonably extrapolated by Landlord to the estimated Operating Costs that would have been incurred if the Building were fully occupied by tenants and all such tenants were then paying fixed rent or if such services were being supplied to all tenants, and such extrapolated amount shall, for the purposes of this Section 4.2.3, be deemed to be the Operating Costs for such year. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Landlord shall not recover in any given year more that 100% of the Operating Costs actually incurred by Landlord in such year.

 

  4.2.4

Insurance . Tenant shall, at its expense, as Additional Rent, take out and maintain from the time Tenant first occupies the Premises for any purpose and throughout the Term the following insurance protecting Landlord:

 

  4.2.4.1

Commercial general liability insurance and commercial excess liability insurance on “follow form” basis and/or umbrella naming Landlord, Tenant, and Landlord’s managing agent and any mortgagee of which Tenant has been given notice as insureds or additional insureds on a primary and non-contributory basis, in amounts which shall, at the beginning of the term, be at least equal to the limits set forth in Section 1.1; and, which, from time to time during the term, shall be for such higher limits, if any, as are customarily carried in the area in which the Premises are located on property similar to the Premises and used for similar purposes; and workmen’s compensation insurance with statutory limits covering all of Tenant’s employees working on the Premises, coverning the state in which the employee was hired, works and resides; and Employers liability insurance with minimum limits of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) each accident, bodily injury by accident; Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) each employee, bodily injury by disease; and Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) policy limit, bodily injury by disease.

 

  4.2.4.2

Special Risk property insurance with the usual extended coverage endorsements covering all Tenant’s furniture, furnishings, fixtures and equipment, and business interruption insurance with limits not less than the equivalent of 12 months of rent, with extra expense coverage, and shall list Landlord as loss payee as their interests may appear.

 

  4.2.4.3

Automobile liability insurance for all owned, leased, non-owned and hired vehicles. The minimum limit of liability shall be One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) each accident, combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage, naming Landlord as an additional insured on a primary and non-contributory basis.

 

  4.2.4.4

All such policies shall be obtained from responsible companies having a policy rating of A-; X or better, as set forth in the most current issue of the Best’s Key Rating Guide and which are qualified to do business and in good standing in Massachusetts. Tenant agrees to furnish Landlord with certificates evidencing all such insurance prior to the beginning of the term hereof and evidencing renewal thereof at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of any such policy. Tenant shall provide at least thirty (30) days prior written notice to Landlord should any of the policies required herein be cancelled. In the event provision for any such insurance is to be by a blanket insurance policy, the policy shall allocate a specific and sufficient amount of coverage to the Premises.

 

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  4.2.4.5

All insurance which is carried by either party with respect to the Building, Premises or to furniture, furnishings, fixtures, or equipment therein or alterations or improvements thereto, workmen’s compensation insurance, and all liability insurance, whether or not required, shall include provisions which either designate the other party as one of the insured or deny to the insurer acquisition by subrogation of rights of recovery against the other party to the extent such rights have been waived by the insured party prior to occurrence of loss or injury, insofar as, and to the extent that, such provisions may be effective without making it impossible to obtain insurance coverage from responsible companies qualified to do business in the state in which the Premises are located. Each party shall be entitled to have certificates of any policies containing such provisions. Each party hereby waives all rights of recovery against the other for loss or injury against which the waiving party is protected by insurance containing said provisions, reserving, however, any rights with respect to any excess of loss or injury over the amount recovered by such insurance. Tenant shall not acquire as insured under any insurance carried on the Premises.

 

  4.2.5

Utilities . Commencing as of the Commencement Date, Tenant shall contract for and pay directly to the applicable public utility company all costs and charges for telephone service and for separately metered electricity and gas furnished or consumed on the Premises (Landlord hereby confirming such meters currently exist and are in good working order). Tenant shall reimburse Landlord through Operating Costs for all charges for water (including sewer charges) supplied by Landlord pursuant to Subsections 5.1.3. Tenant shall pay directly all charges for other utilities or services not supplied by Landlord, whether designated as a charge, tax, assessment, fee or otherwise, all such charges to be paid as the same from time to time become due. Except as otherwise provided in Article 5, it is understood and agreed that Tenant shall make its own arrangements for the installation or provision of all such utilities and that Landlord shall be under no obligation to furnish any utilities to the Premises and shall not be liable for any interruption or failure in the supply of any such utilities to the Premises.

 

4.3

Late Payment of Rent . If any installment of Fixed Rent or other sum due Landlord is paid after the date the same was due, and if on a prior occasion in the twelve (12) month period prior to the date such installment was due an installment of rent was paid after the same was due, then Tenant shall pay Landlord a late payment fee equal to five (5%) percent of the overdue payment. In addition, if any installment of rent or other sum due Landlord is not paid when due, such installment shall bear interest from the date due until paid, at the rate of 12% per year not to exceed the highest rate permitted by law.

 

4.4

Letter of Credit . The performance of Tenant’s obligations under this Lease shall be secured by a letter of credit throughout the term hereof in accordance with and subject to the following terms and conditions:

 

  4.4.1

Amount of Security . (a) Concurrently with Tenant’s execution and delivery of this Lease, Tenant shall deposit with Landlord cash in the amount of the Letter of Credit Amount set forth in Section 1.1 (the “Cash Deposit”). The Cash Deposit paid by Tenant to Landlord shall be held by Landlord and be withdrawn and applied by Landlord under the same circumstances and for the same purposes as if it were a Letter of Credit (in accordance with the terms of Section 4.4). Upon any such application of all or part of the Cash Deposit by Landlord, Tenant shall, within five (5) days of written demand therefor, deliver to Landlord cash in the amount of the Cash Deposit so applied.

(b) Within fifteen (15) days of the Date of this Lease, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord an irrevocable standby letter of credit (the “Original Letter of Credit”) which shall be (i) in the form of Exhibit E attached to this Lease (the “Form LC”), (ii) issued by a commercial bank reasonably satisfactory to Landlord upon which

 

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presentment may be made in Boston, Massachusetts, (iii) in the amount equal to the Letter of Credit Amount, and (iv) for a term of at least 1 year, subject to the provisions of Section 4.4.2 below. Within five (5) days of Tenant’s delivery of the Original Letter of Credit to Landlord, Landlord shall return the Cash Deposit (or so much of the same as remains following any withdrawal against the same pursuant to the terms above) to Tenant. The Original Letter of Credit, any Additional Letters(s) of Credit and Substitute Letter(s) of Credit are referred to herein as the “Letter of Credit.” Time is of the essence with regard to the delivery of the Original Letter of Credit.

(b) The Letter of Credit Amount may be reduced one (1) time during the Term (as set forth below) provided Tenant is not in default under this Lease at the time of the reduction, and has not previously been in default under this Lease. Provided Tenant satisfies the above conditions, the Letter of Credit Amount shall be reduced following the expiration of the thirty-eighth (38 th ) full calendar month following the Commencement Date (such date the “Reduction Date”) to an amount equal to $25,326.00 pursuant to the following procedures. Tenant shall provide Landlord with written notice of Tenant’s intent to reduce the Letter of Credit Amount pursuant to the terms hereof on or following the Reduction Date. Within thirty (30) days after Tenant receives written confirmation from Landlord that the conditions for reduction of the Letter of Credit Amount have been satisfied, Tenant shall provide Landlord with an amendment to the Letter of Credit or a Substitute Letter of Credit meeting all of the requirements of this Section 4.4 to accomplish such authorized reduction of the Letter of Credit, and Landlord will have no obligation to surrender the Letter of Credit unless and until receipt of the Substitute Letter of Credit or amended Letter of Credit in compliance with such requirements. In no event shall the Letter of Credit have an automatic reduction provision. In no event will the Letter of Credit at any time be reduced below $25,326.00. Tenant shall be responsible, at its sole expense, for taking all necessary steps to effect the reduction pursuant to the terms hereof, provided however that Landlord shall reasonably cooperate with Tenant to amend the Letter of Credit or obtain a Substitute Letter of Credit, as applicable, at no cost to Landlord.

 

  4.4.2

Renewal of Letter of Credit . Each Letter of Credit shall be automatically renewable in accordance with the second to last paragraph of the Form LC; provided however, that Tenant shall be required to deliver to Landlord a new letter of credit (a “Substitute Letter of Credit”) satisfying the requirements for the Original Letter of Credit under Section 4.4.1 on or before the date 30 days prior to the expiration of the term of the Letter of Credit then in effect, if the issuer of such Letter of Credit (the “Issuing Bank”) gives notice of its election not to renew such Letter of Credit for any additional period pursuant thereto. Should any Letter of Credit contain a final expiration date, in addition to a current expiration date, such final expiration date shall be no earlier than 45 days following the Expiration Date of this Lease.

 

  4.4.3

Draws to Cure Defaults . If the Fixed Rent, Additional Rent or any other sum payable to Landlord hereunder shall be overdue and unpaid or should Landlord make payments on behalf of the Tenant, or Tenant shall fail to perform any of the terms of this Lease in all cases beyond the expiration of all applicable notice and cure periods, then Landlord shall have the right, at any time thereafter to draw down from the Letter of Credit the amount necessary to cure such default. In the event of any such draw by the Landlord, Tenant shall, within 30 days of written demand therefor, deliver to Landlord an additional Letter of Credit (“Additional Letter of Credit”) satisfying the requirements for the Original Letter of Credit, except that the amount of such Additional Letter of Credit shall be the amount of such draw.

 

  4.4.4

Draws to Pay Damages . In addition, if (i) this Lease shall have been terminated as a result of Tenant’s default under this Lease beyond the expiration of the applicable cure period, and/or (ii) this Lease shall have been rejected in a bankruptcy or other creditor-debtor proceeding, then Landlord shall have the right at any time thereafter to draw down from the Letter of Credit an amount sufficient to pay any and all damages payable by Tenant on account of such termination or rejection, as the case may be, pursuant to Article 8 hereof. In the event of bankruptcy or other creditor-

 

14


  debtor proceeding against Tenant, all proceeds of the Letter of Credit shall be deemed to be applied first to the payment of rent and other charges due Landlord for all periods prior to the filing of such proceedings.

 

  4.4.5

Issuing Bank . In the event the Issuing Bank becomes insolvent, or if Landlord reasonably believes the Issuing Bank is financially troubled or at risk of becoming insolvent, or if the Issuing Bank is placed into receivership or conservatorship by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (or any successor or similar entity), or if a trustee, receiver or liquidator is appointed for the Issuing Bank, then, effective as of the date of such occurrence, the Letter of Credit shall be deemed to not meet the requirements of this Section 4.4 and Tenant shall, within ten (10) business days of written notice from Landlord, deliver to Landlord a Substitute Letter of Credit which otherwise meets the requirements of this Section, or, alternatively at Landlord’s discretion, Tenant shall, within such five-day period deliver cash to Landlord in the Letter of Credit Amount, which Landlord shall hold as “Security Proceeds” which shall be governed by subject to the provisions of Section 4.4.6 below.

 

  4.4.6

Draws for Failure to Deliver Substitute Letter of Credit . If Tenant fails timely to deliver to Landlord a Substitute Letter of Credit, then Landlord shall have the right, at any time thereafter, without giving any notice to Tenant, to draw down the Letter of Credit and to hold the proceeds thereof (“Security Proceeds”) in a bank account in the name of Landlord, which may be withdrawn and applied by Landlord under the same circumstances and for the same purposes as if the Security Proceeds were a Letter of Credit. Upon any such application of Security Proceeds by Landlord, Tenant shall, within 30 days of written demand therefor, deliver to Landlord an Additional Letter of Credit in the amount of Security Proceeds so applied.

 

  4.4.7

Transferability . Landlord shall be entitled to transfer its beneficial interest under the Letter of Credit or any Security Proceeds in connection with (i) Landlord’s sale or transfer of the Building, or (ii) the addition, deletion or modification of any beneficiaries under the Letter of Credit, and the Letter of Credit shall specifically state on its face that it is transferable by Landlord, its successors and assigns. Tenant agrees to pay Landlord upon demand, as Additional Rent, all costs and fees charged to effect such transfer.

 

  4.4.8

Return of Letter of Credit at End of Term . Within 45 days after the expiration of the term, to the extent Landlord has not previously drawn upon any Letter of Credit or Security Proceeds held by Landlord, Landlord shall return the same to Tenant provided that there is not at such time any continuing default of any of Tenant’s obligations under this Lease.

ARTICLE 5

Landlord’s Covenants

 

5.1

Affirmative Covenants . Landlord covenants with Tenant:

 

  5.1.1

Heat and Air-Conditioning . To furnish to the Premises heat and air-conditioning (reserving the right, at any time, to change energy or heat sources), separately metered for gas and at the direct expense of Tenant as provided in Section 4.2.5 above, sufficient to maintain the Premises at comfortable temperatures (subject to all federal, state, and local regulations relating to the provision of heat). The heat and air-conditioning temperatures will be controlled by Tenant pursuant to the thermostat in the Premises.

 

  5.1.2

Electricity . To furnish to the Premises, separately metered and at the direct expense of Tenant as hereinabove provided, reasonable electricity for Tenant’s Permitted Uses. If Tenant shall require electricity in excess of reasonable quantities for Tenant’s Permitted Uses and if (i) in Landlord’s reasonable judgment, Landlord’s facilities are inadequate for such excess requirements, or (ii) such excess use shall result in an additional burden on the Building utilities systems and additional cost to Landlord on account thereof, as the case may be, (a) Tenant shall, upon demand,

 

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  reimburse Landlord for such additional cost, as aforesaid, or (b) Landlord, upon written request, and at the sole cost and expense of Tenant, will furnish and install such additional wire, conduits, feeders, switchboards and appurtenances as reasonably may be required to supply such additional requirements of Tenant (if electricity therefor is then available to Landlord), provided that the same shall be permitted by applicable laws and insurance regulations and shall not cause permanent damage or injury to the Building or cause or create a dangerous or hazardous condition or entail excessive or unreasonable alterations or repairs.

 

  5.1.3

Cleaning; Water . To provide cleaning to the common areas on business days in accordance with cleaning and janitorial standards generally prevailing throughout the term hereof in comparable office buildings within the municipality in which the Building is located (it being agreed cleaning of the Premises is Tenant’s obligation pursuant to subsection 6.1.3 below); and to furnish water for ordinary cleaning, lavatory and toilet facilities..

 

  5.1.4

Elevator; Fire Alarm . To furnish elevator service (once constructed); and to maintain fire alarm systems within the Building.

 

  5.1.5

Repairs . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, to make such repairs and replacements to the roof, exterior walls, floor slabs and other structural components of the Building, and to the common areas, facilities and plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems of the Building as may be necessary to keep them in good repair and condition (exclusive of equipment installed by Tenant and except for those repairs required to be made by Tenant pursuant to Section 6.1.3 hereof and repairs or replacements occasioned by any act or negligence of Tenant, its servants, agents, customers, contractors, employees, invitees, or licensees).

 

  5.1.6

Indemnification . Landlord shall save harmless, exonerate and indemnify Tenant, its agents and employees (such agents and employees being referred to collectively as the “Tenant Related Parties”) from and against any and all claims, liabilities or penalties asserted by or on behalf of any person, firm, corporation or public authority on account of injury, death, damage or loss to person or property in or upon the common area of the Property arising out of the gross negligence or intentional misconduct of Landlord, except if the same was caused by the negligence, fault or misconduct of Tenant or the Tenant Related Parties. In respect of all of the foregoing, Landlord shall indemnify Tenant and the Tenant Related Parties from and against all costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), and liabilities incurred in or in connection with any such claim, action or proceeding brought thereon; and, in case of any action or proceeding brought against Tenant or the Tenant Related Parties by reason of any such claim, Landlord, upon notice from Tenant and at Landlord’s expense, shall resist or defend such action or proceeding and employ counsel therefor reasonably satisfactory to Tenant provided that Tenant shall be deemed to have approved counsel provided by Landlord’s liability insurer. The preceding indemnification shall expressly survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease.

 

5.2

Interruption . A. Landlord shall be under no responsibility or liability for failure or interruption of any of the above-described utility services, or conditions arising in or about the Property caused by breakage, accident, strikes, repairs, inability to obtain supplies, labor or materials, or for any other causes beyond the control of the Landlord, and in no event for any indirect or consequential damages to Tenant; and failure or omission on the part of the Landlord to furnish any of same for any of the reasons set forth in this paragraph shall not be construed as an eviction of Tenant, actual or constructive, nor entitle Tenant to an abatement of rent, nor render the Landlord liable in damages, nor release Tenant from prompt fulfillment of any of its covenants under this Lease. However in each instance of failure or interruption Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to restore the unavailable service or remedy the condition following written notice from Tenant.

B. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if an event or circumstance (an “Abatement Event”) shall occur that causes an interruption or curtailment, suspension or stoppage of an

 

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Essential Service that reasonably prevents Tenant from using the entire Premises, or any material portion thereof, as a result of Landlord’s failure to provide any Essential Service (defined below) required to be provided by Landlord under this Lease, provided that such failure or Landlord’s inability to remedy such event or circumstance is not due to Force Majeure or a cause beyond Landlord’s reasonable control generally affecting other buildings in the vicinity (such as a neighborhood power outage or other off-site occurrence) or the act or negligence of Tenant, its employees, vendors, or contractors, or any party claiming by, through or under Tenant then Tenant shall give Landlord notice (an “Abatement Notice”) of any such Abatement Event. If such Abatement Event continues beyond the “Eligibility Period” (defined below), then the Monthly Fixed Rent and monthly charges on account of Operating Costs and Taxes shall be abated entirely or proportionately, as the case may be, after the expiration of the Eligibility Period for such time that Tenant continues to be so prevented from using, and does not use, the Premises or a portion thereof, in the proportion that the rentable area of the portion of the Premises that Tenant is prevented from using, and does not use, bears to the total rentable area of the Premises. Tenant shall not be entitled to any abatement of Rent if Tenant is then in default of any of its obligations under this Lease. The term “Eligibility Period” shall mean a period of five (5) consecutive business days after Landlord’s receipt of any Abatement Notice(s). For purposes hereof, the term “Essential Services” shall mean the following services required to be provided by Landlord under this Lease: water and sewer service, HVAC, gas and electricity. The provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to any Abatement Event caused by fire or other damage or destruction to the Building, which shall be covered by Article 7 of this Lease.

 

5.3

Outside Services . In the event Tenant wishes to provide outside services for the Premises over and above those services to be provided by Landlord as set forth herein, Tenant shall first obtain the prior written approval of Landlord (which shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned) for the installation and/or utilization of such services (“Outside services” shall include, but shall not be limited to, cleaning services, television, so-called “canned music” services, security services, catering services and the like.) In the event Landlord approves the installation and/or utilization of such services, such installation and utilization shall be at Tenant’s sole cost, risk and expense.

 

5.4

Access . Subject to Landlord’s security requirements, if any, Tenant shall have access to the Premises, Building and parking area 24 hours per day, 7 days per week (provided Landlord shall have no obligations to ensure such access).

ARTICLE 6

Tenant’s Additional Covenants

 

6.1

Affirmative Covenants . Tenant covenants at all times during the term and for such further time (prior or subsequent thereto) as Tenant occupies the Premises or any part thereof:

 

  6.1.1

Perform Obligations . To perform promptly all of the obligations of Tenant set forth in this Lease; and to pay when due the Fixed Rent and Additional Rent and all charges, rates and other sums which by the terms of this Lease are to be paid by Tenant.

 

  6.1.2

Use . To use the Premises only for the Permitted Uses, and from time to time to procure all licenses and permits necessary therefor (other than the initial Certificate of Occupancy), at Tenant’s sole expense. With respect to any licenses or permits for which Tenant may apply, pursuant to this subsection 6.1.2 or any other provision hereof, Tenant shall furnish Landlord copies of applications therefor on or before their submission to the governmental authority.

 

  6.1.3

Repair and Maintenance; Cleaning . To maintain the Premises in neat order and condition and to perform all routine and ordinary repairs to the Premises and to any plumbing, heating, electrical, ventilating and air-conditioning systems located within the Premises and installed by Tenant such as are necessary to keep them in good working order, appearance and condition, as the case may require, reasonable use and wear thereof and damage by fire or by unavoidable casualty only excepted; to keep all glass in windows and doors of the Premises (except glass in the exterior

 

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  walls of the Building) whole and in good condition with glass of the same quality as that injured or broken; and to make as and when needed as a result of misuse by, or neglect or improper conduct of Tenant or Tenant’s servants, employees, agents, invitees or licensees or otherwise, all repairs necessary, which repairs and replacements shall be in quality and class equal to the original work. (Landlord, upon default of Tenant hereunder beyond applicable notice and cure periods and upon prior notice to Tenant, may elect, at the expense of Tenant, to perform all such cleaning and maintenance and to make any such repairs or to repair any damage or injury to the Building or the Premises caused by moving property of Tenant in or out of the Building, or by installation or removal of furniture or other property, or by misuse by, or neglect, or improper conduct of, Tenant or Tenant’s servants, employees, agents, contractors, customers, patrons, invitees, or licensees.). Tenant shall also be responsible for cleaning to the Premises in accordance with cleaning and janitorial standards of the Building, so as to keep the same neat and clean at all times.

 

  6.1.4

Compliance with Law . To make all repairs, alterations, additions or replacements to the Premises required by any law or ordinance or any order or regulation of any public authority; to keep the Premises equipped with all safety appliances so required; and to comply with the orders and regulations of all governmental authorities with respect to zoning, building, fire, health and other codes, regulations, ordinances or laws applicable to the Premises, except that Tenant may defer compliance so long as the validity of any such law, ordinance, order or regulations shall be contested by Tenant in good faith and by appropriate legal proceedings, if Tenant first gives Landlord appropriate assurance or security against any loss, cost or expense on account thereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, Tenant shall not be responsible for compliance with any such laws, regulations, or the like requiring (a) structural repairs or modifications; or (b) repairs or modifications to the utility or building service equipment; or (c) installation of new building service equipment, such as fire detection or suppression equipment, unless such repairs, modifications, or installations shall be due to Tenant’s particular manner of use of the Premises (as opposed to office use generally) or required on account of any work done by or on behalf of Tenant.

 

  6.1.5

Indemnification . To indemnify, defend and hold harmless Landlord, its agents (including, without limitation, Landlord’s managing agent), partners, officers, directors, members, trustees, beneficiaries, shareholders, and employees (such parties being referred to collectively as the “Landlord Related Parties”) from and against any and all claims, demands, liabilities, penalties, fines, settlements, damages, loss, costs or expenses resulting from, arising out of, or in any way related to injury, death, damage or loss to person or property in or upon the Premises and the Property arising out of the use or occupancy of the Premises by Tenant or by any person claiming by, through or under Tenant (including, without limitation, all patrons, employees and customers of Tenant), the negligent acts or omissions or intentional misconduct of Tenant or any person claiming by, through or under Tenant, or on account of any breach by Tenant of its obligations under this Lease. or on account of or based upon anything whatsoever done on the Premises, except if the same was caused by the willful negligence, fault or misconduct of Landlord or the Landlord Related Parties. In respect of all of the foregoing, Tenant shall indemnify Landlord and the Landlord Related Parties from and against all costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), of whatever kind or nature incurred in or in connection with any such claim, action or proceeding brought thereon; and, in case of any action or proceeding brought against Landlord or the Landlord Related Parties by reason of any such claim, Tenant, upon notice from Landlord and at Tenant’s expense, shall resist or defend such action or proceeding and employ counsel therefor reasonably satisfactory to Landlord. The preceding indemnification shall expressly survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease.

 

  6.1.6

Landlord s Right to Enter . To permit Landlord and its agents to enter into and examine the Premises at reasonable times and upon no less than twenty-four (24)

 

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  hours prior notice, (which notice may be given verbally, and except in the case of emergency, where no prior notice is required) and to show the Premises, and to make repairs to the Premises, and, during the last six (6) months prior to the expiration of this Lease, to keep affixed in suitable places notices of availability of the Premises. Landlord shall reasonably cooperate with Tenant so that, except in the case of emergencies, Tenant’s representative may accompany such persons who enter the Premises (it being agreed that Tenant’s failure or inability to have a representative present shall not inhibit Landlord’s right to enter as set forth herein).

 

  6.1.7

Personal Property at Tenant s Risk . All of the furnishings, fixtures, equipment, effects and property of every kind, nature and description of Tenant and of all persons claiming by, through or under Tenant which, during the continuance of this Lease or any occupancy of the Premises by Tenant or anyone claiming under Tenant, may be on the Premises, shall be at the sole risk and hazard of Tenant and if the whole or any part thereof shall be destroyed or damaged by fire, water, rain or by the leakage or bursting or other defect of water pipes, steam pipes, or other pipes, sprinklers, lighting fixtures or other cause by theft, any acts or omissions of any other tenant of the Property, or from any other cause, no part of said loss or damage is to be charged to or to be borne by Landlord, except that Landlord shall in no event be indemnified or held harmless or exonerated from any liability to Tenant or to any other person, for any injury, loss, damage or liability to the extent prohibited by law.

 

  6.1.8

Payment of Landlords Cost of Enforcement . To pay on demand Landlord’s expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred in enforcing any obligation of Tenant under this Lease which continues after the expiration of any notice and cure period or in curing any default by Tenant under this Lease which continues after the expiration of any notice and cure period as provided in Section 8.4.

 

  6.1.9

Yield Up . At the expiration of the term or earlier termination of this Lease: to surrender all keys to the Premises; to remove all of its trade fixtures and personal property in the Premises; to deliver to Landlord stamped architectural plans showing the Premises at yield up (which may be the initial plans if Tenant has made no installations after the Commencement Date); to remove such installations made by it as Landlord may request (including computer and telecommunications wiring and cabling, it being understood that if Tenant leaves such wiring and cabling in a useable condition, Landlord, although having the right to request removal thereof, is less likely to so request) and all Tenant’s signs wherever located; to repair all damage caused by such removal and to yield up the Premises (including all installations and improvements made by Tenant except for trade fixtures and such of said installations or improvements as Landlord shall request Tenant to remove), broom-clean and in the same good order and repair in which Tenant is obliged to keep and maintain the Premises by the provisions of this Lease, normal wear and tear and casualty excepted. Tenant, at the time of making any installation, alteration, or improvement, may request in writing Landlord’s written permission to leave the same in the Premises at the expiration of earlier termination of this Lease. Landlord shall, after receipt of Tenant’s request, notify Tenant in writing as to whether such installation, alteration or improvement may or may not remain in the Premises at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease. If Landlord so notifies Tenant that such installation, alteration, or improvement may remain in the Premises at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Landlord shall thereafter not be permitted to request or require that the same be removed at the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Tenant shall have no obligation to remove any of Landlord’s Work. Any property not so removed shall be deemed abandoned and, if Landlord so elects, deemed to be Landlord’s property, and may be retained or removed and disposed of by Landlord in such manner as Landlord shall determine and Tenant shall pay Landlord the entire cost and expense incurred by it in effecting such removal and disposition and in making any incidental repairs and replacements to the Premises and for use and occupancy during the period after the expiration of the term and prior to its performance of its obligations under this subsection 6.1.9. Tenant shall further indemnify Landlord against all loss, cost and damage resulting from Tenant’s failure and delay in surrendering the Premises as above provided.

 

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If the Tenant remains in the Premises beyond the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, such holding over shall be without right and shall not be deemed to create any tenancy, but the Tenant shall be a tenant at sufferance only at a daily holdover rate of rent during the first thirty (30) days of such holding over equal to one and one-half (1 1 2 ) times the Monthly Fixed Rent Rate and Additional Rent on account of Operating Costs and Taxes in effect as of the day prior to the expiration or termination of this Lease; and after the expiration of such 30-day period, at a rate equal to two (2) times the Monthly Fixed Rent Rate and Additional Rent on account of Operating Costs and Taxes last due as of the day prior to the date of expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, and shall otherwise be on the terms and conditions of this Lease as applicable, except that in no event shall any extension option, right of first offer or right of first refusal, or similar right or option be deemed applicable to such tenancy at sufferance.

 

  6.1.10

Rules and Regulations . To comply with the Rules and Regulations set forth in Exhibit F, and with all reasonable Rules and Regulations of general applicability to all tenants of the Building hereafter made by Landlord, of which Tenant has been given notice; Landlord shall not be liable to Tenant for the failure of other tenants of the Building to conform to such Rules and Regulations, but Landlord shall not enforce any Rules and Regulations against Tenant in a discriminatory manner. Tenant shall cause all parties performing work on behalf of Tenant in or about the Premises and Building to comply with the Construction Rules and Regulations attached hereto as Exhibit F-1.

 

  6.1.11

Estoppel Certificate . Upon not less than ten (10) business days’ prior written request by Landlord, to execute, acknowledge and deliver to Landlord a statement in writing, which may be in the form attached hereto as Exhibit G or in another form reasonably similar thereto, or such other form as Landlord may provide from time to time, certifying all or any of the following: (i) that this Lease is unmodified and in full force and effect, (ii) whether the term has commenced and Fixed Rent and Additional Rent have become payable hereunder and, if so, the dates to which they have been paid, (iii) whether or not Landlord is in default in performance of any of the terms of this Lease, (iv) whether Tenant has accepted possession of the Premises, (v) whether Tenant has made any claim against Landlord under this Lease and, if so, the nature thereof and the dollar amount, if any, of such claim, (vi) whether there exist any offsets or defenses against enforcement of any of the terms of this Lease upon the part of Tenant to be performed, and (vii) such further information with respect to the Lease or the Premises as Landlord may reasonably request. Any such statement delivered pursuant to this subsection 6.1.11 may be relied upon by any prospective purchaser or mortgagee of the Premises, or any prospective assignee of such mortgage. Tenant shall also deliver to Landlord such financial information as may be reasonably required by Landlord to be provided to any mortgagee or prospective purchaser of the Premises. If Tenant fails to deliver the estoppel certificate within the required time period, and such failure continues for an additional five (5) days following a second written request from Landlord, then Tenant shall be obligated to pay to Landlord, as Additional Rent within twenty (20) days of demand, a fee in the amount of $500.00 per day for each day that Tenant fails to deliver the requested estoppel in the period beginning on the day after the expiration of the initial 10-day period, and ending on the day Tenant actually delivers the estoppel.

 

  6.1.12

Landlord s Expenses Re Consents . To reimburse Landlord promptly on demand for all reasonable, out-of-pocket legal expenses incurred by Landlord in connection with all requests by Tenant for consent or approval hereunder.

 

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6.2

Negative Covenants . Tenant covenants at all times during the term and such further time (prior or subsequent thereto) as Tenant occupies the Premises or any part thereof:

 

  6.2.1

Assignment and Subletting . A. Not to assign, transfer, mortgage or pledge this Lease or to sublease (which term shall be deemed to include the granting of concessions and licenses and the like) all or any part of the Premises or permit this Lease or the leasehold estate hereby created or any other rights arising under this Lease to be assigned, transferred, pledged or encumbered, in whole or in part, whether voluntarily, involuntarily or by operation of law, or permit the occupancy of the Premises by anyone other than Tenant without the prior written consent of Landlord, or as otherwise permitted hereunder for Permitted Transfers without Landlord’s consent. In the event Tenant desires to assign this Lease or sublet any portion or all of the Premises other than to a Permitted Transferee, Tenant shall notify Landlord in writing of Tenant’s intent to so assign this Lease or sublet the Premises and the proposed effective date of such subletting or assignment, and shall request in such notification that Landlord consent thereto. Except with respect to Permitted Transfers, Landlord may terminate this Lease in the case of a proposed assignment, or suspend this Lease pro tanto for the period and with respect to the space involved in the case of a proposed subletting, by giving written notice of termination or suspension to Tenant, with such termination or suspension to be effective as of the effective date of such assignment or subletting. If Landlord does not so terminate or suspend, Landlord’s consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned to an assignment or to a subletting, provided that the following conditions are met:

 

  (i)

the assignee or subtenant shall use the Premises only for the Permitted Uses;

 

  (ii)

the Premises shall not be subject to more than one (1) sublease at any time, it being understood that multiple sublets of the Premises are not permitted;

 

  (iii)

the proposed assignee or subtenant has a net worth and creditworthiness reasonably acceptable to Landlord;

 

  (iv)

the amount of the aggregate rent to be paid by the proposed subtenant is not less than the then current sublease market rate for the Premises; and

 

  (v)

the proposed assignee or subtenant is not then a tenant in the Building or the Park, or an entity with which Landlord is dealing or has dealt within the preceding six months regarding the possibility of leasing space in the Building or the Park, and Landlord actually has (or reasonably expects to have) available reasonably comparable space in the Park.

 

  (vi)

the proposed assignee or subtenant provides a representation and warranty regarding the Patriot Act provisions set forth in this Lease.

Tenant shall furnish Landlord with any information reasonably requested by Landlord to enable Landlord to determine whether the proposed assignment or subletting complies with the foregoing requirements, including without limitation, financial statements relating to the proposed assignee or subtenant. With respect to any assignment or subletting during the Original Term of this Lease other than to a Permitted Transferee, such assignment shall not include the right granted to Tenant under Section 2.3 to extend the Term, and such sublease shall be for a term expiring no later than the Expiration Date.

B. Tenant shall, as Additional Rent, reimburse Landlord promptly for Landlord’s reasonable out-of-pocket legal expenses incurred in connection with any request by Tenant for such consent. If Landlord consents thereto, no such subletting or assignment shall in any way impair the continuing primary liability of Tenant hereunder, and no consent to any subletting or assignment in a particular instance shall be deemed to be a waiver of the obligation to obtain the Landlord’s written approval in the case of any other subletting or assignment.

C. Except for Permitted Transfers, if for any assignment or sublease consented to by Landlord hereunder Tenant receives rent or other consideration, either initially or over the term of the assignment or sublease, in excess of the rent called for

 

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hereunder, or in case of sublease of part, in excess of such rent fairly allocable to the part, after appropriate adjustments to assure that all other payments called for hereunder are appropriately taken into account and after deduction for reasonable marketing, legal and brokerage expenses of Tenant in connection with the assignment or sublease, to pay to Landlord as additional rent fifty (50%) percent of the excess of each such payment of rent or other consideration received by Tenant promptly after its receipt.

D. If at any time during the term of this Lease, there is a name change, Tenant shall so notify Landlord and deliver evidence reasonably satisfactory to Landlord documenting such name change. If, at any time during the Term of this Lease, there is a transfer of a Controlling Interest (as defined below) in the shares or stock of Tenant which are not publicly traded upon a stock exchange, or the membership or general partnership or other ownership interests of Tenant (any of the foregoing, an “Equity Sale”), or a restructuring or reorganization of the Tenant entity, including any spin-off, Tenant shall so notify Landlord and (whether or not Tenant so notifies Landlord) such Equity Sale, restructuring or reorganization shall be deemed an assignment of this Lease requiring Landlord’s consent as provided in this Section 6.2.1; provided however, Landlord’s consent shall not be required with respect to any Equity Sale, and any Equity Sale will not be deemed an assignment, if Tenant delivers to Landlord proof reasonably satisfactory to Landlord at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of any such transaction (except to the extent prohibited by applicable securities laws or regulations, in which case notice shall be given as soon as permissible under such laws or regulations) that Tenant’s net worth immediately after such Equity Sale will be no less than Tenant’s net worth immediately before such Equity Sale. “Controlling Interest” shall mean having ownership of fifty percent (50%) or more of the outstanding voting stock of a corporation or other majority equity and control interest if not a corporation and the possession of power to direct or cause the direction of the management of such corporation or other entity.

E. The following terms and conditions shall apply to any subletting by Tenant of all or any part of the Premises and shall be deemed included in all subleases under this Lease whether or not expressly incorporated therein:

 

  (i)

Tenant hereby assigns and transfers to Landlord all of Tenant’s interest in all rentals and income arising from any sublease of all or a portion of the Premises heretofore or hereafter made by Tenant, and Landlord may collect such rent and income and apply same toward Tenant’s obligations under this Lease; provided, however, that until a default by Tenant hereunder shall occur under this Lease, Tenant may, except as otherwise provided in this Lease, receive, collect and enjoy the rents accruing under such sublease. Landlord shall not, by reason of this or any other assignment of such sublease to Landlord, nor by reason of the collection of the rents from a subtenant, be deemed liable to the subtenant for any failure of Tenant to perform and comply with any of Tenant’s obligations to such subtenant under such sublease. Tenant hereby irrevocably authorizes and directs any such subtenant, upon receipt of a written notice from Landlord stating that a default hereunder exists under this Lease, to pay to Landlord the rents and other charges due and to become due under the sublease. The subtenant shall rely upon any such statement and request from Landlord and shall pay such rents and other charges to Landlord without any obligation or right to inquire as to whether such breach exists and notwithstanding any notice from or claim from Tenant to the contrary. Tenant shall have no right or claim against said subtenant, or, until the breach has been cured, against Landlord, for any such rents and other charges so paid by said subtenant to Landlord.

 

  (ii)

In the event of a default by Tenant in the performance of its obligations under this Lease that results in a termination of this Lease, Landlord, at its option and without any obligation to do so, may require any subtenant to attorn to Landlord, in which event Landlord shall undertake the obligations

 

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  of the sublandlord under such sublease from the time of the exercise of said option to the expiration of such sublease; provided, however, Landlord shall not be liable for any prepaid rents or security deposit paid by such subtenant to Tenant or for any other prior defaults or breaches of Tenant as sublandlord under such sublease.

F. Any other provision of this Section 6.2.1 notwithstanding, Tenant shall have the right, without Landlord’s prior written consent and without any right of Landlord to terminate this Lease (i) to assign this Lease to an entity into or with which Tenant is merged or consolidated, whether or not Tenant is the surviving entity, or to an entity to which all or substantially all of Tenant’s stock or assets are transferred provided that in any of such events the successor entity (the “Successor Entity”) has a net worth (computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles) immediately after the transfer at least equal to the net worth of Tenant immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or transfer, and proof reasonably satisfactory to Landlord of such net worth shall have been delivered to Landlord at least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of any such transaction (except to the extent prohibited by applicable securities laws or regulations, in which case notice shall be given as soon as permissible under such laws or regulations); and (ii) to assign this Lease or sublease the Premises (in whole or in part) to an entity which is either a parent of Tenant, controlled by Tenant or under common control with Tenant (collectively, a “Related Entity”), provided Tenant remains primarily liable under this Lease and so long as Tenant notifies Landlord of the assignment or subletting and delivers reasonable proof of the affiliation to Landlord. “Control” for the purposes hereof shall mean ownership of 50% or more of all financial interest and 50% or more of the voting interest of a corporation, and any other majority equity interest and control interest if not a corporation. A transaction for which consent from the Landlord is not required pursuant to this subparagraph F shall be referred to in this Lease as a “Permitted Transfer.” In the event of any Permitted Transfer, Tenant shall remain primarily liable under this Lease and any assignee shall agree directly with Landlord, by written instrument in form satisfactory to Landlord, to assume and perform all the obligations of Tenant under this Lease. As used herein, the term “Permitted Transferee” to apply collectively to a Successor Entity or a Related Entity.

 

  6.2.2

Nuisance . Not to injure, deface or otherwise harm the Premises; nor commit any nuisance; nor permit in the Premises any vending machine (except such as is used for the sale of merchandise to employees and invitees of Tenant) or inflammable fluids or chemicals (except such as are customarily used in connection with standard office equipment); nor permit any cooking to such extent as requires special exhaust venting; nor permit the emission of any reasonably objectionable noise or odor; nor make, allow or suffer any waste; nor make any use of the Premises which is improper, offensive or contrary to any law or ordinance or which will invalidate any of Landlord’s insurance; nor conduct any auction, fire, “going out of business” or bankruptcy sales.

 

  6.2.3

Hazardous Wastes and Materials . Not to cause or permit any Hazardous Materials to be used, handled, generated, stored or disposed of by Tenant, or persons or entities acting by, through, or on behalf of Tenant, on, under or above, or transported to or from, the Premises and/or the Property (collectively, “Hazardous Materials Activities”). Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to prevent Tenant from using de minimus quantities of (a) commercially available cleaners and office supplies which are customarily used in the ordinary course of first-class business office operations which cleaners and/or office supplies contain Hazardous Materials and/or (b) methanol, acetone, and isopropyl alcohol (the items in [b] collectively the “Tenant Specific Cleaning Items”) it being agreed Tenant may add items to the Tenant Specific Cleaning Items provided the same (i) are customarily used for cleaning optics, (ii) do not require any permit, consent, license, approval or other action from any governmental, quasi-governmental or regulatory body or agency (or similar entity), and (iii) Tenant gives Landlord reasonable prior notice of such new item; provided that, Tenant shall use such cleaners and/or office

 

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  supplies and Tenant Specific Cleaning Items in strict compliance (at Tenant’s sole cost and expense) with all applicable laws, and shall use all necessary and appropriate precautions to prevent any spill, discharge, release or exposure to persons or property. Landlord shall not be liable to Tenant for any loss, cost, expense, claim, damage or liability arising out of any Hazardous Materials Activities by Tenant, or by Tenant’s employees, agents, contractors, licensees, customers or invitees, whether or not consented to by Landlord. Tenant shall indemnify, defend with counsel acceptable to and approved by Landlord, and hold Landlord and all Landlord Affiliates harmless from and against any and all losses, costs, expenses (including, without limitation, all reasonable attorneys’ fees), claims, damages, obligations and liabilities arising out of: (i) any Hazardous Materials Activities on the Premises (including but not limited to the use of the Tenant Specific Cleaning Items), whether or not consented to by Landlord; (ii) any Hazardous Materials Activities by Tenant, Tenant’s employees, agents, contractors, licensees, customers or invitees or anyone claiming by, through or under Tenant, wherever occurring; and (iii) any contamination, claim of contamination, loss or damage, or the like arising out of or resulting from the foregoing. For purposes hereof, “Hazardous Materials” shall include but not be limited to substances defined as “hazardous substances,” “toxic substances” or “hazardous wastes” or “oil” in any local, state or federal law, rule, regulation or ordinance (collectively, “Environmental Law(s)”). If Landlord consents to any Hazardous Materials Activities, prior to using, storing or maintaining any Hazardous Materials on or about the Premises, Tenant shall provide Landlord with a list of the types and quantities thereof, and shall update such list from time-to-time as necessary for continued accuracy. Tenant shall also provide Landlord with a copy of any Hazardous Materials inventory statement and any updates thereof required by any applicable Environmental Laws. If Tenant’s activities violate or create a risk of violation of any Environmental Law or cause a spill, discharge, release or exposure to any persons or property, Tenant shall cease such activities immediately. Tenant shall immediately notify Landlord both by telephone and in writing of any spill, discharge, release or exposure of Hazardous Materials in or about the Premises, or of any condition in or about the Premises constituting an “imminent hazard” under any Environmental Laws. Landlord, Landlord’s representatives and employees may enter the Premises during the Term to inspect Tenant’s compliance herewith, and may disclose any spill, discharge, release, or exposure or any violation of any Environmental Laws to any applicable governmental agencies or authorities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Tenant shall not be responsible for the cost of remediation of any Hazardous Materials existing on the Property on or prior to the Commencement Date (provided the same were not introduced by Tenant or any party acting through or engaged by Tenant).

 

  6.2.4

Floor Load; Heavy Equipment . Not to place a load upon any floor of the Premises exceeding the floor load per square foot area which such floor was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Landlord reserves the right to prescribe the weight and position of all heavy business machines and equipment, including safes, which shall be placed so as to distribute the weight. Business machines and mechanical equipment which cause vibration or noise shall be placed and maintained by Tenant at Tenant’s expense in settings sufficient to absorb and prevent vibration, noise and annoyance. Tenant shall not move any safe, heavy machinery, heavy equipment, freight or fixtures into or out of the Premises except in such manner and at such time as Landlord shall in each instance authorize.

 

  6.2.5

Installation, Alterations or Additions . Not to make any installations, alterations or additions in, to or on the Premises nor to permit the making of any holes (other than in connection with hanging pictures or securing furniture and fixtures) in the walls, partitions, ceilings or floors nor the installation or modification of any locks or security devices without on each occasion obtaining the prior written consent of Landlord, and then only pursuant to plans and specifications approved by Landlord in advance in each instance, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned. Landlord shall give Tenant notice, in reasonable detail, of any objections or concerns Landlord may have with respect to any proposed

 

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  installation, alteration or addition. Landlord shall not be deemed unreasonable for withholding approval of any proposed installation, alteration or addition that (i) involves or might affect the Building structure or exterior element of the Building or any portion thereof, and/or (ii) might, in Landlord’s reasonable opinion, materially adversely affect the value of the Building or any portion thereof, and/or (iii) might materially adversely affect the proper functioning of the Building systems and/or (iv) is visible from outside of the Premises and/or is not within the interior of the Premises and/or (v) involves penetration of the roof or exterior walls. Tenant agrees to employ for any work one or more responsible contractors of whom Landlord has given prior approval (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld), and whose labor will work without interference with other labor working on the Property, and to cause such contractors employed by Tenant to carry worker’s compensation insurance in accordance with statutory requirements, Employers Liability Insurance at least equal to the limits set forth in Section 4.2.4.1, and commercial general liability insurance covering such contractors on or about the Premises in amounts at least equal to the limits set forth in Section 1.1. All contractors insurance shall name Landlord and its managing agent and any mortgagee as additional insureds on a primary and non-contributory basis, and indemnifying the parties so named against claims for death or injury to persons or damage to property claimed to have occurred in the Premises or on the property. Tenant shall cause its contractors to submit certificates evidencing such coverage to Landlord prior to the commencement of any such work. Tenant shall pay promptly when due the entire cost of any work to the Premises undertaken by Tenant so that the Premises shall at all times be free of liens for labor and materials, and at Landlord’s request Tenant shall furnish to Landlord a bond or other security acceptable to Landlord assuring that any work commenced by Tenant will be completed in accordance with the plans and specifications theretofore approved by Landlord and assuring that the Premises will remain free of any mechanics’ lien or other encumbrance arising out of such work. In any event, Tenant shall within ten (10) days of notice from Landlord bond against or discharge any mechanics’ liens or other encumbrances that may arise out of such work. If Tenant shall fail to cause any such lien to be discharged within such ten (10) day period, then in addition to any other available right or remedy, Landlord may discharge the same, either by paying the amount claimed to be due, or by bonding or otherwise. Any amount so paid, and all costs and expenses so incurred by Landlord in connection therewith, shall constitute Additional Rent hereunder. Tenant shall procure all necessary licenses and permits at Tenant’s sole expense before undertaking such work. All such work shall be done in a good and workmanlike manner employing materials of good quality and so as to conform with all applicable zoning, building, fire, health and other codes, regulations, ordinances and laws. Tenant shall save Landlord harmless and indemnified from all injury, loss, claims or damage to any person or property occasioned by or growing out of such work, and any liability, loss, cost, damage and expense of every kind and nature incurred by reason of, or arising out of any and all mechanic’s and other liens filed in connection with any alterations or improvements.

Not to grant a security interest in, or to lease, any personal property or equipment being installed in the Premises, including, without limitation, demountable partitions (the “Collateral”) without first obtaining an agreement for the benefit of Landlord in the form attached hereto as Exhibit H, from the secured party or lessor (“Secured Party”) that stipulates in the event either the Lease is terminated or Tenant defaults in its obligations to Secured Party, then (i) Secured Party will remove the Collateral within ten (10) business days after notice from Landlord of the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, or within ten (10) business days after Secured Party notifies Landlord that Secured Party has the right to remove the Collateral on account of Tenant’s default in its obligations to Secured Party, (ii) Secured Party will restore the area affected by such removal, and (iii) that a failure to so remove the Collateral will subject such property to the provisions of subsection 6.1.9 of the Lease.

 

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  6.2.6

Abandonment . Not to abandon the Premises during the term, it being understood and agreed that vacancy of the Premises shall not be construed as abandonment so long as all of Tenant’s other obligations under this Lease, including payment of rent and all other sums owing to Landlord, continue to be timely performed and reasonable and diligent measures are taken by Tenant to manage the vacant space.

 

  6.2.7

Signs . Not without Landlord’s prior written approval to paint or place any signs or place any curtains, blinds, shades, awnings, aerials, or the like, visible from outside the Premises. Landlord shall, at Landlord’s expense, provide Tenant with Building-standard signage on the tenant directory in the Building lobby.

 

  6.2.8

Parking and Storage . Not to permit any storage of materials outside of the Premises; nor to permit the use of the parking areas for either temporary or permanent storage of trucks; nor permit the use of the Premises for any use for which heavy trucking would be customary.

ARTICLE 7

Casualty or Taking

 

7.1

Termination . In the event that the Premises or the Building, or any material part thereof, shall be taken by any public authority or for any public use, or shall be destroyed or damaged by fire or casualty, or by the action of any public authority, then this Lease may be terminated at the election of Landlord. Such election, which may be made notwithstanding the fact that Landlord’s entire interest may have been divested, shall be made by the giving of notice by Landlord to Tenant within sixty (60) days after the date of the taking or casualty. In the event that the Premises are substantially destroyed or damaged by fire or casualty, or by the action of public authority during the original term, and, in the reasonable opinion of an independent architect or engineer selected by Landlord, cannot be repaired or restored within two hundred and seventy (270) days from the date the repair or restoration work would commence, then this Lease may be terminated at the election of Tenant, which election shall be made by the giving of notice to Landlord within thirty (30) days after the date the opinion of the architect or engineer is made available to the parties, which notice shall specify the effective date of termination, which shall not be less than thirty (30) nor more than sixty (60) days after the date of Tenant’s termination notice.

 

7.2

Restoration . If Landlord does not elect to so terminate, this Lease shall continue in force and a just proportion of the rent reserved, according to the nature and extent of the damages sustained by the Premises, shall be suspended or abated until the Premises, or what may remain thereof, shall be put by Landlord in proper condition for use, which Landlord covenants to do with reasonable diligence to the extent permitted by the net proceeds of insurance recovered or damages awarded for such taking, destruction or damage and subject to zoning and building laws or ordinances then in existence. “Net proceeds of insurance recovered or damages awarded” refers to the gross amount of such insurance or damages less the reasonable expenses of Landlord incurred in connection with the collection of the same, including without limitation, fees and expenses for legal and appraisal services. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Landlord shall not have restored the Premises within two hundred and seventy (270) days from the date such restoration work commenced (subject to Section 10.5 hereof), and such failure is not a result of delays caused by Tenant, Tenant shall have the right to terminate this Lease by giving notice of such termination to Landlord, effective at the expiration of thirty (30) days from the giving of such notice; provided however, that such termination will be rendered ineffective if, prior to the expiration of said 30-day period, Landlord shall have completed such restoration.

 

7.3

Award . Irrespective of the form in which recovery may be had by law, all rights to damages or compensation shall belong to Landlord in all cases. Tenant hereby grants to Landlord all of Tenant’s rights to such damages and covenants to deliver such further assignments thereof as Landlord may from time to time request. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to prevent Tenant from prosecuting in any condemnation proceedings a claim for relocation expenses, provided that such action shall not affect the amount of compensation otherwise recoverable by Landlord from the taking authority.

 

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ARTICLE 8

Defaults

 

8.1

Events of Default . (a) If Tenant shall default in the performance of any of its obligations to pay the Fixed Rent, Additional Rent or any other sum due Landlord hereunder and if such default shall continue for ten (10) days after written notice from Landlord designating such default or if within thirty (30) days after written notice from Landlord to Tenant specifying any other default or defaults Tenant has not commenced diligently to correct the default or defaults so specified or has not thereafter diligently pursued such correction to completion, or (b) if any assignment shall be made by Tenant in violation of the provisions of Section 6.2.1 of this Lease, or (c) if any assignment shall be made by Tenant or any guarantor of Tenant for the benefit of creditors, or (d) if Tenant’s leasehold interest shall be taken on execution, or (e) if a lien or other involuntary encumbrance is filed against Tenant’s leasehold interest or Tenant’s other property, including said leasehold interest, and is not discharged or bonded over within twenty (20) days thereafter, or (f) if a petition is filed by Tenant or any guarantor of Tenant for liquidation, or for reorganization or an arrangement under any provision of any bankruptcy law or code as then in force and effect, or (g) if an involuntary petition under any of the provisions of any bankruptcy law or code is filed against Tenant or any guarantor of Tenant and such involuntary petition is not dismissed within sixty (60) days thereafter, then, and in any of such cases, Landlord and the agents and servants of Landlord lawfully may, in addition to and not in derogation of any remedies for any preceding breach of covenant, immediately or at any time thereafter without demand or notice and with process of law enter into and upon the Premises or any part thereof in the name of the whole and repossess the same as of landlord’s former estate and expel Tenant and those claiming through or under Tenant and remove its and their effects without being deemed guilty of any manner of trespass and without prejudice to any remedies which might otherwise be used for arrears of rent or prior breach of covenants, and/or Landlord may terminate this Lease by sending written notice of termination to Tenant and this Lease shall terminate and come to an end on the date of entry as aforesaid, or on the third (3 rd ) day following the giving of such notice as fully and completely as if such date were the date originally fixed for expiration of the Term of this Lease. Tenant will quit and surrender the Premises to Landlord, but shall remain liable as herein provided. Tenant hereby waives all statutory rights to the Premises (including without limitation rights of redemption, if any, granted under any present or future laws to the extent such rights may be lawfully waived). Landlord, without notice to Tenant, may store Tenant’s effects, and those of any person claiming through or under Tenant, at the expense and risk of Tenant, and, if Landlord so elects, may sell such effects at public auction or private sale and apply the net proceeds to the payment of all sums due to Landlord from Tenant, if any, and pay over the balance, if any, to Tenant. No termination or repossession provided for in this Section 8.1 shall relieve Tenant or any guarantor of Tenant of the liabilities and obligations of Tenant under this Lease, all of which shall survive any such termination or repossession.

 

8.2

Remedies . A. In the event of termination or repossession, Tenant covenants to pay punctually to Landlord Fixed Rent, Additional Rent and all other sums for which Tenant is obligated in this Lease to pay and in the same manner and to the same extent and at the same time as if this Lease had not been terminated. In calculating the amounts to be paid by Tenant pursuant to the preceding sentence, Tenant shall be credited with any amount paid to Landlord as compensation as set forth below in this Section 8.2 and also with the net proceeds of any rent obtained by Landlord by reletting the Premises, after deducting all Landlord’s expense in connection with such reletting, including, without limitation, all repossession costs, brokerage commissions, reasonable attorney’s fees, and expenses of preparing the Premises for such reletting.

B. Landlord may elect to (i) relet the Premises or any part or parts thereof, for a term or terms which may be equal to or less than or exceed the period which would otherwise have constituted the balance of the term and may grant such concessions and free rent as Landlord in its sole judgment considers advisable or necessary to relet the same and/or (ii) make such alterations, repairs and decorations in the Premises as Landlord in its sole judgment considers advisable or necessary to relet the same and no action of Landlord in accordance with the foregoing or failure to relet or to collect rent under reletting shall

 

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operate or be construed to release or reduce Tenant’s liability as aforesaid. However, Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to re-let the Premises after Tenant vacates the Premises once this Lease is terminated on account of a default by Tenant. For the purposes of this paragraph, marketing of the Premises in a manner similar to the way Landlord markets its other premises in the suburban market shall be deemed to satisfy Landlord’s obligation to use such “reasonable efforts.” In no event shall Landlord be required (i) to solicit or entertain negotiations with any other prospective tenants for the Premises until Landlord obtains full and complete possession of the Premises including, without limitation, the undisputed right to re-let the Premises free of any claim of Tenant, (ii) to lease the Premises to a tenant whose proposed use, in Landlord’s bona fide judgment, would violate any restrictions by which Landlord is bound, (iii) to re-let the Premises before leasing other comparable vacant space in the Building, (iv) to lease the Premises for a rental less than the current fair market rental then prevailing for similar office space in the Building, or (v) to enter into a lease with any proposed tenant that does not have, in Landlord’s reasonable opinion, sufficient financial resources or operating experience to operate the Premises in a manner comparable to other tenants in the Building. In no event, however, shall Tenant’s liability hereunder be diminished or reduced if or to the extent such reasonable efforts of Landlord to re-let are not successful.

C. If this Lease is terminated under any of the provisions contained in Section 8.1, at the election of Landlord, and in lieu of full recovery by Landlord of the sums payable under the foregoing provisions of this Section 8.2 (except for the amount of any rent of any kind accrued and unpaid at the time of termination), Landlord may by written notice to Tenant, elect to recover, and Tenant shall thereupon pay forthwith to Landlord, as compensation, an amount equal to the present value of the amount by which the payments of Fixed Rent and Additional Rent payable for balance of the Term would exceed the fair rental value of the Premises for the balance of the Term. In calculating the rent reserved there shall be included, in addition to the Fixed Rent and Additional Rent, the value of all other considerations agreed to be paid by Tenant for the balance of the Term.

D. INTENTIONALLY OMITTED.

E. Nothing contained in this Lease shall, however, limit or prejudice the right of Landlord to prove for and obtain in proceedings for bankruptcy or insolvency by reason of the termination of this Lease, an amount equal to the maximum allowed by any statute or rule of law in effect at the time when, and governing the proceedings in which, the damages are to be proved, whether or not the amount be greater than, equal to, or less than the amount of the loss or damages referred to above.

 

8.3

Remedies Cumulative . Any and all rights and remedies which Landlord may have under this Lease, and at law and equity, shall be cumulative and shall not be deemed inconsistent with each other, and any two or more of all such rights and remedies may be exercised at the same time insofar as permitted by law.

 

8.4

Landlord s Right to Cure Defaults . Landlord may, but shall not be obligated to, cure, at any time, without notice, any default by Tenant under this Lease; and whenever Landlord so elects, all costs and expenses incurred by Landlord, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, in curing a default shall be paid, as Additional Rent, by Tenant to Landlord on demand, together with lawful interest thereon from the date of payment by Landlord to the date of payment by Tenant.

 

8.5

Effect of Waivers of Default . Any consent or permission by Landlord to any act or omission which otherwise would be a breach of any covenant or condition herein, shall not in any way be held or construed (unless expressly so declared) to operate so as to impair the continuing obligation of any covenant or condition herein, or otherwise, except as to the specific instance, operate to permit similar acts or omissions.

 

8.6

No Waiver, etc . The failure of Landlord to seek redress for violation of, or to insist upon the strict performance of, any covenant or condition of this Lease shall not be deemed a waiver of such violation nor prevent a subsequent act, which would have originally constituted a violation, from having all the force and effect of an original violation. The receipt by Landlord of rent with knowledge of the breach of any covenant of this Lease

 

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  shall not be deemed to have been a waiver of such breach by Landlord. No consent or waiver, express or implied, by Landlord to or of any breach of any agreement or duty shall be construed as a waiver or consent to or of any other breach of the same or any other agreement or duty.

 

8.7

No Accord and Satisfaction . No acceptance by Landlord of a lesser sum than the Fixed Rent, Additional Rent or any other charge then due shall be deemed to be other than on account of the earliest installment of such rent or charge due, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check or any letter accompanying any check or payment as rent or other charge be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Landlord may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Landlord’s right to recover the balance of such installment or pursue any other remedy in this Lease provided.

ARTICLE 9

Rights of Mortgage Holders

 

9.1

Rights of Mortgage Holders . The word “mortgage” as used herein includes mortgages, deeds of trust or other similar instruments evidencing other voluntary liens or encumbrances, and modifications, consolidations, extensions, renewals, replacements and substitutes thereof. The word “holder” shall mean a mortgagee, and any subsequent holder or holders of a mortgage. Until the holder of a mortgage shall enter and take possession of the Property for the purpose of foreclosure, such holder shall have only such rights of Landlord as are necessary to preserve the integrity of this Lease as security. Upon entry and taking possession of the Property for the purpose of foreclosure, such holder shall have all the rights of Landlord. No such holder of a mortgage shall be liable either as mortgagee or as assignee, to perform, or be liable in damages for failure to perform, any of the obligations of Landlord unless and until such holder shall enter and take possession of the Property for the purpose of foreclosure. Upon entry for the purpose of foreclosure, such holder shall be liable to perform all of the obligations of Landlord, subject to and with the benefit of the provisions of Section 10.4, provided that a discontinuance of any foreclosure proceeding shall be deemed a conveyance under said provisions to the owner of the equity of the Property.

The covenants and agreements contained in this Lease with respect to the rights, powers and benefits of a holder of a mortgage (particularly, without limitation thereby, the covenants and agreements contained in this Section 9.1) constitute a continuing offer to any person, corporation or other entity, which by accepting a mortgage subject to this Lease, assumes the obligations herein set forth with respect to such holder; such holder is hereby constituted a party of this Lease as an obligee hereunder to the same extent as though its name were written hereon as such; and such holder shall be entitled to enforce such provisions in its own name. Tenant agrees on request of Landlord to execute and deliver from time to time any agreement which may be necessary to implement the provisions of this Section 9.1.

 

9.2

Lease Superior or Subordinate to Mortgages . It is agreed that the rights and interest of Tenant under this Lease shall be (i) subject or subordinate to any present or future mortgage or mortgages and to any and all advances to be made thereunder, and to the interest of the holder thereof in the Premises or any property of which the Premises are a part if Landlord shall elect by notice to Tenant to subject or subordinate the rights and interest of Tenant under this Lease to such mortgage or (ii) prior to any present or future mortgage or mortgages, if Landlord shall elect, by notice to Tenant, to give the rights and interest of Tenant under this Lease priority to such mortgage; in the event of either of such elections and upon notification by Landlord to that effect, the rights and interest of Tenant under this Lease should be deemed to be subordinate to, or have priority over, as the case may be, said mortgage or mortgages, irrespective of the time of execution or time of recording of any such mortgage or mortgages (provided that, in the case of subordination of this Lease to any future mortgages, the holder thereof agrees not to disturb the possession of Tenant so long as Tenant is not in default hereunder). Tenant agrees it will, upon not less than ten (10) business days’ prior written request by Landlord, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all commercially reasonable instruments deemed by Landlord necessary or desirable to give effect to or notice of such subordination or priority. Any Mortgage to which this Lease shall be subordinated may contain such terms, provisions and conditions as the holder deems usual or customary.

 

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ARTICLE 10

Miscellaneous Provisions

 

10.1

Notices from One Party to the Other . All notices required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and addressed, if to the Tenant, at the Original Notice Address of Tenant or such other address as Tenant shall have last designated by notice in writing to Landlord and, if to Landlord, at the Original Notice Address of Landlord or such other address as Landlord shall have last designated by notice in writing to Tenant. Any notice shall be deemed duly given upon receipt or rejection when mailed to such address postage prepaid, by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or on the next business day when delivered to such address by hand or when delivered to such address by hand.

 

10.2

Quiet Enjoyment . Landlord agrees that upon Tenant’s paying the rent and performing and observing the agreements, conditions and other provisions on its part to be performed and observed, Tenant shall and may peaceably and quietly have, hold and enjoy the Premises during the term hereof without any manner of hindrance or molestation from Landlord or anyone claiming under Landlord, subject, however, to the terms of this Lease.

 

10.3

Lease not to be Recorded . Both Landlord and Tenant agree that it will not record this Lease.

 

10.4

Limitation of Landlord s Liability . The term “Landlord” as used in this Lease, so far as covenants or obligations to be performed by Landlord are concerned, shall be limited to mean and include only the owner or owners at the time in question of the Property, and in the event of any transfer or transfers of title to said property, the Landlord (and in case of any subsequent transfers or conveyances, the then grantor) shall be concurrently freed and relieved from and after the date of such transfer or conveyance, without any further instrument or agreement of all liability as respects the performance of any covenants or obligations on the part of the Landlord contained in this Lease thereafter to be performed, it being intended hereby that the covenants and obligations contained in this Lease on the part of Landlord, shall, subject as aforesaid, be binding on the Landlord, its successors and assigns, only during and in respect of their respective successive periods of ownership of said leasehold interest or fee, as the case may be. Tenant, its successors and assigns, shall not assert nor seek to enforce any claim for breach of this Lease against any of Landlord’s assets other than Landlord’s interest in the Property and in the rents, issues and profits thereof, and Tenant agrees to look solely to such interest for the satisfaction of any liability or claim against Landlord under this Lease, it being specifically agreed that in no event whatsoever shall Landlord (which term shall include, without limitation, any general or limited partner, trustees, beneficiaries, officers, directors, managers, members or stockholders of Landlord) ever be personally liable for any such liability.

 

10.5

Force Majeure . In any case where either party hereto is required to do any act, delays caused by or resulting from Acts of God, war, civil commotion, fire, flood or other casualty, labor difficulties, shortages of labor, materials or equipment, government regulations, unusually severe weather, or other causes beyond such party’s reasonable control (any of the foregoing causes being referred to herein as “Force Majeure”) shall not be counted in determining the time during which work shall be completed, whether such time be designated by a fixed date, a fixed time or a “reasonable time,” and such time shall be deemed to be extended by the period of such delay. Tenant’s inability to pay any sums due Landlord hereunder shall in no way be affected or excused by any of the foregoing causes and shall in no event be deemed a Force Majeure event.

 

10.6

Landlord s Default . Landlord shall not be deemed to be in default in the performance of any of its obligations hereunder unless it shall fail to perform such obligations and such failure shall continue for a period of thirty (30) days or such additional time as is reasonably required to correct any such default after written notice has been given by Tenant to Landlord (and to all mortgagees of which Tenant has notice) specifying the nature of Landlord’s alleged default. Notwithstanding any provision contained herein, in no event

 

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  shall Landlord ever be liable to Tenant, or any person claiming by, through or under Tenant, for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages, or for any lost profits. Tenant shall have no right to terminate this Lease for any default by Landlord hereunder and no right, for any such default, to offset or counterclaim against any rent due hereunder.

 

10.7

Brokerage . Landlord and Tenant warrant and represent to the other that it has dealt with no broker in connection with the consummation of this Lease, other than Transwestern RBJ (the “Broker”), and in the event of any brokerage claims, other than by the Broker, against the other party predicated upon prior dealings with the warranting party, the warranting party agrees to defend the same and indemnify and hold the other party harmless against any such claim. Landlord shall pay the Broker a commission in connection with this Lease pursuant to a separate agreement.

 

10.8

Applicable Law and Construction; Merger; Jury Trial . This Lease shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and, if any provisions of this Lease shall to any extent be invalid, the remainder of this Lease shall not be affected thereby. This Lease and the Exhibits attached hereto and forming a part hereof constitute all the covenants, promises, agreements, and understandings between Landlord and Tenant concerning the Premises and the Building and there are no covenants, promises, agreements or understandings, either oral or written, between them other than as are set forth in this Lease. Neither Landlord nor Landlord’s agents shall be bound to any representations with respect to the Premises, the Building or the Property except as herein expressly set forth, and all representations, either oral or written, shall be deemed to be merged into this Lease. The titles of the several Articles and Sections contained herein are for convenience only and shall not be considered in construing this Lease. Each of Landlord and Tenant shall and does hereby waive trial by jury in any action, proceeding, or claim brought by or against such party regarding any matter arising out of or in any way connected with this Lease, the relationship of Landlord and Tenant or Tenant’s use or occupancy of the Premises. Unless repugnant to the context, the words “Landlord” and “Tenant” appearing in this Lease shall be construed to mean those named above and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, and those claiming through or under them respectively. If there be more than one person or entity named as tenant, the obligations imposed by this Lease upon Tenant shall be joint and several.

 

10.9

Consents . With respect to any provision of this Lease which either provides or is held to provide that Landlord shall not unreasonably withhold or unreasonably delay any consent or approval, Tenant shall not be entitled to make any claim for, and Tenant hereby expressly waives, any claim for damages, it being understood and agreed that Tenant’s sole remedy therefor shall be an action for specific performance.

 

10.10

Authority . In the event the Tenant is a corporation, partnership or limited liability company, Tenant hereby represents and warrants that: the Tenant is a duly constituted corporation, partnership or limited liability company, as the case may be, qualified to do business in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; that the person executing this Lease is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Lease on behalf of said corporation(s), partnership(s) or limited liability company(ies); and that the by-laws of Tenant authorize to enter into this Lease.

 

10.11

Counterparts . This Lease shall not be valid and binding until executed and delivered by Landlord and may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument. Any facsimile or other electronic transmittal of original signature versions of this Lease shall be considered to have the same legal effect as execution and delivery of the original document and shall be treated in all manner and respects as the original document.

 

10.12

USA Patriot Act . Tenant represents, warrants, and covenants that neither Tenant nor any of its partners, officers, directors, members or shareholders, assignees, or subtenants (i) is listed on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List maintained by the Office of Foreign Asset Control, Department of the Treasury (“OFAC”) pursuant to Executive Order No. 13224, 66 Fed. Reg. 49079 (Sept. 25, 2001) (“Order”) and all applicable provisions of Title III of the USA Patriot Act (Public Law No. 107-56 (October 26, 2001)); (ii) is listed on the Denied Persons List and Entity List maintained by the United

 

31


  States Department of Commerce; (iii) is listed on the List of Terrorists and List of Disbarred Parties maintained by the United States Department of State, (iv) is listed on any list or qualification of “Designated Nationals” as defined in the Cuban Assets Control Regulations 31 C.F.R. Part 515; (v) is listed on any other publicly available list of terrorists, terrorist organizations or narcotics traffickers maintained by the United States Department of State, the United States Department of Commerce or any other governmental authority or pursuant to the Order, the rules and regulations of OFAC (including without limitation the Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. App. 1-44; the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701-06; the unrepealed provision of the Iraq Sanctions Act, Publ. L. No. 101-513; the United Nations Participation Act, 22 U.S.C. § 2349 as-9; The Cuban Democracy Act, 22 U.S.C. §§ 6001-10; The Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act, 18 U.S.C. §§ 2332d and 233; and The Foreign Narcotic Kingpin Designation Act, Publ. L. No. 106-120 and 107-108, all as may be amended from time to time); or any other applicable requirements contained in any enabling legislation or other Executive Orders in respect of the Order (the Order and such other rules, regulations, legislation or orders are collectively called the “Orders”); (vi) is engaged in activities prohibited in the Orders; or (vii) has been convicted, pleaded nolo contendere, indicted, arraigned or custodially detained on charges involving money laundering or predicate crimes to money laundering, drug trafficking, terrorist-related activities or other money laundering predicate crimes or in connection with the Bank Secrecy Act (31 U.S.C. §§ 5311 et. seq.).

 

10.13

Execution and Delivery . This Lease shall only become effective and binding upon full execution hereof by Landlord and Tenant, and delivery of a signed copy to Tenant.

[REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

32


WITNESS the execution hereof under seal on the day and year first above written:

 

LANDLORD:

NWP BUILDING 32 LLC

a Massachusetts limited liability company

 

By: MTP Limited Partnership, a Massachusetts limited partnership, its Manager

 

By: Middlesex Turnpike Corp., a Massachusetts corporation, its General Partner

  By:   /s/ Peter C. Nordblom
  Peter C. Nordblom, President
  By:   /s/ John D. Macomber
  John D. Macomber, Assistant Treasurer

TENANT:

AVEDRO, INC.

a Delaware corporation

By:   /s/ Stephen Blinn

Print Name: Stephen Blinn

Print Title: Chief Commercial Officer

 

33


EXHIBIT A

PLAN SHOWING THE PREMISES

 

LOGO

 

A-1


EXHIBIT B

COMMENCEMENT DATE NOTIFICATION

To:                                                      

                                          (“Landlord”) and                                          (“Tenant”) are parties to a lease (“Lease”) dated                      , 201      , of premises in a building known as                                          , Massachusetts. Landlord hereby notifies Tenant that the Commencement Date is                                          ; the Expiration Date is                                          ; the first Lease Year commenced on                                          and will end on                                          ; and the Rent Commencement Date is                                          . Although not required for this notification to be effective, we would appreciate you confirming the foregoing by signing the enclosed copy of this letter and returning it to us.

 

 
(Landlord)
By:    

 

Confirmed:
 
(Tenant)
By:    

 

B-1


EXHIBIT C

WORK LETTER

Landlord shall furnish and install, in accordance with Exhibit C-1, the following materials and work in the preparation of the Premises for Tenant’s occupancy.

Partitions:    Installation of two (2) private offices, one (1) conference room, one (1) kitchen, and a half wall, as shown on Exhibit C-1. Partitions within premises will be 3 5/8” metal studs with one layer of 5/8” gypsum board on each side. Partitions will extend from floor to the acoustic tile ceiling.

Caging:    Existing caging to be reconfigured to create an approximately 30 x 60 foot area, noted as caged area on Exhibit C-1. Remaining caging to be removed.

Doors and Frames: Double doors will be installed in the caged area leading to the loading dock. Doors will also be installed in the two (2) offices, conference room and break area. Door frames will be pressed metal with 22” sidelights.

Ceiling:    Existing ceiling to remain, and modified to accommodate new offices/conference room/kitchen as needed.

Painting:    All wall surfaces shall receive two coats of latex paint with an eggshell finish using not more than three (3) readily available colors. Any doors shall receive one coat of clear polyurethane. All frames shall receive two coats of semi-gloss enamel to match room color.

Flooring:    Tenant will receive a carpet allowance of $30 per square yard (installed cost) for offices, conference room, and open cube area. Buff and wax existing VCT in the caged area, kitchen, and manufacturing area, repair/replace tiles as needed.

Millwork:    New millwork will be installed in the kitchen comprising of 8 foot upper and lower cabinets as shown on Exhibit C-1.

Electrical:    Lights:

Existing lighting to remain. Reconfigure to accommodate new offices/conference room/kitchen (only)

Outlets:

One duplex wall receptacle per 500 square feet of open area and two duplex wall receptacles per office.

Exit Signs:

Per code.

Fire Alarm:

Adequate devices for typical open office layout.

Electrical drop:

Install up to five (5) electrical drops in caged area/manufacturing area

Note: Furniture and equipment, telephone and data wiring, signage (interior and exterior) and an access control system are not included in Landlord’s work.

 

C-1


EXHIBIT C-1

SPACE PLAN

 

LOGO

 

C-1-1


EXHIBIT D

WORK CHANGE ORDER

 

Lease Date:  

 

     Date:  

 

 

Landlord:  

 

           Work Change Order No.:  

 

 

Tenant:  

 

  

 

Building Address:  

 

Premises:  

 

 

Tenant directs Landlord to make the following additions to Landlord’s work:

Description of additional work:

Work Change Order Amount:

Period of delay due to Work Change Order:

 

 

Amount of Previous Work Change Orders:

This Work Change Order:

Total Amount of Work Change Orders:

Landlord approves this Work Change Order and Tenant agrees to pay to Landlord the Total Amount of Work Change Orders within thirty (30) days following receipt of an invoice from Landlord.

 

Tenant:     Landlord:
By:         By:    
Title:         Title:    

 

D-1


EXHIBIT E

FORM OF LETTER OF CREDIT

IRREVOCABLE STANDBY LETTER OF CREDIT NO.                     

ISSUANCE DATE:                      ,                 

 

BENEFICIARY:     ISSUING BANK:
 

 

     

 

APPLICANT:    

MAXIMUM/AGGREGATE CREDIT AMOUNT:

USD $                     

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

EXPIRATION:  

 

  

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:

We hereby establish our irrevocable letter of credit in your favor for account of the Applicant up to an aggregate amount not to exceed ___________ ________________________________ US Dollars ($__________) available by your draft(s) drawn on ourselves at sight accompanied by:

The original Letter of Credit and all amendment(s), if any.

Your statement, purportedly signed by an authorized officer or signatory of the Beneficiary certifying that the Beneficiary is entitled to draw upon this Letter of Credit (in the amount of the draft submitted herewith) pursuant to Section 4.4 of the lease (the “Lease”) dated ___________, _____ by and between ______________________, as Landlord, and ____________________, as Tenant, relating to the premises at ____________________________.

Draft(s) must indicate name and issuing bank and credit number and must be presented at this office. Drawings may also be presented via facsimile transmission at facsimile number [______________].

You shall have the right to make multiple and partial draws against this Letter of Credit, from time to time.

This Letter of Credit is transferrable by Beneficiary from time to time in accordance with the provisions of Section 4.4 of the Lease.

This Letter of Credit shall expire at our office on _________________, _____ (the “Stated Expiration Date”).

It is a condition of this Letter of Credit that the Stated Expiration Date shall be deemed automatically extended without amendment for successive one (1) year periods from such Stated Expiration Date, unless at least forty-five (45) days prior to such Stated Expiration Date) or any anniversary thereof) we shall notify the Beneficiary and the Applicant in writing by certified mail (return receipt) that we elect not to consider this Letter of Credit extended for any such additional one (1) year period.

We engage with you that all drafts drawn under and in compliance with the terms of this letter of credit will be duly honored within two (2) business days after presentation to us as described above.

 

E-1


Except as otherwise expressly stated herein, this Letter of Credit is subject to the “International Standby Practice 1998 International Chamber of Commerce Publication 590 (ISP98).”

Very truly yours,

Authorized Signatory

 

E-2


EXHIBIT F

RULES AND REGULATIONS

 

1.

The sidewalks, entrances, passages, corridors, vestibules, halls, elevators, or stairways in or about the Building shall not be obstructed by Tenant.

 

2.

Tenant shall not place objects against glass partitions, doors or windows which would be unsightly from the Building corridor or from the exterior of the Building.

 

3.

Tenant shall not waste electricity or water in the Building premises and shall cooperate fully with Landlord to assure the most effective operation of the Building heating and air conditioning systems. All regulating and adjusting of heating and air-conditioning apparatus shall be done by the Landlord’s agents or employees.

 

4.

Tenant shall not use the Premises so as to cause any increase above normal insurance premiums on the Building.

 

5.

No vehicles (other than non-motorized bicycles) or animals of any kind (other than service animals) shall be brought into or kept in or about the Premises. Tenant may bring non-motorized bicycles into the Premises via the back door to the Building only, provided Tenant shall be solely responsible for any damage caused by such items. In no event shall any bicycle be ridden into or inside the Premises (it being agreed the same shall be carried or walked into the Premises). No space in the Building shall be used for the sale of merchandise of any kind at auction or for storage thereof preliminary to such sale.

 

6.

Tenant shall cooperate with Landlord in minimizing loss and risk thereof from fire and associated perils.

 

7.

The water and wash closets and other plumbing fixtures shall not be used for any purposes other than those for which they were designed and constructed and no sweepings, rubbish, rags, acid or like substance shall be deposited therein. All damages resulting from any misuse of the fixtures shall be borne by the Tenant.

 

8.

Landlord reserves the right to establish, modify, and enforce reasonable parking rules and regulations, provided such rules and obligations do not diminish Tenant’s rights under the Lease or result in charges or fees for parking (other than potential fines for violation of rules).

 

9.

Landlord reserves the right at any time to rescind, alter or waive any rule or regulation at any time prescribed for the Building and to impose additional reasonable rules and regulations when in its judgment deems it necessary, desirable or proper for its best interest and for the best interest of the tenants and no alteration or waiver of any rule or regulation in favor of one tenant shall operate as an alteration or waiver in favor of any other tenant, provided such rules and regulations do not diminish Tenant’s rights under the Lease. Landlord shall not be responsible to any tenant for the nonobservance or violation by any other tenant however resulting of any rules or regulations at any time prescribed for the Building.

 

10.

Tenant acknowledges that the Building has been designated a non-smoking building. At no time shall Tenant permit its agents, employees, contractors, guests or invitees to smoke in the Building or, except in specified locations, directly outside the Building.

 

11.

The normal business hours for the Building are 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays on which the Building is closed.

 

F-1


EXHIBIT F-1

CONSTRUCTION RULES AND REGULATIONS

1.    All work shall be performed in accordance with all applicable state laws and in accordance with all requirements and codes of the Town of Burlington and guidelines of the Landlord’s managing agent (“Building Management”). The Building is operational and extra care and precautions must be taken to avoid interruption of services.

2.    Certificates of Insurance from Tenant’s general contractor (“Contractor”) and its subcontractors must be submitted seven (7) days prior to the commencement of any work and must comply with the contractor insurance requirements under Section 6.2.5 of the Lease.

3.    At least three (3) weeks before construction, Contractor must schedule a pre-construction meeting with the Landlord’s project management team. Meeting materials should include detailed schedules; addresses and telephone numbers of supervisors, contractors and subcontractors: copies of permits; proof of current insurance (including all subcontractors); and notice of any contractor’s involvement in a labor dispute.

4.    Contractor personnel are only permitted within the Building during normal trade working hours plus 30 minutes time before and after normal trade hours for set up and pick up of tools, etc.

5.    Testing of sprinkler system, fire protection system, demolition, coring, and any other similar type work must be coordinated through Building Management with at least five (5) days prior notice. Normal business hours are 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday; 8:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturdays. Work on any system within the Building shall be coordinated with Building Management.

6.    Deliveries through the main lobby must be done in a professional manner. Floor protection is required. No storage of any items allowed in main lobby or any common area. The Contractor is responsible for leaving the main lobby and any other common area in “broom clean” condition. The Contractor will incur costs for the clean-up for areas left dirty. Rubbish cannot be stored in any common area.

7.    Contractor shall provide heavy plastic screening for dust protection and/or temporary walls of suitable appearance as required by Building Management.

8.    Walk-off mats are to be provided at entrance doors.

 

F-1-1


9.    No utilities (electricity, water, and plumbing) or services to the tenants are to be cutoff or interrupted without first having requested, in writing, and secured, in writing, the permission of Building Management.

10.    If taking the Building fire alarm points offline is required in connection with any work, the cost of such service will be billable to the Contractor and will require prior notice to and approval from Building Management.

11.    Should any scope of work require entry to another tenant’s space, Tenant and/or Contractor must notify Landlord. If approved by Landlord, the activity shall be under the supervision of Landlord’s representative. The cost of said supervision will be billable to the Contractor.

12.    Admittance to the roof of the Building is allowed only upon the prior written consent of Landlord.

13.    There is a “No Smoking Policy” in effect for all areas of the Building.

14.    Contractor will be responsible for daily removal of waste foods, milk and soft drink containers, etc. Building trash receptacles are not to be used.

15.    Construction personnel are not to eat in the lobby or in front of the Building, nor are they to congregate in the lobby or in front of the Building.

16.    Construction personnel are not to utilize any vacant space within the Building other than that space which is designated by the Landlord to the Contractor.

17.    There will be no radios on the job site.

18.    All workers are required to wear a shirt, shoes, and full length trousers.

19.    Protection of hallway carpets, wall coverings, granite and marble from damage with masonite board, carpet, plastic runners or pads is required.

20.    Public spaces, corridors, bathrooms, lobby, etc., must be cleaned immediately after use. Restrooms for contractor use will be designated to the Contractor. No other restrooms are to be utilized by Contractor personnel.

21.    There will be no smoking, eating, or open food containers in the carpeted areas, or public lobbies. There will be no yelling or boisterous activities; nor is alcohol or controlled substances allowed or tolerated. Individuals under the influence or in possession of such will be prosecuted.

22.    Contractor shall post no signs without expressed prior approval from Building Management, which may be withheld for any reason.

 

F-1-2


23.    Contractor shall supply Building Management with a copy of all permits prior to start of any work.

24.    Contractor shall complete work without disruption from labor disputes and in harmony with other trades.

25.    The Construction Rules and Regulations are subject to change in Landlord’s sole discretion.

26.    Landlord reserves the right to prohibit access to the Building by any contractors who fail to comply with these Construction Rules and Regulations.

 

F-1-3


EXHIBIT G

TENANT ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE

TO: __________________ (“Mortgagee” or “Purchaser”)

THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT:

 

1.

The undersigned is the tenant (the “Tenant”) under that certain lease (the “Lease”) dated _________, 20_, by and between ______________ as landlord (the “Landlord”), and the undersigned, as Tenant, covering those certain premises commonly known and designated as _______________________ (the “Premises”) in the building located at _________________, _______________ Massachusetts.

 

2.

The Lease is attached hereto as Exhibit A and (i) constitutes the entire agreement between the undersigned and the Landlord with respect to the Premises, (ii) is the only Lease between the undersigned and the Landlord affecting the Premises and (iii) has not been modified, changed, altered or amended in any respect, except (if none, so state):

 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

3.

The undersigned has accepted and now occupies the Premises as of the date hereof, and all improvements, if any, required by the terms of the Lease to be made by the Landlord have been completed and all construction allowances to be paid by Landlord have been paid. In addition, the undersigned has made no agreement with Landlord or any agent, representative or employee of Landlord concerning free rent, partial rent, rebate of rental payments or any other type of rental or other economic inducement or concession except (if none, so state):

 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  (1)

The term of the Lease began (or is scheduled to begin) on _______, 20___ and will expire on ____________, 20___;

 

  (2)

The fixed rent for the Premises has been paid to and including _______________, 20__;

 

  (3)

The fixed rent being paid pursuant to the Lease is at the annual rate of $______________; and

 

  (4)

The escalations payable by Tenant under the Lease are currently $_______, based on a pro rata share of _______%, and have been reconciled through __________, 20__.

 

4.

(i) No party to the Lease is in default, (ii) the Lease is in full force and effect, (iii) the rental payable under the Lease is accruing to the extent therein provided thereunder, (iv) as of the date hereof the undersigned has no charge, lien or claim of off-set (and no claim for any credit or deduction) under the Lease or otherwise, against rents or other charges due or to become due thereunder or on account of any prepayment of rent more than one (1) month in advance of its due date, and (v) Tenant has no claim against Landlord for any security, rental, cleaning or other deposits, except (if none, so state):

 

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

5.

Since the date of the Lease there are no actions, whether voluntary or otherwise, pending against the undersigned under the bankruptcy, reorganization, arrangement, moratorium or similar laws of the United States, any state thereof of any other jurisdiction.

 

6.

Tenant has not sublet, assigned or hypothecated or otherwise transferred all or any portion of Tenant’s leasehold interest.

 

G-1


7.

Neither Tenant nor Landlord has commenced any action or given or received any notice for the purpose of terminating the Lease, nor does Tenant have any right to terminate the Lease, except (if none, so state):

 

8.

Tenant has no option or preferential right to purchase all or any part of the Premises (or the real property of which the Premises are a part) nor any right or interest with respect to the Premises or the real property of which the Premises are a part. Tenant has no right to renew or extend the term of the Lease or expand the Premises except (if none, so state):

 

9.

The undersigned acknowledges that the parties named herein are relying upon this estoppel certificate and the accuracy of the information contained herein in making a loan secured by the Landlord’s interest in the Premises, or in connection with the acquisition of the Property of which the Premises is a part.

EXECUTED UNDER SEAL AS OF ___________, 20___.

 

TENANT:
 
By:    
Name:
Title:
Duly Authorized

 

G-2


EXHIBIT H

LANDLORD’S CONSENT AND WAIVER

WHEREAS, _______________________ (the “Tenant”) has or is about to enter into certain financing agreements with __________________________________ (the “Bank”) pursuant to which the Bank has been or may be granted a security interest in certain property of the Tenant; and

WHEREAS, Tenant is the tenant, pursuant to a lease agreement by and between Tenant and the undersigned (the “Landlord”) dated as of _________________ (the “Lease”), of certain demised premises contained in the building located at the following address:

 

 

  

 

  

 

  

and more particularly described in the Lease (the “Premises”);

NOW, THEREFORE, for valuable consideration, the Landlord agrees, for as long as Tenant remains indebted to the Bank, as follows:

(a)    Landlord acknowledges and agrees that the personal property of Tenant (which for purposes hereof shall not include computer wiring, telephone wiring and systems, and demountable partitions) in which the Bank has been granted a security interest (the “Bank Collateral”) may from time to time be located on the Premises;

(b)    Landlord subordinates, waives, releases and relinquishes unto the Bank, its successors or assigns, all right, title and interest, if any, which the Landlord may otherwise claim in and to the Bank Collateral, except as provided in subparagraph (d) hereinbelow;

(c)    Upon providing the Landlord with at least five (5) business days’ prior written notice that Tenant is in default of its obligations to the Bank, the Bank shall then have the right to enter the Premises during business hours for the purpose of removing said Bank Collateral, provided (i) the Bank completes the removal of said Bank Collateral within ten (10) business days following said first written notice of default, and (ii) the Bank restores any part of the Premises which may be damaged by such removal to its condition prior to such removal in an expeditious manner not to exceed ten (10) business days following said first written notice of default;

(d)    Upon receipt of written notice from Landlord of the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease, the Bank shall have ten (10) business days to enter the Premises during business hours, remove said Bank Collateral, and restore any part of the Premises which may be damaged by such removal to its condition prior to such removal. If the Bank fails to so remove the Bank Collateral, the Bank agrees that the Bank Collateral shall thereupon be deemed subject to the yield up provisions of the Lease, so the Landlord may treat the Bank Collateral as abandoned, deem it Landlord’s property, if Landlord so elects, and retain or remove and dispose of it, all as provided in the Lease;

(e)    All notices and other communications under this Landlord’s Consent and Waiver shall be in writing, and shall be delivered by hand, by a nationally recognized commercial next day delivery service, or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, and sent to the following addresses:

 

if to the Bank:

 

 

  
 

 

  
 

 

  
  Attention:  

 

 

 

H-1


with a copy to:

 

 

  
 

 

  
 

 

  

 

if to the Landlord:

 

c/o Nordblom Management Company, Inc.

71 Third Avenue

Burlington, MA 01803

  

Such notices shall be effective (a) in the case of hand deliveries, when received, (b) in the case of a next day delivery service, on the next business day after being placed in the possession of such delivery service with next day delivery charges prepaid, and (c) in the case of mail, five (5) days after deposit in the postal system, certified or registered mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid. Either party may change its address and telecopy number by written notice to the other as provided above; and

(f)    The Bank shall indemnify and hold harmless the Landlord for any and all damage caused as a result of the exercise of the Bank’s rights hereunder.

This Landlord’s Consent and Waiver may not be changed or terminated orally and inures to the benefit of and is binding upon the Landlord and its successors and assigns, and inures to the benefit of and is binding upon the Bank and its successors and assigns.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Landlord and Bank have each executed this Landlord’s Consent and Waiver or caused it to be executed by an officer thereunto duly authorized, and the appropriate seal to be hereunto affixed, this _____ day of _________, 20_.

 

LANDLORD:
 
By:    
(Name)
(Title)
BANK:  
   
By:    
(Name)
(Title)  

 

H-2


COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

___________ County, ss.

On this _____ day of ___________, 20_, before me, the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared the above-named _____________________________, proved to me by satisfactory evidence of identification, being (check whichever applies): ☐ driver’s license or other state or federal governmental document bearing a photographic image, ☐ oath or affirmation of a credible witness known to me who knows the above signatories, or ☐ my own personal knowledge of the identity of the signatory, to be the person whose name is signed above, and acknowledged the foregoing to be signed by her/him voluntarily for its stated purpose.

 

 
Print Name:    
My commission expires:    

STATE OF                         

____________ County, ss.

On this ______ day of _______________, 20_, before me, the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared the above-named ________________________________, proved to me by satisfactory evidence of identification, being (check whichever applies): ☐ driver’s license or other state or federal governmental document bearing a photographic image, ☐ oath or affirmation of a credible witness known to me who knows the above signatories, or ☐ my own personal knowledge of the identity of the signatory, to be the person whose name is signed above, that he/she signed it as ___________________ for ________________________, and acknowledged the foregoing to be signed by her/him voluntarily for its stated purpose.

 

 
Print Name:    
My commission expires:    

 

H-3

Exhibit 10.14

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE

THIS FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE (“Amendment”) is dated as of March 27, 2017 (the “Effective Date”) and made between NWP Building 32 LLC (“Landlord”) and Avedro, Inc. (“Tenant”).

BACKGROUND

A. Landlord and Tenant entered into a lease dated November 4, 2016 (the “Lease”) for approximately 7,239 rentable square feet on the second floor (the “Original Premises”) of the building (the “Building”) known as 30 North Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts.

B. Tenant desires, and Landlord has agreed, to now enlarge the Original Premises by the inclusion of approximately 5,833 rentable square feet on the second floor of the Building, in the area shown in gray on Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Additional Premises”).

C. The parties now desire to amend the Lease to commemorate the inclusion of the Additional Premises and to make certain changes to the Lease in implementation of such expansion.

NOW THEREFORE , for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, Landlord and Tenant hereby agree as follows:

1. The recitals set forth above are incorporated into and made a part of this Amendment. All undefined capitalized terms used herein shall have the same meaning given to such terms in the Lease.

2. The Original Premises are enlarged by the inclusion of the Additional Premises, as shown on the plan attached hereto as Exhibit A, for a term commencing as of the Effective Date and running co-terminously with the current term of the Lease, expiring on February 28, 2023. The Additional Premises are leased to Tenant in “as-is” condition, without any obligation on the part of Landlord to prepare the Additional Premises for Tenant’s use and without any representations or warranties by Landlord as to the condition of the Additional Premises (the parties agreeing that all portions of the Lease relating to “Landlord’s Work”, including but not limited to Section 3.1 and Exhibits C and C-1, shall not apply to the Additional Premises). Tenant shall be responsible, at Tenant’s expense, for any and all work that is necessary or desirable by Tenant to prepare the Additional Premises for Tenant’s use, with such work to be done in accordance with all of the terms and conditions of the Lease, including but not limited to Section 6.2.5 thereof. As of the Effective Date, all references in the Lease to the Premises (including but not limited to those in Article 5) shall mean the Original Premises and the Additional Premises collectively.

3. In implementation of the inclusion of the Additional Premises, Section 1.1 of the Lease, the Reference Data, is amended as follows, as of the Effective Date:

 

  A.

The definition of the “ Rentable Floor Area of Premises ” is deleted and the following is substituted in its place: “Approximately I 3,072 rentable square feet (subject to Section 2.1).”


  B.

The percentage stated in the definition of the “Tenant’s Percentage” is deleted and “21.78%” is substituted in its place.

4. As of the Effective Date, the rent schedule for the Annual Fixed Rent Rate for the entire Premises (i.e. the Original Premises and Additional Premises) is as follows:

 

Effective Date – February 28, 2018:

   $ 156,864.00  

March 1, 2018 – February 28, 2019:

   $ 163,404.00  

March 1, 2019 – February 29, 2020:

   $ 169,932.00  

March 1, 2020 – February 28, 2021:

   $ 176,472.00  

March 1, 2021 – February 28, 2022:

   $ 183,012.00  

March 1, 2022 – February 28, 2023:

   $ 189,540.00  

5. As of the Effective Date, the rent schedule for the Monthly Fixed Rent Rate for the entire Premises (i.e. the Original Premises and Additional Premises) is as follows:

 

Effective Date – February 28, 2018:

   $ 13,072.00  

March 1, 2018 – February 28, 2019:

   $ 13,617.00  

March 1, 20.19 – February 29, 2020:

   $ 14,161.00  

March I, 2020 – February 28, 2021:

   $ 14,706.00  

March I, 2021 – February 28, 2022:

   $ 15,251.00  

March I, 2022 – February 28, 2023:

   $ 15,795.00  

6. As of the Effective Date, Exhibit A to the Lease is hereby deleted, and Exhibit A attached hereto is substituted in its place.

7. As of the Effective Date, the third paragraph of Section 2.1 of the Lease is deleted and the following is substituted therefor: “Tenant shall be permitted to use up to 47 parking spaces in the parking area serving the Building “.

8. In connection with the addition of the Additional Premises, the Letter of Credit required under Section 4.4 of the Lease shall be increased. Accordingly, as of the Effective Date, the Letter of Credit Amount specified in Section 1.1 of the Lease is increased from $50,652.00 to $63,290.00. Further, the figure $25,326.00, referenced twice in the second subparagraph (b) of Section 4.4 (regarding the one-time right to reduce the Letter of Credit Amount) is increased to $31,645.00 (i.e. in the event that the Letter of Credit Amount is reduced pursuant to the terms of that provision, it will be reduced to $31,645.00). Tenant shall, together with its delivery of a signed original of this Amendment, deliver to Landlord an amended Letter of Credit, or a Substitute Letter of Credit, as applicable, in the revised Letter of Credit Amount specified in this Paragraph 8.

 

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9. The parties confirm that the terms of paragraph 5 of Section 2.1 of the Lease (regarding the Common Area Work) shall apply to the entirety of the Premises as increased herein (i.e. the Original Premises and Additional Premises), provided that the parenthetical statement “(it being agreed any such relocation of demising walls will occur prior to the Commencement Date)” in the first sentence of paragraph 5 of Section 2.1 shall not be applicable in connection with the Additional Premises (i.e. such time limitation shall not apply to Common Area Work in the Additional Premises).

10. Effective as of the date hereof, Section 2.1 of the Lease is amended by adding the following paragraph:

“Landlord reserves the right, at its own cost and expense, to require Tenant, upon ninety (90) days’ written notice, to relocate the Additional Premises elsewhere in the Building or the Park, to an area of substantially equivalent size and at least of the equivalent quality, and with substantially similar improvements as are in the Additional Premises, as designated by Landlord (provided that the Annual Fixed Rent Rate and Monthly Fixed Rent Rate shall remain unchanged). If Landlord shall exercise such right to relocate Tenant, Landlord shall pay for all of Tenant’s reasonable relocation costs. In the event that Tenant should in the future lease additional space from Landlord under the Lease such that the Premises shall consist of 40,000 or more rentable square feet in the Building, then the relocation right contained in this paragraph shall be null and void.”

11. The prior tenant of the Additional Premises (the “Prior Tenant”) is conveying to Tenant certain furniture and other personal property located in the Additional Premises (the “Conveyed Items”) pursuant to a separate agreement between those parties. Tenant acknowledges and agrees that the Conveyed Items are considered as Tenant’s personal property for all purposes under the Lease, including but not limited to the yield-up requirements under Section 6.1.9. Further, Tenant acknowledges and agrees that all computer and telecommunications wiring installed by the Prior Tenant are hereby deemed to have been installed by Tenant and subject to all of the terms and conditions of the Lease, including but not limited to the yield-up requirements of Section 6.1.9. Landlord acknowledges and agrees that, other than the computer and telecommunications wiring referenced in the prior sentence, Tenant shall have no obligation to remove any alterations made in the Additional Premises by the Prior Tenant.

12. Tenant represents to Landlord it has dealt with no broker in connection with this Amendment other than Transwestern RBJ (the “Broker”), and in the event of any claims for commissions against Landlord by any other brokers predicated upon prior dealings with Tenant, Tenant agrees to defend the same and indemnify and hold harmless Landlord against any such claims. Landlord shall pay a commission to the Broker in connection with this Amendment pursuant to the terms of a separate agreement.

13. Each of Landlord and Tenant represents that the person executing this Amendment is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Amendment on behalf of said company, trust, corporation and/or limited liability company.

14. This Amendment contains the entire agreement of the parties regarding the subject matter hereof. There are no promises, agreements, conditions, undertakings, warranties or representations, oral or written, express or implied, among them, relating to this subject matter, other than as set forth herein.

 

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15. This Amendment shall not be valid and binding until executed and delivered by Landlord, and may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one and the same instrument. Any facsimile or other electronic transmittal of original signature versions of this Amendment shall be considered to have the same legal effect as execution and delivery of the original document and shall be treated in all manner and respects as the original document.

16. As amended hereby, the Lease is ratified and confirmed in all respects and shall continue in full force and effect, and from and after the date of this Amendment all references to the “Lease” shall mean the Lease, as amended by this Amendment.

Signatures appear on the following page

 

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Executed as a Massachusetts instrument under seal as of the date first written above.

 

LANDLORD:

 

NWP BUILDING 32 LLC

a Massachusetts limited liability company

 

By: MTP Limited Partnership,

a Massachusetts limited partnership, its Manager

 

By: Middlesex Turnpike Corp., a Massachusetts

Its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Peter Nordblow

Print Name: Peter Nordblow

Print Title: President

TENANT:

AVEDRO, INC.

a Delaware corporation

By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

Print Name: Reza Zadno

Print Title: CEO

 

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EXHIBIT A

Plan Showing the Premises

 

LOGO

Exhibit 10.15

 

 

 

CREDIT AGREEMENT

dated as of March 20, 2017

by and between

AVEDRO, INC.,

as the Borrower,

and

ORBIMED ROYALTY OPPORTUNITIES II, LP,

as the Lender

 

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page  

ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS

     1  

SECTION 1.1

   Defined Terms      1  

SECTION 1.2

   Use of Defined Terms      21  

SECTION 1.3

   Cross-References      21  

SECTION 1.4

   Accounting and Financial Determinations      21  

ARTICLE II COMMITMENT AND BORROWING PROCEDURES

     21  

SECTION 2.1

   Commitment      21  

SECTION 2.2

   Borrowing Procedure      22  

SECTION 2.3

   Funding      22  

SECTION 2.4

   Reduction of the Commitment Amounts      22  

ARTICLE III REPAYMENTS, PREPAYMENTS, INTEREST AND FEES

     22  

SECTION 3.1

   Repayments and Prepayments; Application      22  

SECTION 3.2

   Repayments and Prepayments      22  

SECTION 3.3

   Application      23  

SECTION 3.4

   Interest Rate      23  

SECTION 3.5

   Default Rate      23  

SECTION 3.6

   Payment Dates      24  

SECTION 3.7

   Repayment Premium      24  

ARTICLE IV LIBO RATE AND OTHER PROVISIONS

     24  

SECTION 4.1

   Increased Costs, Etc      24  

SECTION 4.2

   Increased Capital Costs      25  

SECTION 4.3

   Taxes      25  

SECTION 4.4

   Payments, Computations; Proceeds of Collateral, Etc      27  

SECTION 4.5

   Setoff      28  

SECTION 4.6

   LIBO Rate Not Determinable      28  

ARTICLE V CONDITIONS TO MAKING THE LOANS

     28  

SECTION 5.1

   Credit Extensions      28  

SECTION 5.2

   Secretary’s Certificate, Etc      28  

SECTION 5.3

   Closing Date Certificate      29  

SECTION 5.4

   Payment of Outstanding Indebtedness, Etc      29  

SECTION 5.5

   Delivery of Note      29  

SECTION 5.6

   Financial Information, Etc      30  

SECTION 5.7

   Compliance Certificate      30  

SECTION 5.8

   Solvency, Etc      30  

SECTION 5.9

   Guarantee      30  

SECTION 5.10

   Security Agreements      30  

SECTION 5.11

   Intellectual Property Security Agreements        31  

 

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SECTION 5.12

   Warranty Agreement      31  

SECTION 5.14

   Opinions of Counsel      31  

SECTION 5.15

   Insurance      31  

SECTION 5.16

   Closing Fees, Expenses, Etc      32  

SECTION 5.17

   Anti-Terrorism Laws      32  

SECTION 5.18

   Satisfactory Legal Form      32  

SECTION 5.19

   Revenue Base      32  

SECTION 5.20

   Disclosure Schedules      32  

ARTICLE VI REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     32  

SECTION 6.1

   Organization, Etc      32  

SECTION 6.2

   Due Authorization, Non-Contravention, Etc      33  

SECTION 6.3

   Government Approval, Regulation, Etc      33  

SECTION 6.4

   Validity, Etc      33  

SECTION 6.5

   Financial Information      33  

SECTION 6.6

   No Material Adverse Change      33  

SECTION 6.7

   Litigation, Labor Matters and Environmental Matters      34  

SECTION 6.8

   Subsidiaries      34  

SECTION 6.9

   Ownership of Properties      34  

SECTION 6.10

   Taxes      34  

SECTION 6.11

   Benefit Plans, Etc      35  

SECTION 6.12

   Accuracy of Information      35  

SECTION 6.13

   Regulations U and X      35  

SECTION 6.14

   Solvency      35  

SECTION 6.15

   Intellectual Property      35  

SECTION 6.16

   Material Agreements      37  

SECTION 6.17

   Permits      38  

SECTION 6.18

   Regulatory Matters      38  

SECTION 6.19

   Transactions with Affiliates      41  

SECTION 6.20

   Investment Company Act      42  

SECTION 6.21

   OFAC      42  

SECTION 6.22

   Deposit and Disbursement Accounts      42  

ARTICLE VII AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

     42  

SECTION 7.1

   Financial Information, Reports, Notices, Etc      42  

SECTION 7.2

   Maintenance of Existence; Compliance with Contracts, Laws, Etc      45  

SECTION 7.3

   Maintenance of Properties      45  

SECTION 7.4

   Insurance      45  

SECTION 7.5

   Books and Records      46  

SECTION 7.6

   Environmental Law Covenant      46  

SECTION 7.7

   Use of Proceeds      46  

SECTION 7.8

   Future Guarantors, Security, Etc      46  

SECTION 7.9

   Obtaining of Permits, Etc      47  

SECTION 7.10

   Product Licenses        47  

 

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SECTION 7.11

   Maintenance of Regulatory Authorizations, Contracts, Intellectual Property, Etc      47  

SECTION 7.12

   Inbound Licenses      49  

SECTION 7.13

   Cash Management      49  

SECTION 7.14

   Post-Closing Items      50  

SECTION 7.15

   Quarterly Update Call; Board Materials      50  

ARTICLE VIII NEGATIVE COVENANTS

     51  

SECTION 8.1

   Business Activities      51  

SECTION 8.2

   Indebtedness      51  

SECTION 8.3

   Liens      52  

SECTION 8.5

   Investments      54  

SECTION 8.6

   Restricted Payments, Etc      55  

SECTION 8.7

   Consolidation, Merger; Permitted Acquisitions, Etc      56  

SECTION 8.8

   Permitted Dispositions      56  

SECTION 8.9

   Modification of Certain Agreements      57  

SECTION 8.10

   Transactions with Affiliates      57  

SECTION 8.11

   Restrictive Agreements, Etc      57  

SECTION 8.12

   Sale and Leaseback      58  

SECTION 8.13

   Product Agreements      58  

SECTION 8.14

   Change in Name, Location or Executive Office or Executive Management; Change in Fiscal Year      58  

SECTION 8.15

   Benefit Plans and Agreements      58  

ARTICLE IX EVENTS OF DEFAULT

     59  

SECTION 9.1

   Listing of Events of Default      59  

SECTION 9.2

   Action if Bankruptcy      62  

SECTION 9.3

   Action if Other Event of Default      62  

ARTICLE X MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

     62  

SECTION 10.1

   Waivers, Amendments, Etc      62  

SECTION 10.2

   Notices; Time      62  

SECTION 10.3

   Payment of Costs and Expenses      63  

SECTION 10.4

   Indemnification      63  

SECTION 10.5

   Survival      64  

SECTION 10.6

   Severability      64  

SECTION 10.7

   Headings      64  

SECTION 10.8

   Execution in Counterparts, Effectiveness, Etc      64  

SECTION 10.9

   Governing Law; Entire Agreement      64  

SECTION 10.10

   Successors and Assigns      65  

SECTION 10.11

   Other Transactions      65  

SECTION 10.12

   Forum Selection and Consent to Jurisdiction      65  

SECTION 10.13

   Waiver of Jury Trial      66  

SECTION 10.14

   Confidentiality      66  

SECTION 10.15

   Exceptions to Confidentiality      67  

 

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SCHEDULES:

Schedule 6.6

  

Material Adverse Change

Schedule 6.7(a)

  

Litigation

Schedule 6.8

  

Existing Subsidiaries

Schedule 6.10

  

Taxes

Schedule 6.15(a)

  

Intellectual Property

Schedule 6.15(e)

  

Infringement Notices

Schedule 6.16

  

Material Agreements

Schedule 6.19

  

Transactions with Affiliates

Schedule 6.22

  

Deposit and Disbursement Accounts

Schedule 7.7

  

Use of Proceeds

Schedule 8.2(b)

  

Indebtedness to be Paid

Schedule 8.2(c)

  

Existing Indebtedness

Schedule 8.3(c)

  

Existing Liens

Schedule 8.5(a)

  

Investments

Schedule 8.10

  

Transactions with Affiliates

Schedule 10.2

  

Notice Information

 

EXHIBITS:

     

Exhibit A

   -     

Form of Promissory Note

Exhibit B

   -     

Form of Loan Request

Exhibit C

   -     

Form of Compliance Certificate

Exhibit D

   -     

Form of Guarantee

Exhibit E

   -     

Form of Security Agreement

 

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CREDIT AGREEMENT

THIS CREDIT AGREEMENT dated as of March 20, 2017 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, this “ Agreement ”), is by and between AVEDRO, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “ Borrower ”) and ORBIMED ROYALTY OPPORTUNITIES II, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (together with its Affiliates, successors, transferees and assignees, the “ Lender ”). The Borrower and the Lender are sometimes referred to herein individually as a “ Party ” and collectively as the “ Parties ”.

W I T N E S S E T H :

WHEREAS, the Borrower has requested that the Lender provide a senior term loan facility to the Borrower in an aggregate principal amount of $30,000,000 (with $20,000,000 available at the Closing and $10,000,000 available on or prior to December 31, 2017, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein); and

WHEREAS, the Lender is willing, on the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth, to extend the Commitment and make the Loans to the Borrower;

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows.

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS

SECTION 1.1 Defined Terms . The following terms (whether or not underscored) when used in this Agreement, including its preamble and recitals, shall, except where the context otherwise requires, have the following meanings (such meanings to be equally applicable to the singular and plural forms thereof):

Affiliate ” of any Person means any other Person which, directly or indirectly, Controls, is Controlled by or is under common Control with such Person. “ Control ” (and its correlatives) by any Person means the power of such Person, directly or indirectly, (i) to vote 15% or more of the Voting Securities of another Person, or (ii) to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such other Person (whether by contract or otherwise).

Agreement ” is defined in the preamble.

Annual Revenues ” means consolidated revenue properly recognized under GAAP, applied in a manner consistent with past practice of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, for the last four Fiscal Quarters for which consolidated financial statements of the Borrower have been delivered pursuant to Section 7.1.

Applicable Margin ” means 10.00%.

Authorized Officer ” means, relative to the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, those of its officers, general partners or managing members (as applicable) whose signatures and incumbency shall have been certified to the Lender pursuant to Section  5.2 .

 


Benefit Plan ” means any employee benefit plan, as defined in section 3(3) of ERISA, that either: (i) is a “multiemployer plan,” as defined in section 3(37) of ERISA, (ii) is subject to section 412 of the Code, section 302 of ERISA or Title IV of ERISA, or (iii) provides welfare benefits to terminated employees, other than to the extent required by section 4980B(f) of the Code and the corresponding provisions of ERISA.

Borrower ” is defined in the preamble .

Borrower Medical Devices ” means any Device researched, developed, marketed, manufactured, stored, distributed by or for the Borrower, including the KXL System.

Business Day ” means any day which is neither a Saturday or Sunday nor a legal holiday on which banks are authorized or required to be closed in New York, New York.

Capital Securities ” means, with respect to any Person, all shares of, interests or participations in, or other equivalents in respect of (in each case however designated, whether voting or non-voting), of such Person’s capital stock, and any warrants, options or other rights entitling the holder thereof to purchase or acquire any such capital stock, in each case whether now outstanding or issued after the Closing Date.

Capitalized Lease Liabilities ” means, with respect to any Person, all monetary obligations of such Person and its Subsidiaries under any leasing or similar arrangement which have been (or, in accordance with GAAP, should be) classified as capitalized leases, and for purposes of each Loan Document the amount of such obligations shall be the capitalized amount thereof, determined in accordance with GAAP, and the stated maturity thereof shall be the date of the last payment of rent or any other amount due under such lease prior to the first date upon which such lease may be terminated by the lessee without payment of a premium or a penalty.

Cash Equivalent Investment ” means, at any time:

(a) any direct obligation of (or unconditionally guaranteed by) the United States (or any agency or political subdivision thereof, to the extent such obligations are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States) maturing not more than one year after such time;

(b) commercial paper maturing not more than one year from the date of issue, which is issued by a corporation (other than an Affiliate of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries) organized under the laws of any state of the United States or of the District of Columbia and rated A-1 or higher by S&P or P-1 or higher by Moody’s; or

(c) any certificate of deposit, demand or time deposit or bankers acceptance, maturing not more than 180 days after its date of issuance, which is issued by or placed with any bank or trust company organized under the laws of the United States (or any state thereof) and which has (x) a credit rating of A2 or higher from Moody’s or A or higher from S&P and (y) a combined capital and surplus greater than $500,000,000; or

 

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(d) investments in money market mutual funds at least 95% of the assets of which are comprised of securities of the types described in clauses (a)  through (c) of this definition.

Casualty Event ” means the damage, destruction or condemnation, as the case may be, of property of Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

cGCP ” means the then current Good Clinical Practices that establish the national and international ethical and scientific quality standards for designing, conducting, recording and reporting clinical trials that are promulgated or endorsed for the United States by the FDA (including through ICH E6 and 21 CFR Parts 50, 54, 56 and 312) and for outside the United States by comparable Governmental Authorities.

cGMP ” means the then current good manufacturing practices and regulatory requirements for or concerning manufacturing practices for drugs, biologics and devices (including components thereof) that are promulgated or endorsed for the United States by the FDA (including through 21 CFR Parts 210, 211 and 820) and for outside the United States by comparable Governmental Authorities.

Change in Control ” means and shall be deemed to have occurred if (i) any “person” or “group” (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5 of the Exchange Act), other than OrbiMed Private Investments VI, LP and its Affiliates, shall own, directly or indirectly, beneficially or of record, determined on a fully diluted basis, more than 50% of the Voting Securities of the Borrower;

(ii) a majority of the seats (other than vacant seats) on the board of directors (or equivalent) of the Borrower shall at any time be occupied by persons who were neither (x) nominated by the board of directors of the Borrower nor (y) appointed by directors so nominated, or (iii) the Borrower shall cease to directly own, beneficially and of record, 100% of the issued and outstanding Capital Securities of the Subsidiaries; provided that the occurrence of a Qualified IPO shall not be deemed a Change in Control.

Change in Law ” means the occurrence, after the date of this Agreement, of any of the following: (i) the adoption or taking effect of any Law, rule, regulation or treaty, (ii) any change in any Law, rule, regulation or treaty or in the administration, interpretation, implementation or application thereof by any Governmental Authority or (iii) the making or issuance of any request, rule, guideline or directive (whether or not having the force of law) by any Governmental Authority; provided that, notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, (x) the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and all requests, rules, guidelines or directives thereunder or issued in connection therewith and (y) all requests, rules, guidelines or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States or foreign regulatory authorities, in each case pursuant to Basel III, shall in each case be deemed to be a “Change in Law”, regardless of the date enacted, adopted or issued; and provided further that the implementation of, and compliance with, FATCA including any intergovernmental agreements established pursuant to FATCA shall not be deemed to be a “Change in Law”.

 

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CLIA ” means the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988, as amended together with any rule, regulation, interpretation, guidance document, policy, judgment lawfully issued or promulgated thereunder by CMS (or any predecessor entity).

Closing Date ” means the date of the making of the Initial Loan hereunder, which in no event shall be later than March 20, 2017 .

Closing Date Certificate ” means a closing date certificate executed and delivered by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender.

CMS ” means the U.S. Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and the regulations thereunder, in each case as amended from time to time.

Commitment ” means the Lender’s obligation (if any) to make Loans hereunder.

Commitment Amount ” means the Initial Commitment Amount plus the Delayed Draw Commitment Amount.

Compliance Certificate ” means a certificate duly completed and executed by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower, substantially in the form of Exhibit C hereto, together with such changes thereto as the Lender may from time to time request for the purpose of monitoring the Borrower’s compliance with the financial covenants contained herein.

Confidential Information ” means any and all information or material (whether written or oral, or in electronic or other form) that, at any time before, on or after the Closing Date, has been or is provided or communicated to the Receiving Party by or on behalf of the Disclosing Party pursuant to this Agreement or in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby, and shall include the terms of this Agreement (but shall not include the existence of this Agreement).

Contingent Liability ” means any agreement, undertaking or arrangement by which any Person guarantees, endorses or otherwise becomes or is contingently liable upon (by direct or indirect agreement, contingent or otherwise, to provide funds for payment, to supply funds to, or otherwise to invest in, a debtor, or otherwise to assure a creditor against loss) the Indebtedness of any other Person (other than by endorsements of instruments in the course of collection), or guarantees the payment of dividends or other distributions upon the Capital Securities of any other Person. The amount of any Person’s obligation under any Contingent Liability shall (subject to any limitation set forth therein) be deemed to be the stated or determined amount of the outstanding debt, obligation or other liability guaranteed thereby, or if not stated or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated amount of such debt, obligation or other liability as determined by such Person in good faith; provided, however, that such amount shall not in any event exceed the maximum amount for which such Person may be liable under the applicable agreement, undertaking or arrangement.

 

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Control ” is defined within the definition of “ Affiliate ”.

Controlled Account ” is defined in Section  7.13 .

Copyrights ” means all copyrights, whether statutory or common law, and all exclusive and nonexclusive licenses from third parties or rights to use copyrights owned by such third parties, along with any and all (i) renewals, revisions, extensions, derivative works, enhancements, modifications, updates and new releases thereof, (ii) income, royalties, damages, claims and payments now and hereafter due and/or payable with respect thereto, including, without limitation, damages and payments for past, present or future infringements thereof, (iii) rights to sue for past, present and future infringements thereof, and (iv) foreign copyrights and any other rights corresponding thereto throughout the world.

Copyright Security Agreement ” means any Copyright Security Agreement executed and delivered by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in substantially the form of Exhibit C to the Security Agreement, as amended, supplemented, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

Default ” means any Event of Default or any condition, occurrence or event which, after notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute an Event of Default.

Delayed Draw Closing Date ” means the date of the making of the Delayed Draw Loan hereunder, which in no event shall be later than December 31, 2017.

Delayed Draw Commitment Amount ” means $10,000,000.

Delayed Draw Commitment Termination Date ” means the earliest to occur of (i) the Delayed Draw Closing Date (immediately after the making of the Delayed Draw Loan on such date), (ii) December 31, 2017, and (iii) March 20, 2017, if the Initial Loan shall not have been made hereunder prior to such date.

Delayed Draw Loan ” is defined in Section 2.1.

Designated Jurisdiction ” means any country or territory to the extent that such country or territory is the subject of any Sanction.

Device ” means any instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, contrivance, implant, in vitro reagent, or other similar or related article, including any component, part, or accessory, which is (i) intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, in man or other animals, or (ii) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animals; and which does not achieve its primary intended purposes through chemical action within or on the body of man or other animals and which is not dependent upon being metabolized for the achievement of its primary intended purposes.

Disclosing Party ” means the Party disclosing Confidential Information.

 

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Disposition ” (or similar words such as “ Dispose ”) means any sale, transfer, lease, license, contribution or other conveyance (including by way of merger) of, or the granting of options, warrants or other rights to, any of the Borrower’s or the Subsidiaries’ assets (including accounts receivable and Capital Securities of Subsidiaries) to any other Person (other than to the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries) in a single transaction or series of transactions; provided, that for the avoidance of doubt, (a) the issuance of its Capital Securities by the Borrower to its direct or indirect equity holders (including, without limitation, the issuance of Capital Securities pursuant to any employee, director or consultant (i.e. medical advisor) option program, benefit plan or compensation program), or (b) the issuance of its Capital Securities by a Subsidiary to the Borrower shall not, in either case, be deemed a Disposition.

Disqualified Capital Securities ” shall mean any Capital Securities that, by their terms (or by the terms of any security or other Capital Securities into which they are convertible or for which they are exchangeable) or upon the happening of any event or condition, (a) mature or are mandatorily redeemable (other than solely for Qualified Capital Securities), pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise (except as a result of a Change in Control or asset sale so long as any rights of the holders thereof upon the occurrence of a Change in Control or asset sale event shall be subject to the prior repayment in full of the Loans and all other Obligations that are accrued and payable and the termination of the Commitment), (b) are redeemable at the option of the holder thereof (other than solely for Qualified Capital Securities) (except as a result of a Change in Control or asset sale so long as any rights of the holders thereof upon the occurrence of a Change in Control or asset sale event shall be subject to the prior repayment in full of the Loans and all other Obligations that are accrued and payable and the termination of the Commitment), in whole or in part, (c) provide for the scheduled payment of dividends in cash or (d) are or become convertible into or exchangeable for Indebtedness or any other Capital Securities that would constitute Disqualified Capital Securities, in each case, prior to the date that is one hundred and eighty-one (181) days after the Maturity Date; provided that if such Capital Securities are issued pursuant to a plan for the benefit of employees of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, or by any such plan to such employees, such Capital Securities shall not constitute Disqualified Capital Securities solely because they may be required to be repurchased by the Borrower or its Subsidiaries in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations.

EMA ” means the European Medicines Agency or any successor entity.

Eligible Transferee ” means and includes a commercial bank, an insurance company, a finance company, a financial institution, any investment fund that invests in loans or any other “accredited investor” (as defined in Regulation D of the Securities Act) that is principally in the business of managing investments or holding assets for investment purposes; provided that, the following conditions are met: (1) for any entity (other than an Affiliate of the Original Lender) becoming a Lender after the Closing Date and prior to the Delayed Draw Commitment Termination Date, such entity shall have either (A) a rating of BBB or higher from Standard & Poor’s Rating Group or a rating of Baa2 or higher from Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. at the date that it becomes a Lender or (B) has total assets in excess of $500,000,000 (including any unfunded capital commitments), and (2) for any entity (other than an Affiliate of the Original Lender) becoming a Lender after the Delayed Draw Commitment Termination Date, such entity

 

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shall have sufficient funds to acquire or purchase the assigned Loans from an assigning Lender; provided further that, notwithstanding the foregoing, “Eligible Transferee” shall not include (i) the Borrower or any of the Borrower’s Affiliates or Subsidiaries or (ii) unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, a direct competitor of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or any investment fund that principally invests in distressed debt.

Environmental Laws ” means all federal, state, local or international laws, statutes, rules, regulations, codes, directives, treaties, requirements, ordinances, orders, decrees, judgments, injunctions, notices or binding agreements issued, promulgated or entered into by any Governmental Authority, relating in any way to the environment, natural resources, Hazardous Material or health and safety matters.

Environmental Liability ” means any applicable liability, loss, claim, suit, action, investigation, proceeding, damage, commitment or obligation, contingent or otherwise (including any liability for damages, costs of environmental remediation, fines, penalties or indemnities), of or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary directly or indirectly arising from, in connection with or based upon (i) any Environmental Law or Environmental Permit, (ii) the generation, use, handling, transportation, storage, treatment, recycling, presence, disposal, Release or threatened Release of, or exposure to, any Hazardous Materials, or (iii) any contract, agreement, penalty, order, decree, settlement, injunction or other arrangement (including operation of law) pursuant to which liability is assumed, entered into, inherited or imposed with respect to any of the foregoing.

Environmental Permit ” is defined in Section  6.7 .

ERISA ” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended from time to time.

ERISA Affiliate ” means, as applied to any Person, (i) any corporation that is a member of a controlled group of corporations within the meaning of section 414(b) of the Code of which that Person is a member, (ii) any trade or business (whether or not incorporated) that is a member of a group of trades or businesses under common control within the meaning of section 414(c) of the Code of which that Person is a member, or (iii) any member of an affiliated service group within the meaning of section 414(m) or 414(o) of the Code of which that Person, any corporation described in clause (i) above or any trade or business described in clause (ii) above is a member.

Event of Default ” is defined in Section  9.1 .

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Excluded Accoun t” is defined in Section  7.13 .

FATCA ” means (a) Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the Closing Date (or any amended or successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations thereof, (b)

 

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any treaty, law, regulation or other official guidance enacted in any other jurisdiction, or relating to an intergovernmental agreement between the United States and any other jurisdiction with the purpose (in either case) of facilitating the implementation of (a) above, or (c) any agreement pursuant to the implementation of paragraphs (a) or (b) above with the United States Internal Revenue Service, the United States government or any governmental or taxation authority in the United States.

FDA ” means the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and any successor entity.

FD&C Act ” means the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (or any successor thereto), as amended from time to time, and the rules, regulations, guidelines, guidance documents and compliance policy guides issued or promulgated thereunder.

Fiscal Quarter ” means a quarter ending on the last day of March, June, September or December.

Fiscal Year ” means any period of twelve consecutive calendar months ending on December 31; references to a Fiscal Year with a number corresponding to any calendar year ( e.g. , the “2012 Fiscal Year”) refer to the Fiscal Year ending on December 31 of such calendar year.

F.R.S. Board ” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or any successor thereto.

FTC Act ” means the Federal Trade Commission Act.

GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.

Governmental Authority ” means any national, supranational, federal, state, county, provincial, local, municipal or other government or political subdivision thereof (including any Regulatory Agency), whether domestic or foreign, and any agency, authority, commission, ministry, instrumentality, regulatory body, court, tribunal, arbitrator, central bank or other Person exercising executive, legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative powers or functions of or pertaining to any such government.

Guarantee ” means the guarantee executed and delivered by an Authorized Officer of each Subsidiary, substantially in the form of Exhibit D hereto, as amended, supplemented, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

Guarantors ” means, collectively, the Subsidiaries.

Hazardous Material ” means any material, substance, chemical, mixture or waste which is capable of damaging or causing harm to any living organism, the environment or natural resources, including all explosive, special, hazardous, polluting, toxic, industrial, dangerous, biohazardous, medical, infectious or radioactive substances, materials or wastes, noise, odor, electricity or heat, and including petroleum or petroleum products, byproducts or distillates, asbestos or asbestos-containing materials, urea formaldehyde, polychlorinated biphenyls, radon gas, ozone-depleting substances, greenhouse gases, and all other substances or wastes of any nature regulated pursuant to any Environmental Law or as to which any Governmental Authority requires investigation, reporting or remedial action.

 

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Hedging Obligations ” means, with respect to any Person, all liabilities of such Person under currency exchange agreements, interest rate swap agreements, interest rate cap agreements and interest rate collar agreements, and all other agreements or arrangements designed to protect such Person against fluctuations in interest rates or currency exchange rates.

herein ”, “ hereof ”, “ hereto ”, “ hereunder ” and similar terms contained in any Loan Document refer to such Loan Document as a whole and not to any particular Section, paragraph or provision of such Loan Document.

Investigational Application ” means an application, including an application filed with a Regulatory Agency, for authorization to commence human clinical studies or distribute an investigational product, including (a) an Investigational Drug Application (“ IND ”) as defined in the FD&C Act or any successor application or procedure filed with the FDA, (b) an Investigational Device Exemption (“ IDE ”) as defined in the FD&C Act or any successor application or procedure filed with the FDA, (c) an abbreviated IDE as specified in FDA regulations in 21 C.F.R. § 812.2(b), (d) any equivalent of a United States IND or IDE in other countries or regulatory jurisdictions, (e) all amendments, variations, extensions and renewals thereof that may be filed with respect to the foregoing and (f) all related documents and correspondence thereto, including documents and correspondence with Institutional Review Boards (IRBs).

Impermissible Qualification ” means any qualification or exception to the opinion or certification of any independent public accountant as to any financial statement of the Borrower (i) which is of a “going concern” or similar nature other than any such qualification in any opinion that is based solely on a determination that the Borrower may not have sufficient cash or other available resources to run the business, (ii) which relates to the limited scope of examination of matters relevant to such financial statement, or (iii) which relates to the treatment or classification of any item in such financial statement and which, as a condition to its removal, would require an adjustment to such item the effect of which would be to cause the Borrower to be in Default.

including ” and “ include ” means including without limiting the generality of any description preceding such term, and, for purposes of each Loan Document, the parties hereto agree that the rule of ejusdem generis shall not be applicable to limit a general statement, which is followed by or referable to an enumeration of specific matters, to matters similar to the matters specifically mentioned.

Indebtedness ” of any Person means:

(a) all obligations of such Person for borrowed money or advances and all obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or similar instruments;

 

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(b) all obligations, contingent or otherwise, relative to the face amount of all letters of credit, whether or not drawn, and banker’s acceptances issued for the account of such Person;

(c) all Capitalized Lease Liabilities of such Person and all obligations of such Person arising under Synthetic Leases;

(d) net Hedging Obligations of such Person;

(e) all obligations of such Person in respect of Disqualified Capital Securities;

(f) whether or not so included as liabilities in accordance with GAAP, all obligations of such Person to pay the deferred purchase price of property or services (excluding trade accounts payable in the ordinary course of business which are not overdue for a period of more than 90 days or, if overdue for more than 90 days, as to which a dispute exists and adequate reserves in conformity with GAAP have been established on the books of such Person), and indebtedness secured by (or for which the holder of such indebtedness has an existing right, contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) a Lien on property owned or being acquired by such Person (including indebtedness arising under conditional sales or other title retention agreements), whether or not such indebtedness shall have been assumed by such Person or is limited in recourse; and

(g) all Contingent Liabilities of such Person in respect of any of the foregoing.

The Indebtedness of any Person shall include the Indebtedness of any other Person (including any partnership in which such Person is a general partner) to the extent such Person is liable therefor as a result of such Person’s ownership interest in or other relationship with such Person, except to the extent the terms of such Indebtedness provide that such Person is not liable therefor.

Indemnified Liabilities ” is defined in Section  10.4 .

Indemnified Parties ” is defined in Section  10.4 .

Infringement ” and “ Infringes ” mean the misappropriation or other violation of know-how, trade secrets, confidential information, and/or Intellectual Property.

Initial Commitment Amount ” means $20,000,000.

Initial Commitment Termination Date ” means the earliest to occur of (i) the Closing Date (immediately after the making of the Initial Loan on such date), and (ii) March 20, 2017, if the Initial Loan shall not have been made hereunder prior to such date.

Initial Loan ” is defined in Section  2.1 .

Intellectual Property ” means all (i) Patents and all patent applications of any type, registrations and renewals, reissues, reexaminations and patent rights in any lawful form thereof;

 

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(ii) Trademarks and all applications, registrations and renewals thereof; (iii) Copyrights and other works of authorship (registered or unregistered), and all applications, registrations and renewals therefor; (iv) Product Agreements; (v) computer software, databases, data and documentation; (vi) trade secrets and confidential business information, whether patentable or unpatentable and whether or not reduced to practice, know-how, inventions, manufacturing processes and techniques, research and development information, data and other information included in or supporting Regulatory Authorizations; (vii) financial, marketing and business data, pricing and cost information, business, finance and marketing plans, customer and prospective customer lists and information, and supplier and prospective supplier lists and information; (viii) other intellectual property or similar proprietary rights; (ix) copies and tangible embodiments of any of the foregoing (in whatever form or medium); and (x) any and all improvements to any of the foregoing which is owned, assigned to or could by contract be owned or assigned to the Borrower, its Subsidiaries or its agents.

Interest Period ” means, (a) initially, the period beginning on (and including) the date on which the Initial Loan is made hereunder pursuant to Section  2.3 and ending on (and including) the last day of the Fiscal Quarter in which the Loan was made, and (b) thereafter, the period beginning on (and including) the first day of each succeeding Fiscal Quarter and ending on the earlier of (and including) (x) the last day of such Fiscal Quarter and (y) the Maturity Date.

Investment ” means, relative to any Person, (i) any loan, advance or extension of credit made by such Person to any other Person, including the purchase by such Person of any bonds, notes, debentures or other debt securities of any other Person, (ii) Contingent Liabilities in favor of any other Person, and (iii) any Capital Securities held by such Person in any other Person. The amount of any Investment shall be the original principal or capital amount thereof less all returns of principal or equity thereon and shall, if made by the transfer or exchange of property other than cash, be deemed to have been made in an original principal or capital amount equal to the fair market value of such property at the time of such Investment.

Key Permits ” means (i) all Permits necessary to sell the KXL System in the United States and (ii) all other Permits relating to the Products, the loss of which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

knowledge ” of the Borrower means the actual knowledge of the chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief commercial officer, chief scientific officer, chief medical officer, chief legal officer and any other senior or executive officer of the Borrower, after due inquiry.

Laws ” is defined in Section  6.18 .

Lender ” is defined in the preamble.

LIBO Rate ” means the three-month London Interbank Offered Rate for deposits in U.S. Dollars at approximately 11:00 a.m. (London, England time), quoted by the Lender from the appropriate Bloomberg or Telerate page selected by the Lender (or any successor thereto or similar source determined by the Lender from time to time), which shall be that three-month London Interbank Offered Rate for deposits in U.S. Dollars in effect two Business Days prior to

 

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the last Business Day of the relevant Fiscal Quarter, adjusted for any reserve requirement and any subsequent costs arising from a change in governmental regulation, such rate to be rounded up to the nearest 1/16 of 1% and such rate to be reset quarterly as of the first Business Day of each Fiscal Quarter. If the Initial Loan is advanced other than on the first Business Day of a Fiscal Quarter, the initial LIBO Rate shall be that three-month London Interbank Offered Rate for deposits in U.S. Dollars in effect two Business Days prior to the date of the Initial Loan, which rate shall be in effect until (and including) the last Business Day of the Fiscal Quarter next ending. The Lender’s internal records of applicable interest rates shall be determinative in the absence of manifest error.

Lien ” means any security interest, mortgage, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, deposit arrangement, encumbrance, lien (statutory or otherwise), charge against or interest in property, or other priority or preferential arrangement of any kind or nature whatsoever, to secure payment of a debt or performance of an obligation.

Liquidity ” means, at any time, an amount determined for the Borrower equal to the sum of unrestricted (other than Liens securing the Obligations) cash-on-hand and Cash Equivalent Investments of the Borrower, to the extent held in a Controlled Account located in the United States .

Loan Documents ” means, collectively, this Agreement, the Notes, the Security Agreement, each other agreement pursuant to which the Lender is granted a Lien to secure the Obligations (including any mortgages entered into pursuant to Section  7.8 ), the Guarantee, and each other agreement, certificate, document or instrument delivered in connection with any Loan Document, whether or not specifically mentioned herein or therein (provided, that Loan Documents shall not include the Warrant Agreement or the Warrants).

Loan Parties ” means, collectively, the Borrower and the Guarantors.

Loan Request ” means a Loan request and certificate duly executed by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower substantially in the form of Exhibit B hereto.

Loans ” means the Initial Loan and the Delayed Draw Loan.

Material Adverse Effect ” means a material adverse effect on (i) the business, financial condition, operations, performance or properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, (ii) the rights and remedies of the Lender under any Loan Document or (iii) the ability of the Borrower or any Loan Party to perform its Obligations under any Loan Document.

Material Agreements ” means (i) each contract or agreement to which the Borrower or any Subsidiary is a party involving aggregate payments of more than the greater of (a) $500,000 in any Fiscal Year or (B) 5% of the Annual Revenues for the last four Fiscal Quarters, whether such payments are being made by the Borrower or any Subsidiary to a non-Affiliated Person, or by a non-Affiliated Person to the Borrower or any Subsidiary; and (ii) all other contracts or agreements, individually or in the aggregate, material to the business, operations, assets, performance, liabilities or financial condition of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole; provided, however, that “Material Agreements” exclude all (x) licenses implied by the sale of a product; and (y) paid-up licenses for commonly available software programs under which Borrower or any Subsidiary is the licensee.

 

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Maturity Date ” means March 20, 2022.

Moody’s ” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.

Net Asset Sales Proceeds ” means, with respect to a Disposition (other than Dispositions permitted by Section  8.8(i) through (x)  after the Closing Date by the Borrower or any Subsidiary to any Person of any assets of the Borrower or its Subsidiaries, the excess of gross cash proceeds in excess of $1,000,000 in the aggregate through the Termination Date received by the Borrower or any Subsidiary from such Disposition over all reasonable and customary costs, fees and expenses, incurred in connection with such Disposition which have not been paid to Affiliates of the Borrower in connection therewith.

Net Casualty Proceeds ” means, with respect to any Casualty Event, the amount of any insurance proceeds or condemnation awards received by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in connection with such Casualty Event in excess of $1,000,000, individually or in the aggregate, through the Termination Date (in each case net of all reasonable and customary collection expenses thereof), but excluding any proceeds or awards required to be paid to a creditor (other than the Lender) which holds a first priority Lien permitted by clause (f) of Section  8.3 on the property which is the subject of such Casualty Event.

Net Revenue ” means net sales, distribution income, service payments, license income, and other forms of consideration received by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, as determined in accordance with GAAP. Net Revenue shall be determined in a manner consistent with the methodologies, practices and procedures used in developing the Borrower’s audited financial statements.

Non-Excluded Taxes ” means in respect of the Lender (and its successors and assigns), any Taxes other than (a) (i) Taxes imposed on or measured by one or more alternative bases one of which is a Person’s net income, (ii) franchise Taxes, and (iii) branch profits Taxes, in each case, imposed by the United States or with respect to such Person by any Governmental Authority under the Laws of which such Person is organized or in which it maintains its applicable lending office, or imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Person and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (other than connections arising solely from such Person having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, engaged in any other transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document), (b) any U.S. federal withholding Taxes imposed on amounts payable to or for the account of a Lender with respect to an applicable interest in any Loan or Commitment pursuant to a Law in effect on the date on which (i) such Lender acquires such interest in the Loan or Commitment or (ii) such Lender changes its lending office, except in each case to the extent that, pursuant to Section 4.3, amounts with respect to such Taxes were payable either to such Lender (or its assignor, if any) immediately before such Person became a party hereto or to such Person immediately before the time of designation of a new lending office, (c) Taxes attributable to such Person’s failure to comply with Section 4.3(e), and (d) any U.S. federal withholding Taxes or other amounts imposed or payable under FATCA.

 

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Note ” means a promissory note of the Borrower payable to the Lender, in the form of Exhibit A hereto (as such promissory note may be amended, endorsed or otherwise modified from time to time), evidencing the aggregate Indebtedness of the Borrower to the Lender resulting from the outstanding amount of the Loans, and also means all other promissory notes accepted from time to time in substitution therefor or renewal thereof.

Obligations ” means all obligations (monetary or otherwise, whether absolute or contingent, matured or unmatured) of the Borrower and each Subsidiary arising under or in connection with a Loan Document and the principal of and premium, if any, and interest (including interest accruing during the pendency of any proceeding of the type described in Section  9.1(h) , whether or not allowed in such proceeding) on the Loans.

OFAC ” means the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Department of the Treasury.

Organic Document ” means, relative to the Borrower or any Subsidiary, its certificate of incorporation, by-laws, certificate of partnership, partnership agreement, certificate of formation, limited liability agreement, operating agreement and all shareholder agreements, voting trusts and similar arrangements applicable to the Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s Capital Securities.

Original Lender ” means OrbiMed Royalty Opportunities II, L.P.

Other Connection Taxes ” means, with respect to any Lender, Taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Lender and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (other than connections arising from such Lender having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, engaged in any other transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document, or sold or assigned an interest in any Loan or Loan Document).

Other Taxes ” means any and all stamp, court, documentary, intangible, recording, filing or similar Taxes that arise on account of any payment made or required to be made under any Loan Document or from the execution, delivery, registration, recording or enforcement of any Loan Document (excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, Taxes described in clauses (a) , (b) or (c)  of the definition of Non-Excluded Taxes), except any such Taxes that are Other Connection Taxes imposed with respect to an assignment.

Other Administrative Proceeding ” means any administrative proceeding relating to a dispute involving a patent office or other relevant intellectual property registry which relates to validity, opposition, revocation, ownership or enforceability of the relevant Intellectual Property.

Party ” and “ Parties ” have the meanings set forth in the preamble hereto.

 

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Patent ” means any patent, any type of patent application or invention disclosure, including all divisions, continuations, continuations in-part, provisionals, continued prosecution applications, substitutions, reissues, reexaminations, inter partes review, post-grant review by any Governmental Authority, renewals, extensions, adjustments, restorations, supplemental protection certificates and patent rights in any form and other additions in connection therewith, whether in or related to the United States or any foreign country or other jurisdiction.

Patent Security Agreement ” means any Patent Security Agreement executed and delivered by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in substantially the form of Exhibit A to the Security Agreement, as amended, supplemented, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time .

Permits ” means all permits, licenses, registrations, certificates, orders, approvals, authorizations, consents, waivers, franchises, variances and similar rights issued by or obtained from any Governmental Authority or any other Person, including, without limitation, those relating to Environmental Laws and Regulatory Authorizations.

Permitted Acquisition ” means the purchase or other acquisition of all of the Capital Securities (other than qualifying directors shares) in, or all or substantially all of the property of, or all or substantially all of any business or division of, any Person that, upon the consummation thereof, will be wholly-owned directly by the Borrower or one or more of its wholly-owned Subsidiaries (including as a result of a merger or consolidation); provided that, with respect to each Permitted Acquisition:

(a) any such newly-created or acquired Subsidiary shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section  7.8 and the Lender shall have received (or shall receive in connection with the closing of such acquisition) a first priority perfected security interest, subject only to Liens permitted under Section  8.3 , in the property (including, without limitation, equity interests) acquired with respect to the entity acquired to the extent required to comply with the requirements of Section 7.8;

(b) the lines of business of the Person to be (or the property of which is to be) so purchased or otherwise acquired shall be permitted pursuant to Section  8.1 ;

(c) in the case of a purchase or other acquisition of the Capital Securities of another Person, the board of directors (or other comparable governing body) of such other Person shall have duly approved such purchase or other acquisition;

(d) the total cash and non-cash consideration (other than common stock of the Borrower) paid by or on behalf of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries for any such purchase or other acquisition, when aggregated with the consideration (other than common stock of the Borrower) paid by or on behalf of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries for all other Permitted Acquisitions after the Closing Date shall not exceed the aggregate amount of $1,500,000 in any Fiscal Year and an aggregate cumulative amount of $3,000,000;

 

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(e) immediately before and after giving effect to any such purchase or other acquisition, no Default or Event of Default, shall exist or result therefrom; and

(f) the Borrower shall have delivered to the Lender, at least 10 Business Days prior to the date on which any such purchase or other acquisition is to be consummated, a written notice describing such transaction, and thereafter, if requested by the Lender for any such transaction involving consideration (other than common stock of the Borrower) in excess of $1,000,000, (i) historical financial statements of or related to the Person or assets to be acquired, (ii) twelve month projections for such Person or assets to be acquired and for Borrower after giving effect to such transaction, and (iii) material documentation and other information relating to such transaction and reasonably requested by the Lender.

Permitted Subordinated Indebtedness ” means Indebtedness incurred after the Closing Date by the Borrower or the Subsidiaries that is (i) subordinated to the Obligations and all other Indebtedness owing from the Borrower or the Subsidiaries to the Lender pursuant to a written subordination agreement satisfactory to the Lender in its sole discretion and (ii) in an amount and on terms approved by the Lender in its sole discretion.

Person ” means any natural person, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture, association, trust or unincorporated organization, Governmental Authority or any other legal entity, whether acting in an individual, fiduciary or other capacity.

Photrexa ” means the pharmaceutical product manufactured, distributed, offered for sale or sold under the PHOTREXA brand or any successor product with the active ingredient of riboflavin phosphate sodium in dextran ophthalmic solution.

Photrexa Viscous ” means the pharmaceutical product manufactured, distributed, offered for sale or sold under the PHOTREXA VISCOUS brand or any successor product with the active ingredient of riboflavin phosphate sodium in ophthalmic solution.

PHSA ” means the Public Health Service Act (or any successor thereto), as amended from time to time, and the rules, regulations, guidelines, guidance documents and compliance policy guides issued or promulgated thereunder.

PIK Interest ” has the meaning set forth in Section  3.4(a)(ii) .

Privacy Laws ” means all applicable security and privacy standards regarding protected health information under (i) the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009, including the regulations promulgated thereunder (collectively “ HIPAA ”) and (ii) any applicable state privacy Laws.

Product ” means (i) Photrexa, (ii) Photrexa Viscous, (iii) Borrower Medical Devices and (iv) any current or future service or product (including software products and services) researched, designed, developed, manufactured, licensed, marketed, sold, performed, distributed or otherwise commercialized by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, including any such product in development or which may be developed.

 

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Product Agreement ” means each agreement, license, document, instrument, interest (equity or otherwise) or the like under which one or more parties grants or receives any right, title or interest with respect to any Product Development and Commercialization Activities in respect of one or more Products specified therein or to exclude third parties from engaging in, or otherwise restricting any right, title or interest as to any Product Development and Commercialization Activities with respect thereto, including each contract or agreement with suppliers (including human tissue supply agreements), manufacturers, distributors, clinical research organizations, hospitals, group purchasing organizations, wholesalers, pharmacies or any other Person related to any such entity.

Product Development and Commercialization Activities ” means, with respect to any Product, any combination of research, development, manufacture, import, use, sale, importation, storage, labeling, marketing, promotion, supply, distribution, testing, packaging, purchasing or other commercialization activities, receipt of payment in respect of any of the foregoing, or like activities the purpose of which is to commercially exploit such Product.

Publicly Reporting Company ” means an issuer generally subject to the public reporting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

Purchase Money Indebtedness ” means Indebtedness (1) consisting of the deferred purchase price for equipment incurred in connection with the acquisition of such equipment, where the amount of such Indebtedness does not exceed the greater of (a) the cost of the equipment being financed and (b) the fair market value of such equipment; and (2) incurred to finance such acquisition by the Borrower or a Subsidiary of such equipment.

Qualified Capital Securities ” shall mean any Capital Securities that are not Disqualified Capital Securities.

Qualified IPO ” means an underwritten initial public offering of the Capital Securities of Borrower or any direct or indirect parent of Borrower which generates cash proceeds of at least $50,000,000 and results in a listing of such entity’s Capital Securities on a public securities exchange; provided that such direct or indirect parent, if any, shall have become a Loan Party hereunder.

Receiving Party ” means the Party receiving Confidential Information.

Recipient ” is defined in Section  10.14 .

Regulatory Agencies ” means any Governmental Authority that is concerned with the use, control, safety, efficacy, reliability, manufacturing, testing, marketing, distribution, sale or other Product Development and Commercialization Activities relating to any Product of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, including CMS, FDA, and all similar agencies in other jurisdictions, and includes Standard Bodies.

 

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Regulatory Authorizations ” means all approvals, clearances, notifications, authorizations, orders, exemptions, registrations, listings, certifications, licenses and permits granted by, submitted to or filed with any Regulatory Agencies necessary for the testing, manufacture, development, distribution, use, storage, import, export, transport, promotion, marketing, sale or other commercialization of any Product in any country or jurisdiction, including any Investigational Application.

Related Parties ” means the partners, directors, officers, employees, agents, trustees, administrators, managers, advisors and representatives of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries.

Release ” means any releasing, disposing, discharging, injecting, spilling, leaking, leaching, pumping, pouring, dumping, depositing, emitting, escaping, emptying, seeping, dispersal, migrating or placing, including movement through, into or upon the environment or any natural or man-made structure.

Repayment Premium ” means a premium of

(a) fourteen percent (14%) of the principal amount of any prepayment or repayment of the Borrower on the Initial Loan or the Delayed Draw Loan, as applicable, if such prepayment or repayment is made or required to be made on or prior to the 12-month anniversary of the Closing Date;

(b) nine percent (9%) of the principal amount of any prepayment or repayment of the Borrower on the Initial Loan or the Delayed Draw Loan, as applicable, if such prepayment or repayment is not required to be made prior to, and is made or required to be made after, the 12-month anniversary of the Closing Date, but on or prior to the 24-month anniversary of the Closing Date;

(c) five percent (5%) of the principal amount of any prepayment or repayment of the Borrower on the Initial Loan or the Delayed Draw Loan, as applicable, if such prepayment or repayment is not required to be made prior to, and is made or required to be made after, the 24-month anniversary of the Closing Date, but on or prior to the 36-month anniversary of the Closing Date;

(d) three percent (3%) of the principal amount of any prepayment or repayment of the Borrower on the Initial Loan or the Delayed Draw Loan, as applicable, if such prepayment or repayment is not required to be made prior to, and is made or required to be made after, the 36-month anniversary of the Closing Date, but on or prior to the 48-month anniversary of the Closing Date; or

(e) zero percent (0%) of the principal amount of any prepayment or repayment of the Borrower on the Initial Loan or the Delayed Draw Loan, as applicable, if such prepayment or repayment is not required to be made on or prior to, and is made or required to be made after, the 48-month anniversary of the Closing Date.

 

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Restricted Payment ” means (i) the declaration or payment of any dividend on, or the making of any payment or distribution on account of, or setting apart assets for a sinking or other analogous fund for the purchase, redemption, defeasance, retirement or other acquisition of, any class of Capital Securities of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or any warrants, options or other right or obligation to purchase or acquire any such Capital Securities, whether now or hereafter outstanding, or (ii) the making of any other distribution in respect of such Capital Securities, in each case either directly or indirectly, whether in cash, property or obligations of the Borrower or any Subsidiary or otherwise.

Revenue Base ” means, with respect to any period, the Net Revenues of all Products for such period.

S&P ” means Standard & Poor’s Rating Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Sanctions ” means any international economic sanction administered or enforced by the United States Government (including, without limitation, OFAC), the United Nations Security Council, the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury or other relevant sanctions authority.

SEC ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Security Agreement ” means the Pledge and Security Agreement executed and delivered by each of the parties thereto, substantially in the form of Exhibit E hereto, as amended, supplemented, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

Solvent ” means, with respect to any Person on a particular date, that on such date (i) the fair value of the property of such Person is greater than the total amount of liabilities, including contingent liabilities, of such Person, (ii) the present fair saleable value of the assets of such Person is not less than the amount that will be required to pay the probable liability of such Person on its debts as they become absolute and matured, (iii) such Person does not intend to, and does not believe that it will, incur debts or liabilities beyond its ability to pay as such debts and liabilities mature, (iv) such Person is not engaged in a business or a transaction, and is not about to engage in a business or a transaction, for which the property of such Person would constitute an unreasonably small capital and (v) such Person has not executed this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or made any transfer or incurred any obligations hereunder or thereunder, with actual intent to hinder, delay or defraud either present or future creditors. The amount of Contingent Liabilities at any time shall be computed as the amount that, in light of all the facts and circumstances existing at such time, can reasonably be expected to become an actual or matured liability.

Standard Bodies ” means any of the organizations that create, sponsor or maintain safety, quality or other standards, including ISO, ANSI, CEN and SCC and the like.

Subsidiary ” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person of which more than 50% of the outstanding Voting Securities of such other Person (irrespective of whether at the time Capital Securities of any other class or classes of such other Person shall or might have

 

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voting power upon the occurrence of any contingency) is at the time directly or indirectly owned or controlled by such Person, by such Person and one or more other Subsidiaries of such Person, or by one or more other Subsidiaries of such Person. Unless the context otherwise specifically requires, the term “Subsidiary” shall be a reference to a Subsidiary of Borrower.

Synthetic Lease ” means, as applied to any Person, any lease (including leases that may be terminated by the lessee at any time) of any property (whether real, personal or mixed) (i) that is not a capital lease in accordance with GAAP and (ii) in respect of which the lessee retains or obtains ownership of the property so leased for federal income tax purposes, other than any such lease under which that Person is the lessor.

Taxes ” means all income, stamp or other taxes, duties, levies, imposts, charges, assessments or fees in the nature of a tax, deductions or withholdings, now or hereafter imposed, levied, collected, withheld or assessed by any Governmental Authority, and all interest, penalties or similar liabilities with respect thereto.

Third Party ” means any Person other than the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries.

Termination Date ” means the date on which all Obligations (other than inchoate indemnity obligations) have been paid in full in cash and the Commitment shall have terminated.

Trademark ” means any trademark, service mark, trade name, logo, symbol, trade dress, domain name, corporate name or other indicator of source or origin, and all applications and registrations therefor, together with all of the goodwill associated therewith.

Trademark Security Agreement ” means any Trademark Security Agreement executed and delivered by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries substantially in the form of Exhibit B to any Security Agreement, as amended, supplemented, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

UCC ” means the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time in the State of New York; provided that, if, with respect to any financing statement or by reason of any provisions of law, the perfection or the effect of perfection or non-perfection of the security interests granted to the Lender pursuant to the applicable Loan Document is governed by the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in a jurisdiction of the United States other than New York, then “UCC” means the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time in such other jurisdiction for purposes of the provisions of each Loan Document and any financing statement relating to such perfection or effect of perfection or non-perfection.

United States ” or “ U.S. ” means the United States of America, its fifty states and the District of Columbia.

Voting Securities ” means, with respect to any Person, Capital Securities of any class or kind ordinarily having the power to vote for the election of directors, managers or other voting members of the governing body of such Person.

 

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Warrant ” is defined in Section  4.3(e) .

Warrant Agreement ” means the Warrant Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, between the Borrower and the Lender.

wholly owned Subsidiary ” means any direct or indirect Subsidiaries of Borrower, all of the outstanding Capital Securities of which (other than any director’s qualifying shares or investments by foreign nationals mandated by applicable laws) is owned directly or indirectly by Borrower.

SECTION 1.2 Use of Defined Terms . Unless otherwise defined or the context otherwise requires, terms for which meanings are provided in this Agreement shall have such meanings when used in each other Loan Document and the schedules attached hereto.

SECTION 1.3 Cross-References . Unless otherwise specified, references in a Loan Document to any Article or Section are references to such Article or Section of such Loan Document, and references in any Article, Section or definition to any clause are references to such clause of such Article, Section or definition.

SECTION 1.4 Accounting and Financial Determinations . Unless otherwise specified, all accounting terms used in each Loan Document shall be interpreted, and all accounting determinations and computations thereunder (including under Section  8.4 and the definitions used in such calculations) shall be made, in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time; provided that, if either the Borrower or the Lender requests an amendment to any provision hereof to eliminate the effect of any change occurring after the date hereof in GAAP or the application thereof on the operation of such provision, regardless of whether any such notice is given before or after such change in GAAP or the application thereof, then such provision shall be interpreted on the basis of GAAP in effect and applied immediately before such change shall have become effective until such request shall have been withdrawn or such provision amended in accordance herewith. Unless otherwise expressly provided, all financial covenants and defined financial terms shall be computed on a consolidated basis for the Borrower and the Subsidiaries, in each case without duplication.

ARTICLE II

COMMITMENT AND BORROWING PROCEDURES

SECTION 2.1 Commitment . On the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement, the Lender agrees to make a term loan
(the “ Initial Loan ”) to the Borrower on the Closing Date in an amount equal to (but not less than) the Initial Commitment Amount. On the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement, the Lender agrees to make a term loan (the “ Delayed Draw Loan ”) to the Borrower on the Delayed Draw Closing Date in an amount equal to (but not less than) the Delayed Draw Commitment Amount. No amounts paid or prepaid with respect to the Loans may be reborrowed.

 

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SECTION 2.2 Borrowing Procedure . The Borrower may irrevocably request that the Initial Loan be made by delivering to the Lender a Loan Request on or before 10:00 a.m. on a Business Day at least three Business Days prior to the proposed Closing Date. The Borrower may irrevocably request that the Delayed Draw Loan be made by delivering to the Lender a Loan Request on or before 10:00 a.m. on a Business Day at least three Business Days prior to the proposed Delayed Draw Closing Date.

SECTION 2.3 Funding . After receipt of the Loan Request for the Initial Loan, the Lender shall, on the Closing Date and subject to the terms and conditions hereof, make the requested proceeds of the Initial Loan available to the Borrower by wire transfer to the account the Borrower shall have specified in its Loan Request. After receipt of the Loan Request for the Delayed Draw Loan, the Lender shall, on the Delayed Draw Closing Date and subject to the terms and conditions hereof, make the requested proceeds of the Delayed Draw Loan available to the Borrower by wire transfer to the account the Borrower shall have specified in its Loan Request.

SECTION 2.4 Reduction of the Commitment Amounts . The Initial Commitment Amount shall automatically and permanently be reduced to zero on the Initial Commitment Termination Date. The Delayed Draw Commitment Amount shall automatically and permanently be reduced to zero on the Delayed Draw Commitment Termination Date.

ARTICLE III

REPAYMENTS, PREPAYMENTS, INTEREST AND FEES

SECTION 3.1 Repayments and Prepayments; Application . The Borrower agrees that the Loans, and any fees or, except as set forth in Section 3.4(a)(ii), interest accrued or accruing thereon, shall be repaid and prepaid solely in U.S. dollars pursuant to the terms of this Article III .

SECTION 3.2 Repayments and Prepayments . The Borrower shall repay in full the unpaid principal amount of the Loans on the Maturity Date. Prior thereto, payments and prepayments of the Loans shall be made as set forth below.

(a) The Borrower shall have the right, with at least three Business Days’ notice to the Lender, at any time and from time to time to prepay any unpaid principal amount of the Loans, in whole or in part.

(b) Within three Business Days of receipt by the Borrower or any Subsidiary of any (i) Net Casualty Proceeds or (ii) Net Asset Sales Proceeds, the Borrower shall notify the Lender thereof. If requested by the Lender, the Borrower shall within three Business Days of such request make a mandatory prepayment of

 

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the Loans, in an amount equal to 100% of such proceeds (or such lesser amount as the Lender may specify on the date of such request), to be applied as set forth in Section  3.3 and Section  3.7 ; provided, however, that no such payment shall be required on account of any Net Casualty Proceeds or Net Asset Sales Proceeds that are intended to be reinvested in the ordinary course of the Loan Parties’ business within 180 days in replacement assets used or useful in their business; provided, further, that if any such Net Casualty Proceeds or Net Asset Sales Proceeds have not in fact been so re-invested at the expiration of such 180 day period then any such Net Casualty Proceeds or Net Asset Sales Proceeds shall be paid to Lender, if requested by the Lender, as provided herein at such time.

(c) The Borrower shall repay the Loans in full immediately upon any acceleration of the Maturity Date thereof pursuant to Section  9.2 or Section  9.3 , unless, pursuant to Section  9.3 , only a portion of the Loans is so accelerated (in which case the portion so accelerated shall be so repaid).

SECTION 3.3 Application . Except as provided in Section  4.4(b) , amounts repaid or prepaid in respect of the outstanding principal amount of the Loans pursuant to clauses (b)  or (c) of Section  3.2 shall be applied pro rata to the Initial Loan and Delayed Draw Loan.

SECTION 3.4 Interest Rate .

(a) During any applicable Interest Period:

(i) Interest payable in cash by the Borrower shall accrue on the Loans during such Interest Period at a rate per annum equal to the Applicable Margin; and

(ii) the Loans shall accrue additional interest (“ PIK Interest ”) during such Interest Period at a rate per annum equal to the higher of (x) the LIBO Rate for such Interest Period and (y) 1.00%, and such PIK Interest shall be added to the outstanding principal amount of the Loans on the last day of each Fiscal Quarter until the Maturity Date.

(b) The interest rate shall be recalculated and, if necessary, adjusted for each Interest Period, in each case pursuant to the terms hereof.

(c) All references hereunder to the principal amount of the Loans shall include any PIK Interest, if any, so added to the principal.

SECTION 3.5 Default Rate . At all times commencing upon the date any Event of Default occurs, and continuing until such Event of Default is no longer continuing, the Applicable Margin shall be increased by 3% per annum.

 

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SECTION 3.6 Payment Dates . Interest accrued on the Loans shall be payable in cash, without duplication:

(a) on the Maturity Date therefor;

(b) on the date of any payment or prepayment, in whole or in part, of principal outstanding on such Loan on the principal amount so paid or prepaid;

(c) other than with respect to the PIK Interest, on the last day of each Fiscal Quarter; provided that if such day is not a Business Day, then such payment shall be made on the next succeeding Business Day; and

(d) on that portion of the Loans that is accelerated pursuant to Section  9.2 or Section  9.3 , immediately upon such acceleration.

Interest accrued on the Loans or other monetary Obligations after the date such amount is due and payable (whether on the Maturity Date, upon acceleration or otherwise) shall be payable upon demand.

SECTION 3.7 Repayment Premium . Any repayment or prepayment of principal pursuant to this Article III (other than any repayments of principal made on the Maturity Date) shall be accompanied by the Repayment Premium.

ARTICLE IV

LIBO RATE AND OTHER PROVISIONS

SECTION 4.1 Increased Costs, Etc . The Borrower agrees to reimburse the Lender for any increase in the cost to the Lender of, or any reduction in the amount of any sum receivable by the Lender in respect of, the Lender’s Commitment and the making, continuation or maintaining of the Loans hereunder that may arise in connection with any Change in Law, except for such changes with respect to increased capital costs and Taxes which are governed by Section  4.2 and Section  4.3 , respectively. The Lender shall notify the Borrower in writing of the occurrence of any such event, stating the reasons therefor and the additional amount required fully to compensate the Lender for such increased cost or reduced amount. Such additional amounts shall be payable by the Borrower directly to the Lender within five days of its receipt of such notice, and such notice shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding on the Borrower. The Borrower shall not be required to compensate the Lender pursuant to this Section for any increased costs or reductions incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender notifies the Borrower of the Change in Law giving rise to such increased costs or reductions and of such Lender’s intention to claim compensation therefor; provided further that, if the Change in Law giving rise to such increased costs or reductions is retroactive, then the 180-day period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.

 

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SECTION 4.2 Increased Capital Costs . If any Change in Law affects or would affect the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by the Lender or any Person controlling the Lender, and the Lender determines (in good faith but in its sole and absolute discretion) that the rate of return on its or such controlling Person’s capital as a consequence of the Commitment or the Loans made by it hereunder is reduced to a level below that which the Lender or such controlling Person could have achieved but for the occurrence of any such circumstance, then upon notice from time to time by the Lender to the Borrower, the Borrower shall within five days following receipt of such notice pay directly to the Lender additional amounts sufficient to compensate the Lender or such controlling Person for such reduction in rate of return. A statement of the Lender as to any such additional amount or amounts shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding on the Borrower. In determining such amount, the Lender may use any method of averaging and attribution that it (in its sole and absolute discretion) shall deem applicable.

SECTION 4.3 Taxes . The Borrower covenants and agrees as follows with respect to Taxes.

(a) Except as required by applicable Law, any and all payments by the Borrower under each Loan Document shall be made without setoff, counterclaim or other defense, and free and clear of, and without deduction or withholding for or on account of, any Taxes. In the event that any Taxes are imposed and required to be deducted or withheld from any payment required to be made by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries to or on behalf of the Lender under any Loan Document, then:

(i) if such Taxes are Non-Excluded Taxes, the payment shall be increased by the amount necessary so that after the withholding or deduction for or on account of such Taxes, the amount received by the Lender is equal to the amount that it would have received had no such withholding or deduction of Taxes been made; and

(ii) the Borrower shall withhold the full amount of such Taxes from such payment (as increased pursuant to clause (a)(i) ) and shall pay such amount to the Governmental Authority imposing such Taxes in accordance with applicable law.

(b) In addition, the Borrower shall pay all Other Taxes imposed with respect to the Loans or any Loan Document to the relevant Governmental Authority imposing such Other Taxes in accordance with applicable Law.

(c) As promptly as practicable after the payment of any Taxes or Other Taxes required to be paid by the Borrower under Section  4.3(a) or (b) , and in any event within 45 days of any such payment being made, the Borrower shall furnish to the Lender a copy of an official receipt (or a certified copy thereof) or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the Lender evidencing the payment of such Taxes or Other Taxes.

 

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(d) The Borrower shall indemnify the Lender for any Non-Excluded Taxes and Other Taxes levied, imposed or assessed with respect to the Loans or any Loan Document on (and whether or not paid directly by) the Lender whether or not such Non-Excluded Taxes or Other Taxes are correctly or legally asserted by the relevant Governmental Authority. Promptly upon having knowledge that any such Non-Excluded Taxes or Other Taxes have been levied, imposed or assessed, and promptly upon notice thereof by the Lender, the Borrower shall pay such Non-Excluded Taxes or Other Taxes directly to the relevant Governmental Authority ( provided that, the Lender shall not be under any obligation to provide any such notice to the Borrower). In addition, the Borrower shall indemnify the Lender for any incremental Taxes that may become payable by the Lender as a result of any failure of the Borrower to pay any Taxes when due to the appropriate Governmental Authority or to deliver to the Lender, pursuant to clause (c) , documentation evidencing the payment of Taxes or Other Taxes. With respect to indemnification for Non-Excluded Taxes and Other Taxes actually paid by the Lender or the indemnification provided in the immediately preceding sentence, such indemnification shall be made within 30 days after the date the Lender makes written demand therefor. The Borrower acknowledges that any payment made to the Lender or to any Governmental Authority in respect of the indemnification obligations of the Borrower provided in this clause shall constitute a payment in respect of which the provisions of clause (a)  and this clause shall apply.

(e) On the Closing Date, and on the date on which a subsequent successor or assignee of the Lender otherwise acquires an interest in this Agreement, as applicable, and at such other times as may be necessary in the determination of Borrower (in the reasonable exercise of its discretion), the Lender (and any successor or assign of the Lender) shall deliver to the Borrower two (2) properly completed and signed original IRS Forms W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E, W-8EXP, W-8ECI or W-8IMY (along with a Form W-9, W-8BEN-E or W-8BEN for each beneficial owner that will receive, directly or indirectly, any consideration payable or otherwise deliverable pursuant to this Agreement) or IRS Form W-9 (or any successor form), as applicable, and such other documentation required under the Code and reasonably requested by Borrower to establish the appropriate amount of any deduction or withholding of United States federal Tax, if any, with respect to any payments to Lender (or its successors or assigns), including any such additional documentation reasonably requested by Borrower as may be necessary for Borrower to comply with its obligations under FATCA. Lender (and each of its successors or assigns) shall, from time to time after the initial delivery by such Person of such forms, certificates or other evidence, whenever a lapse in time, change in circumstances or Law, or additional guidance by a Governmental Authority renders such forms, certificates or other evidence obsolete or inaccurate in any material respect, promptly deliver to Borrower two (2) new originals of Internal Revenue Service Forms W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E, W-8EXP, W-8ECI, or W-8IMY (along with Forms W-9, W-8BEN-E or W-8BEN for each beneficial owner for whom it expects to receive a payment) or Form W-9, or any successor form, as the case may be, properly completed and duly

 

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executed by such Person, and such other documentation required under the Code and reasonably requested by Borrower to confirm or establish the extent to which such Person is or is not subject to deduction, backup withholding or withholding of U.S. federal Tax with respect to payments to such Person under this Agreement, or notify Borrower of its inability to deliver any such forms, certificates or other evidence.

(f) For all applicable income Tax purposes, the aggregate purchase price and the fair market value of the warrants issued by the Borrower pursuant to the Warrant Agreement (the “ Warrants ”) in connection with the Initial Loan shall be determined collectively by the Borrower and the Lender, acting in good faith, on or before thirty (30) days following the Closing Date. The “issue price” for the interest in the Initial Loan issued pursuant to this Agreement (and any Note issued in connection therewith) shall equal (i) the face value of the Lender’s interest in the Initial Loan (or any corresponding Note), minus (ii) the fair market value of the Warrants issued in connection with the Initial Loan, as determined in accordance with the first sentence of this clause (f). The Lender and the Borrower agree (x) that the Initial Loan is part of an investment unit issued within the meaning of Section 1273(c)(2) of the Code, which also includes the Warrants, and (y) that the allocation provided in this Section 4.3(f) will be used for purposes of Section 1273(c)(2) of the Code. The Borrower and the Lender agree to make any determinations under Treasury Regulations §1.1273-2(h)(2) consistent with the foregoing and to file all required tax returns consistently with the foregoing, as applicable, except as otherwise required by applicable Law.

SECTION 4.4 Payments, Computations; Proceeds of Collateral, Etc .

(a) Unless otherwise expressly provided in a Loan Document, all payments by the Borrower pursuant to each Loan Document shall be made without setoff, deduction or counterclaim not later than 11:00 a.m. on the date due in same day or immediately available funds to such account as the Lender shall specify from time to time by notice to the Borrower. Funds received after 11:00 a.m. on any day shall be deemed to have been received by the Lender on the next succeeding Business Day. All interest and fees shall be computed on the basis of the actual number of days (including the first day but excluding the last day) occurring during the period for which such interest or fee is payable over a year comprised of 360 days. Payments due on other than a Business Day shall be made on the next succeeding Business Day and such extension of time shall be included in computing interest and fees in connection with that payment.

(b) All amounts received as a result of the exercise of remedies under the Loan Documents (including from the proceeds of collateral securing the Obligations) or under applicable law shall be applied upon receipt to the Obligations as follows: (i) first, to the payment in full in cash of all interest (including interest accruing after the commencement of a proceeding in bankruptcy, insolvency or similar law, whether or not permitted as a claim under such law) and fees owing under the Loan Documents, and all costs and expenses owing to the Lender pursuant to the terms of the Loan

 

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Documents, until paid in full in cash, (ii) second, after payment in full in cash of the amounts specified in clause (b)(i) , to the payment of the principal amount of the Loans, (iii) third, after payment in full in cash of the amounts specified in clauses (b)(i) and (b)(ii) , to the payment of all other Obligations then outstanding owing to the Lender (other than inchoate indemnity obligations), and (iv) fourth, after payment in full in cash of the amounts specified in clauses (b)(i) through (b)(iii) , and following the Termination Date, to the Borrower or any other Person lawfully entitled to receive such surplus.

SECTION 4.5 Setoff . The Lender shall, upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Default described in clauses (i)  through (iv) of Section  9.1(h) or, upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any other Event of Default, have the right to appropriate and apply to the payment of the Obligations owing to it (whether or not then due), and (as security for such Obligations) the Borrower hereby grants to the Lender a continuing security interest in, any and all balances, credits, deposits, accounts or moneys of the Borrower then or thereafter maintained with or on behalf of the Lender. The Lender agrees promptly to notify the Borrower after any such appropriation and application made by the Lender; provided that, the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such setoff and application. The rights of the Lender under this Section are in addition to other rights and remedies (including other rights of setoff under applicable law or otherwise) which the Lender may have.

SECTION 4.6 LIBO Rate Not Determinable . If prior to the commencement of any Interest Period, adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the LIBO Rate for such Interest Period, then the Lender shall give notice thereof to the Borrower as promptly as practicable. In the event of any such determination, the Loans shall, until the Lender has advised the Borrower that the circumstances giving rise to such notice no longer exist, bear interest at the interest rate in effect for the immediately preceding Interest Period.

ARTICLE V

CONDITIONS TO MAKING THE LOANS

SECTION 5.1 Credit Extensions . The obligation of the Lender to make the Initial Loan shall be subject to the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the parties hereto, the delivery of a Loan Request as requested pursuant to Section  2.3 , and the satisfaction of each of the conditions precedent set forth below in this Article (other than Sections 5.18 and 5.19 ). The obligation of the Lender to make the Delayed Draw Loan shall be subject to the prior making of the Initial Loan, the delivery of a Loan Request as requested pursuant to Section  2.3 , and the satisfaction of each of the conditions precedent set forth below in Sections 5.3 , 5.8 , 5.18 and 5.19 .

SECTION 5.2 Secretary’s Certificate, Etc . The Lender shall have received from the Borrower and each Subsidiary party to a Loan Document, (i) a copy of a good standing certificate, dated a date reasonably close to the Closing Date, for each such Person and (ii) a certificate, dated as of the Closing Date, duly executed and delivered by such Person’s Secretary or Assistant Secretary, managing member or general partner, as applicable, as to

 

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(a) resolutions of each such Person’s Board of Directors (or other managing body, in the case of other than a corporation) then in full force and effect authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of each Loan Document and the Warrant Agreement to be executed by such Person and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby;

(b) the incumbency and signatures of those of its officers, managing member or general partner, as applicable, authorized to act with respect to each Loan Document to be executed by such Person; and

(c) the full force and validity of each Organic Document of such Person and copies thereof;

upon which certificates the Lender may conclusively rely until it shall have received a further certificate of the Secretary, Assistant Secretary, managing member or general partner, as applicable, of any such Person canceling or amending the prior certificate of such Person.

SECTION 5.3 Closing Date Certificate . The Lender shall have received a Closing Date Certificate, dated as of the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, and duly executed and delivered by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower, in which certificate the Borrower shall certify that (i) the representations and warranties set forth in each Loan Document shall, in each case, be true and correct in all material respects (except with respect to any representation or warranty qualified by materiality or Material Adverse Effect, which representation or warranty shall be true and correct in all respects), (ii) no Default shall have then occurred and be continuing, or would result from the Loan to be advanced on the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, and (c) all of the conditions set forth in this Article V have been satisfied. All documents and agreements required to be appended to the Closing Date Certificate, if any, shall be in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender, shall have been executed and delivered by the requisite parties, and shall be in full force and effect.

SECTION 5.4 Payment of Outstanding Indebtedness, Etc . All Indebtedness identified in Schedule 8.2(b) , together with all interest, all prepayment premiums and all other amounts due and payable with respect thereto, shall have been paid in full from the proceeds of the Loan and the commitments in respect of such Indebtedness shall have been terminated, and all Liens securing payment of any such Indebtedness shall have been released and the Lender shall have received all Uniform Commercial Code Form UCC-3 termination statements or other instruments (including customary payoff letters) as may be suitable or appropriate in connection therewith.

SECTION 5.5 Delivery of Note . The Lender shall have received a Note duly executed and delivered by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower.

 

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SECTION 5.6 Financial Information, Etc . The Lender shall have received

(a) audited consolidated financial statements of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2013, December 31, 2014, and December 31, 2015.

(b) unaudited consolidated balance sheets of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries for each fiscal quarter ended after December 31, 2015, together with the related consolidated statement of operations, shareholder’s equity and cash flows for the twelve months then ended; and

(c) such other financial information as to the Borrower and the Subsidiaries and their respective businesses, assets and liabilities as the Lender may reasonably request.

SECTION 5.7 Compliance Certificate . The Lender shall have received an initial Compliance Certificate on a pro forma basis as if the Initial Loan had been made as of February 28, 2017 and as to such items therein as the Lender reasonably requests, dated the Closing Date, duly executed (and with all schedules thereto duly completed) and delivered by the chief financial or accounting Authorized Officer of the Borrower.

SECTION 5.8 Solvency, Etc . The Lender shall have received a solvency certificate duly executed and delivered by the chief financial or accounting Authorized Officer of the Borrower, dated as of the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender.

SECTION 5.9 Guarantee . The Lender shall have received executed counterparts of the Guarantee, dated as of the date hereof, duly executed and delivered by each Subsidiary in existence on the Closing Date.

SECTION 5.10 Security Agreements . The Lender shall have received executed counterparts of the Security Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, duly executed and delivered by the Borrower and each Subsidiary in existence on the Closing Date, together with

(a) certificates (in the case of Capital Securities that are securities (as defined in the UCC)) evidencing all of the issued and outstanding Capital Securities owned by the Borrower or any Subsidiary in the Subsidiaries, which certificates in each case shall be accompanied by undated instruments of transfer duly executed in blank, or, in the case of Capital Securities that are uncertificated securities (as defined in the UCC), confirmation and evidence satisfactory to the Lender that the security interest therein has been transferred to and perfected by the Lender in accordance with Articles 8 and 9 of the UCC;

 

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(b) financing statements suitable in form for naming the Borrower and each Subsidiary as a debtor and the Lender as the secured party, or other similar instruments or documents to be filed under the UCC of all jurisdictions as may be necessary or, in the opinion of the Lender, desirable to perfect the security interests of the Lender pursuant to the Security Agreement;

(c) UCC Form UCC-3 termination statements, if any, necessary to release all Liens and other rights of any Person (i) in any assets of the Borrower or any Subsidiary, and (ii) securing any of the Indebtedness identified in Schedule 8.2(b) , together with such other UCC Form UCC-3 termination statements as the Lender may reasonably request from the Borrower or any Subsidiary;

(d) subject to Section 7.14, landlord access agreements and bailee letters in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender from each landlord to the Borrower or any Subsidiary and each other Person that has possession of any Collateral (as defined in the Security Agreement), provided, that neither Borrower nor any Subsidiary shall be required to obtain as a condition to closing or at any time any such agreement for (i) Equipment and other property consisting of demonstration units or located at clinical sites or trade and exhibition shows or (ii) other locations with less than $100,000 of Collateral; and

(e) subject to Section 7.14, evidence that all deposit accounts, lockboxes, disbursement accounts, investment accounts or other similar accounts of the Borrower and each Subsidiary are Controlled Accounts (other than Excluded Accounts).

SECTION 5.11 Intellectual Property Security Agreements . The Lender shall have received a Patent Security Agreement, a Copyright Security Agreement and a Trademark Security Agreement, as applicable, each dated as of the Closing Date, duly executed and delivered by the Borrower or any Subsidiary that, pursuant to the Security Agreement, is required to provide such intellectual property security agreements to the Lender.

SECTION 5.12 Warrant Agreement . The Lender shall have received an executed counterpart of the Warrant Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, executed and delivered by an Authorized Officer of the Borrower.

SECTION 5.13 Opinions of Counsel . The Lender shall have received opinions, dated the Closing Date and addressed to the Lender, from Cooley LLP, counsel to the Borrower and the Subsidiaries, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Lender.

SECTION 5.14 Insurance . Subject to Section 7.14, the Lender shall have received certified copies of the insurance policies (or binders in respect thereof), from one or more insurance companies satisfactory to the Lender, evidencing coverage required to be maintained pursuant to each Loan Document, with the Lender named as loss payee or additional insured, as applicable.

 

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SECTION 5.15 Closing Fees, Expenses, Etc . The Lender shall have received for its own account all fees, costs and expenses due and payable pursuant to Section  10.3 .

SECTION 5.16 Anti-Terrorism Laws . The Lender shall have received, as applicable, all documentation and other information required by bank regulatory authorities under applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations, including the U.S.A. Patriot Act.

SECTION 5.17 Satisfactory Legal Form . All documents executed or submitted pursuant hereto by or on behalf of the Borrower or any Subsidiary shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Lender and its counsel, and the Lender and its counsel shall have received all information, approvals, resolutions, opinions, documents or instruments as the Lender or its counsel may reasonably request.

SECTION 5.18 Revenue Base . The Lender shall be satisfied in its reasonable discretion that the Revenue Base for the twelve full calendar months prior to the Delayed Draw Closing Date was at least $25,000,000.

SECTION 5.19 Disclosure Schedules . Immediately prior to the Delayed Draw Closing Date, the Borrower shall deliver to the Lender updates to Schedules 6.15(a) , 6.16 , 6.19 and 6.22 , each such updated Schedule to be complete and accurate in all material respects as of the Delayed Draw Closing Date.

ARTICLE VI

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

In order to induce the Lender to enter into this Agreement and to make the Loans hereunder, the Borrower represents and warrants on the Closing Date and on the Delayed Drawing Closing Date, to the Lender as set forth in this Article.

SECTION 6.1 Organization, Etc . The Borrower and each Subsidiary (a) is validly organized and existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or organization, is duly qualified to do business and is in good standing as a foreign entity in each jurisdiction where the nature of its business requires such qualification (unless the failure to so qualify as a foreign entity would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect), and (b) has full power and authority and holds all requisite material governmental licenses, permits and other approvals required (i) to enter into and perform its Obligations under each Loan Document to which it is a party, and (ii) to own and hold under lease its property and to conduct its business substantially as currently conducted by it.

 

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SECTION 6.2 Due Authorization, Non-Contravention, Etc . The execution, delivery and performance by the Borrower and each Subsidiary of each Loan Document executed or to be executed by it are in each case within such Person’s corporate powers, have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action, and do not

(a) contravene (i) the Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s Organic Documents, (ii) any court decree or order binding on or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary or (iii) any law or governmental regulation binding on or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary; or

(b) result in (i) or require the creation or imposition of any Lien on the Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s properties (except as permitted by this Agreement) or (ii) a default under any material contract, agreement, or instrument binding on or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary.

SECTION 6.3 Government Approval, Regulation, Etc . No authorization or approval or other action by, and no notice to or filing with, any Governmental Authority or other Person (other than those that have been, or on the Closing Date will be, duly obtained or made and which are, or on the Closing Date will be, in full force and effect) is required for the due execution, delivery or performance by the Borrower or any Subsidiary of any Loan Document or the Warrant Agreement to which it is a party.

SECTION 6.4 Validity, Etc . Each Loan Document to which the Borrower or any Subsidiary is a party constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligations of such Person enforceable against such Person in accordance with its respective terms (except, in any case, as such enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and by principles of equity).

SECTION 6.5 Financial Information . The financial statements of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries furnished to the Lender pursuant to Sections 5.6 and 7.1 have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, consistently applied subject, in the case of unaudited financial statements, to changes resulting from normal, year-end audit adjustments, nominal adjustments in non-cash stock based compensation resulting from completion of, and updates to Code Section 409A valuations, and present fairly in all material respects the consolidated financial condition of the Persons covered thereby as at the dates thereof and the results of their operations for the periods then ended.

SECTION 6.6 No Material Adverse Change . Except as set forth on Schedule 6.6 , there has been no material adverse change in the business, financial performance or condition, operations (including the results thereof), assets or properties of the Borrower or any Subsidiary since December 31, 2015.

 

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SECTION 6.7 Litigation, Labor Matters and Environmental Matters .

(a) Except as described on Schedule 6.7(a) , there are no actions, suits or proceedings by or before any arbitrator or Governmental Authority pending against or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, threatened against or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary (i) as to which there is a reasonable likelihood of an adverse determination and that, if adversely determined, would reasonably be expected, individually or in the aggregate, to result in liabilities in excess of $500,000 or (ii) that would reasonably be likely to adversely affect this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

(b) There are no labor controversies pending against or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, threatened against or affecting the Borrower or any Subsidiary (i) that would reasonably be expected, individually or in the aggregate, to result in liabilities in excess of $500,000 or (ii) that would reasonably be likely to adversely affect this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

(c) Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary (i) has failed to comply with any applicable Environmental Law or to obtain, maintain or comply with any Permit under or in connection with any applicable Environmental Law (“ Environmental Permit ”), (ii) is or has been subject to any Environmental Liability, (iii) has received notice in writing (or, to its knowledge, otherwise) of any Environmental Liability, or (iv) knows of any basis for any Environmental Liability, in each case of (i) through (iv) above, which would reasonably be expected to result in liabilities to the Borrower and the Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, in excess of $500,000.

SECTION 6.8 Subsidiaries . The Borrower has no Subsidiaries except those Subsidiaries which are identified in Schedule 6.8 (which Schedule also identifies the direct and indirect owners of the Capital Securities of such Subsidiaries) or which are permitted to have been organized or acquired after the Closing Date in accordance with Section  8.5 or Section  8.7 .

SECTION 6.9 Ownership of Properties . The Borrower and each Subsidiary owns (i) in the case of owned real property, good and marketable fee title to, and (ii) in the case of owned personal property, good and valid title to, or, in the case of leased real or personal property, valid and enforceable leasehold interests (as the case may be) in, all of its properties and assets, tangible and intangible, of any nature whatsoever, free and clear in each case of all Liens or claims, except for Liens permitted pursuant to Section  8.3 .

SECTION 6.10 Taxes . Except as set forth on Schedule 6.10 , the Borrower and each Subsidiary has filed all federal income tax and all other material tax returns and reports or permitted extensions relating thereto required by law to have been filed by it and has paid all Taxes due and owing, except any such Taxes which are being diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP shall have been set aside on its books.

 

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SECTION 6.11 Benefit Plans, Etc . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates sponsors, maintains, contributes to, is required to contribute to, or has any actual or potential material liability with respect to, any Benefit Plan. None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries is a party to any collective bargaining agreement, and none of the employees of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries are subject to any collective bargaining agreement. Each “employee benefit plan” as defined in section 3(3) of ERISA that provides retirement benefits, is sponsored by the Borrower or any of their ERISA Affiliates, and is intended to be tax qualified under section 401 or 501 of the Code has a determination letter or opinion letter from the Internal Revenue Service on which it is entitled to rely, and no assets of any such plan are invested in Capital Securities of the Borrower. Each employee benefit plan, program or arrangement sponsored, maintained, contributed to or required to be contributed to by the Borrower or any Subsidiary has complied, both in form and in operation, in all material respects with its terms and applicable law. Each employee benefit plan as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA that provides medical, dental, vision, or long-term disability benefits and that is sponsored by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their ERISA Affiliates (or under which any of these entities has any actual or potential liability), is fully insured.

SECTION 6.12 Accuracy of Information . None of the information heretofore or contemporaneously furnished in writing to the Lender by or on behalf of the Borrower or any Subsidiary in connection with any Loan Document or any transaction contemplated hereby contains any untrue statement of a material fact, or omits to state any material fact necessary to make any information not misleading in light of the circumstances under which they were made; provided, that, with respect to projected financial information, each Loan Party represents only that such information was prepared in good faith based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable at the time.

SECTION 6.13 Regulations U and X . None of the Borrower or any Subsidiary is engaged in the business of extending credit for the purpose of buying or carrying margin stock, and no proceeds of the Loans will be used to purchase or carry margin stock or otherwise for a purpose which violates, or would be inconsistent with, F.R.S. Board Regulation U or Regulation X. Terms for which meanings are provided in F.R.S. Board Regulation U or Regulation X or any regulations substituted therefor, as from time to time in effect, are used in this Section with such meanings.

SECTION 6.14 Solvency . The Borrower and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, both before and after giving effect to the Loans, are Solvent.

SECTION 6.15 Intellectual Property .

(a) Schedule 6.15(a) sets forth a complete and accurate list as of the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, of all (i) Patents including any Patent applications and other material so defined as Patents,(ii) registered and material unregistered Trademarks (including domain names) and any

 

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pending registrations for Trademarks, (iii) any other registered Intellectual Property and (iv) any commercially significant unregistered Intellectual Property, in each case owned or licensed by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries. For each item of Intellectual Property listed on Schedule 6.15(a) , the Borrower has, where relevant, indicated (A) the countries in each case in which such item is registered, (B) the application numbers, (C) the registration or patent numbers, (D) with respect to the Patents, the expected expiration date of the issued Patents, (E) the owner of such item of Intellectual Property and (F) with respect to Intellectual Property owned by any Third Party, the agreement pursuant to which that Intellectual Property is licensed to the Borrower or any Subsidiary.

(b) With respect to all material Intellectual Property listed, or required to be listed, on Schedule 6.15(a) :

(i) the Borrower or a Subsidiary, as applicable, owns, has a valid license or rights in any other form to all rights associated with such Intellectual Property free and clear of any and all Liens other than Liens permitted pursuant to Section  8.3 and all such Intellectual Property are in full force and effect, and have not expired, lapsed or been forfeited, cancelled or abandoned except to the extent such expiration, lapse, forfeiture, cancellation or abandonment is deemed in the best interest the business as determined by Borrower in its reasonable business judgment;

(ii) each of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries, as applicable, has taken commercially reasonable actions to maintain and protect such Intellectual Property and there are no unpaid maintenance or renewal fees payable by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries that are currently overdue for any of such registered Intellectual Property except to the extent such non-payment would not reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Effect;

(iii) there is no proceeding challenging the validity or enforceability of any such Intellectual Property that the Borrower has knowledge of, none of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries is involved in any such proceeding with any Person and none of the Intellectual Property is, to the knowledge of the Borrower, the subject of any Other Administrative Proceeding;

(iv) to the knowledge of the Borrower, (A) such Intellectual Property is valid, enforceable and subsisting and (B) no event has occurred, and nothing has been done or omitted to have been done, that would affect the validity or enforceability of such Intellectual Property; and

(v) each of the Borrower and each Subsidiary, as applicable, is the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title and interest in and to all such Intellectual Property that is owned by it, subject to any exclusive licenses granted thereunder and listed on Schedule 6.15(a) .

 

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(c) To the knowledge of the Borrower, no Third Party is committing any act of Infringement of any material Intellectual Property listed, or required to be listed, on Schedule 6.15(a) .

(d) With respect to each material license agreement listed on Schedule 6.15(a) , such license agreement (i) is in full force and effect and is binding upon and enforceable against the Borrower and the Subsidiaries party thereto and, to the Borrower’s knowledge, all other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, (ii) has not been amended or otherwise modified, except as set forth on Schedule 6.15(a) , and (iii) such license agreement is not currently subject to any material breach or default by the Borrower, any of its respective Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, any other party thereto. None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries has taken or omitted to take any action that would permit any other Person party to any such license agreement to terminate such license agreement (except to the extent such license is terminated or otherwise cancelled pursuant to the terms thereof and not as a result of a breach by the Borrower or any Subsidiary thereunder or pursuant to the Borrower’s reasonable judgment (and not as a result of a breach by the Borrower or any Subsidiary thereunder)).

(e) Except as set forth on Schedule 6.15(e) , none of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries has received written notice from any Third Party alleging that the conduct of its business (including the development, manufacture, use, sale or other commercialization of any Product) Infringes any Intellectual Property of that Third Party and, to the knowledge of the Borrower, the conduct of its business and the business of the Subsidiaries (including the development, manufacture, use, sale or other commercialization of any Product) does not Infringe any Intellectual Property of any Third Party.

(f) The Borrower and the Subsidiaries have used commercially reasonable efforts and precautions to protect their respective commercially significant unregistered Intellectual Property.

SECTION 6.16 Material Agreements . Set forth on Schedule 6.16 is a complete and accurate list as of the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, of all Material Agreements of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, with an adequate description of the parties thereto, subject matter thereof and amendments and modifications thereto. As of such dates, respectively, each such Material Agreement (i) is in full force and effect and is binding upon and enforceable against the Borrower and the Subsidiaries party thereto and all other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, (ii) such Material Agreement is not currently subject to any material breach or default by the Borrower, any of its respective Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, any other party thereto and (iii) none of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries has taken any action that would permit any other Person party to any such Material Agreement to terminate such Material Agreement.

 

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SECTION 6.17 Permits . The Borrower and the Subsidiaries have all material Permits, including Environmental Permits, necessary or required for the ownership, operation and conduct of their business and the distribution of the Products, except, in the case of any Permits other than those which are necessary to sell the KXL System in the United States, to the extent the failure to have the same would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. All such Permits are validly held and there are no material defaults thereunder.

SECTION 6.18 Regulatory Matters .

(a) The business of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries has been, and currently is, being conducted in material compliance with all applicable U.S. federal, state, local or foreign laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, guidances, judgments, orders, injunctions, decrees, arbitration awards and Key Permits issued by any Governmental Authority (collectively, “ Laws ”). The Products were researched, developed, designed, and validated in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws, including the FD&C Act, PHSA, CLIA, Privacy Laws and state laws, and have been and continue to be performed, marketed, and conducted in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws, including the FD&C Act, PHSA, FTC Act, CLIA, Privacy Laws and state laws. All required and material notices, registrations and listings, supplemental applications or notifications, reports (including reports of adverse experiences) and other required and material filings and Regulatory Authorizations with respect to the Products have been filed with the FDA and all other applicable Governmental Authorities.

(b) To the Borrower’s knowledge no investigation by any Governmental Authority with respect to the Borrower is pending or threatened. The Borrower has not received any written communication from any Person (including any Governmental Authority) alleging any material noncompliance with any applicable Laws or any written communication from any Governmental Authority or accrediting organization of any material issues, problems, or concerns regarding the quality or performance of the Products, and to the knowledge of the Borrower, there is no basis for any adverse regulatory action against the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, their respective suppliers, with respect to the Products. Without limiting the foregoing, (A) to the knowledge of Borrower (1) there have been no product recalls, safety alerts, withdrawals, clinical holds, marketing suspensions, removals or the like conducted, undertaken or issued by any Person, whether or not at the request, demand or order of any Governmental Authority or otherwise, with respect to any Product, (2) no such product recalls, safety alerts, corrections, withdrawals, marketing suspensions, removals or the like have been requested, demanded or ordered by any Governmental Authority, and, to the knowledge of the Borrower, there is no basis for the issuance of any such product recalls, safety alerts, corrections, withdrawals, marketing suspensions, removals or the like by any Person with respect to any Products, and (B) the Borrower has not received any written notice of, and does not otherwise have knowledge of, any criminal, injunctive, seizure, detention or civil penalty actions that have at any time

 

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been commenced or threatened in writing by any Governmental Authority with respect to or in connection with any Products, or any consent decrees (including plea agreements) which relate to any Products, and, to the knowledge of the Borrower, there is no basis for the commencement for any criminal injunctive, seizure, detention or civil penalty actions by any Governmental Authority relating to the Products or for the issuance of any consent decrees.

(c) The Borrower owns, free and clear of all Liens, except those permitted pursuant to Section  8.3 , all Key Permits, including all authorizations under the FD&C Act, CLIA, and state laws, necessary for the research and development and commercialization of the Products and to carry on Borrower’s business. All such Key Permits are valid, and in full force and effect and Borrower is in compliance in all material respects with all terms and conditions of such Key Permits and with all filing and maintenance requirements (including any fee requirements) thereof. The Borrower has not received any written notice that any Key Permits have been or are being revoked, withdrawn, suspended or challenged.

(d) The Borrower has made available to Lender copies of all Key Permits and material correspondence submitted to or received from FDA, CMS, or other Governmental Authority (including minutes and official contact reports relating to any material communications with any Governmental Authority) in the Borrower’s possession or control. The Borrower has made available to the Lender all material adverse event reports and communications to or from FDA (if any) and other relevant Governmental Authorities, including inspection reports, warning letters, untitled letters, and material reports, studies and other correspondence, other than opinions of counsel that are attorney-client privileged, with respect to regulatory matters relating to the Borrower and any Subsidiaries, the conduct of their business, the operation of any manufacturing facilities owned or operated by the Borrower or any of Subsidiaries, and the Products. There has been no material untrue statement of fact and no fraudulent statement made by the Borrower, any of the Subsidiaries, or to Borrower’s knowledge, any of their respective agents or representatives to the FDA, CMS, or any other Governmental Authority, and there has been no failure by Borrower or its Subsidiaries to disclose any material fact required to be disclosed to the FDA or any other Governmental Authority.

(e) With respect to Products, (i) all design, manufacturing, storage, distribution, packaging, labeling, sale, recordkeeping and other activities by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries and to the knowledge of the Borrower, their respective suppliers, relating to the Products have been conducted, and are currently being conducted, in compliance in all material respects to the extent required by the applicable requirements of the FD&C Act, the PHSA and other requirements of the FDA and all other Governmental Authorities, including, without limitation, cGMPs and adverse event reporting requirements, and (ii) none of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, any of their respective suppliers, has received written notice or threat of commencement of action by any Governmental Authority to withdraw its approval of or to enjoin production of the

 

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Products at any facility. To Borrower’s knowledge, no Product in the inventory of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries is adulterated or misbranded in any material respect. All labels and labeling (including package inserts) and product information are in material compliance with applicable FDA and other Governmental Authority requirements, and the Products are in material compliance with all classification, registration, listing, marking, tracking, reporting, recordkeeping and audit requirements of the FDA and any other Governmental Authority.

(f) All manufacturing facilities owned or operated by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, or to Borrower’s knowledge used in the production of any Product, are and have been operated in material compliance with cGMPs and all other applicable laws. The FDA has not issued to Borrower, or to Borrower’s knowledge any other Person, any Form 483, Warning Letter, or untitled letter with respect to any such facility, or otherwise alleged of Borrower, or to Borrower’s knowledge of any other Person, any material non-compliance with cGMPs. All manufacturing facilities owned or operated by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries are operated in material compliance with other applicable federal, state and local Laws.

(g) No right of the Borrower to receive reimbursements pursuant to any government program or private program has ever been terminated or otherwise adversely affected as a result of any investigation or enforcement action, whether by any Governmental Authority or other Third Party, and to Borrower’s knowledge, the Borrower has not been the subject of any inspection, investigation, or audit, by any Governmental Authority in connection with any alleged improper activity.

(h) There is no arrangement relating to the Borrower providing for any rebates, kickbacks or other forms of compensation that are unlawful to be paid to any Person in return for the referral of business or for the arrangement for recommendation of such referrals. All billings by the Borrower for its services have been true and correct in all material respects and, to the Borrower’s knowledge, are in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws, including the Federal False Claims Act or any applicable state false claim or fraud Law.

(i) Neither the Borrower nor, to the Borrower’s knowledge, any individual who is an officer, director, manager, employee, agent or managing agent of the Borrower has been convicted of, charged with or, to the Borrower’s knowledge, investigated for any federal or state health program-related offense or any other offense related to healthcare or been excluded or suspended from participation in any such program; or, to the Borrower’s knowledge, within the past five (5) years, has been convicted of, charged with or, to the Borrower’s knowledge, investigated for a violation of Laws related to fraud, theft, embezzlement, breach of fiduciary responsibility, financial misconduct, obstruction of an investigation or controlled substances, or has been subject to any judgment, stipulation, order or decree of, or criminal or civil fine or penalty imposed by, any Governmental Authority related to fraud, theft, embezzlement, breach of fiduciary responsibility, financial misconduct, obstruction of an investigation or controlled substances. Neither the Borrower nor, to

 

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the Borrower’s knowledge, any individual who is an officer, director, employee, stockholder, agent or managing agent of the Borrower has been convicted of any crime or engaged in any conduct that has resulted or would reasonably be expected to result in a debarment or exclusion under (i) 21 U.S.C. Section 335a, (ii) Section 1128 of the Social Security Act or (iii) any similar applicable Law. No debarment proceedings or investigations in respect of the business of the Borrower are pending or, to the Borrower’s knowledge, threatened against the Borrower or any individual who is an officer, director, manager, employee, agent or managing agent of the Borrower.

(j) All studies, tests and preclinical and clinical trials conducted relating to the Products, by or on behalf of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries and, to the knowledge of the Borrower, their respective licensees, licensors and Third Party services providers and consultants, have been conducted, and are currently being conducted, in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws, procedures and controls pursuant to, where applicable, cGCPs and current good laboratory practices and other applicable laws, rules and regulations. All results of such studies, tests and trials, and all other material information related to such studies, tests and trials, have been made available to the Lender as requested by it. To the extent required by applicable Law, the Borrower has obtained all necessary Regulatory Authorizations, including an Investigational Application for the conduct of any clinical investigations conducted by or on behalf of the Borrower.

(k) To the Borrower’s knowledge, none of the clinical investigators in any clinical trial conducted by or on behalf of the Borrower has been or is disqualified or otherwise sanctioned by the FDA, the Department of Health and Human Services, or any Governmental Authority and, to the Borrower’s knowledge, no such disqualification, or other sanction of any such clinical investigator is pending or threatened. The Borrower has not received any written or, to its knowledge, other notices or correspondence from the FDA or any other Governmental Authority requiring or threatening the termination or suspension of any clinical trials conducted by, or on behalf of, the Borrower.

(l) The transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents (or contemplated by the conditions to effectiveness of any Loan Document) will not impair the Borrower’s or any of the Subsidiaries’ ownership of or rights under (or the license or other right to use, as the case may be) any Regulatory Authorizations relating to the Products in any material manner, subject to Liens securing the Obligations.

SECTION 6.19 Transactions with Affiliates . Except as set forth on Schedule 6.19 and except for employment agreements and equity financings, none of the Borrower or any Subsidiary has entered into, renewed, extended or been a part to, any transaction (including the purchase, sale, lease, transfer or exchange of property or assets of any kind or the rendering of services of any kind) with any of its Affiliates during the three-year period immediately prior to the Closing Date.

 

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SECTION 6.20 Investment Company Act . None of the Borrower or any Subsidiary is an “investment company” or is “controlled” by an “investment company,” as such terms are defined in, or subject to regulation under, the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

SECTION 6.21 OFAC . None of the Borrower, any Subsidiary or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, any Related Party (a) is currently the subject of any Sanctions, (b) is located, organized or residing in any Designated Jurisdiction, or (c) is or has been (within the previous five years) engaged in any transaction with any Person who is now or was then the subject of Sanctions or who is located, organized or residing in any Designated Jurisdiction. No Loan, nor the proceeds from any Loan, has been or will be used, directly or indirectly, to lend, contribute or provide to, or has been or will be otherwise made available to fund, any activity or business in any Designated Jurisdiction or to fund any activity or business of any Person located, organized or residing in any Designated Jurisdiction or who is the subject of any Sanctions, or in any other manner that will result in any violation by any Person (including the Lender and its Affiliates) of Sanctions.

SECTION 6.22 Deposit and Disbursement Accounts . Set forth on Schedule 6.22 is a complete and accurate list as of the Closing Date or Delayed Draw Closing Date, as the case may be, of all banks and other financial institutions at which the Borrower or any Subsidiary maintains deposit accounts, lockboxes, disbursement accounts, investment accounts or other similar accounts, such Schedule correctly identifies the name and address of each bank or financial institution, the name in which each such account is held, the type of each such account, and the complete account number for each such account, and each such account (other than Excluded Accounts) is a Controlled Account as required pursuant to Section  7.13 .

ARTICLE VII

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

The Borrower covenants and agrees with the Lender that until the Termination Date has occurred, the Borrower will, and will cause the Subsidiaries to, perform or cause to be performed the obligations set forth below.

SECTION 7.1 Financial Information, Reports, Notices, Etc . The Borrower will furnish the Lender copies of the following financial statements, reports, notices and information:

(a) So long as the Borrower is not a Publicly Reporting Company, as soon as available and in any event within 30 days after the end of each calendar month, in each case with supporting detail and certified as complete and correct by the chief financial or accounting Authorized Officer of the Borrower (subject to normal year-end adjustments, nominal adjustments in non-cash stock-based compensation resulting from completion of, and updates to, Code Section 409A valuations, and except for the absence of footnotes), unaudited reports of (x) the Revenue Base for

 

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such calendar month and for the period commencing at the end of the previous Fiscal Year and ending with the end of such calendar month, and including in comparative form the figures for the corresponding calendar month in, and the year to date portion of, the immediately preceding Fiscal Year and (y) the Liquidity of the Borrower at the end of such calendar month and at the end of the corresponding calendar month in the preceding Fiscal Year, in comparative form;

(b) as soon as available and in any event within 45 days after the end of each of the first three Fiscal Quarters of each Fiscal Year, an unaudited consolidated balance sheet of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries as of the end of such Fiscal Quarter and consolidated statements of income and cash flow of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries for such Fiscal Quarter and for the period commencing at the end of the previous Fiscal Year and ending with the end of such Fiscal Quarter, and including (in each case) in comparative form the figures for the corresponding Fiscal Quarter in, and the year to date portion of, the immediately preceding Fiscal Year, certified as complete and correct by the chief financial or accounting Authorized Officer of the Borrower (subject to normal year-end adjustments, nominal adjustments in non-cash stock-based compensation resulting from completion of, and updates to, Code Section 409A valuations, and except for the absence of footnotes);

(c) as soon as available and in any event within 180 days after the end of each Fiscal Year beginning with the Fiscal Year ended December 31, 2016, a copy of the consolidated balance sheet of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, and the related consolidated statements of income and cash flow of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries for such Fiscal Year, setting forth in comparative form the figures for the immediately preceding Fiscal Year, audited (without any Impermissible Qualification) by independent public accountants reasonably acceptable to the Lender, it being understood that Grant Thornton LLP are the current auditors of the Borrower and are deemed acceptable to Lender;

(d) concurrently with the delivery of the financial information pursuant to clauses (b)  and (c) , a Compliance Certificate, executed by the chief financial or accounting Authorized Officer of the Borrower, (i) showing compliance with the financial covenant set forth in Section  8.4, as applicable, and stating that no Default has occurred and is continuing (or, if a Default has occurred, specifying the details of such Default and the action that the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries has taken or proposes to take with respect thereto), (ii) stating that no Subsidiary has been formed or acquired since the delivery of the last Compliance Certificate (or, if a Subsidiary has been formed or acquired since the delivery of the last Compliance Certificate, a statement that such Subsidiary has complied with Section  7.8 ) and (iii) stating that no real property has been acquired by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries since the delivery of the last Compliance Certificate (or, if any real property has been acquired since the delivery of the last Compliance Certificate, a statement that the Borrower has complied with Section  7.8 with respect to such real property);

 

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(e) as soon as possible and in any event within five Business Days after the Borrower obtains knowledge of the occurrence of a Default, a statement of an Authorized Officer of the Borrower setting forth details of such Default and the action which the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries has taken or proposes to take with respect thereto;

(f) as soon as possible and in any event within five Business Days after the Borrower obtains knowledge of (i) the occurrence of any material adverse development with respect to any litigation, action, proceeding or labor controversy described in Schedule 6.7(a) or (ii) the commencement of any litigation, action, proceeding or labor controversy of the type and materiality described in Section  6.7 , notice thereof and, to the extent the Lender requests, copies of all documentation relating thereto;

(g) as soon as possible and in any event within five Business Days after the Borrower obtains knowledge of any return, recovery, dispute or claim related to Product or inventory that involves more than $500,000.

(h) as soon as possible and in any event within five Business Days after the Borrower obtains knowledge of (i) any written or, to its knowledge, other claim that the Borrower, any of the Subsidiaries or one of their ERISA Affiliates has actual or potential liability under a Benefit Plan, (ii) any effort to unionize the employees of the Borrower or any Subsidiary, or (iii) written or, to its knowledge, other correspondence received from the Internal Revenue Service regarding the qualification of a retirement plan under Section 401(a) of the Code.

(i) promptly after the sending or filing thereof, copies of all reports, notices, prospectuses and registration statements which the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries files with the SEC or any national securities exchange, unless, so long as the Borrower is a Publicly Reporting Company, copies of such reports, notices, prospectuses and registration statements are publicly available on the SEC’s EDGAR system within two Business Days of the sending or filing thereof;

(j) promptly upon receipt thereof, copies of all “management letters” (or equivalent) submitted to the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries by the independent public accountants referred to in clause (c)  in connection with each audit made by such accountants;

(k) within 45 days after the end of each Fiscal Quarter for the Fiscal Quarter most recently ended, a report listing (i) all Material Agreements entered into during such Fiscal Quarter and (ii) all existing Material Agreements amended or terminated during such Fiscal Quarter;

(l) as soon as available, but in any event not later than January 31 of each calendar year, the Borrower’s financial and business projections and budget for such year, with evidence of approval thereof by the Borrower’s board of directors; and

 

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(m) such other financial and other information as the Lender may from time to time reasonably request (including information and reports in such detail as the Lender may request with respect to the terms of and information provided pursuant to the Compliance Certificate).

SECTION 7.2 Maintenance of Existence; Compliance with Contracts, Laws, Etc . Each of the Borrower and each Subsidiary will preserve and maintain its legal existence (except as otherwise permitted by Section  8.7 ), perform in all material respects its obligations under Material Agreements to which the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries is a party, and comply in all material respects with all applicable Laws and orders, including the payment (before the same become delinquent), of all material Taxes, imposed upon the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries or upon their property except to the extent being diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP have been set aside on the books of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, as applicable.

SECTION 7.3 Maintenance of Properties . Each of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries will maintain, preserve, protect and keep its and their respective properties in good repair, working order and condition (ordinary wear and tear excepted), and make necessary repairs, renewals and replacements so that the business carried on by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries may be properly conducted at all times, unless the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries determines in good faith that the continued maintenance of such property is no longer economically desirable, necessary or useful to the business of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries or the Disposition of such property is otherwise permitted by Section  8.7 or Section  8.8 .

SECTION 7.4 Insurance . Each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will maintain:

(a) insurance on its property with financially sound and reputable insurance companies against business interruption, loss and damage in at least the amounts (and with only those deductibles) customarily maintained, and against such risks as are typically insured against in the same general area, by Persons of comparable size engaged in the same or similar business as the Borrower and the Subsidiaries; and

(b) all worker’s compensation, employer’s liability insurance or similar insurance as may be required under the Laws of any state or jurisdiction in which it may be engaged in business.

Without limiting the foregoing, all insurance policies required pursuant to this Section shall

(i) name the Lender as mortgagee and loss payee (in the case of property insurance) and additional insured (in the case of liability insurance), as applicable, and use commercially reasonable efforts to have the insurer provide that no cancellation or modification as to the amount or scope of coverage of the policies will be made without 30 days’ (10 days’ notice for non-payment of premium) prior written notice to the Lender and (ii) be in addition to any requirements to maintain specific types of insurance contained in the other Loan Documents.

 

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SECTION 7.5 Books and Records . Each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will keep books and records in accordance with GAAP which accurately reflect all of its business affairs and transactions and permit the Lender or any of its representatives, at reasonable times during regular business hours and intervals upon reasonable prior written notice to the Borrower, to visit the Borrower’s or any of the Subsidiaries’ offices, to discuss the Borrower’s or any of the Subsidiaries’ financial or other matters with its officers and employees, and its independent public accountants (and the Borrower hereby authorizes such independent public accountant to discuss the Borrower’s and any of the Subsidiaries’ financial and other matters with the Lender or its representatives whether or not any representative of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries is present) and to examine (and photocopy extracts from) any of its books and records; provided, that so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrower shall only be required to pay any fees incurred in connection with the Lender’s visits once in any calendar year. The Borrower shall pay any fees of such independent public accountant incurred in connection with the Lender’s exercise of its rights pursuant to this Section but unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing at the time of its exercise of such rights, not for more than one visit in any calendar year.

SECTION 7.6 Environmental Law Covenant . Each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will (i) use and operate all of its and their businesses, facilities and properties in material compliance with all Environmental Laws, and keep and maintain all material Environmental Permits and remain in compliance in all material respects therewith except in each case to the extent such non-compliance would not reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Effect, and (ii) promptly notify the Lender of, and provide the Lender with copies of all material claims, complaints, notices or inquiries relating to, any actual or alleged non-compliance with any Environmental Laws or Environmental Permits or any actual or alleged Environmental Liabilities that would reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Effect. The Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will promptly resolve, remedy and mitigate any such non-compliance or Environmental Liabilities in accordance with reasonable business practices, and shall keep the Lender informed as to the progress of same.

SECTION 7.7 Use of Proceeds . The Borrower will apply the proceeds of the Loan according to the sources and uses table in Schedule 7.7 .

SECTION 7.8 Future Guarantors, Security, Etc . The Borrower and each Subsidiary will execute any documents, financing statements, agreements and instruments, and take all further action that may be required under applicable law, or that the Lender may reasonably request, in order to effectuate the transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents and in order to grant, preserve, protect and perfect the validity and first priority (subject to Liens permitted by Section  8.3 ) of the Liens created or intended to be created by the Loan Documents. The Borrower will

 

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cause any subsequently acquired or organized Subsidiary to execute a supplement (in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Lender) to the Guarantee and each other applicable Loan Document in favor of the Lender, effective upon its acquisition or formation. The Borrower will promptly notify the Lender of any subsequently acquired ownership interest in real property and will provide the Lender with a description of such real property, the acquisition date thereof and the purchase price therefor. In addition, from time to time, each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will, at its cost and expense, promptly secure the Obligations by pledging or creating, or causing to be pledged or created, perfected Liens with respect to such of its assets and properties as the Lender shall designate, it being agreed that it is the intent of the parties that the Obligations shall be secured by, among other things, substantially all the assets of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries (including real property and personal property acquired subsequent to the Closing Date). Such Liens will be created under the Loan Documents in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender, and the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries shall deliver or cause to be delivered to the Lender all such instruments and documents (including mortgages, legal opinions, title insurance policies and lien searches) as the Lender shall reasonably request to evidence compliance with this Section.

SECTION 7.9 Obtaining of Permits, Etc . With respect to Products, each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will obtain, maintain and preserve, and take all necessary action to timely renew all Permits and accreditations which are necessary and material in the proper conduct of its business, except, in the case of any Permits and accreditations other than those which are necessary to sell the KXL System in the United States, where the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

SECTION 7.10 Product Licenses . The Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries shall maintain each Key Permit from, or file any notice or registration in, each jurisdiction in which the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries are required to obtain any Permit or Regulatory Authorization or to file any notice or registration, in order to design, manufacture, store, label, sell, promote, import or distribute the Products, except, in the case of any Permits and Regulatory Authorizations other than those which are necessary to sell the KXL System in the United States, where the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

SECTION 7.11 Maintenance of Regulatory Authorizations, Contracts, Intellectual Property, Etc .

(a) With respect to the Products, each of the Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will (i) in all material respects maintain in full force and effect all material Regulatory Authorizations, contract rights, authorizations or other rights necessary for the operations of its business, and comply with the terms and conditions applicable to the foregoing; (ii) notify the Lender, promptly after learning thereof, of any product recalls, safety alerts, corrections, withdrawals, marketing suspensions, removals or the like conducted, to be undertaken or issued, by the Borrower, any of

 

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the Subsidiaries or their respective suppliers whether or not at the request, demand or order of any Governmental Authority or otherwise with respect to any Product, or any basis for undertaking or issuing any such action or item; (iii) in all material respects design, manufacture, store, label, sell, promote, import and distribute all Products in compliance with cGMPs, the FD&C Act, the PHSA, the Controlled Substances Act, and other applicable laws, rules and regulations; (iv) in all material respects conduct all studies, tests and preclinical and clinical trials relating to the Products in accordance with all cGCPs, and other applicable laws, rules and regulations; (v) operate all manufacturing facilities in material compliance with cGMPs, the Controlled Substances Act, and all other applicable laws, rules and regulations; (vi) maintain in full force and effect or pursue the prosecution of, as the case may be, and pay all costs and expenses relating to, all material Intellectual Property owned or controlled by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries and all Material Agreements, except in the event that the Borrower determines in its reasonable commercial judgment not to do so; (vii) notify the Lender, promptly after having knowledge thereof, of any material Infringement or other violation by any Person of its material Intellectual Property; (viii) use commercially reasonable efforts to pursue and maintain in full force and effect legal protection for, and protect against Infringement with respect to, all material Intellectual Property, including Patents, developed or controlled by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, except in the event that the Borrower determines in its reasonable commercial judgment not to do so; and (ix) notify the Lender, promptly after learning thereof, of any claim by any Person that the conduct of the Borrower’s or any of the Subsidiaries’ business (including the development, manufacture, use, sale or other commercialization of any Product) Infringes any Intellectual Property of that Person and use commercially reasonable efforts to resolve such claim, except where the Borrower determines in its reasonable commercial judgment not to do so.

(b) Each of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries will furnish to the Lender prompt written notice of the following, and, with respect to clauses (i) and (ii) below, copies of any notices from, or responses to, the FDA or other Governmental Authority:

(i) any notice that the FDA or other Governmental Authority is limiting, suspending or revoking any Regulatory Authorization, changing the market classification or labeling of or otherwise materially restricting the products of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, or considering any of the foregoing;

(ii) the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries becoming subject to any administrative or regulatory action, any FDA or EMA inspection or any non-routine inspection by any other Person that results in the receipt of inspectional observations (e.g., on FDA Form 483), a warning letter, untitled letter, or notice of violation letter, or any product of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries being seized, withdrawn, recalled, detained, or subject to a suspension of manufacturing or import alert, or the commencement of any proceedings in the United States or any other jurisdiction seeking the withdrawal, recall, suspension, import detention or refusal, or seizure of any product are pending or threatened against the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries; or

 

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(iii) copies of any written recommendation from any Governmental Authority or other regulatory body that the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, or any obligor to which the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries provides services, should have its licensure, provider or supplier number, or accreditation suspended, revoked, or limited in any way, or any penalties or sanctions imposed.

SECTION 7.12 Inbound Licenses . Each of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries will, promptly after entering into or becoming bound by any material inbound license or similar agreement (other than over-the-counter or “open-source” software that is commercially available to the public and other than with respect to any agreement set forth on Schedule 6.16 ): (i) provide written notice to the Lender of the material terms of such license or agreement with a description of its anticipated and projected impact on the Borrower’s and the Subsidiaries’ business and financial condition; and (ii) take such commercially reasonable actions as the Lender may reasonably request to obtain the consent of, or waiver by, any Person whose consent or waiver is necessary for the Lender to be granted and perfect a valid security interest in such license or agreement and to fully exercise its rights under any of the Loan Documents in the event of a disposition or liquidation of the rights, assets or property that is the subject of such license or agreement.

SECTION 7.13 Cash Management . Each of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries will:

(a) maintain a current and complete list of all accounts (of the type initially set forth on Schedule 6.22 ) and (other than accounts exclusively used for (i) payroll, payroll taxes and other employee wage and benefit programs to or for the benefit of the Borrower’s or a Subsidiary’s employees, which shall in no event hold in the aggregate more than the amount reasonably expected to meet such payroll expenses for the following calendar month, including bonuses and other payments to be paid within the following calendar month, and (ii) accounts solely containing deposits subject to Liens permitted by Section 8.3(n) (collectively, the “ Excluded Accounts ”)) promptly deliver any updates to such list to the Lender; execute and maintain an account control agreement for each such account (other than the Excluded Accounts), in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Lender (each such account, a “ Controlled Account ”); and maintain each such account as a cash collateral account, with all cash, checks and other similar items of payment in such account securing payment of the Obligations (and in which the Borrower and the Subsidiaries shall have granted a Lien to the Lender); and

(b) deposit promptly after the date of receipt thereof in accordance with prudent business practices all cash, checks, drafts or other similar items of payment relating to or constituting payments made in respect of any and all accounts and other rights and interests into Controlled Accounts except to the extent permitted to be kept in Excluded Accounts.

 

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SECTION 7.14 Post-Closing Items .

(a) On or before thirty (30) days (or such later date as agreed by Lender) following the Closing Date, the Lender shall have received (a) landlord access and bailee agreements from Expeditors Warehouse, List Logistics LLC, Sharp Packaging Solutions and Ajinomoto Althea, Inc. with respect to the properties commonly known as (1) Unit 6, Horizon Logistics Park, Swords, Dublin, Ireland, (2) 1560 Osgood Street, Bldg. 70, North Andover, Massachusetts 01845, (3) 7451 Keebler Way, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18106, and (4) 11040 Roselle Street, San Diego, California 92121, in each case in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender and (b) insurance endorsements required under Section 5.14 of this Agreement.

(b) On or before thirty (30) days (or such later date as agreed by Lender) following the Closing Date, the Borrower, the Lender and Silicon Valley Bank shall have entered into an account control agreement for the Borrower’s accounts numbered [                    ], [                    ], [                    ], [                    ], [                    ] and [                    ] maintained by Silicon Valley Bank, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Lender.

SECTION 7.15 Quarterly Update Call; Board Materials .

(a) The chief executive officer and other members of senior management requested by the Lender shall hold a meeting with the Lender by teleconference within one month after the delivery by Borrower of its financial statements pursuant to Sections 7.1(a) and (b) , to, at a minimum, discuss business operations and matters referenced in the board materials previously delivered to the Lender pursuant to clause (b)  below and review financial statements, in each case with respect to the Borrower and its Subsidiaries.

(b) The Borrower shall concurrently deliver to the Lender all notices and any materials delivered to the board of directors or any committees thereof in connection with a board meeting or action to be taken by written consent, including a draft of any material resolutions or actions proposed to be adopted by written consent.

(c) If any materials delivered to the board of directors of the Borrower or any committee thereof are, in the reasonable good faith judgment of the board of directors, not appropriate to be delivered to the Lender in order to avoid a conflict of interest on the part of the Lender or would result in disclosure of trade secrets or to preserve an attorney-client privilege, then such materials shall not be delivered to the Lender, so long as the Lender is given notice of the occurrence of such judgment by the board of directors and that certain materials will not be delivered to the Lender.

 

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ARTICLE VIII

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

The Borrower covenants and agrees with the Lender that until the Termination Date has occurred, the Borrower and the Subsidiaries will perform or cause to be performed the obligations set forth below.

SECTION 8.1 Business Activities . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will engage in any business activity except those business activities engaged in on the date of this Agreement and activities reasonably incidental, supplemental, related, ancillary thereto or any reasonable extensions thereof.

SECTION 8.2 Indebtedness . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will create, incur, assume or permit to exist any Indebtedness, other than:

(a) Indebtedness in respect of the Obligations;

(b) until the Closing Date, Indebtedness that is to be repaid in full as further identified in Schedule 8.2(b) ;

(c) Indebtedness existing as of the Closing Date which is identified in Schedule 8.2(c) , and refinancing of such Indebtedness in a principal amount not in excess of that which is outstanding on the Closing Date (as such amount has been reduced following the Closing Date);

(d) unsecured Indebtedness in respect of performance, surety or appeal bonds provided in the ordinary course of business in an aggregate amount at any time outstanding not to exceed $250,000;

(e) Purchase Money Indebtedness and Capitalized Lease Liabilities in a principal amount not to exceed $250,000 in the aggregate outstanding at any time;

(f) Permitted Subordinated Indebtedness;

(g) Indebtedness of any Subsidiary or the Borrower owing to the Borrower or any Subsidiary;

(h) Indebtedness consisting of guarantees resulting from endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection by the Borrower or any Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

(i) Indebtedness in connection with corporate credit cards, purchasing cards or bank card products in an aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding not to exceed $1,000,000;

 

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(j) Indebtedness in respect of any agreement providing for treasury, depositary, or cash management services, including in connection with any automated clearing house transfers of funds or any similar transactions, securities settlements, foreign exchange contracts, assumed settlement, netting services, overdraft protections and other cash management, intercompany cash pooling and similar arrangements, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

(k) Indebtedness with respect to letters of credit outstanding, provided that at any time in any given calendar year, the outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness shall not exceed $1,000,000 at any time outstanding;

(l) advances or deposits in the ordinary course of business and not constituting Indebtedness for borrowed money from customers, vendors or partners;

(m) workers’ compensation claims, payment obligations in connection with health, disability or other types of social security benefits, unemployment or other insurance obligations, reclamation and statutory obligations, in each case incurred in the ordinary course of Borrower’s or its Subsidiaries’ business;

(n) Indebtedness (other than for borrowed money) that may be deemed to exist pursuant to any warranty or contractual service obligations, performance, surety, statutory, appeal, bid or completion of performance guarantees or similar obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business; and

(o) other Indebtedness of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries in an aggregate amount at any time outstanding not to exceed $250,000.

SECTION 8.3 Liens . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will create, incur, assume or permit to exist any Lien upon any of its property (including Capital Securities of any Person), revenues or assets, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, except:

(a) Liens securing payment of the Obligations;

(b) until the Closing Date, Liens securing payment of Indebtedness of the type described in clause (b)  of Section  8.2 ;

(c) Liens existing as of the Closing Date and disclosed in Schedule 8.3(c) securing Indebtedness described in clause (c)  of Section  8.2 , and refinancings of such Indebtedness; provided that, no such Lien shall encumber any additional property and the amount of Indebtedness secured by such Lien is not increased from that existing on the Closing Date (as such Indebtedness may have been permanently reduced subsequent to the Closing Date);

(d) Liens securing payment of Permitted Subordinated Indebtedness that are (i) subordinate to the Liens securing payment of the Obligations and all other Indebtedness owing from the Borrower or the Subsidiaries to the Lender and (ii) subject to a written subordination agreement satisfactory to the Lender in its sole discretion;

 

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(e) Liens securing Indebtedness of the Borrower or the Subsidiaries permitted pursuant to Section  8.2(e) ( provided that (i) such Liens shall be created within 180 days of the acquisition of the assets financed with such Indebtedness and (ii) such Liens do not at any time encumber any property other than the property so financed);

(f) Liens in favor of carriers, warehousemen, mechanics, materialmen and landlords granted in the ordinary course of business for amounts not overdue or being diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP shall have been set aside on its books;

(g) cash deposits in the ordinary course of business to secure the performance of obligations under commercial supply and/or manufacturing agreements and Liens incurred or deposits made in the ordinary course of business in connection with worker’s compensation, unemployment insurance or other forms of governmental insurance or benefits, or to secure performance of tenders, statutory obligations, bids, leases or other similar obligations (other than for borrowed money) entered into in the ordinary course of business or to secure obligations on surety and appeal bonds or performance bonds;

(h) judgment Liens in existence for less than 60 days after the entry thereof or with respect to which execution has been stayed or the payment of which is covered in full (subject to a customary deductible) by insurance maintained with responsible insurance companies and which do not otherwise result in an Event of Default under Section  9.1(f) ;

(i) easements, rights-of-way, zoning restrictions, minor defects or irregularities in title and other similar encumbrances not interfering in any material respect with the value or use of the property to which such Lien is attached;

(j) Liens for Taxes not at the time delinquent or thereafter payable without penalty or being diligently contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP shall have been set aside on its books;

(k) licenses and/or sublicenses of Intellectual Property otherwise permitted under this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, and restrictions under licenses of Intellectual Property entered into in the ordinary course of business pursuant to which the Borrower is a licensee;

(l) banker’s liens, rights of setoff and Liens in favor of financial institutions incurred made in the ordinary course of business arising in connection with the Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s deposit accounts or securities accounts held at such institutions to secure solely payment of fees and similar costs and expenses and provided such accounts are maintained in compliance with Section  7.13(a) hereof;

 

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(m) licenses or sublicenses, leases or subleases of property granted in the ordinary course of the Borrower’s or its Subsidiary’s business;

(n) Liens on cash and Cash Equivalent Investments not to exceed $1,000,000 in the aggregate securing Indebtedness permitted under Section 8.2(j), and Liens on cash and Cash Equivalent Investments not to exceed $1,000,000 in the aggregate securing Indebtedness permitted under Section 8.2(k);

(o) the interests of lessors under operating leases;

(p) Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as a matter of law to secure payment of custom duties that are promptly paid on or before the date they become due; and

(q) Liens on insurance proceeds securing the payment of financed insurance premiums that are promptly paid on or before the date they become due (provided that such Liens extend only to such insurance proceeds and not to any other property or assets).

The Lender agrees to execute and deliver such collateral subordination agreements and related documents as reasonably requested of it to confirm the priority of the Liens permitted pursuant to clause (e)  of Section  8.3.

SECTION 8.4 Minimum Liquidity . The Liquidity of the Borrower shall not at any time be less than $3,000,000. The Borrower shall maintain an amount equal to the amount required under this Section  8.4 , along with its other cash and Cash Equivalent Investments, in a Controlled Account as required pursuant to Section  7.13(a) hereof.

SECTION 8.5 Investments . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will purchase, make, incur, assume or permit to exist any Investment in any other Person, except:

(a) Investments existing on the Closing Date and identified in Schedule 8.5(a) ;

(b) Cash Equivalent Investments;

(c) Investments received in connection with the bankruptcy or reorganization of, or settlement of delinquent accounts and disputes with, customers and suppliers, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

 

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(d) Investments consisting of any deferred portion of the sales price received by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in connection with any Disposition permitted under Section  8.8 ;

(e) Investments constituting (i) accounts receivable arising, (ii) trade debt granted, or (iii) deposits made in connection with the purchase price of goods or services, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

(f) Permitted Acquisitions;

(g) Investments by the Borrower or any Subsidiary in the Borrower or any Guarantor;

(h) Investments consisting of security deposits with utilities, landlords and other like Persons made in the ordinary course of business;

(i) employee loans, travel advances and guarantees in accordance with the Borrower or a Subsidiary’s usual and customary practices with respect thereto (if permitted by applicable law) which in the aggregate shall not exceed $250,000 outstanding at any time;

(j) Investments consisting of loans to employees, officers, or directors relating to the purchase of equity securities of the Borrower or its Subsidiaries pursuant to employee stock purchase plans or agreements approved by the Borrower’s Board of Directors, not to exceed the aggregate amount of $1,000,000 outstanding at any time;

(k) Investments acquired as a result of a Permitted Acquisition to the extent that such Investments were not made in contemplation of or in connection with such Permitted Acquisition and were in existence prior to the date of such Permitted Acquisition;

(l) Investments permitted by Borrower’s investment policy as approved by the Borrower’s board of directors and in effect as of the date hereof;

(m) Investments consisting of the endorsement of negotiable instruments for deposit or collection or similar transactions in the ordinary course of business; and

(n) other Investments in an amount not to exceed $250,000 over the term of this Agreement.

SECTION 8.6 Restricted Payments, Etc . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will declare or make a Restricted Payment, or make any deposit for any Restricted Payment, other than (i) Restricted Payments made by the Borrower or Subsidiaries to the Borrower or any Subsidiaries, (ii) the declaration and payment of dividends by the Borrower with respect to its capital stock payable solely in additional shares of its Capital Securities; (iii) payments in respect of the repurchase of Capital

 

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Securities from former officers, directors , employees, consultants or other holders of Capital Securities of the Borrower and the Subsidiaries in connection with the termination of such Persons’ services or pursuant to stock repurchase plans or agreements, employee stock option agreements, restricted stock agreements, equity incentive plans or other similar agreements or plans, not to exceed an aggregate amount of $250,000 in any Fiscal Year; (iv) purchases of Capital Securities in connection with the exercise of stock options by way of cashless exercise, or in connection with the satisfaction of withholding tax obligations not to exceed $250,000 in any Fiscal Year or $250,000 in the aggregate in connection with a Qualified IPO; (v) the conversion of convertible securities into Qualified Capital Securities pursuant to the terms of such convertible securities or otherwise in exchange thereof; and (vi) payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares of Capital Securities arising out of stock dividends, splits or combinations in connection with exercises or conversions of options, warrants and other convertible securities, in an amount not to exceed $50,000 in the aggregate.

SECTION 8.7 Consolidation, Merger; Permitted Acquisitions, Etc . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will liquidate or dissolve, consolidate with, or merge into or with, any other Person, or purchase or otherwise acquire all or substantially all of the assets of any Person (or any division thereof), other than in connection with a Permitted Acquisition, except that, so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (or would occur), any Subsidiary may liquidate or dissolve voluntarily into, and may merge with and into, the Borrower or any Subsidiary; and provided further, in connection with any Permitted Acquisition, the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower may merge into or consolidate with any other Person or permit any other Person to merge into or consolidate with it, so long as (i) the Person surviving such merger with any Subsidiary shall be a direct or indirect wholly-owned Subsidiary of the Borrower and a Guarantor, and (ii) in the case of any such merger to which the Borrower is a party, the Borrower is the surviving Person.

SECTION 8.8 Permitted Dispositions . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will Dispose of any of its assets (including accounts receivable and Capital Securities of the Borrower or Subsidiaries) to any Person in one transaction or series of transactions unless such Disposition (i) is inventory or obsolete, damaged, worn out or surplus property Disposed of in the ordinary course of its business, (ii) is permitted by Section  8.7 , (iii) is from a Loan Party to a Loan Party (provided that such Loan Party takes such actions as the Lender may reasonably request to ensure the perfection and priority of the Liens in favor of the Lender over such transferred assets); (iv) licenses for the use of the Intellectual Property of the Borrower or its Subsidiaries that are on a non-exclusive basis or on an exclusive basis so long as such exclusive licensing is limited to geographic areas, particular fields of use, a subset of products for customers or limited time periods and so long as after giving effect to such licenses the Loan Parties continue to retain sufficient rights to use their Intellectual Property as to enable them to continue to conduct their business in the ordinary course; (v) transfers of cash for equivalent value; (vi) dispositions consisting

 

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of the sale, transfer, assignment or other disposition of unpaid and overdue accounts receivable in connection with the collection, compromise or settlement thereof in the ordinary course of business and not as part of a financing transaction; (vii) dispositions of property to the extent that (x) such property is exchanged for credit against the purchase price of similar replacement property or (y) the proceeds (determined on an after-tax basis) of such disposition are applied to the purchase price of such replacement; (viii) dispositions resulting from Casualty Events; (ix) equipment sales to distribution or commercialization partners and transfers of Equipment and other property consisting of demonstration units or located at clinical sites or trade and exhibition shows; and (x) other Dispositions pursuant to this clause (x) solely for cash consideration, not to exceed $250,000 in the aggregate for all such Dispositions in any fiscal year.

SECTION 8.9 Modification of Certain Agreements . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will consent to any amendment, supplement, waiver or other modification of, or enter into any forbearance from exercising any rights with respect to, the terms or provisions contained in (i) any Organic Documents of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, if the result would have an adverse effect on the rights or remedies of the Lender under this Agreement or any Loan Document, or (ii) any agreement governing any Permitted Subordinated Indebtedness, if the result would shorten the maturity date thereof or advance the date on which any cash payment is required to be made thereon or would otherwise change any terms thereof in a manner adverse to the Lender.

SECTION 8.10 Transactions with Affiliates . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will enter into or cause or permit to exist any arrangement, transaction or contract (including for the purchase, lease or exchange of property or the rendering of services) with any of its Affiliates, unless such arrangement, transaction or contract (i) is between or among the Loan Parties or any of their respective Subsidiaries, (ii) is on fair and reasonable terms no less favorable to the Borrower or any Subsidiary than it could obtain in an arm’s-length transaction with a Person that is not one of its Affiliates and is of the kind which would be entered into by a prudent Person in its position with a Person that is not one of its Affiliates, (iii) consists of the issuance of Capital Securities to Affiliates in exchange for cash, (iv) consists of compensation, benefits, reimbursement and indemnification, of, and other employment arrangements with, directors, officers and employees of the Borrower or any Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business, (v) Investments permitted under Section 8.5(i) or (j) or (vi) is a transaction listed on Schedule 8.10 .

SECTION 8.11 Restrictive Agreements, Etc . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will enter into any agreement prohibiting (i) the creation or assumption of any Lien upon its properties, revenues or assets, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, (ii) the ability of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries to amend or otherwise modify any Loan Document, or (iii) the ability of the Borrower or any Subsidiary to make any payments, directly or indirectly, to the Borrower, including by

 

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way of dividends, advances, repayments of loans, reimbursements of management and other intercompany charges, expenses and accruals or other returns on investments. The foregoing prohibitions shall not apply to restrictions contained (x) in any Loan Document, or (y) in the case of clause (i) , (a) in any agreement governing any Indebtedness permitted by clause (e)  of Section  8.2 as to the assets financed with the proceeds of such Indebtedness and (b) customary provisions in contracts (including without limitation leases and inbound licenses or Intellectual Property) restricting the assignment thereof.

SECTION 8.12 Sale and Leaseback . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will directly or indirectly enter into any agreement or arrangement providing for the sale or transfer by it of any property (now owned or hereafter acquired) to a Person and the subsequent lease or rental of such property or other similar property from such Person.

SECTION 8.13 Product Agreements . The Borrower and each of the Subsidiaries will exercise commercially reasonable efforts not to enter into any (i) new Product Agreement that contains (a) any provision that permits any counterparty other than the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries to terminate such Product Agreement for any reasons related to the change of control of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries or assignment of such Product Agreement by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, or (b) any provision which restricts or penalizes a security interest in, or the assignment of, any Product Agreements, upon the sale, merger or other disposition of all or a material portion of a Product to which such Product Agreement relates or (ii) amendment with respect to any existing Product Agreement to the extent the amendment would add to such existing Product Agreement either of the provisions in the foregoing clause (a) or (b).

SECTION 8.14 Change in Name, Location or Executive Office or Executive Management; Change in Fiscal Year . None of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries will (i) change its legal name or any trade name used to identify it in the conduct of its business or ownership of its properties without 10 days’ prior written notice to the Lender, (ii) change its jurisdiction of organization or legal structure, (iii) relocate its chief executive office, principal place of business or any office in which it maintains books or records relating to its business (including the establishment of any new office or facility after the Closing Date) without 20 days’ prior written notice to the Lender, ( iv) change its federal taxpayer identification number or organizational number (or equivalent) without 20 days’ prior written notice to the Lender, (v) replace its chief executive officer or chief financial officer without written notification to the Lender within 30 days thereafter, or (vi) change its Fiscal Year or any of its Fiscal Quarters.

SECTION 8.15 Benefit Plans . None of the Borrower or any Subsidiary will (i) become the sponsor of, incur any responsibility to contribute to or otherwise incur actual or potential liability with respect to, any Benefit Plan, (ii) allow any “employee benefit plan” as defined in section 3(3) of ERISA that provides retirement benefits, is

 

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sponsored by the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any of their ERISA Affiliates, and is intended to be tax qualified under section 401 or 501 of the Code to cease to be tax qualified, (iii) allow the assets of any tax qualified retirement plan to become invested in Capital Securities of the Borrower or any Subsidiary, (iv) allow any employee benefit plan, program or arrangement sponsored, maintained, contributed to or required to be contributed to by the Borrower or any Subsidiary to fail to comply in all material respects with its terms and applicable law, or (v) allow any employee benefit plan as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA that provides medical, dental, vision, or long-term disability benefits and that is sponsored by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their ERISA Affiliates (or under which any of these entities has any actual or potential liability), to become self-insured.

ARTICLE IX

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

SECTION 9.1 Listing of Events of Default . Each of the following events or occurrences described in this Article shall constitute an “ Event of Default ”.

(a) Non-Payment of Obligations . The Borrower shall default in the payment or prepayment when due of (i) any principal of or interest on any Loan, or (ii) any fee described in Article III or any other monetary Obligation, and in the case of clause (ii)  such default shall continue unremedied for a period of three Business Days after such amount was due.

(b) Breach of Warranty . Any representation or warranty made or deemed to be made by the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in any Loan Document (including any certificates delivered pursuant to Article V ) is or shall be incorrect when made or deemed to have been made in any material respect.

(c) Non-Performance of Certain Covenants and Obligations . The Borrower or any Subsidiary shall default in the due performance or observance of any of its obligations under Section  7.1 , Section  7.7 , or Article VIII .

(d) Non-Performance of Other Covenants and Obligations . The Borrower or any Subsidiary shall default in the due performance and observance of any other covenant, obligation or agreement contained in any Loan Document executed by it, and such default shall continue unremedied for a period of 30 days after the earlier to occur of (i) notice thereof given to the Borrower by the Lender or (ii) the date on which the Borrower has knowledge of such default.

(e) Default on Other Indebtedness . A default shall occur in the payment of any amount when due (subject to any applicable grace period), whether by acceleration or otherwise, of any principal or stated amount of, or interest or fees on, any Indebtedness of the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries having a principal or stated amount, individually or in the aggregate, in excess of $500,000, or a default shall occur in the performance or observance of any obligation or condition with

 

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respect to such Indebtedness if the effect of such default is to accelerate the maturity of any such Indebtedness or such default shall continue unremedied for any applicable period of time sufficient to permit the holder or holders of such Indebtedness, or any trustee or agent for such holders, to cause or declare such Indebtedness to become due and payable or to require such Indebtedness to be prepaid, redeemed, purchased or defeased, or require an offer to purchase or defease such Indebtedness to be made, prior to its expressed maturity.

(f) Judgments . Any judgment or order for the payment of money individually or in the aggregate in excess of $1,000,000 (exclusive of any amounts fully covered by insurance (less any applicable deductible) and as to which the insurer has acknowledged its responsibility to cover such judgment or order) shall be rendered against the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries and such judgment shall not have been vacated or discharged or stayed or bonded pending appeal within 30 days after the entry thereof or enforcement proceedings shall have been commenced by any creditor upon such judgment or order.

(g) Change in Control . Any Change in Control shall occur.

(h) Bankruptcy, Insolvency, Etc. The Borrower or (except as permitted pursuant to Section  8.7 ) any of the Subsidiaries shall

(i) become insolvent or generally fail to pay, or admit in writing its inability or unwillingness generally to pay, debts as they become due;

(ii) apply for, consent to, or acquiesce in the appointment of a trustee, receiver, sequestrator or other custodian for any substantial part of the property of any thereof, or make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;

(iii) in the absence of such application, consent or acquiescence in or permit or suffer to exist the appointment of a trustee, receiver, sequestrator or other custodian for a substantial part of the property of any thereof, and such trustee, receiver, sequestrator or other custodian shall not be discharged within 60 days; provided that, the Borrower and each Subsidiary hereby expressly authorizes the Lender to appear in any court conducting any relevant proceeding during such 60-day period to preserve, protect and defend its rights under the Loan Documents;

(iv) permit or suffer to exist the commencement of any bankruptcy, reorganization, debt arrangement or other case or proceeding under any bankruptcy or insolvency law or any dissolution, winding up or liquidation proceeding, in respect thereof, and, if any such case or proceeding is not commenced by the Borrower or any Subsidiary, such case or proceeding shall be consented to or acquiesced in by the Borrower or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, or shall result in the entry of an order for relief or shall remain for 60 days undismissed and unstayed; provided that, the Borrower and each Subsidiary hereby expressly authorizes the Lender to appear in any court conducting any such case or proceeding during such 60-day period to preserve, protect and defend its rights under the Loan Documents; or

 

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(v) take any action authorizing, or in furtherance of, any of the foregoing.

(i) Impairment of Security, Etc . Any Loan Document or any Lien granted thereunder shall (except in accordance with its terms), in whole or in part, terminate, cease to be effective or cease to be the legally valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the Borrower or any Subsidiary thereto; the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any other party shall, directly or indirectly, contest in any manner such effectiveness, validity, binding nature or enforceability; or, except as permitted under any Loan Document, any Lien securing any Obligation shall, in whole or in part, cease to be a perfected first priority Lien.

(j) Key Permit Events . Any Key Permit or any of the Borrower’s or any Subsidiary’s material rights or interests thereunder is terminated or amended in any manner adverse to the Borrower or any Subsidiary in any material respect.

(k) Material Adverse Change . Any circumstance occurs that has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

(l) Key Person Even t. If Reza Zadno ceases to be employed full time by the Borrower and actively working as the President and Chief Executive Officer, unless within 180 days after such individual ceases to be employed full time and actively working the Borrower hires a replacement for such individual reasonably acceptable to the Lender .

(m) Regulatory Matters . If any of the following occurs: (i) the FDA, CMS, EMA or any other Governmental Authority (A) issues a letter or other communication asserting that any Product related to the KXL System lacks a required Regulatory Authorization or (B) initiates enforcement action against, or issues a warning letter with respect to, the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries, or any of their Products or the manufacturing facilities therefor, that causes the Borrower or such Subsidiary to discontinue marketing or withdraw any of its Products related to the KXL System, or causes a delay in the manufacture or offering of any of its Products related to the KXL System, which discontinuance, withdrawal or delay could reasonably be expected to last for more than three months; (ii) a recall which could reasonably be expected to result in liability to the Borrower and the Subsidiaries in excess of $1,000,000; or (iii) the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries enters into a settlement agreement with the FDA, CMS, EMA or any other Governmental Authority that results in aggregate liability as to any single or related series of transactions, incidents or conditions in excess of $1,000,000.

 

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SECTION 9.2 Action if Bankruptcy . If any Event of Default described in clauses (i) through (iv) of Section  9.1(h) with respect to the Borrower shall occur, the Commitments (if not theretofore terminated) shall automatically terminate and the outstanding principal amount of the Loans and all other Obligations shall automatically be and become immediately due and payable, without notice or demand to any Person.

SECTION 9.3 Action if Other Event of Default . If any Event of Default (other than any Event of Default described in clauses (i) through (iv) of Section  9.1(h)) shall occur for any reason, whether voluntary or involuntary, and be continuing, the Lender may, by notice to the Borrower declare all or any portion of the outstanding principal amount of the Loans and other Obligations to be due and payable and/or the Commitments (if not theretofore terminated) to be terminated, whereupon the full unpaid amount of the Loans and other Obligations which shall be so declared due and payable shall be and become immediately due and payable, without further notice, demand or presentment, and the Commitments shall terminate.

ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

SECTION 10.1 Waivers, Amendments, Etc . The provisions of each Loan Document may from time to time be amended, modified or waived, if such amendment, modification or waiver is in writing and consented to by the Lender and the Borrower.

No failure or delay on the part of the Lender in exercising any power or right under any Loan Document shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such power or right preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other power or right. No notice to or demand on the Borrower or any of the Subsidiaries in any case shall entitle it or any of them to any notice or demand in similar or other circumstances. No waiver or approval by the Lender under any Loan Document shall, except as may be otherwise stated in such waiver or approval, be applicable to subsequent transactions. No waiver or approval hereunder shall require any similar or dissimilar waiver or approval thereafter to be granted hereunder.

SECTION 10.2 Notices; Time . All notices and other communications provided under any Loan Document shall be in writing or by facsimile and addressed, delivered or transmitted, if to the Borrower or the Lender, to the applicable Person at its address or facsimile number set forth on Schedule 10.2 hereto, or at such other address or facsimile number as may be designated by such party in a notice to the other parties, and a copy of all notices shall be given by email at the email address for a party set forth therein, if any, or at such other email address as designated by such party to the other parties. Any notice, if mailed and properly addressed with postage prepaid or if properly addressed and sent by pre-paid courier service, shall be deemed given when received; any notice, if transmitted by facsimile, shall be deemed given when the confirmation of transmission thereof is received by the transmitter. Unless otherwise indicated, all references to the time of a day in a Loan Document shall refer to New York City time.

 

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SECTION 10.3 Payment of Costs and Expenses . The Borrower agrees to pay on demand all expenses of the Lender (including the fees and out-of-pocket expenses of Covington & Burling LLP, counsel to the Lender, and of local counsel, if any, who may be retained by or on behalf of the Lender) in connection with

(a) the negotiation, preparation, execution and delivery of each Loan Document, including schedules and exhibits, and any amendments, waivers, consents, supplements or other modifications to any Loan Document as may from time to time hereafter be required, whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated;

(b) the filing or recording of any Loan Document (including any financing statements) and all amendments, supplements, amendment and restatements and other modifications to any thereof, searches made following the Closing Date in jurisdictions where financing statements (or other documents evidencing Liens in favor of the Lender) have been recorded and any and all other documents or instruments of further assurance required to be filed or recorded by the terms of any Loan Document; and

(c) the preparation and review of the form of any document or instrument relevant to any Loan Document.

The Borrower also agrees to reimburse the Lender upon demand for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and legal expenses of counsel to the Lender) incurred by the Lender in connection with (x) the negotiation of any restructuring or “work-out” with the Borrower, whether or not consummated, of any Obligations and (y) the enforcement of any Obligations.

SECTION 10.4 Indemnification . In consideration of the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Lender, the Borrower hereby indemnifies, agrees to defend, exonerates and holds the Lender and each of its officers, directors, employees and agents (collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”) free and harmless from and against any and all actions, causes of action, suits, losses, costs, liabilities, obligations and damages, and expenses incurred in connection therewith (irrespective of whether any such Indemnified Party is a party to the action for which indemnification hereunder is sought), including reasonable attorneys’ and professionals’ fees and disbursements, whether incurred in connection with actions between the parties hereto or the parties hereto and third parties (collectively, the “ Indemnified Liabilities ”), including, without limitation, Indemnified Liabilities arising out of or relating to (i) the entering into and performance of any Loan Document by any of the Indemnified Parties (including any action brought by or on behalf of the Borrower as the result of any determination by the Lender pursuant to Article V not to fund any Loan), and (ii) any Environmental Liability, except in any and all cases to the extent such is caused by the gross

 

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negligence or willful misconduct of the Indemnified Parties. If and to the extent that the foregoing indemnification may be unenforceable for any reason, the Borrower agrees to make the maximum contribution to the payment and satisfaction of each of the Indemnified Liabilities which is permissible under applicable Law. This Section 10.4 shall not apply with respect to Taxes other than any Taxes that represent losses, costs, liabilities, obligations and damages, and expenses, etc. arising from any non-Tax claim.

SECTION 10.5 Survival . The obligations of the Borrower under Section  4.1 , Section  4.2 , Section  4.3 , Section  10.3 and Section  10.4 , shall in each case survive any assignment by the Lender and the occurrence of the Termination Date. The representations and warranties made by the Borrower in each Loan Document shall survive the execution and delivery of such Loan Document.

SECTION 10.6 Severability . Any provision of any Loan Document which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such provision and such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions of such Loan Document or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 10.7 Headings . The various headings of each Loan Document are inserted for convenience only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of such Loan Document or any provisions thereof.

SECTION 10.8 Execution in Counterparts, Effectiveness, Etc. . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in several counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall constitute together but one and the same agreement. This Agreement shall become effective when counterparts hereof executed on behalf of the Borrower and the Lender, shall have been received by the Lender. Delivery of an executed counterpart of a signature page to this Agreement by email (e.g., “pdf” or “tiff”) or telecopy shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Agreement.

SECTION 10.9 Governing Law; Entire Agreement . EACH LOAN DOCUMENT AND ANY CLAIMS, CONTROVERSY, DISPUTE OR CAUSE OF ACTION (WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT OR OTHERWISE) BASED UPON, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND THEREBY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (INCLUDING FOR SUCH PURPOSE SECTIONS 5-1401 AND 5-1402 OF THE GENERAL OBLIGATIONS LAW OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK). The Loan Documents constitute the entire understanding among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter thereof and supersede any prior agreements, written or oral, with respect thereto.

 

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SECTION 10.10 Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns; provided that, the Borrower may not assign or transfer its rights or obligations hereunder without the consent of the Lender; and provided further that, except upon the occurrence and during the continuation of an Event of Default, the Lender may not assign or transfer it rights or obligations hereunder to any other Person without the consent of the Borrower (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), except to any Eligible Transferee.

SECTION 10.11 Other Transactions . Nothing contained herein shall preclude the Lender, from engaging in any transaction, in addition to those contemplated by the Loan Documents, with the Borrower or any of its Affiliates in which the Borrower or such Affiliate is not restricted hereby from engaging with any other Person.

SECTION 10.12 Forum Selection and Consent to Jurisdiction . ANY LITIGATION BASED HEREON, OR ARISING OUT OF, UNDER, OR IN CONNECTION WITH, ANY LOAN DOCUMENT, OR ANY COURSE OF CONDUCT, COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN) OR ACTIONS OF THE LENDER OR THE BORROWER IN CONNECTION HEREWITH OR THEREWITH SHALL BE BROUGHT AND MAINTAINED IN THE COURTS OF THE BOROUGH OF MANHATTAN IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK OR IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK; PROVIDED THAT, ANY SUIT SEEKING ENFORCEMENT AGAINST ANY COLLATERAL OR OTHER PROPERTY MAY BE BROUGHT, AT THE LENDER’S OPTION, IN THE COURTS OF ANY JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH COLLATERAL OR OTHER PROPERTY MAY BE FOUND. THE BORROWER IRREVOCABLY CONSENTS TO THE SERVICE OF PROCESS BY REGISTERED MAIL, POSTAGE PREPAID, OR BY PERSONAL SERVICE WITHIN OR WITHOUT THE STATE OF NEW YORK AT THE ADDRESS FOR NOTICES SPECIFIED IN SECTION 10.2 . THE BORROWER HEREBY EXPRESSLY AND IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY OBJECTION WHICH IT MAY HAVE OR HEREAFTER MAY HAVE TO THE LAYING OF VENUE OF ANY SUCH LITIGATION BROUGHT IN ANY SUCH COURT REFERRED TO ABOVE AND ANY CLAIM THAT ANY SUCH LITIGATION HAS BEEN BROUGHT IN AN INCONVENIENT FORUM. TO THE EXTENT THAT THE BORROWER HAS OR HEREAFTER MAY ACQUIRE ANY IMMUNITY FROM JURISDICTION OF ANY COURT OR FROM ANY LEGAL PROCESS (WHETHER THROUGH SERVICE OR NOTICE, ATTACHMENT PRIOR TO JUDGMENT, ATTACHMENT IN AID OF EXECUTION OR OTHERWISE) WITH RESPECT TO ITSELF OR ITS PROPERTY, THE BORROWER HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW SUCH IMMUNITY IN RESPECT OF ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE LOAN DOCUMENTS.

 

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SECTION 10.13 Waiver of Jury Trial . THE LENDER AND THE BORROWER HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ANY RIGHTS THEY MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION BASED HEREON, OR ARISING OUT OF, UNDER, OR IN CONNECTION WITH, EACH LOAN DOCUMENT, OR ANY COURSE OF CONDUCT, COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN) OR ACTIONS OF THE LENDER OR THE BORROWER IN CONNECTION THEREWITH. THE BORROWER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT IT HAS RECEIVED FULL AND SUFFICIENT CONSIDERATION FOR THIS PROVISION (AND EACH OTHER PROVISION OF EACH OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT TO WHICH IT IS A PARTY) AND THAT THIS PROVISION IS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT FOR THE LENDER ENTERING INTO THE LOAN DOCUMENTS.

SECTION 10.14 Confidential Information . Subject to the provisions of Section  10.15 , at all times prior to the Termination Date, the Receiving Party shall keep confidential and shall not publish or otherwise disclose any Confidential Information furnished to it by the Disclosing Party, except to those of the Receiving Party’s employees, advisors or consultants who have a need to know such information to assist such Party in the performance of such Party’s obligations or in the exercise of such Party’s rights hereunder and who are subject to reasonable obligations of confidentiality (collectively, “ Recipients ”). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth herein, (a) the Lender may disclose this Agreement and the terms and conditions hereof and any information related hereto, to (i) its Affiliates, (ii) potential and actual assignees of any of the Lender’s rights hereunder and (iii) potential and actual investors in, or lenders to, the Lender (including, in each of the foregoing cases, such Person’s employees, advisors or consultants); provided that in each case, (x) each such Recipient shall be subject to reasonable obligations of confidentiality and (y) unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, no such disclosure shall be permitted to any direct competitor of the Borrower or any Subsidiary; and (b) the Borrower may disclose this Agreement and the terms and conditions hereof and information related hereto, to potential or actual permitted acquirers or assignees, collaborators and other (sub)licensees, permitted subcontractors, investment bankers, investors, lenders (including, in each of the foregoing cases, such Person’s employees, advisors or consultants who have a need to receive and review such information); provided that in each case, each such Recipient shall be subject to reasonable obligations of confidentiality. In addition to the foregoing, the Receiving Party may disclose Confidential Information belonging to the Disclosing Party (including the Loan Documents and the terms and conditions thereof) to the extent (and only to the extent) such disclosure is reasonably necessary in order to comply with applicable Laws (including any securities law or regulation or the rules of a securities exchange) and with judicial process, if in the reasonable opinion of the Receiving Party’s counsel, such disclosure is necessary for such compliance, provided that the Receiving Party (x) will only disclose those portions of the Confidential Information that are necessary or required to be so disclosed, and (y) to the extent legally permissible and

 

- 66 -


reasonably practicable, will notify the Disclosing Party of the Receiving Party’s intent to make any disclosure pursuant thereto sufficiently prior to making such disclosure so as to allow the Disclosing Party time to take whatever action it may deem appropriate to protect the confidentiality of the information to be disclosed (including, without limitation, an opportunity to seek (at the Borrower’s sole expense) a protective order or other appropriate remedy); provided, however, that no such notice will be required in respect of disclosures of Confidential Information to regulatory authorities having or claiming to have jurisdiction over the Receiving Party in connection with routine regulatory examinations. In the event that no such protective order or other remedy is obtained or that the Disclosing Party waives compliance with the provisions hereof, the Receiving Party and its Representatives may disclose such Confidential Information as may be required or requested pursuant to such laws or judicial process.

SECTION 10.15 Exceptions to Confidentiality . The Receiving Party’s obligations set forth in this Agreement shall not extend to any Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party:

(a) that is or hereafter becomes part of the public domain (other than as a result of a disclosure by the Receiving Party or its Recipients in violation of this Agreement);

(b) that is received from a Third Party without restriction on disclosure and without, to the knowledge of the Receiving Party, breach of any agreement between such Third Party and the Disclosing Party;

(c) that the Receiving Party can demonstrate by competent evidence was already in its possession without any limitation on disclosure prior to its receipt from the Disclosing Party;

(d) that is generally made available to Third Parties by the Disclosing Party without restriction on disclosure; or

(e) that the Receiving Party can demonstrate by competent evidence was independently developed by the Receiving Party without use of or reference to the Confidential Information.

[ Signature Page Follows ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the day and year first above written.

 

AVEDRO, INC.,
as the Borrower
By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Name: Reza Zadno
  Title: CEO
ORBIMED ROYALTY OPPORTUNITIES II, LP,
as the Lender
By: OrbiMed Advisors LLC, its investment manager
By:  

/s/ Sven Borho

  Name: Sven Borho
  Title: Member

Signature Page to Credit Agreement

Exhibit 10.16

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

LICENSE AGREEMENT

T HIS A MENDED A ND R ESTATED A GREEMENT (hereinafter, the “ Agreement ”) is effective as of the 31 st day of July, 2017, between the C ALIFORNIA I NSTITUTE O F T ECHNOLOGY (“ Caltech ”), a not-for-profit corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of California with an address at 1200 East California Boulevard, MC 6-32, Pasadena, California 91125 and Avedro, Inc. (“ Licensee ”), a corporation having a place of business at 230 Third Avenue, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451 (each a “ Party ” and together the “ Parties ”).

W HEREAS , Licensee obtained an exclusive license to certain Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, as further defined below, when the Parties executed the original version of this Agreement (hereinafter, the “ Prior Agreement ”);

W HEREAS , said Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights are jointly owned by Caltech and The Regents of the University of California (“ The Regents ”);

W HEREAS , Caltech and The Regents have entered into an inter-institutional agreement (“ IIA ”) effective December 11, 2009, under which Caltech and The Regents agree that Caltech shall administer and commercialize the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, and The Regents agree to not grant to any person (other than Caltech) any right, title, or interest in and to said Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights;

W HEREAS , for clarity, the Parties wish to amend and restate the Prior Agreement as detailed herein;

N OW , T HEREFORE , the Parties agree as follows:

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

1.1 “ Affiliate ” means any corporation, limited liability company, or other legal entity which directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with Licensee as of the Effective Date of this Agreement. For the purpose of this Agreement, “control” shall mean the direct or indirect ownership of greater than fifty percent (>50%) of the outstanding shares on a fully diluted basis or other voting rights of the subject entity to elect directors, or if not meeting the preceding, any entity owned or controlled by or owning or controlling at the maximum control or ownership right permitted in the country where such entity exists. In addition, a party’s status as an Affiliate of Licensee shall terminate if and when such control ceases to exist.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

1.2 “ Caltech IP ” means the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights.

1.3 “ Deductible Expenses ” means [***].

1.4 “Effective Date ” means the 19th day of February, 2015, which is the effective date of the Prior Agreement between Caltech and Licensee.

1.5 “ Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights ” means Caltech’s rights under: (a) all patents and patent applications listed in Exhibit A attached hereto; (b) any patents issuing therefrom in the Territory; and (c) any patents or patent applications in the Territory claiming a right of priority thereto (including reissues, reexaminations, renewals, extensions, divisionals, continuations, continued prosecution applications, continuations-in-part (only to the extent that the claims in such continuations-in-part are fully supported under 35 U.S.C. §112 by another patent or patent application in the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights)).

1.6 “ Field ” means corneal cross-linking using ultraviolet light, specifically excluding the use of visible light, and excluding cross-linking in any non-corneal tissue such as the sclera.

1.7 “ Keratoconus Procedure ” means a corneal cross-linking procedure for the treatment of keratoconus.

1.8 “ Licensed Product ” means any product, device, system, article of manufacture, machine, composition of matter, or process or service in the Field that is covered by, or is made by a process covered by, any Valid Claim; for the avoidance of doubt, this includes the performance of procedures covered by Valid Claims (hereinafter, the “Licensed Procedures”) by third parties under grant of right from Licensee, Affiliates or Sublicensees.

1.9 “ Net Revenues ” means [***], received by Licensee, Affiliates, and Sublicensees from the sale or other distribution (whether commercial or not) of cross-linking agents for Post-Surgical Procedures in the Territory. [***].

 

2.


1.10 “ Post-Surgical Procedure ” means a corneal cross-linking procedure that is substantially concurrent with corneal surgically invasive corrective procedures, including, but not limited to, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) or photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). For the avoidance of doubt, Post-Surgical Procedures do not include Keratoconus Procedures or the act of removing or otherwise displacing corneal epithelium during cross-linking procedures for the purpose of directly accessing underlying corneal tissue for generating cross-linking activity.

1.11 “ Royalty-bearing Products ” means cross-linking agents sold or otherwise distributed by Licensee, Affiliates or Sublicensees to third parties performing in the Territory cross-linking procedures in the Field that are either Post-Surgical Procedures or Keratoconus Procedures (Post-Surgical Procedures and Keratoconus Procedures collectively are hereinafter “Royalty-bearing Procedures”). If Licensee, Affiliates or Sublicensees do not sell or otherwise distribute cross-linking agent(s) to a third party in connection with a performance of the Royalty-bearing Procedures in the Territory, “Royalty-bearing Products” means any product sold or otherwise distributed by Licensee, Affiliates or Sublicensees to the third party that provides a grant of right to the third party for the performance of the Royalty-bearing Procedures.

1.12 “ Sublicensee ” means any person or entity sublicensed, or granted an option for a sublicense, by Licensee under this Agreement.

1.13 “ Sublicensing Revenue ” means cash consideration and cash value of all equity consideration valued at fair market value, that Licensee and/or Affiliates receive from a Sublicensee in consideration for, and to the extent attributable to, the grant of a sublicense under the Caltech IP that is not a royalty payment. Sublicensing Revenue includes, but is not limited to, license fees, license maintenance fees, milestone payments, and other payments that Licensee receives (including payments for technical assistance and the like). Such Sublicensing Revenue specifically shall not include payments made by a Sublicensee solely (a) in consideration of equity or debt securities of Licensee sold at market value; (b) to support research or development activities to be undertaken by Licensee; (c) upon the achievement by Licensee of specified milestones or benchmarks relating to the development of Licensed Products (excluding milestones tied to sales or marketing performance, which shall be subject to the percentage-based payments to Caltech herein); (d) for pilot studies; (e) for the license or sublicense of any intellectual property other than Caltech IP; (I) for products other than Licensed Products; or (g) for reimbursement for patent or other expenses. All Sublicensing Revenue that Licensee receives in the form of equity that is payable to Caltech shall be converted to cash based on its fair market value.

 

3.


1.14 “ Territory ” means the United States of America.

1.15 “ Valid Claim ” means:

(a) a claim of an issued patent within the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights that has not:

(i) expired or been canceled,

(ii) been finally adjudicated to be invalid or unenforceable by a decision of a court or other appropriate body of competent jurisdiction (and from which no appeal is or can be taken),

(iii) been admitted to be invalid or unenforceable through reissue, disclaimer or otherwise, or

(iv) been abandoned in accordance with, or as permitted by, the terms of this Agreement or by mutual written agreement; or

(b) a claim included in a pending patent application within the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, which claim is being actively prosecuted in accordance with this Agreement and which has not been:

(i) canceled,

(ii) withdrawn from consideration,

(iii) finally determined to be unallowable by the applicable governmental authority (and from which no appeal is or can be taken), or

(iv) abandoned in accordance with, or as permitted by, the terms of this Agreement or by mutual written agreement.

 

4.


ARTICLE 2

LICENSE GRANT

2.1 Grant of Rights . Caltech hereby grants to Licensee and its Affiliates an exclusive, royalty-bearing license under the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights to make, have made, import, use, sell, and offer for sale Licensed Products in the Field in the Territory. Licensee and its Affiliates have the right hereunder to grant a third party the right to perform Licensed Procedures, but only in conjunction with a sale of Licensed Product(s) to the third party. This license is personal to and nontransferable by Licensee, except as provided in Article 6. Rights not explicitly granted herein are reserved by Caltech.

2.2 Reservation of Rights; Government Rights . These licenses are subject to: (a) the reservation of Caltech’s and The Regents’ right to make, have made, import, and use Licensed Products for noncommercial educational and research purposes, but not for commercial sale or other commercial distribution to third parties; and (b) any existing right of the U.S. Government under Title 35, United States Code, Section 200 et seq. and under 37 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 401 et seq., including but not limited to the grant to the U.S. Government of a nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice or have practiced any invention conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of work for or on behalf of the U.S. Government throughout the world. Licensed Products shall be substantially manufactured in the United States to the extent (if at all) required by 35 U.S.C. Section 204. In addition, Caltech and The Regents reserve the right to grant the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights and associated technology to other non-profit institutions for educational and research purposes, including clinical research.

2.3 Sublicensing . Licensee has the right hereunder to grant sublicenses to third parties, but Sublicensees shall not have the right to grant further sublicenses, and the sublicenses may be of no greater scope than the licenses granted under Section 2.1.

Licensee shall require that all sublicenses:

(a) are subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement; and

(b) contain the Sublicensee’s acknowledgment of the disclaimer of warranty and limitation on Caltech’s liability, as provided by Articles 9 and 13 below; and

(c) contain provisions under which the Sublicensee accepts duties at least equivalent to those accepted by the Licensee in the following Sections: 5.11-5.12 (duty to keep records); 8.7 (duty to properly mark Licensed Products with patent numbers); 9.4 (duty to defend, hold harmless, and indemnify Caltech); 13.2 (duty to maintain insurance); 14.8 (duty to restrict the use of Caltech’s name); and 14.9 (duty to control exports).

 

5.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

Licensee shall not receive, or agree to receive, anything of value in lieu of cash or equity from a third party under a sublicense granted pursuant to this Section 2.3, without Caltech’s express prior written permission which shall not be unreasonably withheld.

Licensee shall furnish Caltech within [***] of the execution thereof a true and complete copy of each sublicense and any changes or additions thereto. Licensee shall inform Caltech of each sublicensee’s entity status for the determination of fees payable to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Any sublicenses granted by Licensee shall survive termination of the licenses granted in Section 2.1, or of this Agreement, provided that the following conditions are met as of the date of such termination:

(a) the written agreement between Licensee and Sublicensee pursuant to which the sublicense was granted (i) obligates the Sublicensee to thereafter render to Caltech all sublicense royalties or other sublicense-related consideration that the Sublicensee would have owed to Licensee under the sublicense, (ii) names Caltech as a third party beneficiary, and (iii) affirms that Licensee shall remain responsible for all obligations to Sublicensee (other than those requiring Licensee to hold a license under the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights) unless Caltech (at its discretion) elects to assume such obligations;

(b) Licensee informs the Sublicensee in writing (with a copy to Caltech) that the Sublicensee’s obligations pursuant to (a) are in effect as a result of the termination; and

(c) the sublicense was granted in accordance with the sublicensing provisions of this Agreement.

Licensee shall be responsible for collecting and paying to Caltech all royalties on Net Revenues and Sublicensing Revenues owed by all Sublicensees.

2.4 No Other Rights Granted . The Parties agree that neither this Agreement, nor any action of the Parties related hereto, may be interpreted as conferring by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or rights under any intellectual property rights of Caltech or The Regents other than as expressly and specifically set forth in this Agreement, regardless of whether such other intellectual property rights are dominant or subordinate to the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights.

 

6.


2.5 Preferential Purchaser Status . Caltech shall be entitled to purchase Licensed Products from Licensee for educational, research or other noncommercial purposes on pricing terms that are at least as favorable as any commercial pricing made available by Licensee to any third party.

ARTICLE 3

RESERVED

ARTICLE 4

PROSECUTION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS AND

PAYMENT OF PATENT COSTS

4.1 Prosecution by Caltech . Caltech shall use reasonable efforts, consistent with its normal practices, to prosecute any and all patent application(s) included in the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights licensed hereunder, provided that Licensee is reimbursing patent expenses in accordance with Sections 4.3 and 4.4. Licensee may recommend patent counsel for this purpose. Caltech shall permit Licensee to review and request modifications on all patent applications and claims made therein, and Caltech shall make reasonable efforts to implement modifications thereto as may be requested by Licensee prior to filing.

4.2 Prosecution by Licensee . If Caltech declines to file, prosecute or maintain a patent or patent application in the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, then Licensee may elect, if Caltech consents, to assume responsibility for such filing, prosecution or maintenance at its expense in Caltech’s name, with Caltech remaining the client of record with the prosecuting attorney(s). Licensee shall fully cooperate with any and all other licensees, if any, of the patent or patent application. Caltech agrees to fully cooperate with Licensee in filing, prosecuting, and maintaining any such patent applications and patents, and Caltech agrees to execute any documents as shall be necessary for such purpose, and not to impair in any way the patentability of any of the foregoing.

 

7.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

4.3 Past Patent Costs . Licensee shall reimburse Caltech for [***] percent ([***]%) of all reasonable expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by Caltech prior to the Effective Date for the filing, prosecution and maintenance, interference or reexamination proceedings, of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights. All amounts owed under this Section 4.3 shall be due within [***] after Licensee receives Caltech’s invoice. Past patent costs as of the Effective Date are [***] dollars and [***] cents ($[***]), of which Licensee shall reimburse Caltech [***] dollars and [***] cents ($[***]).

4.4 Ongoing Patent Costs . Licensee shall reimburse Caltech for [***] percent ([***]%) of all fees and costs relating to ongoing filing, prosecution and maintenance, interference or reexamination proceedings of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights that are not included in Section 4.3 above. Such reimbursement shall be made within [***] of receipt of Caltech’s invoice. Should Licensee wish to terminate its license to any particular patent application or patent, Licensee may elect to do so by providing written notice to Caltech at least [***] in advance. Licensee is responsible for all patent costs incurred up until the date of its election and Licensee’s subsequent reimbursement obligations of the ongoing patent costs with respect to the said patent application or patent will be terminated. Upon such election, Caltech may, at its option, continue such prosecution or maintenance, although any patent or patent application resulting from such prosecution or maintenance will thereafter no longer be subject to the licenses granted in Section 2.1 hereunder. In the absence of proper election as described above, non-payment of any portion of patent costs, whether to Caltech or directly to the prosecuting law firm, will be considered monetary breach pursuant to Section 10.2.

ARTICLE 5

CONSIDERATION

5.1 Timing and Computation . All royalties hereunder (except for annual minimum royalties) shall be computed on a quarterly basis for the quarters ending March 31 st , June 30 th , September 30 th , and December 31 st of each calendar year. Royalties for each such quarter shall be due and payable within [***] after the end of such quarter.

5.2 License Issue Fee . Licensee shall pay to Caltech a License Issue Fee in the amount of [***] dollars ($[***]). The License Issue Fee is nonrefundable and is due [***] from the complete execution of the Prior Agreement made effective on the 19 th day of February, 2015.

 

8.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

5.3 Royalty on Valid Claims for Post-Surgical Procedures . Licensee shall pay Caltech a royalty of [***] percent ([***]%) of Net Revenues from the sale or other distribution (whether commercial or not) of cross-linking agents for Post-Surgical Procedures in the Territory. Royalties due under this Section 5.3 shall be payable on a Product-by-Product basis until the expiration of the last-to-expire issued Valid Claim covering such Royalty-bearing Product.

5.4 Royalty on Valid Claims for Keratoconus Procedures . Licensee shall pay Caltech a [***] royalty of [***] per treatment on the sale of cross-linking agents for Keratoconus Procedures in the Territory on or after [***]. Royalties due under this Section 5.4 shall be payable on a Product-by-Product basis until the expiration of the last-to-expire issued Valid Claim covering such Royalty-bearing Product.

5.5 Royalty on Sublicensing Revenue . Licensee shall pay Caltech [***] percent ([***]%) of the Sublicensing Revenue.

5.6 Minimum Annual Royalties for Post-Surgical Procedures . A minimum annual royalty (“ MAR ”) for Post-Surgical Procedures is due to Caltech on January 1 of each year, starting with the first January 1 after FDA approval of Licensee’s application for the intraoperative use of crosslinking in conjunction with a LASIK procedure (“ FDA Application ”). For the period between the date of approval of the FDA application and the following January 1 (“ First MAR Date ”), the MAR shall be [***] dollars ($[***]) multiplied by the number of days in the period (non-inclusive) and divided by the number of days in the year. The MAR for each subsequent year shall be:

 

Year from First MAR Date

  

Royalty due

[***] [***]    dollars ($[***])
[***] [***]    dollars ($[***])
[***] [***]    dollars ($[***])
[***] [***]    dollars ($[***])
[***] [***]    dollars ($[***])
[***] and subsequent    [***] dollars ($[***])

Any royalties paid under Section 5.3 and Section 5.5 for Post-Surgical Procedures for the one-year period preceding the date of payment of a MAR shall be creditable against the MAR. Caltech shall have the right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 102 (Termination for Monetary Breach) for failure to pay such MAR.

 

9.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

5.7 Milestone Payments . The following milestone payments shall be due:

• [***]

• [***]

5.8 Minimum Annual Royalties for Keratoconus Procedures . A MAR of [***] dollars ($[***]) for Keratoconus Procedures is due to Caltech on January 1 of each year, starting January 1, 2018. Any royalties paid under Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 for Keratoconus Procedures for the one-year period preceding the date of payment of a MAR shall be creditable against the MAR. Caltech shall have the right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to Section 10.2 (Termination for Monetary Breach) for failure to pay such MAR.

5.9 [***] .

5.10 Currency Conversion . For the purpose of determining royalties payable under this Agreement, any royalties or other revenues Licensee receives from Sublicensees in currencies other than U.S. dollars and any Net Revenues denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars shall be converted into U.S. dollars according to the noon buying rate of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on the last business day of the quarterly period for which such royalties are calculated.

5.11 Recordkeeping and Audits . Licensee shall keep complete and accurate production and accounting records relating to commercialization (including via sublicensing) of Royalty-bearing Products and calculation of Net Revenues. Caltech shall be entitled to periodically audit such records, during Licensee’s normal business hours, to determine Licensee’s compliance with the provisions of this Article 5. Licensee shall reimburse Caltech one hundred percent (100%) of any unpaid royalties resulting from any noncompliance discovered as a result of any such audit; [***]. Such audits shall be at Caltech’s expense, and shall occur no more than once annually, except that in the case of any underpayment exceeding [***] percent ([***]%) of the amount actually paid: (a) Licensee shall reimburse Caltech for the cost of such audit; [***]. Licensee must flow this requirement down to all Sublicensees.

 

10.


5.12 Royalty Reports. For so long as royalties are payable under this Agreement, Licensee shall provide a royalty report in writing to Caltech on or before April 30 th , July 31 st , October 31 st , and January 31 st of each year. The report shall include, for all Royalty-bearing Products that are sold or otherwise distributed by Licensee, Affiliates, and each Sublicensee in the Territory:

(a) a description of all Royalty-bearing Products;

(b) number of Royalty-bearing Products sold;

(c) total revenues from each of the Royalty-bearing Products received by Licensee, Affiliates, and Sublicensees;

(d) Deductible Expenses for each of the Royalty-bearing Products;

(e) Net Revenues from Royalty-bearing Products;

(f) royalties on Net Revenues due to Caltech;

(g) Sublicensing Revenue, including supporting data;

(h) foreign currency conversion rate and calculations (if applicable) and total royalties due; and

(i) names and contact information for all Sublicensees having a sublicense or option therefor any time during the particular royalty period.

Each such report shall also set forth an explanation of the calculation of the royalties payable hereunder and be accompanied by payment of the royalties shown by said report to be due Caltech.

ARTICLE 6

ASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFER

6.1 “ Assign ” (including all variations thereof) shall mean to transfer, including Assignment of rights and delegation of duties.

6.2 Assignment by Caltech . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any successor or Assignee of Caltech.

 

11.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

6.3 Assignment by Licensee . Licensee cannot Assign this Agreement without the prior written consent of Caltech, except that Licensee may Assign this Agreement without the prior written consent of Caltech to any Affiliate or any successor of, or purchaser of substantially all of, the assets or operations of its business to which this Agreement pertains. Any permitted Assignee of Licensee shall succeed to all of the rights and obligations of Licensee under this Agreement.

6.4 Any Other Assignment by Licensee . Any other attempt to Assign this Agreement or to pledge any of the license rights granted in this Agreement as security for any creditor by Licensee is null and void from the beginning.

6.5 Conditions of Assignment . Prior to any Assignment to a non-Affiliate, the following conditions must be met:

(a) Licensee must give Caltech [***] prior written notice of the assignment, including the new Assignee’s contact information; and

(b) the new Assignee must agree in writing to Caltech to be bound by this Agreement; and

(c) Caltech must have provided written permission to Assign the agreement (except as provided in Section 6.3), and (i) [***]; or (ii) [***], Caltech and Licensee agree to amend this Agreement in good faith to address the [***] prior to the Assignment of this Agreement.

6.6 After the Assignment . Upon a permitted Assignment by Licensee of this Agreement pursuant to this Article, Licensee will be released of liability under this Agreement and the term “ Licensee ” in this Agreement will mean the Assignee.

ARTICLE 7

DUE DILIGENCE

7.1 Commercialization . Licensee agrees to use its best efforts to commercially introduce at least one Royalty-bearing Product in the Field as soon as practical. Licensee shall be deemed to have satisfied its obligations under this Section 7.1 if Licensee has an ongoing and active research, development or marketing program, directed primarily toward commercial

 

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production, use, and sale of one or more Royalty-bearing Products in the Territory, and if Licensee has met or is acting diligently to meet the milestone event estimated dates in Exhibit B. Any efforts of Licensee’s Affiliates or Sublicensees shall be considered efforts of Licensee for the sole purpose of determining Licensee’s compliance with its obligations under this Section 7.1.

7.2 Mandatory Sublicense . If Licensee does not meet a milestone event in Exhibit B by the corresponding estimated date, Licensee shall have a period of [***] (“ Cure Period ”) from the corresponding estimated date to meet such milestone event. If at the expiration of such Cure Period, Licensee has not met such milestone event, then, for so long as Licensee does not meet such milestone event:

(a) [***]

(b) [***]

7.3 Reporting . On each yearly anniversary of the Effective Date, Licensee shall issue to Caltech a detailed written report on its progress in introducing commercial Royalty-bearing Products. Such report shall include any milestone that has been achieved, and any milestone that was due but not achieved. The report will be considered confidential information of Licensee subject to Article 11.

7.4 Failure to Commercialize . If Licensee is not fulfilling its obligations under Section 7.1 with respect to the Field in the Territory, and Caltech so notifies Licensee in writing, Caltech and Licensee shall negotiate in good faith any additional efforts to be taken by Licensee. If the Parties do not reach agreement within [***] of Caltech’s written notice, Caltech may terminate this Agreement pursuant to Article 10 and subject to Section 7.2.

ARTICLE 8

LITIGATION

8.1 Enforcement . Both Caltech and Licensee agree to promptly notify the other in writing should either Party become aware of possible infringement by a third party of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights in the Field. Caltech shall also notify The Regents. Upon notice and exchange of evidence of such infringement, Licensee shall have the first right to pursue an enforcement action. Licensee will have all rights required by law to initiate an

 

13.


enforcement action in Licensee’s name only and at Licensee’s expense. Licensee shall be entitled to solely control any such action initiated by it, but will keep Caltech apprised of the status of such action or suit, and will consult with Caltech should any issues arise in litigation that may be impactful to Caltech and/or other Caltech licensees. If despite the transfer of all substantial rights from Caltech to Licensee hereunder Caltech is required by law to join in such an action, or is subject to discovery requests in such an action, Caltech will do so provided that: (a) Caltech has the option to be represented by outside counsel of its choice; and (b) Licensee shall reimburse Caltech for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including Caltech’s outside counsel) and all internal Caltech expenses in connection with the action. Licensee may take appropriate action to terminate or prevent the infringement provided, however, that Licensee may not bring an action or enter into a settlement agreement with an accused infringer without prior written approval of Caltech, where reasonable approval will not be withheld. In no event may The Regents be joined in any suit without its prior written consent.

8.2 Other Defensive Litigation . If a declaratory judgment action alleging invalidity, unenforceability or non-infringement of any of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights is brought against Licensee and/or Caltech, Licensee shall have the first right to control the defense of such action at its own expense. Caltech may elect to control the defense of such action if Licensee declines to do so, and if Caltech so elects it shall bear all the costs of the action and shall make settlements only in consultation with Licensee. Licensee shall also have the first right to control the defense of any interference, opposition or similar patent office procedure with respect to the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, and shall bear all the costs thereof, and shall make settlements for the aforementioned in reasonable consultation with and with the written consent of Caltech.

8.3 Cooperation . In the event either Party takes control of a legal action or defense pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 82 (thus becoming the Controlling Party), the non-controlling Party shall fully cooperate with and supply all assistance reasonably requested by the Controlling Party, including by: (a) using commercially reasonable efforts to have its employees consult and testify when requested; (b) making available relevant records, papers, information, samples, specimens, and the like; and (c) joining any such action in which it is determined to be an indispensable or necessary party. The Controlling Party shall bear the reasonable expenses (including salary and

 

14.


travel costs) incurred by the non-controlling Party in providing such assistance and cooperation. The Controlling Party shall keep the non-controlling Party reasonably informed of the progress of the action or defense. If the non-controlling Party is not required by law to join the action, that Party shall nevertheless be entitled to participate in such action or defense at its own expense and using counsel of its choice. As a condition of controlling any action or defense involving the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 8.2, Licensee shall use its best efforts to preserve the validity and enforceability thereof.

8.4 Settlement . If Licensee controls any action or defense under Section 8.1 or 82, then Licensee shall have the right to settle any claims thereunder, but only upon terms and conditions that Licensee consulted with Caltech and for which Licensee used reasonable efforts to incorporate Caltech’s commercially reasonable suggestions. Should Licensee elect to abandon such an action or defense other than pursuant to a settlement with the alleged infringer that is reasonably acceptable to Caltech, Licensee shall give timely advance notice to Caltech which, if it so desires, may continue the action or defense. If Caltech controls any action or defense under Section 8.1 or 8.2, Caltech may not enter into a settlement agreement with a third party without prior written approval of Licensee for any settlement term(s) that may affect any claims that Licensee has or may have against the third party.

8.5 Recoveries . Any amounts paid by third parties to Caltech or Licensee as the result of an enforcement of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights under an action or defense pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 8.2 (including in satisfaction of a judgment or pursuant to a settlement) shall (a) first be applied to reimbursement of professional fees and expenses (e.g., attorneys’ fees and expert fees) including associated costs incurred by each Party; and (b) second to Caltech and Licensee as follows:

(i) If Licensee is the lead or controlling Party, Licensee shall recover all amounts awarded to Licensee on the basis of Licensee’s claim(s) for damages (including without limitation lost profits or royalties) in the action or defense, and Caltech shall be paid any royalties on the amount recovered by Licensee under 8 .5(b)(i) that would have been due to it under Article 5; and

 

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(ii) If Caltech is the lead or controlling Party, Caltech shall retain [***] percent ([***]%) of the amounts awarded to Caltech on the basis of Caltech’s claims(s) for damages in the action or defense, and distribute the remainder to Licensee.

To the extent that exemplary damages, punitive damages, or other amounts not falling under 85(b) are awarded, such amounts shall be allocated to Licensee and Caltech as agreed by the Parties according to negotiation in good faith prior to the action or defense, or as ordered by a court or other tribunal. Factors to be considered in such negotiation include, but are not restricted to, the extent to which each Party is participating, including each Party’s financial and non-financial involvement, risk, and efforts. For the avoidance of doubt, any amounts that are recovered without specifying an allocation between the Parties, for example in a settlement payment, shall be allocated as agreed by the Parties according to the above-mentioned negotiation.

8.6 Infringement Defense . If Licensee, its Affiliate or Sublicensee, distributor or other customer is sued by a third party charging infringement of patent rights that cover a Licensed Product, Licensee will promptly notify Caltech. Licensee will have sole discretion regarding the defense and/or settlement of same, and will be responsible for the expenses associated with same.

8.7 Marking . Licensee agrees to mark the Licensed Products with the numbers of applicable issued patents within the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, unless such marking is commercially infeasible in accordance with normal commercial practices in the Field, in which case the Parties shall cooperate to devise a commercially reasonable alternative to such marking.

8.8 Expiration or Abandonment . In a case where one or more patents or particular claims thereof within the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights expire, or are abandoned, or are declared invalid or unenforceable by a court of last resort or by a lower court from whose decree no appeal is taken, or certiorari is not granted within the period allowed therefor, then the effect thereof hereunder shall be:

(a) that such patents or particular claims shall, as of the date of expiration or abandonment or final decision as the case may be, cease to be included within the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights for the purpose of this Agreement; and

 

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(b) that such construction so placed upon the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights by the court shall be followed from and after the date of entry of the decision, and royalties shall thereafter be payable by Licensee only in accordance with such construction.

8.9 Adjustment . In the event that any of the contingencies provided for in Section 8.8 occurs, Caltech agrees to renegotiate in good faith with Licensee a reasonable royalty rate under the remaining Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights which are unexpired and in effect and under which Licensee desires to retain a license.

8.10 Licensee Challenges . If Licensee or any of its Affiliates brings an action or proceeding, or assists any third party in bringing an action or proceeding, seeking a declaration or ruling that any claim in any of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights is invalid or unenforceable, or asserts that any product does not infringe the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights:

(a) during the pendency of such action or proceeding, the royalty rate will be increased to double the royalty rate set forth in Section 5.3;

(b) should the outcome of such action or proceeding determine that any claim of a Licensed Patent challenged by Licensee is valid, enforceable, and/or infringed by a Licensed Product, the royalty rate will be increased to triple the royalty rate set forth in Section 5.3 and Licensee shall pay Caltech’s attorneys’ fees, expert witness fees, court costs, third-party costs, and other litigation expenses;

(c) Licensee shall have no right to recoup any royalties paid before such action or proceeding or during the period in which such action or proceeding is pending (including on appeal);

(d) Licensee shall not pay royalties into any escrow or other similar account, but rather shall continue to pay royalties directly to Caltech; and

(e) Caltech shall have full control and authority to defend the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights in the action or proceeding.

Licensee shall provide written notice to Caltech at least [***] before Licensee or any of its Affiliates initiates any action or proceeding seeking a declaration or ruling that any claim of any Licensed Patent is invalid or unenforceable or that any product would not infringe (but for this Agreement) any claim in the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights. Licensee will include with such written notice an identification of all prior art it believes is material.

 

17.


Any dispute regarding the validity or enforceability of any of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, or whether any product would infringe (but for this Agreement) any claim in the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, shall be litigated exclusively in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California situated in the County of Los Angeles, and each Party hereby agrees to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of such court, and waives any objection to venue, for such purposes.

ARTICLE 9

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES; INDEMNIFICATION

9.1 Representations and Warranties of Caltech . Caltech hereby represents and warrants to Licensee that, to the knowledge of Caltech’s Office of Technology Transfer, as of the Effective Date:

(a) there are no outstanding exclusive licenses, exclusive options or exclusive agreements of any kind relating to the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights in the Field, other than pursuant to this Agreement herein;

(b) Caltech has the power to grant the rights, licenses and privileges granted herein and can perform as set forth in this Agreement without violating the terms of any agreement that Caltech has with any third party.

9.2 Exclusions . The Parties agree that nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as, and CALTECH AND THE REGENTS HEREBY DISCLAIM ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY, COVENANT, OR OTHER OBLIGATION:

(a) THAT ANY PRACTICE BY OR ON BEHALF OF LICENSEE OF ANY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LICENSED HEREUNDER IS OR WILL BE FREE FROM INFRINGEMENT OF RIGHTS OF THIRD PARTIES;

 

18.


(b) AS TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR NONINFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY RIGHTS, WITH RESPECT TO ANY TECHNOLOGY PROVIDED BY CALTECH TO LICENSEE HEREUNDER.

9.3 Indemnification by Caltech . Caltech shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Licensee from and against any and all losses, damages, costs and expenses (including attorneys’ fees) arising out of a material breach by Caltech of its representations and warranties (“ Indemnification Claims ”), except to the extent involving or relating to a material breach by Licensee of its representations and warranties, provided that: (a) Caltech is notified promptly of any Indemnification Claims; (b) Caltech has the sole right to control and defend or settle any litigation within the scope of this indemnity; and (c) all indemnified parties cooperate to the extent necessary in the defense of any Indemnification Claims. The foregoing shall be the sole and exclusive remedy of Licensee for breach of Section 9.1.

9.4 Indemnification by Licensee . Licensee shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Caltech and The Regents, their trustees, officers, agents and employees, and the sponsors of the research leading to the inventions covered by the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, from and against any and all losses, damages, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising out of third party claims brought against Caltech, The Regents, or the sponsors of the research relating to the manufacture, sale, licensing, distribution or use of Licensed Products by or on behalf of Licensee or its Affiliates, except to the extent involving or relating to a material breach by Caltech of its representations and warranties.

9.5 Certain Damages . NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, HOWEVER CAUSED, UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY. FURTHERMORE, THE REGENTS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO LICENSEE FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, HOWEVER CAUSED, UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY.

 

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ARTICLE 10

TERM AND TERMINATION

10.1 Term . This Agreement and the rights and licenses hereunder shall take effect on the Effective Date and continue until the later of: (1) the expiration, revocation, invalidation, or unenforceability of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights licensed to Licensee hereunder, or (2) the date that royalties are no longer due pursuant to Article 5 of this Agreement, unless earlier terminated pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

10.2 Termination for Monetary Breach . Caltech shall have the right to terminate this Agreement and the rights and licenses hereunder if Licensee fails to make any payment due including patent expenses, minimum annual royalties or royalties hereunder and Licensee continues to fail to make the payment (either to Caltech directly or by placing any disputed amount into an interest-bearing escrow account to be released when the dispute is resolved) for a period of [***] after receiving written notice from Caltech specifying Licensee’s failure. Upon any such termination, (a) Licensee shall have [***] to complete the manufacture of any Licensed Products that are then works in progress for sale and to sell its inventory of Licensed Products, provided that Licensee pays the applicable royalties, and (b) any sublicenses shall survive termination in accordance with Section 2.3.

10.3 Termination for Non-Monetary Breach . Non-monetary breach shall include, but is not limited to: (a) failure to fulfill the obligations in Article 7 (Due Diligence), or Section 8.7 (Marking); and (b) pursuit of exploitation of Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights outside the Field. Non-monetary breach shall include the cessation of Licensee’s operations in general, or the cessation of Licensee’s commercial activities in the Field in particular. If this Agreement is materially breached by either Party, the non-breaching Party may elect to give the breaching Party written notice describing the alleged breach. If the breaching Party has not cured such breach within [***] after receipt of such notice or, if applicable, according to the provisions of Section 7.2, the notifying Party will be entitled, in addition to any other rights it may have under this Agreement, to terminate this Agreement and the rights and licenses hereunder, and if applicable, subject to the provision of Section 7.2; such termination shall be deemed to have been effective as of the date of the notice.

 

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10.4 Bankruptcy or Insolvency . This Agreement shall terminate, without notice, (a) upon Licensee’s filing for bankruptcy, receivership or bankruptcy proceedings or any other proceedings for the settlement of Licensee’s debts; (b) upon Licensee making an assignment for the benefit of creditors; or (c) upon Licensee’s dissolution or ceasing to do business. Caltech may terminate this Agreement upon the insolvency of the Licensee. Licensee must inform Caltech of its intention to file a voluntary petition of bankruptcy, or of another’s intention to file an involuntary petition of bankruptcy, at least [***] prior to the filing of such a petition. Licensee’s filing without conforming to this requirement shall be deemed a material, pre-petition incurable breach of this Agreement which will cause this Agreement to terminate without notice upon such filing.

10.5 Accrued Liabilities . Termination of this Agreement for any reason shall not release any Party hereto from any liability which, at the time of such termination, has already accrued to the other Party or which is attributable to a period prior to such termination, nor preclude either Party from pursuing any rights and remedies it may have hereunder or at law or in equity which accrued or are based upon any event occurring prior to such termination.

10.6 Survival . The following shall survive any expiration or termination (in whole or in part) of this Agreement: (a) any provision plainly indicating that it should survive; (b) any royalty due and payable on account of activity prior to the termination; and (c) Sections or Articles 5.11, 9, 11, 12, 13, and 14.7.

ARTICLE 11

CONFIDENTIALITY

11.1 Nondisclosure and Nonuse . Each Party agrees not to disclose any of the terms of this Agreement to any third Party without the prior written consent of the other Party.

11.2 Permitted Disclosures . Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Party may disclose: (a) confidential information as required by securities or other applicable laws or pursuant to governmental proceedings, provided that the disclosing Party gives advance written notice to the other Party and reasonably cooperates therewith in limiting the disclosure to only those third parties having a need to know; and (b) the fact that Licensee has been granted a license under the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights.

 

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ARTICLE 12

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

12.1 No issue of the validity of any of the licensed patents, enforceability of any of the licensed patents, infringement of any of the licensed patents, the scope of any of the claims of the licensed patents, and/or any dispute that includes any such issue, shall be subject to mediation under this Agreement unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in writing. In addition, no dispute between the Parties as to any matter relating to this Agreement shall be subject to arbitration unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in writing.

12.2 Except for those issues and/or disputes described in Section 10.2, any dispute between the Parties concerning the interpretation, construction or application of any terms, covenants or conditions of this Agreement shall be resolved by mediation.

12.3 Mediation shall be in the Los Angeles office of ADR Services, Inc. ( http://www.adrservices.org/ ) before an attorney or a retired judge with experience in intellectual property or patent matters, and contract, commercial or business disputes, selected by the Parties from candidates proposed by ADR Services, Inc. in accordance with the ADR Mediation Rules and Procedures in force at the time the mediation is initiated.

12.4 The requirement for mediation shall not be deemed a waiver of any right of termination under this Agreement.

12.5 Each Party shall bear its own expenses incurred in connection with any attempt to resolve disputes hereunder, but the compensation and expenses of the mediator shall be borne equally.

ARTICLE 13

PRODUCT LIABILITY

13.1 Indemnification . Licensee agrees that Caltech, The Regents, and the sponsors of the research leading to the inventions covered by the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights (including their trustees, officers, faculty and employees) shall have no liability to Licensee, its Affiliates, their customers, or any third party for any claims, demands, losses, costs, or other damages which may result from personal injury, death, or property damage related to the Licensed

 

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Products (“ Product Liability Claims ”). Licensee agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Caltech, The Regents, and the sponsors of the research leading to the inventions covered by the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, their trustees, officers, faculty and employees from any such Product Liability Claims, provided that: (a) Licensee is notified promptly of any Product Liability Claims; (b) Licensee has the sole right to control and defend or settle any litigation within the scope of this indemnity; and (c) all indemnified parties cooperate to the extent necessary in the defense of any Claims.

13.2 Insurance . Prior to such time as Licensee begins to manufacture, sell, license, distribute or use Licensed Products, Licensee shall at its sole expense procure and maintain policies of comprehensive general liability insurance in amounts not less than [***] dollars ($[***]) per incident and [***] dollars ($[***]) in annual aggregate, and naming those indemnified under Section 13.1 as additional insureds. Such comprehensive general liability insurance shall provide: (a) product liability coverage and (b) broad form contractual liability coverage for Licensee’s indemnification of Caltech, The Regents, and research sponsors under Section 13.1. In the event the aforesaid product liability coverage does not provide for occurrence liability, Licensee shall maintain such comprehensive general liability insurance for a reasonable period of not less than [***] after it has ceased commercial distribution or use of any Licensed Product. Licensee shall provide Caltech with written evidence of such insurance upon request of Caltech.

13.3 Loss of Coverage . Licensee shall provide Caltech with notice at least [***] prior to any cancellation, non-renewal or material change in such insurance, to the extent Licensee receives advance notice of such matters from its insurer. If Licensee does not obtain replacement insurance providing comparable coverage within [***] following the date of such cancellation, non-renewal or material change, Caltech shall have the right to terminate this Agreement effective at the end of such [***] period without any additional waiting period; provided that if Licensee provides credible written evidence that it has used reasonable efforts, but is unable, to obtain the required insurance, Caltech shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement, and Caltech instead shall cooperate with Licensee to either (at Caltech’s discretion) grant a limited waiver of Licensee’s obligations under this Article or assist Licensee in identifying a carrier to provide such insurance or in developing a program for self-insurance or other alternative measures.

 

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ARTICLE 14

MISCELLANEOUS

14.1 Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in English and shall be given in writing and shall be: (a) personally delivered; (b) sent by telecopier, facsimile transmission or other electronic means of transmitting written documents with confirmation of receipt; or (c) sent to the Parties at their respective addresses indicated herein by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid, or by private overnight mail courier services with confirmation of receipt. The respective addresses to be used for all such notices, demands or requests are as follows:

(a) If to CALTECH, to:

California Institute of Technology

1200 East California Boulevard

Mail Code 6-32

Pasadena, CA 91125

ATTN: Chief Innovation Officer

Phone No.: [***]

Fax No.: [***]

Email: [***]

Or to such other person or address as Caltech shall furnish to Licensee in writing.

(b) If to LICENSEE, to:

Avedro, Inc.

230 Third Avenue

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

ATTN: General Counsel

Phone No.: [***]

Fax No.: [***]

Email: [***]

If personally delivered, such communication shall be deemed delivered upon actual receipt by the “attention” addressee or a person authorized to accept for such addressee; if transmitted by facsimile pursuant to this Section 14.1, such communication shall be deemed delivered the next business day after transmission, provided that sender has a transmission confirmation sheet indicating successful receipt at the receiving facsimile machine; if sent by overnight courier pursuant to this Section 14.1, such communication shall be deemed delivered upon receipt by the

 

24.


attention ” addressee or a person authorized to accept for such addressee; and if sent by mail pursuant to this Section 14.1, such communication shall be deemed delivered as of the date of delivery indicated on the receipt issued by the relevant postal service. If the Licensee fails or refuses to accept delivery by courier or mail at the address most recently provided under this Section 14.1, communication shall be deemed delivered as of the date of such failure or refusal. Any Party to this Agreement may change its address for the purposes of this Agreement by giving notice thereof in accordance with this Section 14.1.

14.2 Entire Agreement . This Agreement sets forth the complete agreement of the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof. No claimed oral agreement in respect thereto shall be considered as any part hereof. No amendment or change in any of the terms hereof subsequent to the execution hereof shall have any force or effect unless agreed to in writing by duly authorized representatives of the Parties.

14.3 Waiver . No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be effective unless in writing. No waiver shall be deemed to be, or shall constitute, a waiver of a breach of any other provision of this Agreement, whether or not similar, nor shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver of such breach unless otherwise expressly provided in such waiver.

14.4 Severability . Each provision contained in this Agreement is declared to constitute a separate and distinct covenant and provision and to be severable from all other separate, distinct covenants and provisions. It is agreed that should any clause, condition or term, or any part thereof, contained in this Agreement be unenforceable or prohibited by law or by any present or future legislation then: (a) such clause, condition, term or part thereof, shall be amended, and is hereby amended, so as to be in compliance with the legislation or law; but (b) if such clause, condition or term, or part thereof, cannot be amended so as to be in compliance with the legislation or law, then such clause, condition, term or part thereof shall be severed from this Agreement and all the rest of the clauses, terms and conditions or parts thereof contained in this Agreement shall remain unimpaired.

 

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14.5 Construction . The headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not constitute a part hereof. Unless expressly noted, the term “ include ” (including all variations thereof) shall be construed as merely exemplary rather than as a term of limitation.

14.6 Counterparts/Facsimiles . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, all of which taken together shall be deemed one original. Facsimile and scanned signatures shall be deemed original.

14.7 Governing Law . This Agreement, the legal relations between the Parties and any action, whether contractual or non-contractual, instituted by any Party with respect to matters arising under or growing out of or in connection with or in respect of this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of California, excluding any conflict of law or choice of law rules that may direct the application of the laws of another jurisdiction, and be brought in the state or federal courts in Los Angeles, California.

14.8 No Endorsement . Licensee agrees that it shall not make any form of representation or statement which would constitute an express or implied endorsement by Caltech or The Regents of any Licensed Product, and that it shall not authorize others to do so, without first having obtained written approval from Caltech or The Regents, except as may be required by governmental law, rule or regulation. Unless required by law or unless consented to in writing by Director of Technology Management, University of California, San Francisco, the use by the Licensee of the name “ The Regents of the University of California ” or the name of any campus of the University of California in advertising, publicity or other promotional activities is expressly prohibited.

14.9 Export Regulations . This Agreement is subject in all respects to the laws and regulations of the United States of America, including the Export Administration Act of 1979, as amended, and any regulations thereunder. Licensee, its Affiliates, or its Sublicensees will not in any form export, re-export, resell, ship, divert, or cause to be exported, re-exported, resold, shipped, or diverted, directly or indirectly, any product or technical data or software of the other Party, or the direct product of such technical data or software, to any country for which the United States Government or any agency thereof requires an export license or other governmental approval without first obtaining such license or approval.

 

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14.10 Force Majeure . Neither Party shall lose any rights hereunder or be liable to the other Party for damages or losses (except for payment obligations) on account of failure of performance by the defaulting Party if the failure is occasioned by war, strike, fire, Act of God, earthquake, flood, lockout, embargo, governmental acts or orders or restrictions, failure of suppliers, or any other reason where failure to perform is beyond the reasonable control and not caused by the negligence or intentional conduct or misconduct of the nonperforming Party, and such Party has exerted all reasonable efforts to avoid or remedy such force majeure; provided, however, that in no event shall a Party be required to settle any labor dispute or disturbance.

14.11 Amendment and Restatement of Prior Agreement . This agreement constitutes a complete amendment and restatement of and fully supersedes the Prior Agreement between Caltech and Licensee made effective on the 19 th day of February, 2015.

 

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I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed:

 

  CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Caltech)
Date: 8/18/2017   By:  

/s/ Frederic Farina

  Name: Frederic Farina
  Title:   Chief Innhovation & Corporate Partnerships Officer
  AVEDRO, INC. (Licensee)
Date: 8/10/2017   By:  

/s/ Reza Zadno

  Name: Reza Zadno
  Title:   President & CEO

 

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Exhibit A

[***]

 

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Exhibit B

Milestones

 

[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]

 

30.

Exhibit 10.17

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

SECOND AMENDMENT TO LICENSE AGREEMENT

This amendment to the License Agreement (the “Second Amendment”), effective on the date last signed below (“Effective Date”), is by and between Avedro, Inc, a corporation having a place of business at 230 Third Ave, Waltham, MA 02451 (“Avedro”), and California Institute of Technology, a not-for-profit corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of California with an address at 1200 East California Boulevard, MC 6-32, Pasadena, California 91125 (“Caltech”; Avedro and Caltech together are the “Parties”).

Whereas , the Parties entered into that certain License Agreement, effective February 19th, 2015 (the “License Agreement”);

Whereas , the Parties made a first amendment and restatement of the License Agreement, effective July 31st, 2017 (“First Amendment”); and

Whereas , the Parties desire to further amend the License Agreement as set forth in this Second Amendment.

Now therefore , in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1.

Sections 8.1 through 8.5 are hereby deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:

8.1 Enforcement . Both Caltech and Licensee agree to promptly notify the other in writing should either Party become aware of possible infringement by a third party of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights in the Field. Caltech shall also notify The Regents.

 

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

Upon notice and exchange of evidence of such infringement, Licensee and Caltech shall meet and confer to discuss how best to proceed with enforcement. During that meeting, Licensee may request that Caltech take steps to enforce the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights. Pursuant to the terms of the IIA with The Regents, Caltech shall first, in cooperation with The Regents, use its best efforts to terminate such infringement without litigation. If such efforts are unsuccessful and if Caltech does not, within [***] of Licensee’s request, elect to file an action against the alleged infringer in the Field, Licensee will have all rights required by law to initiate an enforcement action in Licensee’s name at Licensee’s expense. Licensee shall be entitled to control any such action initiated by it, but will keep Caltech apprised of the status of such action or suit, and will consult with Caltech should any issues arise in litigation that may be impactful to Caltech and/or other Caltech licensees. If Caltech is required by law to join in such an action, or is subject to discovery requests in such an action, it will do so provided that: (a) Caltech will be represented by outside counsel of its choice; and (b) Licensee shall reimburse Caltech for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including Caltech’s outside counsel) and all internal Caltech expenses in connection with the action. Licensee may take appropriate action to terminate or prevent the infringement provided, however, that Licensee may not bring an action or enter into a settlement agreement with an accused infringer without prior written approval of Caltech, where reasonable approval will not be withheld. In no event may The Regents be joined in any suit without its prior written consent.

 

Page 2 of 6


8.2 Other Defensive Litigation . If a declaratory judgment action alleging invalidity, unenforceability or non-infringement of any of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights is brought against Licensee and/or Caltech, Caltech shall have the first right to control the defense of such action at ‘its own expense. Licensee may elect to control the defense of such action if Caltech declines to do so, and if Licensee so elects it shall bear all the costs of the action and shall make settlements only with the advice and written consent of Caltech. If mutually agreed between the Parties, Licensee may also undertake the defense of any interference, opposition or similar procedure with respect to the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights, providing that Licensee bears all the costs thereof and makes settlements only with the advice and written consent of Caltech.

8.3 Cooperation . In the event either Party takes control of a legal action or defense pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 8.2 (thus becoming the Controlling Party), the non-controlling Party shall fully cooperate with and supply all assistance reasonably requested by the Controlling Party, including by: (a) using commercially reasonable efforts to have its employees consult and testify when requested; (b) making available relevant records, papers, information, samples, specimens, and the like; and (c) joining any such action in which it is an indispensable or necessary party. The Controlling Party shall bear the reasonable expenses (including salary and travel costs) incurred by the non-controlling Party in providing such assistance and cooperation. The Controlling Party shall keep the non-controlling Party reasonably informed of the progress of the action or defense. If the non-controlling Party is not required by law to join the action, that Party shall nevertheless be entitled to participate in such action or defense at its own expense and using counsel of its choice. As a condition of controlling any action or defense involving the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 8.2, Licensee shall use its best efforts to preserve the validity and enforceability thereof.

 

Page 3 of 6


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

8.4 Settlement . If Licensee controls any action or defense under Section 8.1 or 8.2, then Licensee shall have the right to settle any claims thereunder, but only upon terms and conditions that are reasonably acceptable to Caltech. Should Licensee elect to abandon such an action or defense other than pursuant to a settlement with the alleged infringer that is reasonably acceptable to Caltech, Licensee shall give timely advance notice to Caltech which, if it so desires, may continue the action or defense. If Caltech controls any action or defense under Section 8.1 or 8.2, Caltech may not enter into a settlement agreement with a third party without prior written approval of Licensee for any settlement term(s) that may affect any claims that Licensee has or may have against the third party.

8.5 Recoveries . Any amounts paid by third parties to Caltech or Licensee as the result of an enforcement of the Exclusively Licensed Patent Rights under an action or defense pursuant to Sections 8.1 or 8.2 (including in satisfaction of a judgment or pursuant to a settlement) shall (a) first be applied to reimbursement of professional fees and expenses (e.g., attorneys’ fees and expert fees) including associated costs incurred by each Party; and (b) second to Caltech and Licensee as follows:

(i) [***];

(ii) [***]; and

(iii) [***].

[***].

 

Page 4 of 6


2.

All other terms and conditions of the License Agreement, as amended in the First Amendment, that are not modified or amended pursuant to this Second Amendment shall remain in full force and effect and unaffected hereby. This Second Amendment along with the License Agreement and First Amendment and all applicable exhibits, constitutes the complete agreement of the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof, and supersedes any other agreements, promises, representations or discussions, written or oral, concerning such subject matter. This Second Amendment may be executed in several counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one single agreement between the Parties. This Second Amendment will be of no force or effect until signed by an authorized representative of each of the Parties. After the Effective Date of this Second Amendment, every reference in the License Agreement to the “Agreement” shall mean the License Agreement as amended both by the First Amendment and this Second Amendment.

 

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In witness whereof, the duly authorized representatives of each of the Parties hereto executed this Second Amendment.

 

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY       AVEDRO, INC.
By:   

/s/ Frederic Farina

      By:   

/s/ Reza Zadno

   (Authorized Signature)          (Authorized Signature)
Name:    Frederic Farina       Name:    Reza Zadno
Title:    Chief Innovation & Corporate Partnerships Officer       Title:    CEO
Date:    10/19/2017       Date:    Oct-19-2017

 

Page 6 of 6

Exhibit 10.18

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

Framework Agreement

between

Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH,

Brunswiker Straße 50,

D - 24105 Kiel,

hereinafter referred to as “ Medio-Haus

and

Avedro Inc.,

230 3rd Ave.,

Waltham, MA 02451 USA,

hereinafter referred to as “ Avedro ”.

Preamble

Medio-Haus is EN ISO 13485: 2003 + AC: 2009 certified. A copy of the relevant certificate is attached hereto marked Exhibit 1 . In addition, Medio-Haus holds a certificate of conformity according to Exhibit V of the European Directive 93/42/EC, a copy of which is attached hereto marked Exhibit 2 .

On 1 November 2010 the Parties have already concluded a framework agreement on the supply of the medical product Medio-Cross 0.1 % with Dextran 20 % to Avedro by Medio-Haus. This agreement terminated due to expiration. Nevertheless, the Parties herewith mutually cancel the aforementioned framework agreement dated 1 November 2010 and now enter into the following agreement:

Section 1

 

(1)

Medio-Haus undertakes to sell and supply exclusively to Avedro all Medio-Cross products as well as all other products currently produced by Medio-Haus in the ophthalmologic field for the purpose of Keratoconus treatment with the ingredient Riboflavin, all listed under Exhibit  3 to this Agreement (hereinafter: “ Product(s) ”) during the term of this Agreement and in accordance with the terms agreed herein.

 


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(2)

Avedro hereby undertakes vis-à-vis Medio-Haus to pay the amount of EUR 500,000.00 for the exclusivity commitment granted under Section 1. Payment shall be made in two instalments, i.e. in the amount of EUR [***] within [***] following the execution of this Agreement and in the amount of EUR [***] on [***]; in this context, the aforementioned deadlines and dates describe the point in time at which the respective instalments are to be received by Medio-Haus the latest.

 

(3)

The Parties agree that – irrespective of the provisions under Section 1 paragraph (1) – Medio-Haus shall remain entitled to continue to sell Products in the amount of maximum of [***] to the ophthalmic clinic [***]. Such right and/or its exercise shall not affect Avedro’s obligations under Section 1 paragraph (2).

 

(4)

[***].

 

(5)

Medio-Haus undertakes to provide Products which are brought to market under the product names of “Vibex” and/or “Paracel” exclusively to Avedro. For the avoidance of doubt: This shall also apply in the event of an administrative or judicial decision under Section 1 paragraph (4).

Section 2

 

(1)

No later than [***] prior to the commencement of each calendar quarter, Avedro shall furnish Medio-Haus with a rolling forecast which sets out Avedro’s prospective Product requirements – broken down into the individual Products listed in Exhibit 3 – for the following [***]. The quantities stipulated in the forecast for the [***] shall constitute a binding commitment by Avedro to place purchase orders for these quantities on Medio-Haus, and, in the event that Medio-Haus confirms the order, to take delivery of the ordered Products and to pay for same. The quantities contained in the forecast for the remaining [***] shall constitute a non-binding estimate only.

 

(2)

Product orders shall be provided to Medio-Haus in writing. Medio-Haus will promptly respond to any such orders. If an order is accepted, a separate agreement based on this Agreement thus being concluded, Medio-Haus will simultaneously provide to Avedro the expected, non-binding delivery date. A delivery period of approximately [***] is to be expected, unless Medio-Haus has the Product in stock. Medio-Haus shall be obliged to accept all of Avedro’s orders not exceeding the quantities stipulated in Section 4 paragraph (1) of this Agreement during the mentioned time-period.

 

(3)

Products will only be supplied based on the following procedure:

Upon Product completion and packaging for shipment, Medio-Haus will notify Avedro accordingly by fax and include the following annexes:

 

  a)

An analysis certificate relating to the product batch from which the delivery originates, including a declaration that the batch was released. A sample document of such a certificate is attached hereto marked Exhibit 4 .

 


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

  b)

A batch-related declaration of conformity from Medio-Haus. A sample certificate is attached hereto marked Exhibit 5 .

 

  c)

A copy of the analysis certificate including the component ratio analysis, the confirmation of the endotoxins, freedom from pseudomonas, and sterility, from and by a laboratory commissioned by Medio-Haus, currently [***]. A sample document is attached hereto marked Exhibit 6 .

 

  d)

A copy of the confirmation regarding sterilization with ethylene-oxide in accordance with a recognized and validated sterilization procedure from and by an entity commissioned by Medio-Haus, currently [***]. A sample document is attached hereto marked Exhibit 7 .

 

  e)

An invoice issued on the date of confirmation that the Products are ready to be shipped.

Medio-Haus will make the purchased Products available for collection [***] at the relevant registered office of Medio-Haus pursuant to Section 10 para. 1 sentence 1 German Companies Act. Avedro shall commission and pay a shipping entity for the collection of the Products, and shall, prior to the collection of the Products, in writing or by fax inform Medio-Haus of the name of the entity that will collect the Products.

The price to be paid for the purchased Products shall be due within [***] upon issuance of the invoice.

 

(4)

The prices are determined by Medio-Haus’ price list applicable at the time whereas potential increases in prices must be (i) reasonable, demonstrable and non-arbitrary, and (ii) notified in writing in advance with reasonable notice of minimum [***].

 

(5)

Should Medio-Haus require any information and/or documents from Avedro in connection with the sale and/or export of the Products to Avedro in order to comply with public obligations, e.g. notification obligations or tax obligations, Avedro shall provide these to Medio-Haus without charge.

Section 3

 

(1)

The German statutory provisions shall govern the liability of Medio-Haus, including its liability for defects, unless otherwise provided for in this Agreement.

 

(2)

Medio-Haus gives no warranty that the Product may be certified or licensed for any other purpose than that set out in the certificates listed in the Preamble hereof, and/or that the Product may be sold or otherwise used. In particular, Medio-Haus shall not be obligated to procure that any certificates and licenses other than those listed in the Preamble hereof are issued.

 


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(3)

In the event that Medio-Haus and/or its shareholders, managing directors, employees and/or other representatives should be held liable by any third party due to and/or in relation to any Products sold and delivered to Avedro, Avedro shall on demand indemnify Medio-Haus from any liability vis-à-vis the claimant. This indemnity shall not affect the existence of any warranty claims, which Avedro may have against Medio-Haus.

 

(4)

Avedro hereby undertakes to Medio-Haus to maintain a liability insurance covering all risks arising from or in conjunction with the sale and distribution of the Products. Upon request by Medio-Haus, Avedro will provide a copy of the respective insurance policy to Medio-Haus.

 

(5)

Medio-Haus shall only be liable for damage caused intentionally or by gross negligence. Any liability for indirect or consequential damages, including for loss of profit, is excluded.

Section 4

 

(1)

Avedro commits to Medio-Haus to [***] from the product lines under numbers 1.-5. in Exhibit  3 and, in addition, [***] from the product lines under numbers 6.-9. in Exhibit  3 . The achievement of this [***] shall be determined [***], provided that Avedro shall have the right to [***].

 

(2)

Until and for as long as Avedro has fully complied and complies with its obligations in terms of Section 4 paragraph (1) above, save for Section 1 paragraph (3) above, Medio-Haus will not sell the Products, to any parties or distribution partners other than Avedro. Should Avedro not fully meet its obligations under Section 4 paragraph (1), its exclusivity commitment pursuant to Section 1 paragraph (1) shall forfeit, i.e. Medio-Haus shall then be entitled to supply the Products to third parties, without any claims by Avedro for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 paragraph (2) and without incurring any other claims by Avedro.

Section 5

 

(1)

In the event that the business of Medio-Haus will be transferred to another company by way of a legal transaction, Medio-Haus undertakes to ensure that the legal successor will assume the rights and obligations under this Agreement. In this case Avedro undertakes to issue any declarations necessary for the access of the legal successor to this Agreement. Medio-Haus shall ensure in the context of transferring its business to another entity – whether such transfer occurs through an asset deal or the transfer of the majority interest (share deal) – that (i) Avedro is notified thereof reasonably in advance, however, in no event later than [***] following the execution of the transfer, and (ii) that the company taking over the business continues to perform its supply obligations towards Avedro under Section 1 paragraphs (1) and (5) for any such product orders made before or after the transfer of business, a period of at least [***] after the execution of the transfer on an exclusive supply basis.

 


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(2)

In the event that Avedro ceases its activities in the relevant business area, or in the event that Avedro itself starts producing the Products or other products that could replace the Products, or Avedro commissions other entities other than Medio-Haus with the production of such products or purchases such products from other entities, the exclusivity commitment under Section 1 paragraphs (1) and 4 (2) shall forfeit, i.e. Medio-Haus shall then be entitled to supply the Products to third parties without any claims by Avedro for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 (2) and without incurring any other claims by Avedro. Notwithstanding the provisions set forth in this Section 5 (2), Avedro, however, shall be entitled to produce by itself in the USA ophthalmologic Products with the active pharmaceutical ingredient Riboflavin on the basis of an own respective US FDA GMP admission in accordance with the rules provided thereunder, provided such products are solely marked and used in the USA as well as in countries in which a US FDA GMP admission is required and a CE marking not sufficient, and provided the name MedioCross or any confusingly similar name will not be used for such Products. Avedro shall bear the burden to prove the compliance with the requirements set forth above.

 

(3)

Avedro shall not be entitled to assign any rights arising out of and/or in connection with this Agreement to third parties or transfer them in any other way to legal successors. Avedro shall also not be entitled to permit third parties to exercise rights arising from this Agreement. Should Avedro breach the terms of this Section 5 paragraph (3), the exclusivity commitments under Section 1 paragraphs (1) and 4 (2) shall forfeit – regardless of the invalidity of the assignment to a third party –, i.e. Medio-Haus shall then be entitled to supply the Products to third parties without any claims by Avedro for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 paragraph (2) and without incurring any other claims by Avedro. In the event that a third party acquires the majority of votes or of shares in Avedro, Avedro shall have the right to terminate this Agreement with [***] prior notice. In case Avedro terminates hereunder, Avedro shall neither have any claims for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 paragraph (2), nor for any other compensation claims against Medio-Haus.

Section 6

 

(1)

This Agreement has a term of 15 years and shall terminate automatically without further notice upon expiry of this term. In the event of such termination by expiry under this Section 6 paragraph (1) sentence 1, Avedro shall neither have any claims for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 paragraph (2), nor for any other compensation claims against Medio-Haus.

 

(2)

To the extent this Agreement does not contain any deviating provisions, it is only terminable otherwise for important reason (“ Kündigung aus wichtigem Grund ”). In the event of a termination for important reason Avedro shall have a right for reimbursement of the payments made under Section 1 paragraph (2) only in the event that Medio-Haus is responsible for the important reason.

Section 7

 

(1)

Each party acknowledges and agrees that its general terms and conditions ( AGB ) shall neither apply to this Agreement, nor the purchase orders concluded and/or to be concluded between the Parties in terms thereof.

 


(2)

This Agreement and any purchase orders concluded on the basis thereof, and/or any disputes arising therefrom and/or in conjunction therewith, shall be exclusively governed and be subject to the law of the Federal Republic of Germany. The application of the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), dated 11 April 1980, and the provisions of the private international law (conflict of laws) are specifically excluded.

 

(3)

Place of jurisdiction for any and all disputes arising from and/or in conjunction with this framework agreement and/or any and all agreements concluded on the basis thereof shall be Kiel, Federal Republic of Germany.

 

(4)

The language of this framework agreement is German.

Section 8

 

(1)

This Agreement shall replace and comes in lieu of the preliminary agreement between the Parties as of May 21, 2014. This Agreement contains all the express provisions agreed on by the parties with regard to the subject matter hereof, and collateral or other agreements related hereto do not exist. Amendments to this Agreement shall be effected in writing ( Schriftform ). This also applies to the waiver of the written form requirement.

 

(2)

The invalidity of individual provisions of this Agreement does not affect the validity of the remaining provisions and the existence of this Agreement.

 

Kiel, June 12, 2014       Waltham, June 12, 2014   

/s/ Thomas Steffens

     

/s/ David Muller

  
                    Medio-Haus                           Avedro   

 


[***] = TWO (2) PAGES OF CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT 10.16, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

[***]

 


3

List of products ( 2014-06-07 ):

1. MedioCross D

2. MedioCross H

3. MedioCross M

4. MedioCross TE

5. MedioCross L

6. Vibex

7. Vibex XTRA

8. Vibex Rapid

9. Paracel

 

 

 

.


[***] = EIGHT (8) PAGES OF CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT 10.16, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

[***]

 

9.

Exhibit 10.19

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

Amendment No. 1 to the Framework Agreement

between

Medio-Haus-Medizinprodukte GmbH,

Brunswiker Straße 50,

D - 24105 Kiel,

hereinafter referred to as “ Medio-Haus

and

Avedro Inc.,

230 3rd Ave.,

Waltham, MA 02451 USA,

hereinafter referred to as “ Avedro ”.

On June 12, 2014 the Parties entered into a framework agreement regarding the sale and supply of products manufactured by Medio-Haus by Medio-Haus to Avedro („ Framework Agreement “).

Section 1

The Parties agree that Section 4 paragraph 1 of the Framework Agreement shall be amended and read as follows:

“Avedro commits to Medio-Haus to [***] from the product lines under numbers 1.-5. in Exhibit  3 and, in addition, [***] from the product lines under numbers 6.-9. in Exhibit  3 . The achievement of this [***] shall be determined [***], provided that Avedro shall have the right to [***].

Section 2

The other provisions of the Framework Agreement shall remain unchanged.


Kiel, June 30, 2014            Waltham, June 2014

/s/ Thomas Steffens

     

/s/ David Muller

Medio-Haus       Avedro

Exhibit 10.20

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

MASTER SERVICES AGREEMENT

This Master Services Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of November 27, 2012 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals (the “COMPANY”), a company with its principal place of business at 870 Badger Circle, Grafton WI 53024 U.S.A. and Avedro, Inc. (“Avedro”) with offices at 230 Third Avenue, Waltham MA 02451 U.S.A. Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals is a trade name used by Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Cedarburg”) and its wholly owned subsidiary, InBHauser Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (“Hauser”). This MSA, however, is between Avedro and the legal entity of Cedarburg only; Hauser is not party to this agreement. COMPANY and Avedro are sometimes collectively referred to herein as the “Parties,” and each individually as a “Party.”

WHEREAS, COMPANY is in the business of providing pharmaceutical research and development, analytical method development and validation, and manufacturing services, Avedro desires to have COMPANY perform manufacturing services (the “Services”) for Avedro from time to time relating to Avedro proprietary compounds, as more fully set forth in Contracts to be attached to this Agreement and incorporated herein by reference, and COMPANY to perform such Services for Avedro on the terms and conditions contained herein and in any applicable task orders.

NOW, THEREFORE, FOR GOOD AND VALUABLE CONSIDERATION, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

1.

Services . During the Term of this Agreement, COMPANY shall perform the Services and provide the Deliverables (as defined in Section 8 hereof) in accordance with the applicable Contracts (as defined in Section 2 hereof). COMPANY is providing the Services under this Agreement on a non-exclusive basis, and reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to render similar services to other persons or entities at any time.

 

2.

Contracts .

a) From time to time during the Term of this Agreement COMPANY will collaborate with Avedro in the preparation of a written request for Services pursuant to this Agreement, which request shall be hereto, a “Contract”. The Contract shall describe in reasonably sufficient detail (i) the Services to be performed, (ii) the Deliverables to be provided to Avedro, (iii) any special terms and conditions applicable to such Contract, (iv) an estimate of the total costs and payment schedule therefore, and (v) the estimated schedule for the provision of such Services and such Deliverables.

b) COMPANY shall review each proposed Contract and shall provide comments regarding the Contract to Avedro within [***] after COMPANY’ s receipt of the proposed Contract. COMPANY and Avedro shall use reasonable commercial efforts to negotiate the scope, terms and conditions of each such Contract in a timely fashion.

 

1.


c) If COMPANY and Avedro reach agreement regarding the scope, terms and conditions of a Contract, the Parties shall execute a copy of a mutually acceptable Contract reflecting such agreement. Each signed Contract shall be effective as of the date set forth in the Contract, shall be incorporated into and made a part of this Agreement, and shall be binding on the Parties. In the event of a conflict between the terms and conditions of any Contract and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall control.

d) COMPANY shall initiate the performance of and shall perform the Services under each Contract in accordance with the requirements thereof.

 

3.

Deliverables .

All Deliverables as developed by COMPANY for Avedro pursuant to any Contract shall be delivered to Avedro in the form and in the manner set forth in the applicable Contract.

 

4.

Confidential Information .

a) Protection of Confidential Information. Each Party agrees not to transfer or otherwise disclose any information disclosed to it by the other Party, irrespective of the form of communication (the “Confidential Information”) to any third party. Each Party shall (i) give access to such Confidential Information solely to those employees, representatives, agents and advisors (collectively, “Representatives) with a need to have access thereto and who are bound by obligations of confidentiality similar to those set forth in this Agreement, and (ii) take the same security precautions to protect against disclosure or unauthorized use of such Confidential Information that the Party takes with its own Confidential Information. In no event shall a Party apply less than a reasonable standard of care to prevent such disclosure or unauthorized use. The term “Confidential Information” does not include any specific portion of information, to the extent established by competent written proof, which:

 

  (i)

is or becomes generally available to the public other than through the fault of the receiving Party;

 

  (ii)

was within the receiving Party’s possession or otherwise known to the receiving Party prior to its being furnished to the receiving Party by or on behalf of the disclosing Party; provided, that the source of such information was not known by the receiving Party or its Representatives to be bound by a confidentiality obligation to the disclosing Party; or

 

  (iii)

is, was or becomes available to the receiving Party on a non-confidential basis from a source other than by or on behalf of the disclosing Party; provided, that such source is not bound by a confidentiality obligation to the disclosing Party.

b) Disclosure of the Existence of this Agreement. In the event either Party agrees to disclose the existence and general purpose of this Agreement (including the issuance of a press release), the specific terms and conditions contained herein shall not be disclosed to third parties, unless such disclosure is approved in writing by both Parties prior to such disclosure, or is required to be disclosed pursuant to any order of a court of competent jurisdiction or duly authorized regulatory body, or by government regulation; provided, that the Party ordered to make disclosure gives the other Party sufficient prior notice to contest such order.

 

2.


c) Effect of Termination. Upon termination of this Agreement and the request of the disclosing Party, all Confidential Information (and all copies thereof) furnished to the receiving Party or its Representatives by or on behalf of the disclosing Party pursuant hereto, shall be returned to the disclosing Party or destroyed and no copy thereof shall be retained, except (i) that a single copy of all such Confidential Information may be retained by the receiving Party’s internal or outside legal counsel solely for the purposes of determining its obligations hereunder, and (ii) the receiving Party may retain one or more copies of Confidential Information if the receiving Party is required to retain one or more copies of any such Confidential Information to comply with applicable laws, rules or regulations. Notwithstanding the return or destruction of the Confidential Information, the receiving Party and its Representatives will continue to be bound by its obligations of confidentiality and other obligations hereunder.

d) Equitable Relief. The Parties acknowledge that remedies at law may be inadequate to protect the disclosing Party against any actual or threatened breach by the receiving Party or its Representatives of the confidentiality provisions of this Agreement, and, without prejudice to any other rights and remedies otherwise available to the disclosing Party, the disclosing Party may seek injunctive relief in the disclosing Party’s favor to bar the use or disclosure of Confidential Information without proof of actual damages.

 

5.

Compliance With Government Regulations and Other Responsibilities

Duties and Responsibilities. COMPANY will perform the Services in accordance with all applicable government laws and regulatory requirements, including those relating to current Good Manufacturing Practices (“cGMP”), as required by regulatory authorities, including, but not limited, to the United States Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”), the Chinese Food and Drug Administration (“SFDA”), and the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products, (“EMEA”) which apply to the Services. COMPANY represents and warrants to Avedro that it has and will maintain during the Term, all government permits, including without limitation health, safety and environmental permits, necessary for the conduct of the actions and procedures that it undertakes pursuant to this Agreement.

a) In assuming responsibility for undertaking this Agreement, COMPANY will:

 

  1)

Perform chemistry research, process evaluation and development, and manufacturing of specialty chemicals as defined by Avedro for any project entered pursuant to a Contract under this Agreement (each, a “Project”);

 

  2)

Perform technical and chemistry consultation, technical assistance and product development, and CMC regulatory assistance as defined in the Contracts or as necessary throughout the product development process, for any Project; and if necessary, develop analytical methods for profiling end product, intermediates, impurities, or degradation products;

 

  3)

Develop or utilize existing analytical methods, which will allow determination of the identity and quantification of the purity of each end product compound that Avedro requests COMPANY to manufacture (each, a “Avedro Compound”) or any intermediate synthesized or manufactured by COMPANY in connection with the manufacture of Avedro Compounds;

 

3.


  4)

Provide Avedro Compounds to Avedro as expeditiously as possible, according to the timeline specified in the Contracts;

 

  5)

Supply Avedro Compound under this Agreement that will conform to the product specifications as set forth in the applicable Contract, and such conformance will be verified in accordance with the testing standards and procedures specified therein. Provide to Avedro certificates of analysis on any Avedro Compounds, or, at the request of Avedro, other chemicals (including without limitation any intermediate manufactured by COMPANY in connection with the manufacture of Avedro Compounds) delivered to Avedro (or shipped to a third party at the direction of Avedro), provided to Avedro under non-cGMP conditions, and provide to Avedro Certificates of Analysis, Campaign Summary, and Product Release Documentation on any of Avedro Compounds provided to Avedro under cGMP conditions in accordance with applicable regulations by the FDA and the International Conferences on Harmonization (“ICH”) Q7A Guidance or, where appropriate, applicable regulations by other international regulatory authorities specified in the Contracts;

 

  6)

Perform experiments using standard and accepted good laboratory practices and current Good Manufacturing Practices, techniques and record keeping and sample and retention procedures, as appropriate to any Project;

 

  7)

Interact with Avedro’s scientists and management as is deemed appropriate in the conduct of a fully integrated drug discovery and development project team effort;

 

  8)

Communicate with and respond to Avedro, to its satisfaction, and upon all requests, regarding any Projects;

 

  9)

Provide research reports and complete documentation as specified in the relevant Contracts, where COMPANY is performing actual process research and development, to Avedro describing the detailed methods, results and including full experimental procedures with supporting laboratory notebook pages, due upon mutually agreed upon interim dates and upon the completion of any Project;

 

  10)

Maintain specifications and appropriate testing programs and retain samples for all cGMP batches. The retain sample program will be based on the ICH Q7A guidance for the purpose of potential future evaluation of the quality of API batches. The program will include retain samples of cGMP API batches, isolated cGMP intermediates, and critical cGMP raw materials as identified by the Avedro and COMPANY. The retain amount must be sufficient to conduct at least two full specification analyses and be stored in containers that are equivalent to or more protective than those used for the bulk packaging. The maintenance and retention period shall extend up to one year after the expiration date of the API batch or as agreed per Contract. For non-GMP batches, samples of the API batch shall be

 

4.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

  retained per Avedro as agreed per Contract. The duration of the maintenance period and the samples and quantities to be retained for a Project shall be mutually agreed by the parties. After such maintenance period, COMPANY shall give notice to Avedro in writing if COMPANY intends to dispose of such samples, and shall allow Avedro [***] days from the time such notice is sent to request such samples before disposing of such samples. In the event that Avedro requests such samples, COMPANY, at Avedro’s expense, shall deliver such samples to Avedro. Starting materials and reagents will be sourced from qualified vendors or from vendors qualified by Avedro, in which case appropriate acceptance criteria and corresponding analytical methods need to be defined and implemented in conjunction with Avedro. Avedro will retain a right to audit COMPANY approved vendors;

 

  11)

Retain experimental records and laboratory notebooks containing detailed experimental descriptions and data generated from the Services performed under this Agreement for a period of [***]. All such records and data shall be deemed Avedro’s Confidential Information. Upon Avedro’s request, COMPANY shall provide to Avedro copies of all such experimental records and laboratory notebooks containing information from any Project for retention in Avedro’s archives. A charge of $[***] may apply for procurement of records subsequent to completion of a Project under the applicable Contract. After such [***] period, COMPANY shall give notice to Avedro in writing if COMPANY intends to dispose of such experimental records and laboratory notebooks, and shall allow Avedro [***] from the time such notice is sent to request Avedro copies or original copies before disposing of such experimental records and laboratory notebooks. In the event that Avedro requests copies or original copies of such experimental records and laboratory notebooks, COMPANY, at Avedro’s expense, shall deliver such copies or original copies to Avedro;

 

  12)

Maintain specifications and appropriate testing programs for manufactured products using analytical methods specific to such products, maintained up-to-date and appropriately validated as required pursuant to a Contract, and regularly calibrate and qualify all equipment used in the manufacture, control and storage of manufactured products and components thereof. Sub-contracting of the manufacturing of any product manufactured under the terms of this Agreement to another party is not permitted without submission of the necessary regulatory approvals, if any, and receipt of prior written approval by Avedro;

 

  13)

Prior to delivery of any batch of Avedro product, test, or have tested by a qualified sub-contractor subject to prior written approval by Avedro, each batch of product manufactured according to the specifications for such product, and release such batch to Avedro on the basis of manufacturing and controls documentation review. Provide a copy of the batch records for such batch, together with written confirmation that such batch records have been reviewed and approved by COMPANY’s quality assurance unit. Any major change (as defined in the current applicable regulations) to the manufacturing or controls pertaining to validated portions of the process and its corresponding instructions

 

5.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

  or methods, or to the documents prepared by COMPANY on behalf of Avedro and detailing specific instructions together with all associated in-process controls affecting the manufacturing or testing of processes or product, will require the written agreement of Avedro prior to implementation. Any major change to equipment, or materials used for the manufacturing and quality control and storage of product will require the written agreement of Avedro, as well as being appropriately validated as required pursuant to a Contract, prior to implementation by COMPANY;

 

  14)

Provide Avedro with all documentation of manufacturing and testing of the product, as appropriate in accordance with Section 5(a)(5) and 5(a)(13), for purposes of review prior to authorization of shipment;

 

  15)

Ship all shipments of Avedro Product [***] COMPANY’s facility, to the destination(s) specified by Avedro in the applicable Contract. Unless otherwise provided in the specifications or other written instructions provided by Avedro, COMPANY will package and ship Avedro products in accordance with COMPANY’s customary practices for pharmaceutical products. [***].

 

  16)

Avedro may reject any portion of any shipment of Avedro product and/or Avedro Compound that does not conform to the specifications. In order to reject delivery of an order, Avedro must give written notice to COMPANY of Avedro’s rejection of any delivery within [***] after receipt of such delivery, which notice shall specify Avedro’s reason(s) for rejection. If no such notice of rejection is received within [***] of delivery of the order, Avedro shall be deemed to have accepted such delivery. The foregoing shall not apply if a product does not conform to the specifications, but Avedro could not reasonably have detected such nonconformance during Avedro’s inspection of a Compound, to the extent that Avedro notifies COMPANY of such nonconformance within [***] after the Compound has been received by Avedro; provided, however, that such nonconformance is not caused by event’s occurring subsequent to receipt by Avedro. Product rejected by Avedro will be returned to COMPANY at COMPANY’s request [***]. [***]. Within [***] of receiving any notice of rejection from Avedro, COMPANY will respond stating whether (i) it accepts the rejection or (ii) it disputes the rejection, in which case the Parties will refer such dispute to a mutually acceptable independent third party with the appropriate expertise to assess the conformity or non-conformity of the rejected Avedro product to specifications. Such independent third party shall test the applicable product and shall determine whether such Avedro product and/or Avedro Compound met or did not meet the applicable specifications. The Parties agree that such third party’s determination shall be final and binding upon the Parties. The Party against whom the independent third party rules shall bear the costs of testing by such independent third party.

 

6.


  17)

Advise Avedro of any observations arising from inspections at the facilities of COMPANY carried out by a regulatory authority (e.g. FDA), regarding issues that might have an impact on the manufacture, control, storage and shipment activities for any Avedro product. If COMPANY receives any regulatory letter or comments from a regulatory authority in connection with the manufacture of any Avedro product requiring a response or action by COMPANY, including a Form 483 or warning letter, it shall provide Avedro with a copy of such response for Avedro’s review a reasonable time prior to submission of the response. If any regulatory authority inspects the facilities related specifically to the manufacturing, packaging, testing or storage of any Avedro product, COMPANY will inform Avedro immediately (by telephone and, if possible, in writing) upon learning of such inspection and shall supply Avedro with copies of any related correspondence or other documentation, or portions thereof relating such Avedro product. COMPANY will allow a representative of Avedro to be present onsite if desired but not to be present in the room where the inspection is underway or to interact with the inspector during the inspection unless requested to do so by COMPANY.

 

  18)

Prepare an annual update, where applicable, to the manufacturing (CMC) portion of regulatory submissions. These updates may be submitted by Avedro or COMPANY, as agreed by the parties. A charge of may apply for preparation of the annual updates, and will be addressed under the applicable Contract.;

 

  19)

Assist Avedro in providing such information regarding its manufacturing processes and procedures for the Avedro Compound as may be necessary and reasonably requested by Avedro to support regulatory approvals.

 

  20)

Permit Avedro, after reasonable advanced notice, to audit the manufacturing and controls of its products under this Agreement at the premises of COMPANY, and provide a written response to any audit findings communicated to COMPANY in an audit report.;

 

  21)

Ensure and document that all personnel engaged in the manufacture, processing controls, holding, packing and /or testing of products shall have the education, training and experience necessary to perform assigned job functions; and

 

  22)

Be actively involved in technology transfers of the synthetic procedures, chemistry, and process development of Avedro Compounds, or other chemicals (including without limitation any intermediate manufactured by COMPANY in connection with the synthetic procedures, chemistry, and process development of Avedro Compounds) delivered to Avedro (or shipped to a third party at the direction of Avedro), to other third party vendors by supply of available documentation, detailed experimentals, and active personal contact and consultation when requested by Avedro. Any travel expense incurred by COMPANY in this activity is referenced under Section 7(b).

b) Change in Government Regulations. Should such government regulatory requirements be changed, COMPANY will make every effort to satisfy the new requirements. In the event that compliance with such new regulatory requirements necessitates a change in the Services, COMPANY will submit to Avedro a revised technical and cost proposal for Avedro’s acceptance prior to making any changes in a Contract or the Services.

 

7.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

c) Regulatory Conflict. In the event of a conflict in government regulations, Avedro will designate the applicable regulations to be followed by COMPANY in its performance of the Services. If COMPANY notes a conflict in government regulations, COMPANY will notify Avedro, in writing, within [***], and Avedro will designate the applicable regulations to be followed by COMPANY in its performance of the Services.

d) Agency Violation. In the event that the COMPANY is advised in writing by any governmental agency of a possible violation of a governmental regulation, COMPANY agrees to notify Avedro, in writing, as soon as reasonably practicable but in any event no later than [***] after receipt of such government notice.

e) Personnel. Unless otherwise specifically agreed to and set forth in a Contract, or as otherwise set forth hereunder, there shall attach no restrictions on COMPANY in respect of its personnel being in charge of performance of the Services from time to time. If a specific person has been nominated to perform the Services, Avedro shall at the reasonable request of COMPANY accept a replacement of such person after review of the person’s qualifications and agreement that COMPANY has nominated a person with adequate skills to continue performance of the Services. COMPANY will not employ any subcontractor or consultant to perform the Services or any portion thereof without the prior approval of Avedro.

f) Non-debarment.

 

  1)

COMPANY warrants and represents that it has never employed and is not currently employing an individual who has been debarred by the FDA pursuant to 21 U.S.C. § 335a (a) or (b); 306(A) or 306(B) of the Generic Drug Enforcement Act of 1992, disqualified as a testing facility under CFR Part 58, Subpart K, or disqualified or restricted under 21 CFR 312.70 or any similar laws or regulations of any foreign jurisdiction (hereinafter “Debarred Individual”) or from providing services in any capacity to a person that has an approved or pending drug product application, or an employer, employee or partner of a Debarred Individual.

 

  2)

COMPANY warrants and represents that it has never been and is not currently a corporation, partnership or association that has been debarred by the FDA pursuant to 21 U.S.C. § 335a (a) or (b) (hereinafter “Debarred Entity”) from submitting or assisting in the submission of an abbreviated new drug application, or an employee, partner, shareholder, member, subsidiary or Affiliate of a Debarred Entity.

 

  3)

COMPANY further warrants and represents that COMPANY has no knowledge of any circumstances which may affect the accuracy of foregoing warranties and representations, including but not limited to FDA investigations of or debarment proceedings against COMPANY or any person or entity performing the Services or rendering assistance relating to activities taken pursuant to this Agreement, and COMPANY will immediately notify Avedro if COMPANY becomes aware of any such circumstances during the Term of the Agreement.

 

8.


  4)

COMPANY will not use in any capacity the services of any individual, corporation, partnership, or association that has been (a) debarred under 21 U.S.C. § 335a or (b) disqualified as a clinical investigator under the provision of 21 C.F.R. § 312.70.

 

  5)

If COMPANY becomes aware of the debarment or disqualification of any such individual, corporation, partnership, or association providing Services under this Agreement, COMPANY shall immediately notify Avedro.

g) Product Warranty. COMPANY represents and warrants to Avedro that all Avedro product and Avedro Compound delivered by COMPANY hereunder (i) shall be manufactured and packaged in compliance with cGMP (except as expressly set forth in a Contract) and all applicable laws, (ii) shall conform to the applicable specifications in effect at the time of delivery, and (iii) shall be free and clear of any lien or encumbrance at the time of delivery.

 

6.

Indemnification; Insurance .

a) Avedro Obligations. Avedro agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless COMPANY, its affiliated entities, officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any claims, demands, investigations, suits or actions (each, a “Claim”) for any and all liabilities, losses, damages, penalties, costs or expenses (including without limitation court costs, legal fees, awards or settlements) asserted by a third party to the extent arising out of or resulting from (i) the possession, research, development, manufacture, use, sale, offer for sale, transportation, import or storage by Avedro or its licensee of the Avedro products and Avedro Compounds supplied to Avedro hereunder, (ii) any material breach by Avedro of this Agreement, provided, however, that Avedro’s indemnity obligations under this Section 6 shall not apply to the extent arising out of or resulting from COMPANY’s negligence, willful malfeasance, COMPANY’ s breach of representations or warranties set forth in this Agreement or applicable Contract, or COMPANY’s failure to follow the terms and protocols specified in a given Contract in performance of the obligations and responsibilities set forth in this Agreement.

b) COMPANY Obligations. COMPANY shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Avedro, its affiliated entities, officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any Claims for any and all liabilities, losses, damages, penalties, costs or expenses (including without limitation court costs, legal fees, awards or settlements) asserted by a third party to the extent arising out of or resulting from (i) COMPANY’s negligence or willful malfeasance, (ii) any material breach by COMPANY of this Agreement, or (iii) COMPANY’s failure to follow the terms and protocols specified in a given Contract in performance of the obligations and responsibilities set forth in this Agreement; provided, however that COMPANY’s indemnity obligations under this Section 6 shall not apply to the extent arising directly from Avedro’s negligence or willful malfeasance.

 

9.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

c) Notification. Each person or entity seeking indemnification under this Section 6 shall, as a condition thereto, notify the indemnifying Party within [***] after the receipt of notice of the Claim; provided, however, that the indemnifying Party shall not be released from its obligations under this Section 6 if the failure to notify the indemnifying Party within [***] does not materially prejudice the defense of such Claim. The indemnifying Party shall have the right to select defense counsel and to direct the defense or, with the consent of the indemnified Party (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) settlement of, any Claim. In the event that representation of an indemnified Party and the indemnifying Party by the same counsel would be a conflict of interest for such counsel, the indemnified Party may select its own independent counsel without relieving the indemnifying Party of its obligations under this Section 6. Under no circumstances shall an indemnified Party settle or otherwise compromise any Claim without the indemnifying Party’s prior written consent.

d) Insurance. Each Party shall, at its own expense, obtain and maintain throughout the Term and for a period of time thereafter consistent with its obligation to indemnify the other Party pursuant to this Section 6, general liability insurance providing protection in the amount of at least [***] dollars ($[***]) per occurrence and [***] dollars ($[***]) in aggregate against any Claims based upon any act or alleged act of such Party pursuant to this Agreement. Each Party shall furnish to the other Party upon request a certificate of insurance evidencing compliance with the provisions of this Section 6(d). The existence of such coverage shall in no way limit either Party’s liability or obligations hereunder.

 

7.

Compensation .

a) Payment Terms. Avedro shall pay COMPANY in accordance with the payment terms specified in the applicable Contract. All payments under this Agreement shall be made in U.S. dollars by check or in a form mutually agreeable to the Parties.

b) Expenses. Avedro shall reimburse COMPANY, for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, to be mutually agreed to in writing by the Parties pursuant to beginning the work specified in the performance of the Services under this Agreement. Such expenses will be invoiced to Avedro monthly and payable by Avedro within [***] after the date of receipt.

 

8.

Ownership of Data; Intellectual Property .

Avedro shall own all rights, title and interest in all materials, reagents, documents, information, programs, syntheses, procedures and suggestions of any kind and description: i) supplied to COMPANY by Avedro or ii) generated, conceived or developed by COMPANY in the course of or as a result of the Services performed hereunder or as a result of Avedro’s disclosure of Confidential Information to COMPANY (the “Deliverables”). Avedro shall also own all rights, title and interest in any ideas, inventions, discoveries, techniques, methods, processes, trade secrets or other know-how, whether patentable or not, that may evolve from the materials, reagents, documents, information, programs, syntheses and suggestions above described or in the course of or as a result of the Services performed under this Agreement or as a result of Avedro’s disclosure of Confidential Information to COMPANY. COMPANY hereby assigns and agrees to assign or cause to be assigned all rights to any and all of the foregoing to Avedro. COMPANY hereby represents that all

 

10.


employees and any other persons acting on its behalf during the performance of the Services hereunder shall be obligated to assign to Avedro all inventions, techniques, methods, processes, trade secrets or other know-how conceived or developed by such employees or other persons as a result of the Services performed under this Agreement. COMPANY, its employees and other persons acting on its behalf during the performance of the Services hereunder agree to cooperate with Avedro in taking all steps which Avedro believes necessary or desirable to secure its rights in this property.

 

9.

Exclusivity .

During the Term, COMPANY will manufacture Riboflavin 5’-Phosphate Sodium on an exclusive basis for Avedro.

 

10.

Inspection .

Avedro shall have the right, upon reasonable notice and during normal business hours, to gain access to the facilities of COMPANY where the Services are performed to inspect and make copies (at Avedro’s expense) of the records of COMPANY relating to the Services, and to interview personnel of COMPANY responsible for performing the Services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any such access may be restricted by COMPANY in accordance with its standard security protocols and procedures, and shall be subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations regarding access to medical records.

 

11.

Term and Termination .

a) Effective Date. This Agreement shall be effective as of the Effective Date upon signature of both Parties’ execution of this Agreement, and shall thereafter remain in full force and effect until either Party terminates this Agreement in accordance with this Section 11 (the “Term”).

b) COMPANY Termination. COMPANY may terminate this Agreement and/or any specific Contract(s) at any time and for any reason upon a minimum of nine (9) months prior written notice.

c) Avedro Termination. Avedro shall have the right to (i) immediately terminate this Agreement or any Contract upon written notice to COMPANY in the event of (A) regulatory action by the FDA or other governmental agency or administration; or (B) material breach of the provisions hereunder by COMPANY or a violation by COMPANY of applicable laws, rules, or regulations; (ii) terminate this Agreement and/or any specific Contract(s) at any time and for any reason upon thirty (30) days prior written notice.

d) Effect of Termination. In the event of termination or expiration of this Agreement, COMPANY shall provide reasonable assistance to Avedro to implement the transfer of manufacturing responsibility for any Avedro product and Avedro Compound to Avedro or its designee. Such reasonable assistance shall include transfer of all processes, procedures, know-how and data required to manufacture the such Avedro product and Avedro Compound in accordance with the applicable specifications (as in effect at the time of such termination or expiration) and FDA guidelines, including assistance of COMPANY

 

11.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

personnel in compiling and transferring this information. COMPANY hereby grants to Avedro a perpetual, irrevocable, exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, sublicensable (through multiple tiers) license under all intellectual property owned or controlled by COMPANY that COMPANY incorporates into any process to make, have made, use, sell, offer for sale, have sold and import any Avedro product and/or Avedro Compound. In the event of termination of this Agreement by Avedro pursuant to Section 11(c)(i)(B), such reasonable assistance will be provided at COMPANY’s expense. In the event of any other termination or expiration of this Agreement, Avedro shall pay COMPANY’s reasonable and documented costs of providing such assistance. Upon such early termination, (i) Avedro shall pay to COMPANY, within [***] of Avedro’s receipt of invoice and supporting documentation, all undisputed fees due and owing based upon Services completed and costs incurred through the effective date of termination, including costs for materials and/or Services previously incurred prior to the effective date of termination; and (ii) the Parties shall negotiate in good faith the tasks to be undertaken associated with respect to winding down or closing out of any Contract.

e) Release of Funds. Any funds held by COMPANY which by contract definition or amendment are deemed unearned shall be returned to Avedro within [***] of termination of this Agreement or the applicable Contract.

f) Return of Information. Following completion or termination of any Contract or termination of the Agreement, COMPANY shall forward all original Contract records and reports to Avedro (or a repository designated by Avedro in writing), including but not limited to study materials, documents, software, and copies of notes, summaries and analyses made by COMPANY, at COMPANY’s sole cost and expense. Thereafter, COMPANY may retain one archival copy of documentation related to such Contract(s) for the purposes of determining its obligations hereunder.

 

12.

Force Majeure .

If the performance of this Agreement by either Party is prevented, restricted, interfered with or delayed (either totally or in part) by reason of any cause beyond the reasonable control of the Party whose performance is so affected, such as acts of God, explosion, disease, weather, earthquake, war, insurrection, civil strike, riots, or power failure, such affected Party shall, upon giving written notice to the other Party, be excused from such performance during the pendency, and to the extent of such prevention, restriction, interference or delay; provided, that the affected Party shall use commercially reasonable efforts to avoid or remove such causes of nonperformance and shall continue performance with the utmost dispatch whenever such causes are removed.

 

13.

Independent Contractor .

The relationship established between the Parties by this Agreement is that of independent contractors, and nothing contained herein shall be construed to (i) give either Party the power to direct and/or control the day-to-day activities of the other, (ii) constitute the Parties as partners, joint venturers, co-owners or otherwise as participants in a joint or common undertaking, or (iii) allow a Party to create or assume any obligation on behalf of the other Party, or to bind the other Party in regard of to any contract, agreement or undertaking with a third party, for any purpose whatsoever, except as contemplated by this Agreement.

 

12.


14.

Assignment; No Third Beneficiaries .

Neither Party shall assign this Agreement or any rights hereunder or delegate the performance of any duties hereunder without the prior written approval of the other Party, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided, however, without such consent, either Party may assign this Agreement (i) in connection with the transfer or sale of all or substantially all of its assets, stock or business or its merger or consolidation with another company or entity, including the sale of assets or stock, or the merger or consolidation, by a Party of any division or subsidiary that is responsible for the performance of this Agreement, or (ii) to a subsidiary or affiliate of such Party. No person or entity not a party to this Agreement (other than permitted successors and assigns) shall have any rights under or by virtue of this Agreement.

 

15.

No Restrictions .

Each Party warrants and represents to the other Party that it is authorized to enter into this Agreement and that the terms of this Agreement are not inconsistent with, or do not constitute a violation of, any contractual or other legal obligation to which such Party is subject.

 

16.

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability .

Except as expressly set forth herein, NEITHER PARTY MAKES ANY OTHER WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION OF ANY KIND, AND EACH PARTY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT OF ANY PATENT OR OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS OF A THIRD PARTY.

IN NO EVENT WILL COMPANY’S LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, LOSSES OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, THIS AGREEMENT, OR ANY SERVICES OR DELIVERABLES PROVIDED UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR OTHERWISE, WHETHER ARISING UNDER THEORIES OF CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE, EXCEED THE AGGREGATE AMOUNTS PAID BY AVEDRO TO COMPANY UNDER THIS AGREEMENT; PROVIDED, HOWEVER THAT SUCH LIMIT SHALL NOT APPLY TO LIABILITY ARISING FROM A BREACH OF SECTION 4 OR AVEDRO’s CLAIM FOR INDEMNIFICATION FROM COMPANY PURSUANT TO SECTION 6(b).

EXCEPT FOR LIABILITY FOR BREACH OF SECTION 4, UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WHATSOEVER WILL EITHER PARTY BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER PARTY FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOSSES RESULTING FROM BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, EVEN IF SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OR LIKELIHOOD OF SUCH DAMAGES.

 

13.


17.

Notices .

Except as otherwise provided, all notices required under this Agreement shall be mailed by first class mail, postage prepaid, or sent by a nationally recognized overnight courier service or telecopier to the addresses set forth below, or to such other addresses as the Parties from time to time specify in writing.

Notices shall be deemed given when received.

 

           If to COMPANY:   If to Avedro:
 

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

 

Company Name

 

870 Badger Circle,

 

Address

 

Grafton, WI 530249

 

Address

 

18.

Entire Agreement and Amendments .

This Agreement, together with Contracts created under this Agreement, constitutes the entire agreement between Avedro and COMPANY and shall supersede all previous communications, representations, agreements or understandings, whether oral or written, between Avedro and COMPANY with respect to the subject matter of the Agreement. No modification of or amendment to this Agreement or any Contract shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the Parties. The section headings are intended for reference only and do not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

19.

Counterparts .

This Agreement and any Contract may be executed in two or more counterparts.

 

20.

Waiver .

No failure or delay on the part of any Party in exercising any right hereunder, irrespective of the length of time for which such failure or delay shall continue, will operate as a waiver of, or impair, any such right. No single or partial exercise of any right hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right. No waiver of any right hereunder will be effective unless given in a signed writing.

 

21.

Severability .

If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable under the circumstances, such provision’s application in any other circumstance and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.

 

14.


22.

Governing Law .

This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, USA, without regard to conflict of laws principles thereof.

 

23.

Survival .

Sections 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 13, 16, 20, 21, 22, and 23 shall survive any termination of this Agreement.

********

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

15.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, both Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date first written above.

 

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals                    Avedro
Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc.         
By:   

/s/ Charles M. Boland

      By:   

/s/ David Muller

Name:    Charles M. Boland       Name:    David Muller
Title:    EVP       Title:    CEO
Date:    11/27/12       Date:    11/27/12

 

16.

Exhibit 10.21

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

CONFIDENTIAL

 

LOGO

Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium Commercial Supply Agreement

 

Prepared for:    Evan Sherr
   Vice President Advanced Product Development
   Avedro, Inc.
Prepared by:    Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
   d.b.a Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals
   870 Badger Circle
   Grafton, WI 53024
Version:    01
Issue Date:    26 March 2014

 

870 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024

262-376-1467

CedarburgHauser.com

   Page 1 of 5


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

CONFIDENTIAL

 

Summary

This Supply Agreement (the “Supply Agreement”) captures the terms and conditions associated with the supply by Cedarburg (as defined below) of GMP Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium to Avedro, Inc. for commercial use. This Supply Agreement shall be considered a “Contract” under the Master Services Agreement (“MSA”) by and between Avedro, Inc. (“Avedro”) and Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Cedarburg”) dated 27 November 2012 and the terms and conditions of the MSA shall govern this Supply Agreement, provided that, notwithstanding Section 2(c) of the MSA, in the event of any conflict between this Supply Agreement and the MSA, Avedro and Cedarburg expressly intend that the terms of this Supply Agreement shall alter the terms of the MSA solely with respect to ,the commercial supply provided under this Supply Agreement.

 

1.0

Definitions

 

  1.1

GMP — shall mean current Good Manufacturing Practices as defined in the FDA rules and regulations, 21 CFR Parts 210-211.

 

  1.2

Certificate of Analysis — shall mean a certificate of analysis that certifies that a Batch meets the release Specifications.

 

  1.3

Completed Work — shall mean the completed portion (activities and materials) of work in process based on existing purchase orders, and Avedro Specific Materials in inventory, whose purchase was approved by Avedro associated with planned or in-process work.

 

  1.4

Avedro Specific Materials — shall mean chemicals, supplies and/or equipment unique to Avedro’s product, purchased with Avedro’s prior approval.

 

  1.5

USP — shall mean the United States Pharmacopeia, a legally recognized compendium of standards for drugs, published by the United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc.

 

  1.6

Material(s) — shall mean the Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium that meets or exceeds the specifications as outlined in Cedarburg API specification [***] and as further set forth in the DMF (as defined in Section 2.7 below) and is manufactured in accordance with cGMP. Materials are considered a Deliverable under the MSA.

 

2.0

Terms and Conditions

 

  2.1

Effective-Date

This Supply Agreement shall be effective as of the date upon execution of this Supply Agreement, and shall thereafter remain in full force for five (5) years, unless earlier terminated in accordance this Supply Agreement or the MSA, as applicable (the “Supply Term”).

 

  2.2

Material Acceptance

Materials shipped by Cedarburg Hauser will be accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis showing that the Materials meet or exceed the specifications for Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium outlined in Cedarburg API specification [***] as further set forth in the DMF.

Materials will be subject to the acceptance and rejection in accordance with the MSA. With respect to Materials rejected by Avedro, [***] with respect to such Materials. For clarity, all rights and obligations of Avedro and Cedarburg with respect to acceptance and rejection, as well as the product warranty, that apply to Materials, shall apply to any replacement, reprocessed or reworked Materials provided by Cedarburg under this Supply Agreement.

 

870 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024

262-376-1467

CedarburgHauser.com

   Page 2 of 5


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

CONFIDENTIAL

 

 

  2.3

Forecasts

On the Effective Date, Avedro will provide Cedarburg with a written forecast of batch purchases for the ensuing [***] period. During the [***] during the Supply Term, Avedro will provide a new forecast for the [***] commencing with [***] (a rolling forecast). The forecast must be in sufficient detail to identify planned purchases per [***]. These are for planning purposes and do not bind Avedro to purchase nor Cedarburg to manufacture such forecast amounts.

 

  2.4

Purchase Orders

Upon receipt of a purchase order, Cedarburg will identify to Avedro by written notification a Processing Date, where said Processing Date is within a [***] time frame from the date of Cedarburg’s receipt of the applicable purchase order

Cedarburg shall be solely responsible for procuring, at no additional cost to Avedro, any and all raw materials, components and ingredients required, for the manufacture and supply of the Materials hereunder, including, without limitation, all Avedro Specific Materials.

 

  2.5

Termination

If this Supply Agreement is terminated by Avedro, Cedarburg Hauser will receive a payment for all outstanding amounts owed to Cedarburg for completed work and open invoices that have been submitted by Avedro prior to the effective date of such termination following fulfillment of such purchase orders by Cedarburg in accordance with this Agreement.

If this Supply Agreement is terminated by either party prior to the end of the Supply Term, Cedarburg shall accept a non-cancellable purchase order for the delivery of up to [***] of Product following notice of termination at the Commercial Price. Purchase Order quantities and receipt dates shall be mutually agreed upon with respect to the API supply forecast to allow Avedro sufficient Product to meet supply chain requirements. If manufacturing capacity is a constraint, the parties agree to work in good faith to resolve capacity constraints to meet Avedro’s requirements. Without limiting the foregoing, upon any termination or expiration of this Supply Agreement, Cedarburg shall fulfill all purchase orders submitted by Avedro prior to the effective date of such expiration or termination, unless otherwise directed by an authorized representative of Avedro in writing.

 

  2.6

Infringement; Not Misbranded; Indemnification

Cedarburg Hauser represents and warrants that (a) it will not knowingly infringe on third party intellectual property rights, and (b) the Materials are not adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of the FD&C Act and are not articles, under that the FD&C Act, that should not be introduced into interstate commerce. The foregoing shall be included as representations and warranties under the MSA, and more specifically with respect to those made pursuant to this Section 2.6(b), under Section 5(g) of the MSA.

For purposes of this Supply Agreement, Cedarburg’s indemnification obligations [***].

 

  2.7

Regulatory Documentation

 

870 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024

262-376-1467

CedarburgHauser.com

   Page 3 of 5


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

CONFIDENTIAL

 

Cedarburg Hauser will prepare, file and maintain, throughout the Supply Term, the drug master file (“DMF”) to support the commercial sale of Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium. Cedarburg will maintain ownership of this filing and will provide the appropriate documentation to Avedro, Inc. upon request. Except as expressly set forth herein, Avedro shall be responsible for all other filings necessary for regulatory approval of the Materials or any product comprising the Materials. Cedarburg agrees to use its best efforts to assist Avedro in obtaining such regulatory approvals throughout the world. Cedarburg specifically agrees to cooperate with any inspection by the FDA or other regulatory agency, including but not limited to any inspection prior to any such regulatory approval.

Cedarburg Hauser will perform a [***] stability study on the first commercial batch of API released in a calendar year and will provide updated COA”s for material as appropriate / necessary.

 

3.0

Pricing and Payment Terms

 

  3.1

Commercial Pricing

Cedarburg Hauser will offer commercial Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium at a price of $[***] per [***] grams (the “Price”), [***].

 

  3.2

Payment Terms

Payments toward all undisputed invoices are due within [***] of receipt of invoice and are non-refundable. Invoices will be issued upon shipment of approved material.

 

4.0

Delivery of Material

Delivery of Material [***] will occur within [***] of receipt of purchase order by Cedarburg, pending confirmation of available capacity at Cedarburg, to the delivery destination designated by Avedro in the applicable purchase order. Upon confirmation of production capacity, Cedarburg will inform Avedro of the projected delivery date for ordered ABI materials. Notwithstanding the reference to “[***]” in Section 5(a)(15) of the MSA, Cedarburg will ship all Materials [***] hereunder.

 

5.0

No Use of Process for Third Parties

Cedarburg acknowledges and agrees that, in accordance with the MSA, Avedro owns the validated process for manufacture of Riboflavin 5’ Phosphate Sodium developed for Avedro under [***] and any subsequent improvements to the process (including scale up) that are developed under this Agreement or otherwise funded by Avedro. Cedarburg is not permitted, and shall not, directly or indirectly, disclose the foregoing to any third party, and/or use or permit the use of the foregoing, for itself or by or on behalf of any third party.

 

6.0

Quality agreement

The parties shall negotiate and enter into a comprehensive quality agreement that governs the quality control of the Materials supplied under this Agreement (the “Quality Agreement”), which, once effective, shall govern the quality aspects of the manufacture and supply of Materials hereunder. [

 

7.0

Insurance

With respect to Cedarburg’s insurance requirements pursuant to Section 6(d) of the MSA, for purposes of this Supply Agreement, the reference to “[***], in the aggregate” shall be deleted and replaced with “[***] in the aggregate.”

 

870 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024

262-376-1467

CedarburgHauser.com

   Page 4 of 5


Cedarburg Hauser Pharmaceuticals

CONFIDENTIAL

 

8.0

Project Approval and Parties of the Supply Agreement

This Supply Agreement becomes a binding agreement between the parties upon execution in the signature blocks below, which agreement will be governed by the laws the State of New York without regard to conflict of laws principles thereof. Cedarburg Hauser is a trade name used by Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Cedarburg”) and its wholly owned subsidiary, InB: Hauser Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (“Hauser”). This agreement, however, is between Avedro, Inc. and the legal entity Cedarburg only; Hauser is not a party to this agreement.

All payments and the fully executed contract should be sent to the following address:

Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

870 Badger Circle

Grafton, WI 530245

Attn: Thomas Schmid

 

Offered by Cedarburg Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

/s/ Charles M. Boland

Signature

Charles M. Boland

Printed Name

EVP

Title

3/27/14

Date
Accepted by Avedro, Inc.

/s/ David Muller

Signature

David Muller

Printed Name

CEO

Title

26 March 2014

Date

 

870 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024

262-376-1467

CedarburgHauser.com

   Page 5 of 5

Exhibit 10.22

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

COMMERCIAL FILL/FINISH SERVICES AGREEMENT

This C OMMERCIAL F ILL /F INISH S ERVICES A GREEMENT (the “ Agreement ”) is entered into as of the 19 th day of December, 2014 (“ Effective Date ”) by and between AVEDRO, Inc. (“ Clients ”), and A JINOMOTO A LTHEA , I NC . , a Delaware corporation, with a place of business located at 11040 Roselle Street, San Diego, CA 92121 (“ Althea ”);

WHEREAS Client has Bulk Compound (capitalized terms are defined below) for filling and/or finishing;

WHEREAS Althea has the expertise and the fill/finish facility suitable for the Production of Client Product; and

WHEREAS , Client wishes to have Althea perform such services, and Althea wishes to perform such services for Client.

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the premises and the undertakings, terms, conditions and covenants set forth below, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. DEFINITIONS.

1.1 Affiliate ” of a party hereto shall mean any entity that controls or is controlled by such party, or is under common control with such party. For purposes of this definition, an entity shall be deemed to control another entity if it owns or controls, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the voting equity of another entity (or other comparable interest for an entity other than a corporation).

1.2 Althea SOPs ” shall mean Althea’s Standard Operating Procedures, which will be customized on a product specific basis, as necessary, for manufacture of Client Product. Client will review and approve each product specific SOP prior to production of Client Product and any subsequent revisions to these product-specific SOPs.

1.3 Batch ” shall mean a specific quantity of Client Product mutually agreed upon between Client and Althea, and that (a) is intended to have uniform character and quality within specified limits, and (b) is Produced according to a single manufacturing order during the same cycle of manufacture.

1.4 Bulk Compound ” shall mean the bulk drug or active pharmaceutical ingredient of Client Product, in bulk form, supplied by Client.

1.5 cGMP ” shall mean current Good Manufacturing Practices as defined in the FDA rules and regulations, 21 CFR Parts 210-211.

1.6 Cancellation Fees ” shall mean the cancellation fees payable by Client under section 3.4.

1.7 Certificate of Analysis ” shall mean a certificate of analysis that certifies that a Batch meets the release Specifications.

 

   1.   


1.8 Client Product ” shall mean the pharmaceutical product(s) to be Produced by Althea in finished dosage form under this Agreement as identified on Appendix B hereto, which Appendix may be updated by mutual agreement of the parties from time to time during the Term..

1.9 Components ” shall mean all components used by Althea in Production of Client Product under this Agreement. Components shall be listed in the SOW, and are identified as Components supplied by Client or its vendors, including any Bulk Compound (“ Client Supplied Components ”) and Components supplied by Althea or its vendors (“ Althea Supplied Components ”).

1.10 Confidential Information ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9.1.

1.11 Facility ” shall mean Althea’s facility located at 11040 Roselle Street, San Diego, CA 92121.

1.12 FDA ” shall mean the United States Food and Drug Administration or any successor entity thereto.

1.13 Invention ” shall mean any creative work, invention, innovation, improvement, development, discovery, trade secret, method, know-how, process, technique or the like, whether or not written or otherwise fixed in any form or medium, regardless of the media on which contained, and whether or not patentable or copyrightable.

1.14 Intellectual Property ” shall mean all rights, privileges and priorities provided under applicable international, national, federal, state or local law, rule, regulation, statute, ordinance, order, judgment, decree, permit, franchise, license, or other government restriction or requirement of any kind relating to intellectual property, whether registered or unregistered, in any country, including without limitation: (a) all (i) patents and patent applications (including any patent that in the future may issue in connection therewith and all divisions, continuations, continuations-in-part, extensions, additions, registrations, confirmations, reexaminations, supplementary protection certificates, renewals or reissues thereto or thereof), (ii) copyrights and copyrightable works, including reports, software, databases and related items, and (iii) trademarks, service marks, trade names, brand names, product names, corporate names, logos and trade dress, the goodwill of any business symbolized thereby, and all common-law rights relating thereto; and (b) all registrations, applications, recordings, rights of enforcement, rights of recovery based on past infringement and any and all claims of action related thereto and licenses or other similar agreements related to the foregoing.

1.15 Labeling ” shall mean all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter upon: (i) Client Product or any container, carton, or wrapper utilized with Client Product or (ii) any written material accompanying Client Product.

1.16 Master Batch Record ” or “ MBR ” shall mean the formal set of written instructions for Production of Client Product, approved in writing by both parties. The MBR shall be developed and maintained in Althea’s standard format by Althea, using Client’s master formula and technical support.

1.17 Production ” or “ Produce ” shall mean all steps and activities necessary to produce Client Product to be performed by Althea as set forth in the SOW, including, without limitation and as applicable, the filling, packaging, inspection, Labeling, testing, quality control and release.

 

   2.            


1.18 Purchase Price ” shall mean the amount(s) to be paid by Client as specified in the SOW, subject to adjustment from time to time in accordance with section 2.11.

1.19 Quality Agreement ” shall mean a written, mutually executed agreement between Althea and Client that defines the quality roles and responsibilities of each party in connection with Production of Client Product.

1.20 Regulatory Authority ” shall mean any agency or authority responsible for regulation of Client Product in the United States or any foreign regulatory jurisdiction provided that Althea shall have no obligation to Produce Client Product in compliance with the requirements of any non-U.S. Regulatory Authority, except as expressly specified in the SOW

1.21 Released Executed Batch Record ” shall mean the completed batch record and associated deviation reports, investigation reports, and Certificates of Analysis created for each Batch of Client Product, in the standard form used by Althea.

1.22 Specifications ” shall mean the applicable specifications for Client Product or Components, as applicable, set forth in the SOW and the MBR.

1.23 Statement of Work ” or “ SOW ” shall mean a written proposal or similar document, when manually signed by both parties and made a part of this Agreement as Appendix A, which sets forth the particulars of Production and all other services to be provided under this Agreement, including without limitation, all Specifications, Components, the Purchase Price, any timelines, milestones, payment schedules, technology transfer plans, and validation protocols. Any change to an SOW shall require a written change order manually signed by both parties in accordance with sections 8.1 and 15.2.

1.24 Term ” shall have the meaning provided in Section 3.1.

1.25 Territory ” means the United States of America and any other county that the parties agree in writing to add to this definition of Territory in an amendment to this Agreement.

2. VALIDATION AND PRODUCTION.

2.1 Validation. Althea shall validate equipment (as applicable) and the Production process according to the validation protocol(s) approved by both parties in advance. Such validation protocol(s) and timeline shall be included in the SOW. Client shall pay Althea for validation services as set forth in the SOW.

2.2 Documentation: The Master Batch Record shall be reviewed and approved by Althea and by Client in writing prior to commencement of Production. Any material change to an approved Master Batch Record shall be reviewed and approved in a signed writing by Althea and by Client prior to said change being implemented. Each Batch of Client Product shall be Produced by using a copy of the Master Batch Record. Each copy of the Master Batch Record for such Batch of Client Product shall be assigned a unique Batch number. Deviation(s) from the Master Batch Record must be documented as required by cGMP in the Released Executed Batch Record for that Batch. Althea shall provide Client with the Released Executed Batch Record in a form reasonably suitable for Client’s submission to the FDA. The parties shall execute the Quality Agreement simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement or at a later time if set forth in the SOW, provided that such Quality Agreement shall be executed prior to commencement of Production.

 

   3.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

2.3 Supply and Purchase of Product: During the Term and subject to each party’s compliance with the terms of this Agreement Client will purchase from Althea, and Althea will Produce Client Product for the price, quantities and on the other terms and conditions set forth in the Firm Commitment and the SOW.

2.4 Production, Forecasts  & Orders: Althea shall commence Production of Client Product in accordance with and pursuant to the timeline set forth in the SOW. Within [***] of the execution and delivery of this Agreement, Client shall provide a [***] forecast of the quantities of Client Product that Client intends to order from Althea in each month (the “ Forecast ”) beginning with the date scheduled for commencement of Production. At the start of every [***], Client shall furnish to Althea a written [***] rolling forecast of the quantities of Product that Client intends to order from Althea during such period (“ Rolling Forecast ”). Such forecasts shall be non-binding, provided however that if during any [***]. The [***] of such Rolling Forecast in respect of the Product shall constitute a binding commitment for the quantities of such Product specified therein (“ Firm Commitment ”) and the remaining period of the Rolling Forecast shall be non-binding, good faith estimates for information purposes only, provided that (a) the initial non-binding Forecast for any period shall subject to acceptance of same by Althea and (b) Client shall not vary a subsequent Forecast for any [***] from the initial Forecast (increase or decrease) for [***] without Althea’s written consent. Althea shall have available manufacturing capacity to supply Client with quantities of Product up to [***] of the first submitted Firm Commitment.

(a) On or about the [***] during the Term, Client shall submit purchase orders which specify, at a minimum, the actual number of Batches to be Produced, the number of units in each Batch and the requested delivery date for each Batch. Such purchase orders shall be submitted at least [***] prior to the first delivery date specified in the order, and shall become binding upon acceptance by Althea, provided that Althea may not reject any order other than as provided by the terms of this Agreement, including, in the event Client is not in material compliance with any of its material payment obligations as contemplated by Section 2.12, and provided that the order is consistent with the most recent accepted Forecast, including the Firm Commitment. Production for which any change order, Purchase Order or prepayment is not received or completed with at least the prescribed lead time, if agreed to by both parties, may incur an expediting fee of [***].

(b) In the event purchase orders do not provide a continuity of Production, Althea may require additional validation batches before further Production, at the validation services rates set forth in the SOW.

(c) For clarity, the Firm Commitment is subject to section 7.1.

2.5 Delays: Althea shall promptly notify Client in writing if it believes that there are likely to be substantial changes in the work schedule contained in the SOW or the delivery date(s) in any purchase order. Such notice shall include the reasons for such changes in the schedule and the proposed new schedule for the incomplete portion of the work described in the SOW or the purchase order. Subject to the provisions regarding Force Majeure below, the party responsible for delays in Production shall be determined as follows:

(a) Client is responsible for delays to the extent due to delays or lack of delivery of reviews, approvals, critical information, documents, (pre)payments or other items to be supplied by Client as set forth in the SOW.

 

   4.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(b) Client is responsible for delays to the extent caused by delivery delays, variation from Specifications or variable performance of Bulk Compound or other Client-Supplied Components as set forth in the SOW.

(c) Client is responsible for delays to the extent due to its instructions or failure to follow the MBR or terms of this Agreement..

(d) Althea is responsible for delays to the extent due to its failure to properly maintain its Facility or systems; failure to provide sufficient capacity required by a proper Forecast; Althea’s scheduling errors vis a vis a proper Forecast; or failure to provide sufficient personnel or staffing for capacity required as above; Althea’s failure to follow the MBR, SOPs or other written and agreed processes for procurement, or release of Althea- Supplied Components; operational failures such as, but not limited to cleaning, to the extent caused by Althea’s failure to follow the MBR or SOPs.

(e) Althea is responsible for delays to the extent due to its failure to follow the Master Batch Record or the terms of this Agreement.

Without limiting the foregoing of this Section 2.5, the extent of a party’s responsibility shall take into consideration the duration of the delay and the quantity of Client Product affected. The parties shall attempt to agree on resolution of such delay via good faith negotiations, subject to Section 15.8.

2.6 Vendor and Supplier Audit and Certification: Client shall certify and audit all vendors and suppliers of Client-Supplied Components, supply Althea with documentation of such audit results and certifications as Althea may reasonably request and, by signing the applicable SOW(s), shall be deemed to have approved Althea’s selection of vendors and suppliers of Althea Supplied Components.

2.7 Delivery Terms: Althea shall ship all Client Product to Client or to Client’s designated consignee in accordance with Client instructions received under section 2.10(b). All shipments shall be shipped [***] Althea’s Facility, by a common carrier mutually agreed, at Client’s expense. Title and risk of loss shall pass to Client as stated in section 2.10(b). Client shall procure, at its cost, insurance covering damage or loss of Client Product and Client Supplied Components during all times for which it has risk of loss. All shipping instructions of Client shall be accompanied by the name and address of the recipient and the shipping date.

2.8 Exporter of Record: Client shall be the exporter of record for any Client Product shipped out of the United States, as Client remains the owner of the Client Product. Client warrants that all shipments of Client Product exported from the United States will be made in compliance with all applicable United States export laws and regulations and all applicable import laws and regulations into the country of deportation. Client shall be responsible for obtaining and paying for any licenses, clearances or other governmental authorization(s) necessary for the exportation from the United States. Client shall select and pay the freight forwarder who shall solely be Client’s agent. Client and its freight forwarder shall be solely responsible for preparing and filing the shipper’s export declaration and any other documentation required for the export.

 

   5.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

2.9 Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS); Acceptable Materials: Client shall provide Althea a material safety data sheet for Bulk Compound or other Client-Supplied Components and Client Product and Althea shall conform to established safety practices and procedures set forth therein and shall store and handle Bulk Compound and Client Product as required by the MBR and all applicable laws and regulations. Althea is under no obligation to produce, nor shall Client ship or cause to be shipped to Althea without specific prior written approval, any materials which: (a) contain [***] or (b) have an Occupational Exposure Limit of less than [***]. Althea understands and agrees that the Bulk Compound may have unpredictable and unknown biological and/or chemical properties and should be used with caution and are not to be used for testing in or treatment of humans. Althea shall immediately notify Client of any unusual health or environmental occurrence of which it has knowledge relating to Client Product, including, but not limited to any claim or complaint by any employee of Althea or any of its Affiliates or third party contractors. Althea agrees to advise Client immediately of any safety or toxicity problems of which it becomes aware regarding the Client Product. Client shall ensure such MSDSs are promptly updated as needed.

2.10 Deposits and Payment for Production; Rejected Material; Storage:

(a) Unless otherwise stated therein, within 5 working days of receipt of an invoice following execution of any SOW, Client shall pay to Althea prepayment amount set forth in such SOW. Unless otherwise stated therein, within [***] of execution of any SOW, Client shall pay to Althea prepayment amount set forth in such SOW. No Production, timeline, facility availability or milestone dates shall be firm until confirmed by Althea at or immediately prior to the time such prepayment is received, and any delay in receipt of the prepayment may delay Production and timelines. Amounts due for Batches of Client Product hereunder will be invoiced upon Althea’s release thereof. Client shall pay all invoices by wire in accordance with the instructions below within [***] of the invoice date. No tax or other withholding shall be made from payments due hereunder. Any payment due under this Agreement not received within the times noted above shall bear interest at the lesser of (a) the maximum rate permitted by law, and (b) [***] on the outstanding balance [***].

Althea’s wire instructions are as follows:

Beneficiary: Ajinomoto Althea, Inc.

11040 Roselle Street

San Diego CA 92121

[***]

(b) Within [***] of Client’s receipt of Althea’s release documentation under section 5.1, Client shall notify Althea as to whether to return, retain or dispose of remaining Client Supplied Components, and shall provide shipping instructions for Client Product. Title and risk of loss for Client Product shall pass to Client on the earlier of (i) expiration of such [***] period, (ii) release by Client or (iii) shipment of such materials to Client or its designee. If Client does not provide for the shipping of Client Product or the return, retention or disposition of remaining Client Supplied Components within such [***] period, then Althea will begin assessing a storage fee for all such materials at the price set forth in the SOW, or, if none, at Althea’s then current standard rates. Storage fees may also be assessed, beginning [***] after cessation or interruption of Production, for retained Client Supplied Components and Client equipment. Storage may be at Althea’s or its qualified subcontractors’ storage facilities. If Althea is storing any of the foregoing items for Client, Althea may destroy such items at Client’s expense, upon [***] notice of intent to destroy and opportunity to take delivery prior to the scheduled shipment for destruction.

 

   6.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(c) The parties agree that the default handling of rejected Client Product or tailings, including, without limitation, Rejected Products (“ Rejects ”) shall be destruction at Client’s expense, unless the rejection is due to a non-conformity giving rise to Client’s remedies under section 5.2, in which case such destruction shall be at Althea’s expense. No storage of Rejects by Althea shall be required unless by mutual written agreement of the parties prior to the start of Production. Client shall notify Althea in writing in advance of Production of any disposition instructions for Rejects, including any labeling and special conditions, which shall be binding if agreed by Althea and incorporated into the Master Batch Record. Such instructions shall comply with cGMP and any other applicable laws and regulations. Client warrants that Rejects that are not destroyed per its instructions shall only be used in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Absent timely disposition instructions as set forth above, Althea shall dispose of Rejects in accordance with Althea’s SOPs and applicable law.

2.11 Purchase Price and Price Adjustments: The Purchase Price is firm from the Effective Date until December 31, 2015. Beginning each January 1 st thereafter during the Term of this Agreement, Althea shall have the right to adjust the Purchase Price once annually for processing, and other costs. For processing costs, Althea Purchase Price increases may not exceed [***]. Althea shall provide at least [***] prior written notice to Client of any increase. Althea shall use commercially reasonable efforts to implement a price reduction program that targets the reduction of the cost of manufacturing of the Client Product, including, without limitation, reduction in the cost of Althea-Supplied Components, and shall share the resulting cost savings with Client by means of appropriate price reductions as mutually agreed by amendment to the SOW. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prices for raw materials shall reflect, on a pass-through basis, changes at any time caused by increases or decreases in cost of such raw materials, without regard to any price restrictions stated herein. Althea will provide documentation for all raw material cost increases or decreases.

2.12 Default in Payment Obligations: In addition to all other remedies available to Althea in the event of a Client default for payment, if Client fails to timely make payments (unless they are the subject of a good faith dispute lasting not more than [***]) as required hereunder, any prepayments or other amounts owed to or held for Client hereunder shall be automatically applied to invoices more than [***] past due and Althea may refuse to accept future Purchase Orders or to Produce or deliver any Client Product until Client’s account is paid in full, and/or the foregoing terms of payment are modified by mutual written agreement of the parties. Althea shall not be required to return any Client equipment or other property until Client has paid all outstanding invoices (not including invoices that are subject to a good faith dispute during the [***] described above).

2.13 Returns: This Agreement does not include any third-party returns processing by Althea.

2.14 Subcontractors. Althea shall not subcontract or otherwise delegate any of its obligations under this Agreement if Client reasonably objects to such subcontractor after notice provided under this paragraph, except that Althea may use independent contractors in the ordinary course of business. In the event Althea appoints a sub-contractor to perform obligations hereunder in accordance with this Section 2.14, Althea shall remain responsible to Client for (a) the proper performance of its obligations under the Agreement, and (b) all of its subcontractors’ activities and any and all failures by its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this Agreement. Althea shall notify Client following the appointment of any such subcontractor within [***] of such appointment.

 

   7.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

3. TERM AND TERMINATION.

3.1 Term: This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and will continue until for four (4) years unless sooner terminated pursuant to Section 3.2 herein (the “ Term ”) and shall automatically renew thereafter for successive periods of two (2) years.

3.2 Termination: This Agreement may be terminated at any time upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

(a) Termination for Breach: Either party may terminate this Agreement upon the material breach (which shall include any breach of payment terms) of any provision of this Agreement by the other party if such breach is not cured by the breaching party within [***] (or such additional time reasonably necessary to cure such breach as agreed by the parties in writing provided the breaching party has commenced a cure within the [***] period and is diligently pursuing completion of such cure) after receipt by the breaching party of written notice of such breach.

(b) Termination for Financial Matters: This Agreement may be terminated immediately by either party by giving the other party written notice thereof in the event such other party becomes insolvent, generally fails to pay its debts as they fall due, makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, or proceedings are commenced in any court by or against such party seeking (a) such party’s reorganization, liquidation, dissolution, arrangement or winding up, or the composition or readjustment of its debts, (b) the appointment of a receiver or trustee for or over such party’s property, or (c) similar relief in respect of such party under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, winding up or composition or adjustment of debt.

(c) Termination for Change of Control. This Agreement may be terminated by Client upon [***] prior written notice to Althea in the event that Client or Althea undergoes a transfer or sale of all or substantially all of the business of such party to which this Agreement relates whether by merger, sale of stock, sale of assets or otherwise, and whether voluntary or involuntary, and by operation of law or otherwise, subject to amounts due under section 2.4, if any, with respect to the minimum purchase requirements in a calendar year.

(d) Termination for Convenience: Either party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement, without cause, with twenty four (24) months written notice. In the event Althea terminates, Althea shall accept a non-cancellable Purchase Order for up to [***] of Client Product to be produced, provided it is consistent with the most recent accepted Forecast and delivered within [***] of notice of termination. In the event Client terminates, Client shall provide Althea a Purchase Order for orders during the notice period at least equal to the amount purchased over the prior [***].

3.3 Payments on Cancellation; Expense Reimbursement:

In the event of a cancellation by Client of the Production activities set forth in the SOW or in the event of termination of this Agreement, except for termination in the event of a material breach by Althea pursuant to Section 3.2(a) (collectively, a “ Cancellation ”), Client shall reimburse Althea for:

(a) all reasonable wind-down costs, costs of materials and supplies with respect to the Production that were ordered prior to notice of termination and are not cancelable or returnable (after Althea having used commercially reasonable efforts to mitigate), and any reasonable restocking and shipping costs actually incurred by Althea for those materials or supplies that are returnable;

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(b) all work-in-process with respect to the Client Product commenced by Althea; and all completed Client Product (at the Purchase Price).

3.4 Payments on Cancellation/Delay; Short-Notice Fees:

[***].

3.5 Technology Transfer: Upon any termination, expiration, cancellation or abandonment of this Agreement other than by Althea under sections 3.2(a) or 3.2(b), Althea will provide reasonable technology transfer assistance services to Client in connection with the establishment of Client Product manufacturing capabilities at Client’s facility or at one or more contract manufacturers selected by Client. In addition, Althea will provide Client, or its designated contract manufacturer, with copies of the following documentation, to the extent not already provided during the Term: (a) all technical reports and materials for process development activities completed at the time of such transfer that are relevant to and would be required to manufacture the Client Product using the processes as performed by Althea at such time (including but not limited to any recovery steps established, process validation, product identity assays, in-process-control assays, applicable computer software, relevant standard operating procedures, blueprints of facilities, information regarding equipment and the layout thereof, etc.), (b) all regulatory filings relating to the such manufacturing process or the Client Product, (c) all necessary cGMP documentation relating to the manufacturing process for Client Product and required for regulatory filings, and (d) such other information as Client may reasonably request with respect to the transfer of manufacturing capabilities and requirements regarding the Client Product. In the event of (i) termination of this Agreement by Client pursuant to Section 3.2(a), and without limiting the rights granted to Client pursuant to Section 10.2, Althea hereby grants to Client a perpetual, irrevocable, non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, fully-paid, sublicenseable (through multiple tiers) license under all intellectual property and know-how owned or controlled by Althea that is incorporated into any Production hereunder, and which is necessary in order to make, have made, use, sell, offer for sale, have sold and import the Client Product(s), or (ii) expiration or termination of this Agreement (other than by Client pursuant to Section 3.2(a)), the Parties shall negotiate in good faith regarding Althea granting to Client a perpetual, irrevocable, non-exclusive, worldwide, sublicenseable (through multiple tiers) license under all intellectual property and know-how owned or controlled by Althea that is incorporated into any Production hereunder and which is necessary in order to make, have made, use, sell, offer for sale, have sold and import the Client Product(s). Client will bear all costs incurred in connection with these technology transfer services at prices and under such terms as the parties shall agree in writing.

3.6 Survival: Termination, expiration, cancellation or abandonment of this Agreement through any means or for any reason shall be, except as set forth in to Article 7, without prejudice to any accrued obligation or the rights and remedies of either party with respect to any antecedent breach of any of the provisions of this Agreement. The provisions of Articles 1, 5, 6 and 9 through 15 inclusive, and Sections 2.10(c), 3.3, 3.5, 3.6 and 4.4 hereof shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement.

 

   9.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

4. CERTIFICATES OF ANALYSIS AND MANUFACTURING COMPLIANCE.

4.1 Certificates of Analysis: At Client’s cost and expense, Althea shall test, or cause to be tested by third parties, in accordance with the Specifications, each Batch of Client Product Produced pursuant to this Agreement before delivery to Client. The Certificate of Analysis for each Batch delivered shall be included with the Released Executed Batch Record and shall set forth the items tested, Specifications, and test results. Althea shall also indicate on the final page of the Released Executed Batch Record that all batch Production and control records have been reviewed and approved by the appropriate quality control unit of Althea. Althea shall send, or cause to be sent, such certificates to Client prior to the shipment of Client Product (unless Client Product is shipped under quarantine pursuant to a separate written agreement between the parties). Client shall be responsible for the final release of each Batch of Client Product.

4.2 Manufacturing Compliance: Althea shall advise Client immediately if an authorized agent of any Regulatory Authority visits the Facility and makes an inquiry regarding Althea’s Production of Client Product.

4.3 Audits: Client, at mutually agreed times during normal business hours, shall have the right to inspect, once per calendar year for not more than two days, Althea Batch records and the portions of the Facility used for Production of Client Product. If the parties agree to audits more than one time in a calendar year or for more than two days, Client agrees to reimburse Althea for Althea’s reasonable expenses incurred in hosting the additional audit day(s). All audited data will be treated as Confidential Information of Althea, and Client shall not be permitted to remove or copy data without Althea’s prior consent.

4.4 Regulatory Compliance: Unless otherwise stated, Althea is responsible for compliance with all Federal, State and local laws and regulations (“ Regulations ”) as they apply generally to the Facility or generally to its production of pharmaceutical products. Althea shall be solely responsible for all contact with Regulatory Authorities with respect thereto, provided that Althea shall give Client a reasonable opportunity, where feasible, to comment on any correspondence with Regulatory Authorities which would reasonably be expected to have a material impact on Production of Client Product. Client shall be responsible for compliance with all Regulations as they apply to all other aspects of the Production, including the Client-Supplied Components, specific approval to manufacture Client Product at the Facility and the use, Labeling and sale of Client Product, which responsibility shall include, without limitation, all contact with Regulatory Authorities regarding the foregoing. Althea shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to assist Client in obtaining necessary regulatory approvals in accordance with the rates for Regulatory Support as set forth in the SOW.

5. ACCEPTANCE OF CLIENT PRODUCT.

5.1 Acceptance and Non-Conforming Client Product: Within [***] from the date of completion of Althea’s testing and release of each Batch of Client Product, Althea shall promptly forward to Client, or Client’s designee, copies of the Released Executed Batch Record any other release documents associated with the manufacture of such Batch as set forth in the SOW or Quality Agreement. Within [***] after receipt by Client of such documentation, Client or its designee may perform a review of such Released Executed Batch Record and other documents associated with the manufacture of such Batch delivered hereunder and perform such other testing, inspection and review as Client deems necessary and appropriate, to confirm whether Client Product conforms to the quantity ordered, Althea’s product warranty in Section 11.2(a), and shall notify Althea in writing of Client’s acceptance or rejection of such Client Product. Any such Client Product rejected hereunder, shall be referred to as “ Rejected Product. ” The parties may mutually agree in writing to multiple release cycles requiring more than one Released Executed Batch Record with respect to certain Purchase Orders issued under this Agreement, and the procedures contemplated hereunder will apply to each such Released Executed Batch Record.

 

   10.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(a) If Client provides written acceptance of such Batch or does not notify Althea within the above time period that any Batch of Client Product does not conform to the product warranties of section 11.2(a) (“ non-conforming ” or “ defect(ive) ”), then Client shall be deemed to have accepted the Client Product and waived its right to revoke acceptance, provided that Client may revoke its acceptance with respect to any amount of Client Product that is non-conforming and such non-conformity complies with all of the following (i) it existed at the time of shipment by Althea under section 2.7 (ii) was not reasonably discoverable at the time of delivery of the Released Executed Batch Record to Client by reasonable testing, inspection and review of Client Product and release documents by Client, (iii) was caused by Althea’s negligence or, Althea’s breach of 11.2(a) or was caused by a defect or non-conformity in any Althea-Supplied Component, and (iv) Client gives notice thereof to Althea within [***] of Client first learning of such non-conformity or defect, and prior to the expiration date of the Batch, but in no event later than [***] from such time of shipment by Althea (a “ Limited Latent Defect ”). Nothing in this Section 5 will be construed in any way to limit Client’s indemnification rights under Section 13.2.

(b) With respect to Rejected Product Client shall notify Althea by telephone, including a detailed explanation of the non-conformity, and shall confirm such notice in writing via overnight delivery to Althea. Upon receipt of such notice, Althea will investigate such alleged non-conformity, and (i) if Althea agrees such Client Product is non-conforming, deliver to Client a corrective action plan within [***] after receipt of Client’s written notice of non-conformity, or such additional time, if mutually agreed by the Parties, as is reasonably required (e.g. if such investigation or plan requires data from sources other than Client or Althea), or (ii) if Althea disagrees with Client’s determination that the Batch of Client Product is non-conforming, Althea shall so notify Client by telephone within such [***] period and confirm such notice in writing by overnight delivery.

(c) Althea will cooperate fully with any subsequent investigation Client may conduct and will engage in good faith discussions with Client to determine the cause of the non-conformity. If the parties dispute whether Client Product is conforming or non-conforming, samples of the Batch of Client Product will be submitted to a mutually acceptable laboratory or consultant for resolution, whose determination of conformity or non-conformity, and the cause thereof if non-conforming, shall be binding upon the parties. Client and Althea shall share equally the costs of such laboratory or consultant, except as set forth in section 5.2.

(d) Client will return any Rejected Product received by Client that is agreed by the parties or determined by the laboratory to be defective to Althea at Althea’s expense or, at Althea’s request, will destroy any such product at Althea’s expense and certify to Althea that such destruction is complete.

(e) Manufacturing deviations and investigations which occur during Production of Client Product and which do not cause the Production to be non-compliant with cGMP, shall not be deemed to cause Client Product to be non-conforming. Althea shall not be liable for any non-conformity arising from defective, contaminated or non-conforming Client-Supplied Components.

 

   11.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

5.2 Exclusive Remedies for Non-Conforming Product: In the event Althea agrees, or the independent laboratory determines, that the Batch of Rejected Product is non-conforming as a result of the negligence of Althea, then Althea, at Client’s option, shall either (a) at Althea’s expense, and subject to Client, at Client’s expense supplying the replacement Bulk Compound and any other Client-Supplied Components (subject to section 5.3), replace such non-conforming Client Product within [***] from receipt of replacement Bulk Compound from Client, or (b) (i) cancel the invoice and refund or credit any prepayment amounts for Rejected Product or (ii) for Limited Latent Defects, refund or credit (at Client’s option) all amounts paid by Client with respect to such non-conforming Client Product and comply with Section 5.3 below and (c) for Rejected Product count the non-conforming Batches towards Client’s obligations under the applicable Firm Commitment. In such event Althea shall also reimburse Client for any independent laboratory fees paid by Client under section 5.1(c). In the event such Client Product is determined by the independent laboratory to be conforming, or to be non-conforming other than due to the negligence of or breach of this Agreement by Althea, then Client shall reimburse Althea for Althea’s portion of such laboratory’s fees.

For clarity and by way of example, if Client Product is non-conforming due to non-conforming Bulk Compound or other Client-Supplied Components or other matters within the responsibilities of Client, then Client will not be entitled to the foregoing remedies to the extent attributable thereto. In the case of replacement Client Product, the due date for the final invoice issued at completion of Production of said non-conforming Batch of Client Product will be extended until the date at which replacement Client Product is released and determined to be conforming by Althea and Client and all such replacement Client Product shall be subject to all rights and remedies of Client hereunder the same as of such Client Product was being submitted to Client for the first time.

5.3 Lost Bulk Compound and Client Supplied Components: In the case where Client Product is non-conforming or Bulk Compound is damaged, lost or otherwise rendered unusable, in either case due to the act, error or omission of Althea, then (a) Althea shall file a claim under its Professional Liability policy for such Bulk Compound (“ Lost Bulk Compound ”). Client shall be entitled to reimbursement by Althea up to the amount of any insurance proceeds received under such policy to cover the value of any Lost Bulk Compound. For clarity, Client is responsible for losses of Bulk Compound not caused by the act, error or omission of Althea or in excess of such proceeds and for maintaining its own insurance, including property insurance, in amounts adequate to cover such losses (b) Althea shall reimburse Client for replacement of other Client Supplied Components lost, damaged or otherwise rendered unusable due to the negligence of, or breach of this Agreement by, Althea.

6. CLIENT PRODUCT RECALLS.

In the event Client shall be required to recall any Client Product because such Client Product may violate local, state or federal laws or regulations, or the laws or regulations of any applicable foreign government or agency, or does not conform to the Specifications, or in the event that Client elects to institute a voluntary recall, withdrawal, field alert or similar action (collectively a “ Recall ”), Client shall be responsible for coordinating such Recall. Client promptly shall notify Althea if any Client Product is the subject of a Recall and provide Althea with a copy of all documents relating to such Recall. Althea shall reasonably cooperate with Client in connection with any Recall, at Client’s expense. Client shall be responsible for all of the costs and expenses of such Recall, provided that Althea shall reimburse Client for the reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket costs of such Recall(s) to the extent caused by a Limited Latent Defect, subject to section 12.1(b).

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

7. FORCE MAJEURE; YIELD

7.1 Failure of either party to perform under this Agreement (except the obligation to make payments) shall not subject such party to any liability to the other if such failure is caused by acts of God, acts of terrorism, fire, explosion, flood, drought, war, riot, sabotage, embargo, strikes or other labor trouble, compliance with any order or regulation of any government entity, or by any cause beyond the reasonable control of the affected party, whether or not foreseeable, provided that written notice of such event is promptly given to the other party. In the case of a force majeure event, Althea shall use commercially reasonable efforts to assist Client to arrange for the Production of Client Product through subcontracting (subject to Section 2.14) or other means as appropriate to provide Client Product. The responsibility for any differential in the cost for such Production will be mutually agreed upon by the parties. However, if Althea is unable to provide a solution for the Production of Client Product within days of such event, Client may terminate this Agreement as specified in Section 3.2(c) without payment of any Cancellation Fee otherwise due.

7.2 Yields: [***].

8. CHANGES IN PRODUCTION.

8.1 Changes to Master Batch Records and SOW: Each party agrees to notify the other promptly of any regulatory or other requested changes to the SOW, including the Client Product, Production, Specifications or the MBR. Upon such notification, Althea shall provide an estimate of any additional fees and costs required and a time line for implementation. No change(s) to any of the foregoing shall be effective or binding unless reduced to writing and signed by both parties.

8.2 Product-Specific Changes: If Facility, equipment, process or system changes are required of Althea as a result of requirements set forth by the FDA or any Regulation, and such regulatory changes apply only to the Production and supply of one or more Client Products, then Client and Althea will review such requirements and agree in writing to the changes, and Client shall bear the reasonable costs thereof.

8.3 General Changes: If such regulatory changes apply generally to the Client Product as well as to other products produced by Althea for itself or for third parties, then Client shall pay a pro rata amount of the reasonable cost of such regulatory changes based upon the proportion of time that the Facility is dedicated to the Production of Client Product relative to the production of such other products.

8.4 Unused Materials In the event of changes requested by Client or to comply with any regulatory requirement, Client shall reimburse Althea for any Althea-Supplied Components that cannot reasonably be used by Althea or returned for credit.

9. CONFIDENTIALITY.

9.1 Confidentiality. For purposes of this Agreement “ Confidential Information ” means all information provided by or on behalf of one party (the “ Disclosing Party ”) to the other party in connection with this Agreement including, without limitation, all data, inventions and information developed in or as a result of the performance of this Agreement, whether in oral, written, graphic or electronic form. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, all Inventions and Intellectual Property of either party shall be deemed the “ Confidential Information ” of such party. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, all Client Product specific information, including without limitation the Master Batch Record, Released Executed Batch Record and Specifications, shall be

 

   13.            


deemed the “ Confidential Information ” of Client. Each party agrees, with respect to any Confidential Information disclosed to such party (the “ Receiving Party ”) by the Disclosing Party hereunder: (a) to use such Confidential Information only for the purposes set forth in this Agreement; (b) to receive, maintain and hold the Confidential Information in strict confidence and to use the same methods and degree of care (but at least reasonable care) to prevent disclosure of such Confidential Information as it uses to prevent disclosure of its own proprietary and Confidential Information and to protect against its dissemination to unauthorized parties; (c) not to disclose, or authorize or permit the disclosure of any Confidential Information to any third party without the prior written consent of the Disclosing Party; (d) to only disclose Confidential Information to employees, agents and consultants of the Receiving Party who have a need to know such information in connection with the Receiving Party’s performance under this Agreement and who are bound by a duty of confidentiality and non-use as least as protective as the terms of this Agreement prior to disclosure; and (e) to return or destroy any Confidential Information to the Disclosing Party at the request of the Disclosing Party and/or upon termination/expiration of this Agreement and to retain no copies or reproductions thereof, except that the Receiving Party may retain a single archival copy of the Confidential Information for the sole purpose of determining the scope of obligations incurred under this Agreement.

9.2 Limitations. The Receiving Party shall not be obligated to treat information as Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party if the Receiving Party can show by competent written evidence that such information: (a) was already known to the Receiving Party without any obligations of confidentiality prior to receipt from the Disclosing Party; (b) was generally available to the public or otherwise part of the public domain at the time of its disclosure to the Receiving Party; (c) became generally available to the public or otherwise part of the public domain after its disclosure, other than through any act or omission of the Receiving Party in breach of any obligation of confidentiality; (d) was disclosed to the Receiving Party, by a third party who had no obligation direct or indirect, to Disclosing Party with respect to confidentiality or non-use; or (e) was independently discovered or developed by the Receiving Party without the use of or reference to the Disclosing Party’s Confidential Information.

9.3 Authorized Disclosure. Notwithstanding Section 9.1, the Receiving Party may disclose Confidential Information, without violating its obligations under Article 9, to the extent the disclosure is required by a valid order of a court or other governmental body having jurisdiction; provided , however , that the Receiving Party gives reasonable prior written notice to the Disclosing Party of such required disclosure and makes a reasonable effort to assist the Disclosing Party at Disclosing Party’s expense in obtaining, a protective order preventing or limiting the disclosure and/or requiring that the Confidential Information so disclosed be used only for the purposes for which the law or regulation requires, or for which the order was issued. The Receiving Party will limit access to the Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party to only those of the Receiving Party’s employees or authorized representatives having a need to know and who are bound by obligations of confidentiality and non-use consistent with those set forth herein. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Althea shall be permitted to disclose Client Product information to third party developmental and analytical service providers who have a need to know such information in connection with performance of its obligations hereunder, provided such providers shall be subject to confidentiality agreements consistent with this Article 9.

9.4 Injunctive Relief. The parties expressly acknowledge and agree that any breach or threatened breach of this Article 9 may cause immediate and irreparable harm to the Disclosing Party which may not be adequately compensated by damages. Each party therefore agrees that in the event of such breach or threatened breach and in addition to any remedies available at law, the Disclosing Party shall have the right to seek equitable and injunctive relief, without bond, in connection with such a breach or threatened breach.

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

9.5 Public Announcements. All publicity, press releases and other announcements relating to this Agreement shall be reviewed in advance by, and subject to the approval of, both parties (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld); provided , however , that either party may (a) disclose the terms of this Agreement insofar as required to comply with applicable securities laws, provided that in the case of such disclosures the party proposing to make such disclosure notifies the other party reasonably in advance of such disclosure and cooperates to minimize the scope and content of such disclosure, and (b) disclose the terms of this Agreement to such party’s investors, professional advisors or potential investors, acquirers, or merger candidates who are bound by obligations of confidentiality and non-use consistent with those set forth herein. The failure of a party to respond in writing to a publication proposal from the other party within five working days of such party’s receipt of such publication shall be deemed as such party’s approval of such publication as received by such party. Each party agrees that it shall cooperate fully and in a timely manner with the other with respect to any disclosures to the Securities and Exchange Commission and any other governmental or regulatory agencies, including requests for confidential treatment of Confidential Information of either party included in any such disclosure.

9.6 Duration of Confidentiality: All obligations of confidentiality and non-use imposed upon the parties under this Agreement shall expire [***]; provided , however , that Confidential Information which [***], subject to the limitations set forth in Sections 9.2 and 9.3.

10. INVENTIONS.

10.1 Existing Intellectual Property; Client’s Intellectual Property: Except as the parties may otherwise expressly agree in writing, each party shall continue to own its existing patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and other Intellectual Property, as well as the foregoing developed or acquired by such party outside of this Agreement, without conferring any interests therein on the other party. Without limiting the generality of the preceding sentence, Client shall retain all right, title and interest, including, without limitation, all Intellectual Property, arising under the United States Patent Act, the United States Trademark Act, the United States Copyright Act and all other applicable laws, rules and regulations in and to all Client Product, Labeling and trademarks associated therewith and any Inventions which are conceived, reduced to practice, or created by or on behalf of a party or jointly by or on behalf of the parties in the course of performing its obligations under this Agreement which Inventions (a) arise or are derived from Client’s Confidential Information, and/or the use or access thereof, or (b) are specific to Client Product or Bulk Compound (collectively, “ Client’s Intellectual Property ”). Neither Althea nor any third party shall acquire any right, title or interest in Client’s Intellectual Property by virtue of this Agreement or otherwise, except to the extent expressly provided herein, provided, that Althea shall have a non-exclusive, non-transferable, non-sublicenseable, non-assignable royalty-free license, during the Term, to use any and all Client’s Intellectual Property that Client has provided to Althea solely for the purpose of performing its obligations under this Agreement. All Client’s Intellectual Property shall be considered the Confidential Information of Client.

 

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10.2 Althea Owned Inventions: All Inventions which are conceived, reduced to practice, or created solely by Althea or its agents in the course of performing its obligations under this Agreement which are both (i) generally applicable to the manufacture of pharmaceutical products, and (ii) not Client’s Intellectual Property, shall be solely owned and subject to use and exploitation by Althea (“ Althea Inventions ”), provided that , Althea hereby grants to Client a fully-paid, royalty-free, non-exclusive, fully transferrable, fully sublicenseable (through multiple tiers), perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide license under the Althea Inventions and all Intellectual Property rights therein, to develop, make, have made, use, sell, offer for sale and import the Client Product(s), that would otherwise infringe the rights in such Althea Inventions absent such license grant to Client.

10.3 Other Inventions: All Inventions which are conceived, reduced to practice, or created jointly by the parties and/or their respective agents in the course of the performance of this Agreement and which are not Client’s Intellectual Property, shall be owned by Client (“ Other Inventions ”), provided that Client hereby grants Althea a non-exclusive, non-royalty bearing, worldwide, fully paid up license in all fields to such Other Inventions, including the right to sublicense. In the event Client abandons or declines prosecution of any Other Invention patent, or separately patentable claim set(s) thereof, in any jurisdiction, Client shall notify Althea, and upon Althea’s written request, assign all of its rights, title and interest in and to such Other Invention patent or claim set(s) applicable to such abandoned/declined jurisdictions to Althea.

10.4 Disclaimer: Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed or interpreted, either expressly or by implication, estoppel or otherwise, as: (i) a grant, transfer or other conveyance by either party to the other of any right, title, license or other interest of any kind in any of its Inventions or other Intellectual Property, (ii) creating an obligation on the part of either party to make any such grant, transfer or other conveyance or (iii) requiring either party to participate with the other party in any cooperative development program or project of any kind or to continue with any such program or project.

10.5 Rights in Inventions: The party owning any Invention shall have the world wide right to control the drafting, filing, prosecution and maintenance of patents covering the Inventions including decisions about the countries in which to file patent applications. Patent costs associated with the patent activities described in this Section shall be borne by the sole owner. Each party will cooperate with the other party in the filing and prosecution of patent applications. Such cooperation will include, but not be limited to, furnishing supporting data and affidavits for the prosecution of patent applications and completing and signing forms needed for the prosecution, assignment and maintenance of patent applications.

10.6 Confidentiality of Inventions: Inventions shall be and any disclosure of information by one party to the other under the provisions of this Article 10 shall be subject to the provisions of Article 9. It shall be the responsibility of the party preparing a patent application to obtain the written permission of the other party to use or disclose the other party’s Confidential Information in the patent application before the application is filed and for other disclosures made during the prosecution of the patent application, such permission not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed.

11. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.

11.1 Mutual Representations: Each party hereby represents and warrants to the other party that (a) such party is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the place of its establishment or incorporation, (b) such party has taken all corporate action necessary to authorize it to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations under this Agreement, (c) this Agreement will constitute the legal, valid and binding obligation of such party, and (d) neither the execution of this Agreement nor the performance of such party’s obligations hereunder will conflict with, result in a breach of, or constitute a default under any provision of the organizational documents of such party, or of any law, rule, regulation, authorization or approval of any government entity, or of any agreement to which it is a party or by which it is bound.

 

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11.2 Althea Warranty:

(a) Product Warranty: Althea represents and warrants that Client Product shall be Produced in accordance with Specifications and cGMP and shall not have become adulterated or misbranded due to the negligence of Althea or Althea’s failure to comply with the terms of this Agreement.

(b) Althea warrants and covenants that has no knowledge of any patents or other Intellectual Property that would be infringed or misappropriated by Althea’s Production of Client Product hereunder.

(c) Althea warrants and covenants that it will not use any employee or consultant that has been debarred by a regulatory authority, excluded from a federal health care program, or convicted of or pled nolo contendere to any felony or to any federal or state legal violation (including misdemeanors) relating to prescription drug products or fraud, or, to the best of its knowledge, is the subject of debarment proceedings by a regulatory authority.

(d) Althea warrants and covenants that it will not enter into any agreement or arrangement with any other entity that would prevent or in any way interfere with Althea’s ability to perform its obligations hereunder (other than resource allocation and scheduling issues inherent in its business).

(e) Althea represents and warrants that it has obtained (or will obtain prior to Producing Client Product), and will remain in compliance with during the Term, all permits, licenses and other authorizations which are required under federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations generally applicable to its operations and the Facility; provided , however , Althea shall have no obligation to obtain permits specific to the manufacture of Client Product or relating to the sale, marketing, distribution or use of Bulk Compound or Client Product or with respect to the Labeling of Client Product.

(f) Althea makes no representation or warranty with respect to the sale, marketing, Labeling, distribution or use of the Bulk Compound or, except as expressly set forth in this Section 11.2, the Client Product.

11.3 Client Warranties: Client represents and warrants that (a) it has the right to give Althea any Client-Supplied Components and information provided by Client hereunder, and that Althea has the right to use such components and information for the Production of Client Product, and (b) Client has no knowledge of any patents or other Intellectual Property that would be infringed or misappropriated by Althea’s Production of Client Product or performance of any other of its obligations under this Agreement, and (c) further warrants that the Bulk Compound and other Client-Supplied Components provided to Althea hereunder conform to the applicable Specifications at the time of delivery to Althea.

 

   17.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

11.4 Disclaimer of Warranties: Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, NEITHER PARTY MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF TITLE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Without limiting the foregoing, Althea makes no representation or warranty relating to the stability, efficacy, safety, or toxicity of any Client Product, except that such Client Product meets the warranty in Section 11.2(a).

12. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND WAIVER OF PROPERTY CLAIMS.

12.1 Limitation of Liability: (a)  Client’s sole and exclusive remedy for Althea’s delivery of “non-conforming” or “defective” Client Product contemplated by 5.1(a) or breach of the warranty set forth in Section 11.2(a) is limited to those remedies set forth in Article 5 and 6 and, if applicable, Section 7.2, provided that the foregoing shall not limit Althea’s indemnification obligations hereunder. EXCEPT WITH RESPECT TO EACH PARTY’S INDEMNIFICATION OBLIGATIONS, BREACH OF ARTICLE 9, OR INFRINGEMENT OR MISAPPROPRIATION OF A PARTY’S INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL EITHER PARTY BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF USE OR PROFITS OR OTHER INDIRECT, COLLATERAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR OTHER DAMAGES, COST OF COVER, LOSSES, OR EXPENSES, IN CONNECTION WITH, OR BY REASON OF THE PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY OF CLIENT PRODUCT UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WHETHER SUCH CLAIMS ARE FOUNDED IN TORT OR CONTRACT. IN NO EVENT WILL ALTHEA BE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPLACING ANY COMPONENTS OR MATERIALS SUPPLIED BY CLIENT EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN PARAGRAPH 5.3.

(b) EXCEPT WITH RESPECT TO A PARTY’S INDMENIFICATION OBLIGATIONS, BREACH OF ARTICLE 9, OR INFRINGEMENT OR MISAPPROPRIATION OF A PARTY’S INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER PARTY’S AGGREGATE LIABILITY UNDER THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY COSTS OF RECALL(S) [***]. THIS LIMITATION SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY.

12.2 Waiver of Property Claims: All Althea Supplied Components and equipment used by Althea in the Production of Client Product (collectively, “ Althea Property ”) shall at all times remain the property of Althea and Althea assumes risk of loss for such property until delivery of Client Product to a common carrier as specified under Section 2.7 or when risk of loss otherwise shifts to Client. Althea hereby waives any and all rights of recovery against Client and its Affiliates, and against any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives, for any loss or damage to Althea Property. Except as set forth in section 5.3, Client assumes all risk of loss at all times for all Client Supplied Components and Client equipment. Client assumes risk of loss for all Client Product upon delivery to a common carrier as specified under Section 2.7 or when risk of loss otherwise shifts to Client pursuant to the Agreement.

13. INDEMNIFICATION.

13.1 Client Indemnification: Client hereby agrees to save, defend, indemnify and hold harmless Althea and its Affiliates and their respective officers, directors, employees, contractors, consultants and agents (each, an “ Althea Indemnitee ”) from and against any and all losses, damages, liabilities, expenses and costs, including reasonable legal expenses and attorneys’ fees (“ Losses ”), to which any Althea Indemnitee may become subject as a result of any claim, demand, action or other proceeding by any third party including, without limitation, property damage, death or personal injury of third parties (a “ Claim ”) against an Althea Indemnitee to the extent arising or resulting from

 

   18.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(a) Client’s storage, disposal, promotion, labeling, marketing, distribution, forward processing, use or sale of Client Product or Client-Supplied Components, (b) Client’s negligence or willful misconduct, (c) any claim that the use, sale, marketing or distribution of Bulk Compound or Client Product by Client, or the Production of Client Product by Althea with respect to, and in accordance with the Specifications or any manufacturing procedures or written instructions provided by Client, violates the patent, trademark, copyright or other proprietary rights of any third party or (d) Client’s employees or contractors, including with limitation any personal injury/workman’s compensation, employment- or benefit-related claims, except to the extent any such Loss(es) are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Althea Indemnitees or within any matters indemnified by Althea in Section 13.2.

13.2 Althea Indemnification: Althea hereby agrees to save, defend, indemnify and hold harmless Client and its Affiliates and any of their respective directors, officers, employees, subcontractors and agents (each, a “ Client Indemnitee ”) from and against any and all Losses to which any Company Indemnitee may become subject as a result of any Claim to the extent arising or resulting from (a) defects in Client Product caused by Althea’s negligence or willful misconduct or material breach of this Agreement, (b) Althea’s storage, disposal, labeling, use, sale, marketing, forward processing, or distribution of Althea Supplied Components, (c) an Althea Indemnitee’s negligence or willful misconduct or (d) Althea’s employees or contractors, including with limitation any personal injury/workman’s compensation, employment- or benefit-related claims, except to the extent any such Loss(es) are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Client or within any matters indemnified by Client in Section 13.1.

13.3 Indemnitee Obligations: A party that makes a claim for indemnification under this Article 13 shall promptly notify the other party (the “ Indemnitor ”) in writing of any action, claim or other matter in respect of which such party, intends to claim such indemnification; provided, however, that failure to provide such notice within a reasonable period of time shall not relieve the Indemnitor of any of its obligations hereunder except to the extent the Indemnitor is prejudiced by such failure. The indemnified party shall permit the Indemnitor, at its discretion, to settle any such action, claim or other matter, and the indemnified party agrees to the complete control of such defense or settlement by the Indemnitor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Indemnitor shall not enter into any settlement that would adversely affect the indemnified party’s rights hereunder, or impose any obligations on the indemnified party in addition to customary mutual general release terms, without indemnified party’s prior written consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. No such action, claim or other matter shall be settled without the prior written consent of the Indemnitor, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The indemnified party shall fully cooperate with the Indemnitor and its legal representatives in the investigation and defense of any action, claim or other matter covered by the indemnification obligations of this Article 13. The indemnified party shall have the right, but not the obligation, to be represented in such defense by counsel of its own selection and at its own expense.

14. INSURANCE.

14.1 Client Insurance: Client shall procure and maintain, from the Effective Date through the date that is one year after the expiration date of all Client Product Produced under this Agreement, commercial general liability insurance, including without limitation, Product Liability coverage (the “ Client Insurance ”). The Client Insurance shall cover amounts not less than $[***] combined single limit and shall be with an insurance carrier reasonably acceptable to Althea. [***] and Client promptly shall deliver a certificate of Client Insurance and endorsement of additional insured to Althea evidencing such coverage.

 

   19.            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

14.2 Althea Insurance: Althea shall procure and maintain, from the Effective Date through the date that is one year after the expiration date of all Client Product Produced under this Agreement, Commercial General Liability Insurance, including without limitation, Products and Professional Liability coverage (the “ Althea Insurance ”). The Althea Insurance shall cover amounts not less than $[***] combined single limit and shall be with an insurance carrier reasonably acceptable to Client. Client shall be named as an additional insured on the Althea Insurance and Althea shall promptly deliver a certificate of Althea Insurance and endorsement of additional insured to Client evidencing such coverage. For clarity, in the event an SOW provides for, or Client requests, the Production and/or storage of Client Product and/or Client-Supplied Components whose aggregate value exceeds this coverage amount, additional insurance may be required at Client’s expense.

14.3 Waiver of Subrogation: Each party hereby waives and shall cause its insurers to waive any and all rights of recovery against the other party and its Affiliates, and against any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives, for any loss or damage that is covered by insurance whether or not such insurance is described in this Agreement, or should have been covered by insurance described in this Agreement, but for the waiving party’s failure to procure or maintain it.

15. GENERAL PROVISIONS.

15.1 Notices: Any notice to be given under this Agreement must be in writing and delivered either in person, by any method of mail (postage prepaid) requiring return receipt, or by overnight courier or facsimile confirmed thereafter by any of the foregoing, to the party to be notified at its address given below, or at any address such party has previously designated by prior written notice to the other. Notice shall be deemed sufficiently given for all purposes upon the actual delivery thereof at the address designated in accordance with this paragraph.

 

If to Client:    Avedro, Inc.
   230 Third Ave.
   Waltham, MA 02451
   Attn: Evan Sherr
   Telephone:         781-768-3405
   Facsimile:          781-768-3401
If to Althea:    Ajinomoto Althea Inc.
   11040 Roselle Street
   San Diego, CA 92121
   Attn: Chief Financial Officer
   Telephone:         (858) 882-0123
   Facsimile:          (858) 882-0133

 

   20.            


15.2 Entire Agreement; Amendment: The parties hereto acknowledge that this Agreement sets forth the entire agreement and understanding of the parties and supersedes all prior written or oral agreements or understandings with respect to the subject matter hereof including without limitation the Commercial Supply Agreement between the parties dated as of 15 August, 2011. No modification of any of the terms of this Agreement, or of any attachments or Appendices, shall be deemed to be valid unless in writing and signed by an authorized agent or representative of both parties hereto. No course of dealing or usage of trade shall be used to modify the terms and conditions herein.

15.3 Waiver: None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be considered waived by any party hereto unless such waiver is agreed to, in writing, by authorized agents of both parties. The failure of a party to insist upon strict conformance to any of the terms and conditions hereof, or failure or delay to exercise any rights provided herein or by law shall not be deemed a waiver of any rights of any party hereto.

15.4 Assignment: This Agreement may not be assigned or transferred by either party including by operation of law without the prior written consent of the other, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed; provided , however , that either party may assign this Agreement including by operation of law without the other party’s consent to an Affiliate or in connection with the transfer or sale of all or substantially all of the business of such party to which this Agreement relates, whether by merger, sale of stock, sale of assets or otherwise, provided that if such assignment is to an Affiliate, the assigning party shall be jointly responsible for Affiliate’s obligations hereunder. Any attempted assignment of this Agreement not in compliance with this Section 15.4 shall be null and void. No assignment shall relieve either party of the performance of any accrued obligation that such party may then have under this Agreement. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon each party signatory hereto, its successors and permitted assigns, subsidiaries and Affiliates.

15.5 Taxes: Client shall bear the cost of all national, state, municipal or other sales, use, excise, import, property, value added, or other similar taxes, assessments or tariffs assessed upon or levied against the Production or sale of Client Product pursuant to this Agreement or the sale or distribution of Client Product by Client (or at Client’s sole expense, defend against the imposition of such taxes and expenses). Althea shall notify Client of any such taxes that any governmental authority is seeking to collect from Althea, and Client may assume the defense thereof in Althea’s name, if necessary, and Althea agrees to fully cooperate in such defense to the extent of the capacity of Althea, at Client’s expense. Althea shall pay all national, state, municipal or other taxes on the income resulting from the sale by Althea of the Client Product to Client under this Agreement, including but not limited to, gross income, adjusted gross income, supplemental net income, gross receipts, excess profit taxes, or other similar taxes.

15.6 Independent Contractor: Althea shall act as an independent contractor for Client in providing the services required hereunder and neither party shall be considered an agent or employer of, or joint venturer with, the other party or its employees.

15.7 Governing Law; Limitations: Any action brought related to this Agreement or the activities contemplated hereunder shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the principles of conflicts of laws. The federal and state courts located in New York, shall have personal jurisdiction over the parties hereto in all such actions, and the exclusive venue for any such action brought by either party against the other party will be the federal or state courts located in New York. All suits or other actions for breach or default under this Agreement or any matter arising out of the contemplated activities shall be brought within one year after the cause of action accrued or shall be deemed waived.

 

   21.            


15.8 Dispute Resolution: Prior to initiating any court, administrative or other action on a claim, dispute, demand or assertion related to this Agreement or the services hereunder (collectively, a “ Claim ”), the claimant shall give notice to the other party, detailing the nature of the Claim and the facts relevant thereto and the parties shall in good faith attempt to resolve such Claim. No court, administrative or other action shall be initiated until the parties have exhausted good faith settlement attempts by first, direct negotiation and second, mediation by a mutually-agreeable professional mediator under the appropriate Mediation Procedures of the American Arbitration Association. The site of the mediation shall be San Diego, California. The costs of mediation shall be borne equally by the parties.

15.9 Attorney’s Fees: The successful party in any litigation or other dispute resolution proceeding to enforce the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be entitled to recover from the other party reasonable attorney’s fees and related costs involved in connection with such litigation or dispute resolution proceeding.

15.10 Severability: In the event that any one or more of the provisions contained herein, or the application thereof in any circumstances, is held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect for any reason, the parties shall negotiate in good faith with a view to the substitution therefor of a suitable and equitable provision in order to carry out, so far as may be valid and enforceable, the intent and purpose of such invalid provision; provided , however , that the validity, legality and enforceability of any such provision in every other respect and of the remaining provisions contained herein shall not be in any way impaired thereby, it being intended that all of the rights and privileges of the parties hereto shall be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

[Signature Page Follows.]

 

   22.            


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have each caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly-authorized representatives as of the Effective Date above.

 

AVEDRO, INC.       AJINOMOTO ALTHEA, INC.
By:   

/s/ David Muller

      By:   

/s/ Martha J. Demski

Name:    David Muller       Name:    Martha J. Demski
Title:    CEO       Title:    SVP and CFO

 

   23.            


A PPENDIX A

S TATEMENT ( S ) OF W ORK

 

   .            


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

A PPENDIX B

C LIENT P RODUCT

[***]

 

   .            


[***] = TWENTY-SIX (26) PAGES OF CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT 10.20, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

[***]

Exhibit 10.23

[***] = CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

PATENT LICENSE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT

T HIS P ATENT L ICENSE AND P URCHASE A GREEMENT (the “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into effective as of April 4, 2015 (the “ Effective Date ”), by and between A VEDRO , I NC . , a corporation established under the laws of the State of Delaware, and having a place of business in 230 Third Avenue, Waltham, Massachusetts, 02451, United States, (“ Avedro ”) and IROC Innocross AG (formerly known as Falcon Trading AG), A corporation established under the laws of Switzerland, having its registered offices at Bahnhofstrasse 21, CH-6300 Zug, Switzerland (“ IROC Innocross ”). Avedro and Mrochen are sometimes referred to herein individually as a “ Party ” and collectively as the “ Parties .”

R ECITALS

W HEREAS , IROC Innocross has acquired certain technology and intellectual property rights relating to Ophthalmic Cross-Linking and is the owner of such technology and intellectual property as further defined below;

W HEREAS , IROC Innocross and Avedro entered on August 7, 2014 into a certain asset purchase and license agreement (the “ Asset Purchase and License Agreement ”) pursuant to which Avedro acquired certain Transferred Assets, Transferred Customers and Transferred Contracts from IROC Innocross and was granted a license under certain Intellectual Property Rights for certain Products (all capitalized items as defined therein);

W HEREAS , IROC Innocross desires to grant Avedro a license, and Avedro desires to receive from IROC Innocross a license to certain technology and intellectual property rights owned by IROC Innocross which were excluded from the license under the Asset Purchase and License Agreement (Excluded Intellectual Property Rights as defined thereunder) as well as to broaden the scope of the license to the Intellectual Property Rights under the Asset Purchase Agreement to include all products, and to effect the transfer of all patents covered under this Agreement to Avedro upon full payments hereunder, all on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and

W HEREAS , effective upon the receipt of all and not less than all of the upfront payment and the milestone payments set forth in this Agreement, IROC Innocross desires to sell, transfer and assign, and Avedro desires to purchase, be transferred and receive from IROC Innocross such aforementioned technology, Intellectual Property Rights and Excluded Intellectual Property Rights owned by IROC Innocross, on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.

N OW T HEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and the covenants and promises contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

 

1.


ARTICLE 1

D EFINITIONS

All capitalized terms used herein shall have the same meanings as in the Asset Purchase and License Agreement unless otherwise defined herein:

1.1 “Affiliate” means, with respect to a Party, any company or entity controlled by, controlling, or under common control with such Party. For the purposes of this definition, the word “control” (including, with correlative meaning, the terms “controlled by” or “under the common control with”) means the actual power, either directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such entity, whether by the ownership of more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting stock of such entity, or by contract or otherwise.

1.2 “Avedro Indemnitees” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.3.

1.3 “Confidential Information” means, with respect to a Party, all Information of such Party that is disclosed to the other Party under this Agreement, whether disclosed in oral, written, graphic, or electronic form. All confidential information disclosed by a Party pursuant to the Mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement between the Parties dated May 21, 2014 or the Asset Purchase and License Agreement shall be deemed to be such Party’s Confidential Information hereunder unless otherwise defined thereunder. Upon Transfer Date, the Technology shall be Avedro’s Confidential Information, prior to Transfer Date, the Technology is both Parties’ Confidential Information.

1.4 Effective Date ” means the date of execution hereof by both Parties hereto.

1.5 “Indemnitee” means either a Avedro Indemnitee or a IROC Innocross Indemnitee.

1.6 “Information” means any data, results, and information of any type whatsoever, in any tangible or intangible form, including, without limitation, know-how, trade secrets, practices, techniques, methods, processes, inventions, developments, specifications, formulations, formulae, materials or compositions of matter of any type or kind (patentable or otherwise), software, algorithms, marketing reports, expertise, stability, technology, test data including pharmacological, biological, chemical, biochemical, toxicological, and clinical test data, analytical and quality control data, stability data, studies and procedures.

1.7 Initial Public Offering means the initial underwritten public offering of shares of Common Stock pursuant to an effective registration statement filed by Avedro with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the listing of Avedro’s Common Stock on a national securities exchange or automated quotation system.

1.8 “IROC Innocross Indemnitees” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.2.

1.9 Joint Inventions ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.1(d).

 

2.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

1.10 Patent Agency ” means any federal, national, multinational, state, provincial or local regulatory agency, department, bureau or other governmental entity with authority to grant legally enforceable protection to inventions or discoveries.

1.11 “ Patent Related Information means, for each Patent Right, the file wrapper and file history for such Patent Right, any and all correspondence with any Patent Agency solely with respect to a Patent Right (including any application, whether or not a patent issued), and all internal disclosures, memoranda, prior art, data, lab notes, and other documentation and materials solely relating to or implementing each invention disclosed in such Patent Right; provided , that legal opinions and other attorney-client communications related to the Patent Rights shall be excluded from the definition of “Patent Related Information” for all purposes of this Agreement.

1.12 “Patent Rights” means (i) the patent applications listed in Exhibit A , together with all inventions disclosed or claimed therein or covered thereby, (ii) all substitutions, divisions, continuations, continuations-in-part and requests for continued examination of the foregoing, (iii) all patents arising from or claiming priority to any of the foregoing, (iv) all reissues, renewals, registrations, confirmations, re-examinations, extensions, and supplementary protection certificates of any of the foregoing, and (v) all foreign equivalents of any of the foregoing.

1.13 “Product” means hereunder [***] that is covered by, or is made by a process covered by, any claim of the Patent Rights, i.e. goes beyond the “Product” definition under the Asset Purchase and License Agreement.

1.14 “Related Inventions” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.1(e).

1.15 “Technology” means the Patent Rights and the Patent Related Information.

1.16 “Third Party” means a person or entity other than IROC Innocross or Avedro or their respective Affiliates.

1.17 Transfer Date ” means the date of receipt by IROC Innocross of all and not less than all of the Upfront Payment set forth in Clause 4.1 and all Milestone Payments set forth in Clause 4.2 of this Agreement (with such Milestone Payments having been made pursuant to either Clause 4.2(a) or Clause 4.2(b)).

ARTICLE 2

L ICENSE G RANT AND A SSIGNMENT

2.1 License to Avedro. As of the Effective Date and subject to any early termination hereof prior to Transfer Date by either Party under Clause 10 hereof, IROC Innocross hereby grants to Avedro a worldwide, exclusive license, with the right to sublicense through multiple tiers, under the Technology to research, develop, make, have made, use, import, offer for sale, sell and otherwise commercialize Products and to otherwise use the Technology. The Parties will record and register such license and this Agreement with the Patent Authority(ies).

 

3.


2.2 Sublicenses . Avedro shall as of the Effective Date and subject to any early termination hereof prior to Transfer Date by either Party under Clause 10 hereof have the right to grant sublicenses through multiple tiers under any or all of the rights granted in Section 2.1 to its Affiliates and to Third Parties, whereby such sublicensing of rights to use shall be subject to the due fulfillment of all the following pre-requisites:.

(a) Parallel Obligations . The sub-license(s) shall contain undertakings by the sub-licensee(s), as applicable, to observe and perform obligations which are in all material respects mutatis mutandis at least the same as Avedro’s undertakings and obligations to IROC Innocross hereunder to the extent allocated to such sub-licensee(s), including but not limited to its confidentiality obligations.

(b) Liability of Avedro . Avedro shall remain fully liable to IROC Innocross for the due fulfillment of all respective undertakings and obligations to IROC Innocross by any sub-licensee of Avedro’ right to use hereunder.

(c) Termination of Sub-License/Assignment . The terms and conditions of Clause 10 are properly reflected in the sub-license or assignment to the extent applicable.

(d) Compliance . Avedro shall, during the term of this Agreement, at all times ensure the observance and performance by every sub-licensee of the provisions of each sub-license to use hereunder and indemnify IROC Innocross against any loss, damages, costs, claims or expenses which are awarded against, or incurred by IROC Innocross as a result of any breach by any sub-licensee of any of the provisions of a sub-license, as if the breach had been that of Avedro.

2.3 Sale, Transfer and Assignment.

(a) For and in consideration of all and not less than all of the payments specified in Article 4 and other good and valuable consideration, IROC Innocross shall at the Transfer Date sell, assign and transfer to Avedro, and Avedro thereupon accept and assume from IROC Innocross, all of IROC Innocross’s right, title and interest in the United States of America and worldwide in and to the Technology existing now or in the future, with such assignment, transfer, acceptance and assumption being documented on the Transfer Date with the Parties’ execution of the document set forth in Section 2.3(c). IROC Innocross shall not assign, transfer, license, option, grant rights under or otherwise encumber the Technology during the Term of this Agreement, and any attempted action by IROC Innocross thereof shall be deemed null, void and of no legal effect. The Technology subject to this Section 2.3(a) includes without limitation:

(i) the Patent Rights (including all Related Inventions and Joint Inventions) and Patent Related Information;

(ii) the right to file (including the right to file new patent applications), prosecute and maintain the Patent Rights with any Patent Agency, and to do so in its own name;

(iii) all right, title and interest in the United States of America and in the world, in, to and under all patents granted directly on or as a result of the Patent Rights;

 

4.


(iv) the right to claim any and all benefits with respect to the Patent Rights which are or may be available in any country under the International Convention For The Protection of Industrial Property, and any like treaties or laws;

(v) the right to claim and to enjoy the benefit of any priority dates established by the Patent Rights; and

(vi) the right to sue for past, present and future infringements of the Patent Rights.

(b) The sale, assignment and transfer of the Technology shall become effective on the Transfer Date.

(c) Promptly upon Transfer Date, IROC Innocross shall deliver to Avedro an executed recordable assignment document for the Patent Rights having the form and substance of Exhibit B (including Attachment A thereto which shall be updated at the time of such delivery).

2.4 Upon Transfer Date, IROC Innocross agrees to duly execute and deliver, or cause to be duly executed and delivered, such further instruments and do and cause to be done such further acts and things, including, without limitation, the filing of such additional assignments, agreements, documents and instruments, as Avedro may from time to time reasonably request in connection with effectuating the license and assignment of the Technology to Avedro as provided in Sections 2.1 and 2.3.

ARTICLE 3

T ECHNOLOGY T RANSFER ; D EVELOPMENT AND C OMMERCIALIZATION

3.1 Technology Transfer. Promptly following the Effective Date, IROC Innocross shall communicate to Avedro all facts and information then known to IROC Innocross comprising or relating to the Technology and shall furnish Avedro with copies of, and if reasonably requested by Avedro, physical access to the originals of, any and all documents, electronic records, photographs, models, samples and other tangible materials in IROC Innocross’s control that relate directly to the Technology and/or that may be useful for the exercise of the license set forth in Section 2.1, provided , that any legal opinions and other attorney-client communications related to the Patent Rights shall be provided to Avedro at the Transfer Date. Avedro may request such facts, information, and copies from time to time throughout the term of this Agreement, and IROC Innocross’s response to each such request shall include all specified items generated since the previous request or otherwise not available at the time of the previous request.

3.2 Development and Commercialization of Products . Subject to any early termination hereof prior to Transfer Date by either Party under Clause 10 hereof, Avedro shall have sole control, authority, and discretion over, and shall have the sole right to conduct, the research, development and commercialization of Products utilizing the Technology throughout the world.

 

5.


[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

ARTICLE 4

F INANCIAL T ERMS

4.1 Upfront Payment. Avedro shall make a one-time upfront payment of Fifty Thousand US Dollars ($50,000) to IROC Innocross within five (5) calendar days of the Effective Date.

4.2 Milestone Payments.

(a) Subject to Section 4.2(b), Avedro shall make the following one-time milestone payments to IROC Innocross within [***] calendar days after the first achievement of the corresponding milestone events:

 

Milestone Event

  

Milestone Payment (US Dollars)

[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]
[***]    [***]

(b) Avedro shall have the right, in its sole discretion, to prepay any or all of the Milestone Payment(s) under Section 4.2(a) prior to the occurrence of the applicable Milestone Event. For clarity, if Avedro prepays any Milestone Payment pursuant to this Section 4.2(b), no further payment shall be due upon the occurrence of the Milestone Event applicable to such prepaid Milestone Payment, and if Avedro prepays all remaining Milestone Payments under Section 4.2(a), then the sale, transfer and assignment under Section 2.3 will become effective upon Transfer Date.

(c) Each milestone payment set forth in this Section 4.2 shall be payable only once. The total amount payable under these Sections 4.1 and 4.2 shall not exceed One Million Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand US Dollars ($1,750,000).

 

6.


ARTICLE 5

P AYMENTS

5.1 Payments. All amounts payable to IROC Innocross under this Agreement shall be paid in U.S. Dollars by check or by wire transfer to a bank account specified in writing by IROC Innocross to Avedro.

5.2 Withholding of Taxes. Any withholding of taxes levied by tax authorities on the payments hereunder shall be borne by IROC Innocross and, to the extent applicable, shall be deducted by Avedro, from the sums otherwise payable by it hereunder, for payment to the proper tax authorities on behalf of IROC Innocross. Avedro agrees to cooperate with IROC Innocross in the event IROC Innocross claims exemption from such withholding or seeks deductions under any double taxation or other similar treaty or agreement from time to time in force, such coopration to consist of providing IROC Innocross with receipts of payment of such withheld tax or other documents reasonably available to Avedro.

ARTICLE 6

I NTELLECTUAL P ROPERTY

6.1 Licenses to and Ownership of New Inventions.

(a) Subject to Section 6.1(c), Avedro shall own the entire right, title and interest in and to any and all Information discovered, created, identified or made solely by it and its Affiliates and their respective employees, agents or independent contractors in the course of performing or exercising its rights under this Agreement, and all intellectual property rights in any of the foregoing, provided that, any and all Related Inventions made solely by Avedro shall be subject to Section 6.1(d) and Section 6.1(e) hereafter and shall be deemed including in the Patent Rights and Technology and subject to the license and assignment (when effective) to Avedro hereunder.; and

(b) In the event that Avedro and IROC Innocross enter into a consulting agreement pursuant to which IROC Innocross performs consulting services for Avedro, then, to the extent permissible under any applicable law, Avedro shall own the entire right, title, and interest in and to any inventions, data, results, know-how and information discovered, created, identified or made by IROC Innocross pursuant to such consulting agreement, provided that, any and all Related Inventions made by IROC Innocross under such consulting agreement shall be subject to Section 6.1(d) and Section 6.1(e) hereafter and shall be deemed including in the Patent Rights and Technology and subject to the license and assignment (when effective) to Avedro hereunder.

(c) Subject to Section 6.1(b), IROC Innocross shall own the entire right, title and interest in and to any and all Information discovered, created, identified or made solely by it and its Affiliates and their respective employees, agents or independent contractors after the Effective Date and during the Term of this Agreement and all intellectual property rights therein, provided that, any and all Related Inventions made by IROC Innocross shall be subject to Section 6.1(d) and Section 6.1(e) hereafter and shall be deemed including in the Patent Rights and Technology and subject to the license and assignment (when effective) to Avedro hereunder.

 

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(d) IROC Innocross and Avedro shall jointly own the entire right, title and interest in and to (a) any and all Information discovered, created, identified or made jointly by the Parties (whether by themselves or through their respective Affiliates) and their respective employees, agents or independent contractors (“ Joint Inventions ”) and (b) all Related Inventions; in each case of (a) and (b) after the Effective Date and during the Term of the Agreement and with all intellectual property rights therein, provided that, any and all of (a) and (b) shall be deemed including in the Patent Rights and Technology and subject to the license and assignment (when effective) to Avedro hereunder.

(e) Related Inventions ” means: (a) all patent applications filed by or on behalf of either or both Parties (as applicable in the particular case) after the Effective Date and during the Term of this Agreement that claim priority to, or are supported by the specifications of or are otherwise covered by, the patent applications and patents included in the Patent Rights and Patent Related Information existing as of the Effective Date; (b) the Information described and/or claimed in such patent applications and any and all future applications claiming such Information; (c) all substitutions, divisions, continuations, continuations-in-part and requests for continued examination of the foregoing described in (a) and/or (b); (d) all patents arising from or claiming priority to any of the foregoing; (e) all reissues, renewals, registrations, confirmations, re-examinations, extensions, and supplementary protection certificates of any of the foregoing; and (f) all foreign equivalents of any of the foregoing.

6.2 Prosecution of Patent Rights Prior to Assignment.

(a) Upon Effective Date but prior to Transfer Date and subject to an early termination under Clause 10 hereof by either Party hereto prior to Transfer Date as well as subject to Section 6.2(b), Avedro shall be responsible for and control the preparation, filing, prosecution and maintenance of all patents and patent applications within the Patent Rights, with IROC Innocross as applicant and, subject to Section 6.1(d) for Joint Inventions and Related Inventions, sole owner but at Avedro’s sole cost and expense; provided, however, that IROC Innocross shall provide all information reasonably requested by Avedro with respect to the Patent Rights. IROC Innocross will not otherwise file any patent applications or assist any Third Party to file any patent applications that cover, claim, are supported by, or claim priority to any Patent Rights or Patent Related Information.

(b) Prior to the Transfer Date, in the event that Avedro determines not to file, maintain or continue prosecution of any patent or patent application within the Patent Rights, Avedro shall provide IROC Innocross written notice thereof at least thirty (30) calendar days before the applicable deadline. Upon receipt of such notice, IROC Innocross shall have the right, but not the obligation, at its sole cost and expense, to assume sole and exclusive responsibility for filing, prosecuting, and maintaining such patents and patent applications and such patents and patent applications shall no longer be deemed Patent Rights under this Agreement.

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

(c) The provisions of Sections 6.2(a) and 6.2(b) shall no longer apply after the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective upon Transfer Date, upon which Avedro shall have the sole right and discretion in the filing, prosecuting, and maintaining of the Patent Rights as applicant or owner in its own name and on its own behalf.

(d) Each Party shall fully cooperate with the other Party to execute all lawful papers and instruments and to make all rightful oaths and declarations as may be necessary or useful in the preparation and prosecution of Patent Rights.

6.3 Enforcement.

(a) Each Party shall promptly notify the other in writing of any alleged or threatened infringement of the Patent Rights of which it becomes aware.

(b) Avedro shall have the sole right, but not the obligation, to bring a suit or otherwise take action against any person or entity directly infringing, contributorily infringing or inducing infringement of the Patent Rights, at Avedro’s sole cost and expense.

(c) IROC Innocross shall, at Avedro’s request, cost and expense, cooperate with and provide to Avedro reasonable assistance in enforcing any rights under this Section 6.3. IROC Innocross further agrees to join, at Avedro’s cost and expense, any such action brought by Avedro under this Section 6.3 as a party plaintiff if required by applicable law to pursue such action. Avedro shall keep IROC Innocross regularly informed of the status and progress of such enforcement efforts, and shall reasonably consider IROC Innocross’s comments on any such efforts.

(d) Any recovery obtained by Avedro in connection with or as a result of any action to enforce any Patent Right, whether by settlement or otherwise, shall first be applied to reimburse the costs and expenses of Avedro and of IROC Innocross in connection with such action, if any, and any amounts remaining after such reimbursement to Avedro and IROC Innocross shall second be retained by Avedro.

(e) Avedro may exercise any of its rights pursuant to this Section 6.3 through an Affiliate or sublicensee on the terms and conditions set forth in Clause 2.2 hereof.

ARTICLE 7

C ONFIDENTIALITY

7.1 Confidentiality. Except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement or otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, each Party agrees that, for the term of this Agreement and for either (i) [***] thereafter or (ii) for as long as there is a valid claim under any Patent Right (whichever of (i) or (ii) is longer, it shall keep confidential and shall not publish or otherwise disclose and shall not use for any purpose other than as provided for in this Agreement any Confidential Information of the other Party, unless the receiving Party can demonstrate by competent proof that such Confidential Information:

(a) was already known to the receiving Party, other than under an obligation of confidentiality, at the time of disclosure by the other Party;

 

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(b) was generally available to the public or otherwise part of the public domain at the time of its disclosure to the receiving Party;

(c) became generally available to the public or otherwise part of the public domain after its disclosure and other than through any act or omission of the receiving Party in breach of this Agreement;

(d) was disclosed to the receiving Party, other than under an obligation of confidentiality to a Third Party, by a Third Party who had no obligation to the disclosing Party not to disclose such information to others; or

(e) was independently discovered or developed by the receiving Party without the use of Confidential Information belonging to the disclosing Party.

7.2 Authorized Disclosure.

(a) Each Party may disclose Confidential Information belonging to the other Party to the extent such disclosure is reasonably necessary:

(i) to prosecute or defend litigation with respect to this Agreement; or

(ii) to comply with applicable laws, governmental regulations or court orders; or

(iii) for the prosecution or enforcement of Patent Rights or patents or patent applications relating to Products or for regulatory filings for Products;

(iv) to perform such Party’s obligations or exercise such Party’s rights under this Agreement; or

(v) to such Party’s officers, directors, employees, consultants, contractors, Affiliates, licensees, or sublicensees who agree to be bound by similar terms of confidentiality.

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing Section 7.2(a), in the event a Party is required to make a disclosure of the other Party’s Confidential Information pursuant to Section 7.2(a)(ii) it will, except where impracticable, give reasonable advance notice to the other Party of such disclosure and use commercially reasonable efforts to secure confidential treatment of such information.

ARTICLE 8

R EPRESENTATIONS A ND W ARRANTIES

8.1 Representations and Warranties of Avedro. Avedro hereby represents and warrants to IROC Innocross that, as of the Effective Date:

 

10.


(a) Corporate Existence and Power. Avedro is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction in which it is incorporated and has full power and authority and the legal right to own and operate its property and assets and to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and as contemplated by this Agreement.

(b) Authority and Binding Agreement. (i) Avedro has the power and authority and the legal right to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder; (ii) Avedro has taken all necessary authorized action on its part required to authorize the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance of its obligations hereunder; and (iii) this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on behalf of Avedro and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation that is enforceable against it in accordance with its terms.

8.2 Representations and Warranties of IROC Innocross. IROC Innocross hereby represents, warrants and covenants that, as of the Effective Date:

(a) Corporate Existence and Power. IROC Innocross is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction in which it is incorporated and has full power and authority and the legal right to own and operate its property and assets and to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and as contemplated by this Agreement.

(b) Authority and Binding Agreement. (i) IROC Innocross has the power and authority and the legal right to enter into this Agreement and perform its obligations hereunder; (ii) IROC Innocross has taken all necessary authorized action on its part required to authorize the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance of its obligations hereunder; and (iii) this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on behalf of IROC Innocross and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation that is enforceable against it in accordance with its terms.

(c) Exhibit A. Exhibit A accurately identifies all patents and patent applications owned or controlled by IROC Innocross as of the Effective Date that are necessary or useful for the research, development, manufacture, use or sale of the products utilizing the Technology.

(d) Prior Licenses and Assignments . IROC Innocross has not, prior to the Effective Date, assigned or licensed to any company or for-profit entity other than Avedro under the Asset Purchase and License Agreement any Information or intellectual property with respect thereto that is necessary or useful for the research, development, manufacture, use or sale of the products utilizing the Technology.

(e) Technology. IROC Innocross is the sole owner of the entire right, title and interest in and to all Patent Rights within the Technology. The Patent Rights have been properly assigned to IROC Innocross prior to the Effective Date and all such assignments have been properly recorded with the applicable Patent Agency. IROC Innocross has the full and legal rights and authority to license to Avedro the Technology.

 

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(f) No Conflict. IROC Innocross has not entered, and shall not enter, into any agreement with any Third Party that is in conflict with the rights granted to Avedro under this Agreement, and has not taken and shall not take any action that would in any way prevent him from granting the rights granted to Avedro under this Agreement, or that would otherwise materially conflict with or adversely affect Avedro’s rights under this Agreement. IROC Innocross’s performance and execution of this Agreement does not and will not result in a breach of any other contract to which he is a party. As of the Effective Date, IROC Innocross is aware of no action, suit, inquiry or investigation instituted by any Third Party that threatens the validity of this Agreement.

(g) No Claims. No Third Party has been granted by IROC Innocross any license, option or other rights or interest in or to the Technology or any part thereof. IROC Innocross has not received, nor is he aware of, any claims or allegations that a Third Party has any right or interest in or to any patent or patent application in the Patent Rights or that any of such patents or patent applications are invalid or unenforceable.

(h) Validity and Enforceability. IROC Innocross is as of the Effective Date not aware of the existence of any facts that could form the basis for the invalidation or unenforceability of any patent or patent application in the Patent Rights.

(i) Third Party Intellectual Property. To IROC Innocross’s knowledge as of the Effective Date, no intellectual property rights of any Third Party were infringed or misappropriated during the creation of the Technology or would be infringed or misappropriated by the making, having made, using, importing, offering for sale, or selling of Product throughout the world.

(j) Full Disclosure. To IROC Innocross’s knowledge as of the Effective Date, all written data, results and other information disclosed at any time prior to the Effective Date by IROC Innocross relating to the Technology are unchanged and not altered. Additionally, to IROC Innocross’s knowledge as of the Effective Date, IROC Innocross has not failed and will not fail to disclose to Avedro any material information known to IROC Innocross and in his possession and control that relates to the Technology for Products, or that would be required to be disclosed in order to make the data, results, and other information relating to the Technology for Products that have been disclosed not misleading.

(k) Prior Art. The Parties acknowledge the disclosure of prior art made by IROC Innocross to Avedro as of the Effective Date, and the existence of such prior art including, with no limitations, any future suits, claims, actions, proceedings and demands of any Third Party based on such prior art, if any, shall irrespective of their final outcome not be deemed a breach of IROC of any of the representations and/or warranties made by it under this Section 8.2.

8.3 Disclaimers. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT, NEITHER PARTY MAKES, AND EACH PARTY HEREBY DISCLAIMS, WAIVES, RELEASES, AND RENOUNCES ANY AND ALL REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED (I) REGARDING THE EFFECTIVENESS, VALUE, SAFETY, OR PATENTABILITY, OF ANY PATENT, TECHNOLOGY, PRODUCT, INFORMATION OR RESULTS PROVIDED BY EITHER PARTY PURSUANT TO THIS AGREEMENT OR (II) THAT THE PATENT RIGHTS OR PRODUCTS WILL BE APPROVED OR OTHERWISE SUCCESSFULLY DEVELOPED OR COMMERCIALIZED ; INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT AND ANY WARRANTY ARISING OUT OF PRIOR COURSE OF DEALING AND USAGE OF TRADE.

 

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ARTICLE 9

S PECIFIC P ERFORMANCE AND I NDEMNIFICATION

9.1 Specific Performance . The Parties agree that each Party could suffer irreparable damage in the event that the obligations of the respective other Party that are imposed hereunder with respect to the Technology, Confidential Information and Products of the claiming Party are breached. Consequently, each Party agrees that in addition to all other remedies available in the event of a breach or threatened breach of any such provisions, the respective other Party will be entitled to claim specific performance thereof from the owing Party and to have the respective obligations specifically enforced, without showing any actual damage or that monetary damages would not provide an adequate remedy and without the necessity of posting any bond, and/or a decree for specific performance, in accordance with the provisions hereof.

9.2 Indemnification by Avedro. Avedro hereby agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless IROC Innocross and his successors, heirs and assigns (collectively, the “IROC Innocross Indemnitees” ) from and against all liabilities, damages, expenses and/or loss, including reasonable legal expenses and attorneys’ fees, resulting directly from Third Party suits, claims, actions, proceedings and demands against a IROC Innocross Indemnitee arising from: (a) Avedro’s or its Affiliates’ or sublicensees’ research, development, manufacturing, use, marketing or sale of Products or practice of the Technology; or (b) Avedro’s negligence, recklessness, intentional misconduct or breach of any obligation, representation, warranty or covenant in this Agreement.

9.3 Indemnification by IROC Innocross. IROC Innocross hereby agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Avedro, its Affiliates, and all of their respective officers, directors, trustees, employees, and agents and their respective successors, heirs and assigns (collectively, the Avedro Indemnitees ) from and against all liabilities, damages, expenses and/or loss, including reasonable legal expenses and attorneys’ fees, resulting directly from Third Party suits, claims, actions, proceedings and demands against a Avedro Indemnitee arising from IROC Innocross’s negligence, recklessness, intentional misconduct or breach of any obligation, representation, warranty or covenant in this Agreement.

9.4 Procedure. To be eligible to be indemnified as described in this Article 9, each of the Indemnitees seeking to be indemnified shall provide the indemnifying Party with prompt notice of any claim (with a description of the claim and the nature and amount of any such loss) giving rise to the indemnification obligation pursuant to Section 9.1 or 9.2, as the case may be, and the exclusive ability to defend such claim (with the reasonable cooperation of Indemnitee(s)). Each Indemnitee shall have the right to retain its own counsel, at its own expense. Neither the Indemnitee(s) nor the indemnifying Party shall settle or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect to any claim for losses for which indemnification is sought without the prior written consent of the other (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed); provided however, that the

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

indemnifying Party shall have the right to settle or compromise any claim for losses without such prior written consent if the settlement or compromise provides for a full and unconditional release of the Indemnitee(s) and is not materially prejudicial to any Indemnitee’s rights. The indemnifying Party’s obligation to indemnify the Indemnitee(s) pursuant to this Article 9 shall not apply to the extent of any losses (a) that arise from the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of any Indemnitee; or (b) that arise from the breach by the other Party of any obligation, representation, warranty or covenant in this Agreement.

ARTICLE 10

T ERM ; T ERMINATION

10.1 Term. The term of this Agreement shall commence upon the Effective Date and, unless earlier terminated pursuant to this Article 10, shall expire [***].

10.2 Prior to Assignment Becoming Effective.

(a) Termination.

(i) Termination by Avedro. Prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon the Transfer Date, Avedro may terminate this Agreement at will upon thirty (30) calendar days prior written notice to IROC Innocross.

(ii) Termination for Material Breach. Prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon the Transfer Date, each Party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement after appropriate written notice to the other that the other Party is in material breach of this Agreement, unless the other Party cures the breach before the expiration of [***] from the date of notice or, if such breach is not susceptible to cure within such [***] period, then the non-breaching Party’s right to termination shall be suspended only if and for so long as the breaching Party has provided to the non-breaching Party a written plan that is reasonably calculated to effect a cure, such plan is acceptable to the non-breaching Party, and the breaching Party commits to and does carry out such plan as provided to the non-breaching Party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the breaching Party disputes any such alleged breach, the non-breaching Party shall not have the right to terminate the Agreement unless and until such dispute is resolved in Assignor’s favor under Section 11.2 and the breaching Party does not cure such breach within [***] after such determination.

(b) Results of Termination or Expiration.

(i) Accrued Obligations; Survival . Termination or expiration of this Agreement for any reason prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon Transfer Date shall not release a Party from any liability or obligation that already has accrued prior to such expiration or termination, nor affect the survival of any provision hereto to the extent it is expressly stated to survive such termination. Any payments under Sections 4.1 and 4.2 that have accrued prior to such expiration or termination shall be payable by Avedro. For clarity, any payments under Section 4.2 that have not accrued prior to such expiration or termination shall not be due or payable by Avedro. The following provisions shall survive any expiration or termination of this Agreement that occurs prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon Transfer Date for a period of time specified therein, or if not specified, then they shall survive indefinitely: Articles 1, 7, 9, 11, and 12, and Sections 10.2.

 

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(ii) Continued License. Upon termination of this Agreement by Avedro for IROC Innocross’s uncured material breach pursuant to Section 10.2(a)(ii) prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon Transfer Date, and in the event of a dispute only if such uncured breach and termination right by Avedro are confirmed pursuant to Article 11, all rights granted to Avedro in Article 2 shall survive such termination until the term of this Agreement would otherwise expire under Section 10.1. In such case, Avedro shall remain liable for the milestones due under Section 4.2, but may offset such payment obligations by any contract damages that are determined to be due to Avedro pursuant to Article 11.

(iii) License to Innocross . Upon termination of this Agreement by Avedro under Section 10.2(a)(i) or by IROC Innocross for Avedro’s uncured material breach pursuant to Section 10.2(a)(ii) (in the event of a dispute only if such uncured breach and termination right by Avedro are confirmed pursuant to Article 11), in each case during the Term and prior to the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becoming effective upon Transfer Date, Avedro shall grant IROC Innocross a fully-paid, royalty-free, perpetual non-exclusive license, under any and all Joint Inventions and Related Inventions owned by Avedro (either solely or jointly with IROC Innocross), for IROC Innocross to practice the Patent Rights.

10.3 After Assignment Becomes Effective.

(a) Transfer of Rights. After the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective upon Transfer Date, the sale, transfer and assignment under Section 2.3 and the license granted to Avedro pursuant to Section 2.1 shall become irrevocable, perpetual and fully paid-up.

(b) Provisions No Longer Effective After Assignment. The following provisions shall no longer have any force or effect after the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective upon Transfer Date: Articles 4 and 8, and Sections 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 5.1, 6.2(a), 6.2(b), 6.2(d) and 10.2.

(c) Termination by Avedro . After the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective and implemented upon Transfer Date, this Agreement shall expire after each Party fulfills its obligations triggered by the Transfer Date.

(d) Accrued Obligations; Survival. Termination or expiration of this Agreement after the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective shall not release a Party from any liability or obligation that already has accrued prior to such expiration or termination, nor affect the survival of any provision hereto to the extent it is expressly stated to survive such termination. The following provisions shall survive any expiration or termination of this Agreement that occurs after the assignment pursuant to Section 2.3 becomes effective for a period of time specified therein, or if not specified, then they shall survive indefinitely: Articles 1, 5.2, 7, 9, 11, and 12, and Sections 6.2(c) and 10.3.

 

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[***] = C ONFIDENTIAL  T REATMENT  R EQUESTED

 

ARTICLE 11

G OVERNING L AW ; D ISPUTE R ESOLUTION

11.1 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and constirued in accordance with the laws of Switzerland whereby the application of the Vienna Convention on the International Sale of Goods shall be excluded.

11.2 Dispute Resolution. The Parties shall make all reasonable efforts to resolve any dispute concerning this Agreement, its construction or its actual or alleged breach, by face-to-face negotiations between a senior executive of Avedro and a senior executive of IROC Innocross. Should such negotiations fail to resolve the matter within [***] following a written request for such negotiations by either Party to the other Party, each Party shall have the right to pursue any remedies available to it at law or in equity.

11.3 Jurisdiction and Venue . Subject to Section 11.2, any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or related to this Agreement including the validity, invalidity, breach or termination hereof shall besubmitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Zurich Commercial Court. The appeal to the Swiss Supreme Court in Lausanne is reserved. The Parties hereby consent to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of such courts and waive any jurisdictional or venue objections to such courts, including without limitation forum non conveniens .

ARTICLE 12

G ENERAL P ROVISIONS

12.1 Notices. All notices required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be mailed by registered or certified mailed addressed to the signatory to whom such notice is required or permitted to be given and transmitted by facsimile to the number indicated below. All notices shall be deemed to have been given when received by fax confirmation or mail delivery confirmation.

All notices to Avedro shall be addressed as follows:

Avedro Inc.

Att. to David Muller, CEO

230 Third Avenue

Waltham MA 02145

USA

Email: david@avedro.com

 

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with a copy to (which copy shall not constitute notice):

Cooley LLP

3175 Hanover Street

Palo Alto, CA 94304

Attn: Lila Hope

Facsimile No. (650) 849-7400

All notices to IROC Innocross shall be addressed as follows:

IROC Innocross AG

Att. Prof. Dr. Michael Mrochen

Bahnhofstrasse 21

CH-6300 Zug

Switzerland

E-Mail: [***]

with a copy to (which copy shall not constitute notice):

Badertscher Rechtsanwälte AG

Att. Dr. Jeannette Wibmer, Attorney at Law/Partner

Mühlebachstrasse 32

P.O. Box 769

CH-8024 Zürich

Switzerland

Facsimile: +41 44 266 20 70

Any Party may, by written notice to the other, designate a new address or fax number to which notices to the Party giving the notice shall thereafter be mailed or faxed.

12.2 Force Majeure. No Party shall be liable for any delay or failure of performance to the extent such delay or failure is caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control and that by the exercise of due diligence it is unable to prevent, provided that the Party claiming excuse uses its commercially reasonable efforts to overcome the same.

12.3 Entirety of Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement and understanding of the Parties relating to the subject matter contained herein and merges all prior discussions and agreements between them (including the Mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement between the Parties dated May 21, 2014), however with the exception of the Asset Purchase and License Agreement between the Parties dated August 7, 2014. The Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument signed by authorized representatives of each of the Parties.

12.4 Non-Waiver. The failure of a Party in any one or more instances to insist upon strict performance of any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment, to any extent, of the right to assert or rely upon any such terms or conditions on any future occasion.

 

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12.5 Disclaimer of Agency. This Agreement shall not constitute any Party the legal representative of agent of another, nor shall any Party have the right or authority to assume, create, or incur any Third Party liability or obligation of any kind, express or implied, against or in the name of or on behalf of another except as expressly set forth in this Agreement.

12.6 Severance. If any Article or part thereof of this Agreement is declared invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, then such declaration shall not affect the remainder of the Article or other Articles. To the extent possible the Parties shall revise such invalidated Article or part thereof in a manner that will render such provision valid without impairing the Parties’ original interest.

12.7 Assignment. Neither Party may assign or transfer this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the other Party, except that each Party may make such an assignment or transfer without the other Party’s consent to the successsor to all or substantially all of the business of such Party to which this Agreement relates (whether by merger, acquisition or sale of assets). Any permitted assignment shall be binding on the successors, heirs and assigns of the assigning Party. Any assignment or attempted assignment by a Party in violation of the terms of this Section 12.7 shall be null and void.

12.8 Limitation of Liability. IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER PARTY BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER PARTY FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE OR SPECIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT, HOWEVER CAUSED, UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

12.9 Headings. The headings contained in this Agreement have been added for convenience only and shall not be construed as limiting.

12.10 English Language . All notices required or permitted to be given hereunder, and all written, electronic, oral or other communications between the Parties regarding this Agreement shall be in the English language. This Agreement was prepared in the English language, which language shall govern the interpretation of, and any dispute regarding, the terms of this Agreement

12.11 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall constitute together the same document.

Signature Page to Follow

 

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I N W ITNESS W HEREOF , the Parties hereto have duly executed this License Agreement on the Effective Date.

 

A VEDRO , I NC .                   IROC I NNOCROSS

/s/ David Muller

    

/s/ Michael Mrochen

Name: David Muller      Name: Prof. Michael Mrochen
Title: CEO      Title: Member of the Board

Signature Page of Patent License Agreement


[***] = THREE (3) PAGES OF CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT 10.21, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

E XHIBIT A

P ATENT R IGHTS

[***]

 

A-1.


EXHIBIT B

Form of Recordable Patent Assignment

For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, IROC Innocross AG (formerly known as Falcon Trading AG), a company established under the laws of Switzerland, (hereinafter “ Assignor ”), hereby grants, sells, assigns, and transfers to Avedro, Inc., a company established under the laws of the State of Delaware, (hereinafter “ Assignee ”), all of Assignor’s right, title and interest worldwide in and to: the Assigned Patent Applications and Patents identified in Attachment A hereto and all inventions disclosed or claimed therein or covered thereby and related improvements; all applications claiming priority to any of the Assigned Patent Applications and Patents which have been or may be filed hereafter in any country, and all substitutions, continuations, divisionals, and continuations-in-part thereof; all rights to file new patent applications in any country based on any of the foregoing applications or inventions; all Letters Patent that may be granted on any of the foregoing applications, and all extensions, renewals, and reissues, re-examinations, and supplementary protection certificates thereof; and all rights to claim priority to any of the foregoing applications.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Assignor has caused this Patent Assignment to be duly signed on its behalf.

 

IROC I NNOCROSS AG
By:  

 

  Name: Prof. Dr. Michael Mrochen
  Title: Member of the Board

 

Date:                                              
State of    )
   ) S.S.
County of    )

Before me this      day of                     , 20            , personally appeared                     , to me known to be the person who is described in and who signed the foregoing Assignment and acknowledged to me that he signed the same of his own free will for the purpose therein expressed.

 

 

Notary Public

 

B-1.


[***] = TWO (2) PAGES OF CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT 10.21, MARKED BY BRACKETS, HAS BEEN OMITTED AND FILED SEPARATELY WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PURSUANT TO RULE 406 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED.

ATTACHMENT A [TO EXHIBIT B]

ASSIGNED PATENT APPLICATIONS AND PATENTS

[***]

 

B-2.


Attachement C: Prior Art found in the US

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption “Experts” and to the use of our report dated September 28, 2018, in the Registration Statement (Form S-1) and related Prospectus of Avedro, Inc. dated January 18, 2019.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Boston, Massachusetts

January 18, 2019